《His Contractual Mistress》


 Chapter 1: Hes Back?

    <h4>Chapter 1:He''s Back?</h4>


    Glittering city lights before her eyes, Hailey turns on the light on the stairway. With the soft lightid in the living room, it was enough to see through the thin fabric hugging her body, which proudly disyed her chest''s exposed skin.


    The thin ck strap of her nightgown hanging on her shoulders only shows how creamy-white skin tone she had from the dim light, and under the sunlight, her skin illuminates how fair and smooth after she has well taken care of her body. It is something every girl envied about her.


    Of course, she spent a fortune using skincare products to take care of her body. Fortunately, her skin isn''t sensitive or got an allergic reaction to most products she tries on. She could use any brand, but she loved a particr one.


    Sweeping her gaze to the entire living room, her eyes settled once again to the scenery far ahead. Surrounding this high-rise penthouse are different cities, which boastfully disy thousands of tall buildings owned by wealthy families worldwide.


    Since Metro City is the Capital City of this country, the city rapidly gaining its reputation as the Central Business Capital in South Asia ¡ª being in a ce where International Headquarters appeared, more exciting things are happening every day in High Society.


    And as it was the center field of thousands ofpanies. It means hundreds of executives are hunted down by socialites: both prominent and ordinary citizens, dreaming of being the lucky one. Associated with this are rumors everywhere.


    Shaking her head graciously, Hailey withdrew her gaze from those gleaming lights in the distance but focused on her steps, descending the stairs, then headed to the kitchen.


    After she finished drafting her thesis, she felt a thirst. She picked up a clean ss and walked toward the Water Dispenser to fetch herself water. It was then when she was about to take a big gulp, the front door of the penthouse opened.


    Suddenly, she froze on the floor, and the ss close to her mouth was hanging in the air. Full of anticipation, her chest pounds loudly. Besides her, only one person has the key card and knows the door''s password.


    ''He''s back!?''


    With this thought, Hailey wants to run toward the bathroom, but it''s toote already. He would see her if ever she ran to hide. What is funny, it nailed her feet on the floor to take another step. With a loud thud in her chest, she listens to the rolling wheels of his suitcase. Remains unmoved to where she stood, she waited to see his handsome but expressionless stering on his face.


    Gripping the ss in her right hand, Hailey pursed a smile and greeted the man.


    "Your back..." The only words that form in her mouth. She''s lost the words from the shock of his sudden appearance.


    Nodding at her as a response, he asked. "Couldn''t sleep yet?"


    She knows it was just a simple question, but she finds it hard to answer. But before she flinched, she quickly responded to his query.


    "I just finished my paperwork. I will go to bed soon," she replied and then closed her mouth.


    She saw that!


    His eyes sh a nce in her direction. He scanned her from the head down to her slipper. It was just a mere second, but he spares a look at her! And that gives a chill down on her spine.


    She prayed for him to climb the stairs. Instead of heading straight to his bedroom, he stayed in the living room and browsed his phone!


    Hailey bites her lower lip. She wondered what made hime back this early. Besides, he went straight to the penthouse instead of going home to his family.


    Heaving a silent sigh, she gathers the courage to ask him. "Have you eaten dinner?"


    "Yes. I''m done."


    "I see." He must have eaten on the ne. She murmured into her head.


    Now that she was out of words, she wants to run toward her bedroom. But he was facing the staircase. Hailey found it hard to walk past him.


    Well, it''s not that she was afraid of him. She truly feels ufortable. Forgotten that she was holding a full ss of water, her hand carelessly poured on her chest.


    ''Oh, shit!'' Instantly she suppresses her scream from shock, but her gasps are loud enough for him to hear.


    Lifted his chin and nced in her direction, he asked. "What''s wrong?"


    His sexy voice broke the silence in the living room that fueled her nervousness. Breathing in, she responded, "It''s nothing. I was just startled. I almost dropped the ss."


    Her poor excuse. But the truth is, she was helplessly staring at her soaking nightgown. It''s not just somewhere, but right there in her chest. dly, her nightgown is ck. Her chest wouldn''t be much noticeable. Hailey bit hard on her lower lip that reddened from the pressure.


    What is she going to do now? There''s no way she will march in front of him, exposing her drenched nightgown! What would Vince think? That she was seducing him?


    But she won''t startle like this if he at least announced his arrival hours beforehand! However, it''s not her right to demand from him. It''s in their contract.


    Besides, he said he would be gone for a whole week. It''s just the fourth day since he left the country for an emergency business trip. ''Why is he home now?''


    Hailey could not stopining within herself. Of course, she was happy if Vince went out of town or out of the country for a business trip. Even if that is a personal trip, she doesn''t care because it was her chance to breathe and feel the freedom that no shadow of his suddenly appears in the door.


    Yes. During those times, she would care less about what she is wearing without him around.


    And for tonight? She only wears a thin nightgown whose length is just below her bottom.


    If she climbs the stairs, Vince would see her ass and lingerie.

 Chapter 2: Am I Unlucky or Lucky Tonight?

    <h4>Chapter 2:Am I Unlucky or Lucky Tonight?</h4>


    Hailey continued praying that Vince would now go to his bedroom, so then she could go to hers to change into appropriate clothing.


    Squirming in the kitchen, Vince seems to have to guess she is ufortable around him. He stood on his feet and carried his suitcase.


    "I''m going to the Study room to read some reports."


    "Okay." Hailey nodded and secretly nced at his broad retreating back.


    Hailey heaves a sigh of relief. ''Finally, he''s gone.'' She mumbled.


    Now she can go back to her bedroom. But before that, she fetches another ss of water and finishes in one gulp as tension dries her throat. She forgets her intention ofing to the kitchen is to drink water.


    What was embarrassing is when she poured herself because she was in a trance after Vince arrived.


    If she had known he woulde back this early, she wouldn''t have dared to wear this sexy lingerie. She will wear a pajama or oversize t-shirt instead.


    Meanwhile, before Vince could enter the bathroom, he remembered something. He stepped out of his bedroom, and it was the moment Hailey passed in the door.


    "Ahem. You''re here. Can you make me a pot of coffee and bring it to the library?"


    It takes a few moments before shees back to her senses. Hailey blinks her eyes several times which her face turned pink. Gradually, she withdraws her gaze from his half-naked body and nodded.


    "Sure! I''ll bring it over!" She almost stammered her words. It happens, her heart beating so loud that deafening her ears.


    "Thanks!" Vince''s lips curve with a thin smile. He turned around to step inside his bedroom. Vince is musing that something was odd about her. He nced outside before he closed his bedroom door. He noticed her bolted into her bedroom.


    Left confused, Vince mused. ''She supposed to go to the kitchen, right?''


    Shrugging a shoulder, Vince turned around and walked to the bathroom. The moment the door shuts, the corner of his mouth curls into a smirk.


    "How amusing..." Vince murmured to himself.


    Inside Hailey''s bedroom, she wanted to scream. What happened? Why does he suddenlye out of his bedroom wrapped only in a bath towel around his body!? It''s not like she hasn''t seen six or eight packs up close. But their situation is unlikely to be looked at. They were living in the same house!


    Oh, well. What is her role anyway?


    Ugh. Before she passed out from embarrassment and ufortable this evening, Hailey quickly changed into decent sleepwear and put on a night robe. She then rushed to the kitchen and made a pot of coffee as Vince requests.


    Sat in the dining chair, Hailey impatiently waiting for the coffee maker to finish brewing. Hoping it''s done before Vince finishes his shower, and she could bring the coffee in his study without bumping into him. Even though it''s crazy to think she could avoid him. They were living in one house!


    ''How possible that would happen, Hailey? You were not thinking!'' She scolded herself.


    Heaving a hopeless sigh, Hailey sat up from the dining chair, got the wooden tray, and ced a mug on it. She was grateful that Vince was still in his bedroom when the coffee finished brewing. She picked up the pot and put it on the tray.


    With a bit of rush but extra careful, Hailey entered the study and ced the tray on the coffee table.


    Her steps are hasty. That is why when she exited the door, it was the moment Vince entered the room.


    Her frail, slender body mmed to his firm chest. Thank goodness that the owner of this body has quick reflexes. He stretched his left arm, clutching her in the waist, and pulled closer. Being held like this by him gives shudders to her nerves.


    Once more, Hailey froze on the floor. Once more, she wished for the floor to open and swallowed her whole.


    "Careful..."


    Vince''s deep husky voice awakens every nerve of her body. dly, the only light that is on in the study is thempshade on the table. Still, she''s praying that he won''t notice how reddish her ears and cheeks are. He gradually loosens her and steps aside. Seeing her remain silent, he clears his throat.


    "Ahem. Thanks for the coffee," said Vince after he noticed the tray on the table.


    "You''re wee. I''m going to bed now." Hailey remains lowering her head and avoids having eye contact with him. "Good night." Upon saying this, Hailey rushes outside without waiting for his reply.


    She entered her bedroom and locked the door. She jumps on her bed and screams in silence.


    ''Am I unlucky or lucky tonight?'' Hailey asked herself.


    Screaming inside her head, she gradually calms down. She rolls on her back and covers her face with her palm.


    ''What a night!''

 Chapter 3: His Moms Invitation

    <h4>Chapter 3:His Mom''s Invitation</h4>


    The following day, Hailey working up early since Vince was staying in the penthouse. At the moment, she was in front of the electric cooking top to make breakfast for them.


    Her ss today starts at nine o''clock. She has plenty of time before she goes to university, where she is taking the Hotel and Restaurant Management sses.


    In Vince''s case, he always left for work every 7:30 in the morning. Since hispany is just fifteen to twenty minutes away, it depends on the traffic situation.


    Still, he has plenty of time since hispany began its office hours around 8:30 in the morning. But Vince has a habit of arriving at hispany before everyone else. And he also starts working before everyone else could.


    That is why, before seven in the morning, she should prepare his breakfast. Exactly, seven in the morning, Vince came down.


    She just thought about it. Hailey hears Vince''s bedroom door opening and shuts close, followed by faint sounds of footsteps descending the staircase.


    "Good morning." Wearing a gray suit and ck leader shoes, Vince casually greeted her.


    Without turning around to face him, she returned the greetings cheerfully while she finished mixing the lettuce, tomato, and cucumber in a bowl. She loves vegetable sd dip in Apple cider and mayo, which Vince seemed to like as well.


    "Hi, good morning!"


    Vince has now sat down in front of his te. He takes out his phone and taps on his keypad. Just in a minute, he put down his phone and picked up the fork.


    "I transferred your allowance for this month, including the food budget," said Vince to Hailey.


    She was about to say something regarding it, but Vince already began eating, so she closed her mouth again.


    She wants to tell him she barely touches the money he wiredst month. And for the food budget. The amount he gave her is enough for half a year since only the two of them are having meals when Vince is barelying to the penthouse.


    Most of the time, he onlyes over during weekends, or he has to work overtime. And as for the rest of her week? She was alone living in this huge penthouse which she loves it.


    Buttely, Vince is frequentlying over.


    Anyway, this is his house. And this penthouse they''re living in is owned by Shen Group. So typically, hees home to his ce.


    Hailey shook her head and focused on pouring the coffee into Vince''s mug and,stly hers. She puts down the pot, and next, she fetches Vince a ss of water. Now that she is done serving him, it''s time to sit across from him and begin eating her breakfast.


    It''s a typical scene whenever Vincees over. And then, after he finished his breakfast, he picked up his mug and walked toward the sofa. He will sit for ten minutes to take a sip on his coffee while browsing his phone for headline news.


    And when she finished her meal, she quietly gathers the tes and washes them.


    "I''m leaving," Vince dered while he sat up from the sofa, reaching for his coat, then slid his arms on the sleeves.


    "Okay. Have a good day."


    Once the door shut, Hailey would sigh with relief. Finally, she could now care less about moving around the house.


    Well, undeniably that their arrangement is odd. She rather likes a butler than a mistress. When Vincees to her, she will prepare his meal, wash his clothes, and wait for hismands and instructions.


    And the ironic part, they have separate bedrooms, and they never sleep together. For those who knew that she is Vince''s mistress, which just a few people, they thought they had this kind of intimacy of doing such things.


    Well, it does not need their opinion. It was convenient for her to have no physical contact with him.


    No. There''s nothing wrong with him. She assured Vince a hundred percent straight and possessed such a physique any woman drool over him and dream of having him.


    But my purpose is not to fantasize about him and to feel lucky that his eyes set on me and offered to be his mistress. The reason I epted the contract is I only know.


    Days passed, and as the weekend came, Vince stayed in the penthouse to finish his work. Hailey guessed there was a minor problem urs in hispany, the reason for his earlyeback.


    Saturday and Vince have been in his study room all day. Hailey brought his lunch before she left to buy a few things for the kitchen.


    "I''m going to the supermarket," she announced, so he won''t wonder if he notices she was not home.


    Without lifting his head, Vince replied, "Okay."


    But such a wonderful day to bump into Vince''s mother. Hailey was entering the mall, taking a few steps when she crossed Hilda Shen.


    Hilda''s assistant walks towards her, carrying her Madam''s message. Madame Hilda Shen is inviting her for a coffee.


    Of course, Hailey has a hunch about the sudden invitation.


    Lounged facing each other in a private room of a famous grand caf¨¦, Hilda elegantly sips her tea while Hailey remains to stare at her milk tea.


    After a moment, Hilda put down the teacup and looked straight at the woman seated across her. Scrutinizing at her, Hilda admits she was too beautiful, but a pretty face is deceiving. She thought.

 Chapter 4: His Moms Offer

    <h4>Chapter 4:His Mom''s Offer</h4>


    Hilda Shen clears her throat as she begins.


    "You already know why I invited you for a private talk."


    Showing no emotion, Hilda once again picks up the teacup and sips her tea. Hailey, who remained lowering her gaze, nodded.


    "I won''t take this long. How much do you want?" asked Hilda.


    Hearing this, Hailey lifted her chin and pursed a sweet smile. She said, "Madame Shen, I''m sorry. But I don''t understand what you were asking me about."


    She sounded innocent, but clearly, her tone was sarcastic. Hilda Shen mumbled to herself.


    Pressing her lips, Hilda remained calm and expressionless. She already anticipates that this girl would answer her this way.


    This is not their first meeting. In fact, it''s the second time. Didn''t have a n to prolong this conversation, Hilda ced a check on the table.


    Hailey nced at the check. Her attention quickly returned to the middle-aged woman, which her sweet smile remains on her face.


    ~ ~ ~


    Meanwhile, at the penthouse.


    Vince lifted his head when his phone received a text message. After he reads the name of the sender, he picks up his phone and reads the text.


    "I bumped into your mom. She was very generous. I wonder how many digits I should put in here?"


    It was what the message says that Hailey sent, including a photo of a nk check.


    "Oops. I identally tore it in half. I think the bank won''t ept it anymore. Poor me."


    Reading the messages, Vince couldn''t help to chuckle and murmur to himself.


    "Silly girl."


    Vince types on his phone and press send. It says, "Apuse." He then adds an emoji of pping hands.


    Curling his lips with a smile, he put down his phone and stretched his back on his chair. His eyesnded on the food Hailey brought over to the study. He remembered he hadn''t eaten yet, and the time was one o''clock in the afternoon.


    Vince sat up from his armchair and walked toward the sofa. He picked up the fork and pinched a portion of a buttered chicken the girl baked for lunch.


    Once more, it impressed him with how it tasted heavenly. Even a five-star chef would be ashamed topare the food he is enjoying at the moment.


    Putting more food in his mouth, the more he praised the girl for being a cook mastered. Even the side dessert she prepared is mouthwatering just to look at.


    "This girl can run her restaurant. And it''s a ten star one."


    The reason the food budget he gave is enough to feed a hundred people in a month with a full three meals is that she spoiled him with food.


    Every time he goes home to the penthouse, he is like dining in different parts of the world, savoring different dishes every meal.


    For an unknown reason, he always found himselfing over to the penthouse. Buttely, he realizes the reason...


    It was because she was spoiling him.


    In the middle of his meal, Vince remembers sending his mother a text message.


    "Mom, just give up already."


    Meanwhile, in the South Expressway is a ck Rolls-Royce headed to a particr vige where only super-rich families could purchase a manor.


    Hilda clenched her right fist upon reading the message her son sent her. It looks like that girl told her son about what she''d done!


    "Unbelievable!"


    Hilda gritted her teeth from anger. She doesn''t know how to get rid of that girl away from her son''s life. She couldn''t ept that her son would bring a mistress to their home one day and be the Young Madame Shen. She won''t allow that!


    That girl clearly wants to ride the luxurious life her son could offer for her. She won''t leave her son because if that girl will seed and her son gets his dream divorce and marries her, she will be Mrs. Shen.


    And this annoys her. She already did all means to end her son''s affair. But her son doesn''t budge!


    Hilda wore a long face when she entered the Shen Mansion. Fred Shen, her husband, took a nce at his wife, then turned his attention back to what he was reading on his thin iPad.


    "Someone upsets you?" he asked his wife, cing the iPad on the table and picking up his cup.


    Hilda, who ignores her husband''s question, throws her bag on the couch before she drops her body on the cushion.


    Narrowing her gaze like she was throwing a sharp look at that woman, Hilda mouthed, "I don''t understand why our son couldn''t dump that woman! Why is he looking for someone else!? His wife is perfect! Why couldn''t he fix his marriage with Eva!"


    "Oh. You are talking about your son''s girlfriend." Fredmented without lifting his gaze.


    "Who else?" Hilda snapped. "And why do you sound uninterested? Are you siding with your son now? And what are you doing? Why don''t you look at me when you are talking to me?" Hilda''s demands.


    Irritated, Fred lifted his chin and said, "And what do you want me to do? We have always discussed this issue every single day! My ears are numbing already! Besides, I already kicked your son out of the family! However, he is the only one who can run thepany!"


    Hilda red at her husband. She frowned. "And because of this, you''ll tolerate your son''s affair? Maybe you also have a secret mistress. That''s why you don''t do something about..." Before she could finish her words, her husband''s loud voice echoed in the living room.


    "Hilda!" The veins on his forehead are now visible because of his anger; what Fred hated most of is being used of such things. Ever since he married Hilda, he swears to respect her and love her, even if their parents only arranged their marriage and love is absent in the beginning.


    Maybe this is what Hilda expects to happen to her son. But of course, things won''t always work the same way. Fred Shen thought.


    From the kitchen, Carl could hear the arguments. Carrying a ss of water, he strode toward the living room and offered the ss of water to Hilda.


    "Auntie, Uncle, you need not argue over this matter," heforted the couple. "You can''t force my cousin to leave his mistress if it well served him."


    "What do you mean, it well served him?" Innocently, Hilda asked her nephew, Carl Johnson, son of her younger sister who married an American businessman.


    Curling a yful grin, Carl retorted, "Someone who satisfies my cousin''s needs as a man."


    With this, the water she was drinking at the moment choked Hilda.


    "Auntie, are you okay?" Carl asked Hilda with concern in his voice. Fred, on the other hand, had just been shaking his head.


    Recovering from the shock, Hilda pped her nephew''s shoulder, who was nowfortably seated next to her.


    "Are you going to kill me?" she blurted out, which her nephew had just grinning with amusement. Clearly, he was amused at what he was bbering to her.


    Hilda heaves a helpless sigh. She felt defeated that these men are not reliable to make her son Vince change his mind not to divorce his nominal wife but kick his mistress out of his life.

 Chapter 5: His Moms Plans To Get Rid Of Her

    <h4>Chapter 5:His Mom''s ns To Get Rid Of Her</h4>


    Continuing the conversation, Carl added. "Auntie, we are men. It''s normal for us to search for someone to cuddle with. Right, uncle?"


    Dramatically widens his eyes; it stupefied Fred why his bastard nephew dragged him with his ridiculous viewpoint.


    Furiously, he blurts out. "And why are you asking me? That has nothing to do with me!" Fred nced at his wife, whose eyeballs wanted to pop out from her face. His poor wife now receives a cold shoulder. "And why are you looking at me like that?" he snaps whatever wild thoughts his wife had at the moment.


    Even though she has something to say, she won''t dare to. Annoyed, Hilda turned her attention to her nephew, who continued bbing at her side.


    "Aunt, there are two reasons a man keeps his mistress..." Carl paused and studied his aunt before he went on. "Either he truly loves her, or he just needs someone to attain his needs."


    Listening to her stupid nephew, it was thetter she instead chooses. If that were the case, she could worry less.


    But how if her son truly loves that woman? She has no control over her son''s decision. What can she only do is nags him to leave his mistress.


    It disappoints her. Instead of her son working on his marriage, he chose another woman to cope with his needs. Thinking over, she remembered what that girl told her.


    "Madam Shen, I believe you talk to the wrong person. It would be best if you talked to your son instead of me. He is the one you should ask to get rid of me. Until then, I won''t leave him."


    "What do you mean by that?" Irritated, Hilda mused. It was impossible. She could not force his son to do that when he even avoids talking about it if he visits home.


    Lately, her son avoidsing home to the mansion. She then learned he was now living with his mistress. Probably his son was tired of listening to her discussing his marriage with Eva. She encourages her son to take Eva seriously, as he was now 31; he still had no n of having children yet. What''s the use they choose Eva to be Mrs. Shen when her stupid son never lives with his wife?


    She wants Vince to encourage Eva toe home and start a family in Metro City since Vince couldn''t leave thepany to join Eva in the US. But her son doesn''t like the idea. Vince once said, "What I hated most is to chase or pursue a woman. If she doesn''t want to? Then why would I stress myself and waste my time?"


    Hilda felt devastated listening to her son. She doesn''t know whether tough or to cry. Her son is so much like his father! They weren''t fond of romantic stuff!


    She understood Eva has also prided as a woman. If Vince truly needs her¡­ Vince should coax her to live together. Women want to be pampered with attention aside from the luxurious life that a man could offer. It should be a man''s effort. That is why she was pestering her son to court his wife and act like a couple. However, what her son did is send hiswyer with a divorce paper in hand. It angered her. The next thing she learned, her son has a girlfriend.


    Her son miraculously lives with a woman! This worsens her annoyance. But because of that, she pursued her son to fix his marriage with Eva. But Vince is hiding from her now!


    How ironic. When she talks to the girl for the second time, this is what the girl told her...


    "You don''t have to stress yourself begging me to leave your son, Madame Shen. Once your son dumps me, I will leave in silence."


    Hilda heaves a sigh upon recalling her conversation with that girl. She admits she was gorgeous.


    In today''s meeting, she carefully scans the girl''s features.


    She is not wearing makeup at all, but only pink lip gloss. Her round eyes and thick eyshes are captivating enough for you to bewitch.


    Her smooth skin and curvy body are appealing to any man who couldn''t resist desiring.


    She is a woman, and she knows what ugly, simple, and pretty.


    Hilda heaves a sigh of being in a total loss. It seemed that her son wouldn''t dump that girl, as she manages to bewitch him and seduces him with her alluring beauty. And with the alluring body she has, she holds her son captive with her seduction.


    "I was once young and beautiful as she is¡­" Hilda couldn''t help mutter to herself.


    Her son is willing to give up everything. It means his son heads over heels to that girl. If that''s the case, she could do nothing but bear the rumors thrown at their family.


    Hilda felt devastated. She won''t ept that it will just end here. She should do something.


    Maybe he truly loves his mistress, whereas she could satisfy him in bed. Something that Eva and Vince never shared. Hilda thought.


    She could tell her son has the good taste to pick up a beautiful mistress. But thinking he has a wife, she couldn''t ept the affair.


    "Maybe I need to persuade Eva toe back home to Metro City and start living as a real married couple?"


    "Auntie, Eva is a sessful career woman. She couldn''t just abandon her life in the US."


    "And how about her husband? What use was she married to Shen? She need not work! She already enjoyed the Shen money for her trip around the world!"


    True that their family spoiled Eva inpensation that her son doesn''t treat Eva as a wife. Hilda''s head was suddenly throbbing, thinking over.


    It exhausts her thinking of another n to drive the mistress away from his son''s life.


    That day, Hilda was determined to beg Eva toe home and stay for good. If Eva were here, it would force Vince to go home and live together.


    "Carl, why don''t you help me?"


    Confused, Carl creased his forehead. "Auntie, Vince doesn''t listen to you. Howe he''ll take my advice?"


    "It''s not Vince you should approach."


    Finally, Carl understood his aunt. Scratching his temple, Carl reasons out. "Auntie, I don''t want to be found floating in the South Bay the next day. I didn''t spend my time taking care of my handsome face just to be found murdered one day."


    Could he dare to touch Vince''s woman? No, thanks! He loves his life! And if he died, many girls would mourn!


    "Please, Auntie. Spare me from your master n. I never dream of being ced inside a beautiful fiberss coffin with a face badly beaten by your son and die with brain damage and hemorrhage."


    Stupefied, Hilda rendered speechlessly. Fred, on the other hand, he was throwing with an unbelieving gaze at his wife. "Be careful of the things running inside your head!" he yells out.


    Hilda snaps, "And what you want me to do? Just remain silent?"


    "Just leave it out for now! Your son will get tired one day and will dump his mistress."


    "Why can you say that? Huh? It''s because..."


    Lifted his head from his iPad, anger is now written all over Fred''s face. He roared, "Hilda!"


    Seeing her husbandpletely angry, Hilda shut her mouth. She picked up her bag and sat up, head to the stairs in silence.


    Carl, who got used to this family, he better stay away from their drama. He mused. But he was thinking how lucky bastard his cousin. He''s envious.

 Chapter 6: He Is Becoming Closer

    <h4>Chapter 6:He Is Bing Closer</h4>


    Evening...


    An enticing aroma filled the house, a Cmari soothing on Vince''s nostril. The scent was only faint but still caught by his nose.


    Ever since he brought her to the penthouse, he became sensitive to the food she was preparing for him. Lately, he realized he has been looking forward to having a meal with her world-ss dishes, prepared exclusively for him.


    Reaching his chin, Vince mused. ''What other things she is good at aside from cooking?''


    Unable to find an answer, Vince got up from his chair and walked out of his study. He ced his one hand on the railings and one hand shoving on his pocket. His eyes swept at the table, and then his attention lingered on the woman gradually stirring a soup in front of the cooking stove.


    He was watching both the food and the chef. His mouth drools from his desire to have a taste of them.


    Having this thought surprised him for what appeared in his mind. Is he developing a feeling for his mistress?


    He cannot be. It was in the use that they should not fall in love. A contract only binds their rtionship. He emphasizes this use because he doesn''t want to waste time driving out the woman once she falls in love with him and then demanding his time, worse begging for his love.


    So then, the day their act is over, he doesn''t want a drama.


    To hit the point, he hates to pursue a woman to leave him. It is what happens after he marries Eva.


    He regretted he didn''t prepare an agreement that after two years of marriage, they would immediately divorce.


    Now, his wife, on paper, won''t sign the divorce he wanted. It''s been three years already, and he hates to fly to the US to beg for a divorce. It''s not his type to pursue a woman.


    Besides, he paid threefold for hiswyers to take care of this matter. Yet nothing happens. It looks like he needs to think of another n for Eva to sign the divorce paper.


    Meanwhile, Hailey could feel a pair of eyes staring at her. She need not guess when the only person with her is Vince.


    She turned her head to the railings. She was right. Vince is watching her from upstairs. Upon their eyes met, she pushed a gentle smile and uttered, "Are you hungry? I''m almost done."


    "I can wait. I''m just stretching my back." While saying this, Vince descended the stairs and walked toward the kitchen. "You will grill pork steak?" he asked when he noticed the marinated meat in a bowl.


    Nodding, Hailey replied, "Yes."


    Looking at the raw meat, it watered his mouth, craving for it already. "Well, let me help you grill the meat."


    Upon saying it, Vince took out the electric grilling pan, ced it in the middle of the table, and take out an extension cord and plugs in the power cord. He walked toward the counter and took the bowl with him. Vince seemed to enjoy himself cing the meat on the grill te.


    Hailey, who observes him silently, amused her, watching him like this. Vince''s face remains expressionless, but a glint of excites exhibits in his eyes. She was grateful that Vince is not picky. In the beginning, she was shy to ask him what food he preferred. So, she decided to try preparing him with all the dishes she knew. If heins, then she will take that dish out on the menu.


    However, surprisingly, Vince neverins but stuff his mouth with everything she prepared on the table. Still, she wasn''t sure what food he likes; it came up with an idea to make a menu every week. The times Vincees over, she knows what to cook that he hasn''t eaten that week.


    Now that she''s done with the soup. She started setting the table, cing the three dishes she prepared. Before she took her seat, she made a sauce for the grilled meat. In a smaller bowl, Hailey mixed up the fish sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, unripe tomatoes, onions, chilies, andst, lots of limes.


    On an oval tter where she finely arranged the Cmari, she ced the bowl of cheddar in the middle.


    Seated facing each other, Vince quietly flips the meat. It surprised her when he ced the meat on her te. Shyly, she thanked Vince. She lowered her head to eat quietly. However, Vince put another meat on her te. With this gesture, she lifts her head to thank him.


    "Thank you. But I''m fine already. You should eat now. Let me cook my share." Hailey was careful not to stammer her words. She has to stop him before she melts with the attention he is giving her. She prefers him to be distant. In that way, it will be easy for her to ignore his mood.


    But him being thoughtful and acting gentlemanly and romantic overwhelms her chest, fluttered it like crazy.


    She couldn''t afford to blush like a teenager in front of him. She wants to keep their rtionship as boss and employee. But on second thought, he hired her as his Mistress. A time woulde they need to pretend to be sweet to each other. So, maybe it''s not wrong to befortable in each other''s presence.


    Vince realized he did things he never did before. Even to his mother and two sisters, he never showed such gestures. Nodding, he tore a thin smile. Yet, he was perplexed why he did that. It seems like around her, and these thingse naturally. Unconsciously, he shows her a side of him that even he didn''t know that he is.


    ''Indeed. She is interesting.'' Vince thought.


    In the next couple of minutes, he tried to focus his attention on his te. But he could not ignore Hailey''s presence. Pondering what topic he could open up, Vince carefully chose a few things he thinks safe to discuss with her.


    "So, how was school? Is everything fine?"


    Hearing him ask a question before she replied to him, Hailey picked up the ss of water, gulped half of it then put it down.


    "Everything''s just fine. Nothing to worry about."


    Hailey understood why Vince asked her this question. Since she signed the contract, the students in the university notice the changes in her lifestyle. She started hearing rumors about her, used of being someone''s mistress. And they assumed it was true, after seeing her driving a yellow Ferrari that cost 3.5M euros. She receives more harsh words and insults. Even make fun of her on social media posts. She ignores them. But he deleted all those posts sooner. It looks like Vince did something with that matter.


    At first, it irritates her, but soon she got used to theshing behind her back. Now she just enjoys the drama of how these people are willing to waste their time on her. All they could do is be envied of her.


    Of course, she is not proud of being called someone''s Mistress. But she has her own reason. All she has to do is prepare herself for what ising. After Vince gives her the car, she realizes Vince has no n of ying hide-and-seek. He wants his affair to be apparent.


    And that became obvious to Vince''s family that his mother tried to give her money. But she didn''t need money. If only she could tell every soul. But surely she would onlyugh at.


    Eating quietly for some time, Vince spoke up again. "Tell me right away if someone is bothering you again."


    "Okay." To make this end, she nodded and continued eating quietly. But to her surprise, Vince was still busy serving her.


    "Let me pour more wine on your ss."


    Stunned, Hailey just let him do whatever he likes. Maybe she should use it with his thoughtfulness. Later, Vince was done eating, and he finished even thest piece of Cmari.


    "Thanks for the food. I''ve eaten more than I could fill my stomach."


    Vince sounded like joking. And it''s new to her. Chuckling, she pursed a timid smile and said, "I''m d you like the food."


    "I do. Everything cooked perfectly." Vince is trying to praise her, but he could not put the perfect word topliment her. "All right. I need to finish my work," he dered.


    "Okay. I will bring teater."


    Vince, who was already on the first step of the staircase, paused and nced at her. "That sounds amazing," he said, then resumed his steps.


    Left alone at the dining table, Hailey finishes the wine in her ss. Staring at the empty bottle, she murmured to herself.


    "He is bing closer to me¡­"


    Sadness shed in her eyes. She could not decide whether to feel bad or happy.

 Chapter 7: Envied By Women

    <h4>Chapter 7:Envied By Women</h4>


    Monday


    Hailey was in the Entryway, putting on her brown Vegan high heel shoes when her phone rang a particr song.


    In her contacts, she assigns a song to determine if the caller is her friends, teachers, or just a random person. And the song ying at the moment is assigned for Vince. She instantly opens her Gi ck backpack and takes out her phone to answer the call.


    "Hello?"


    "Hi! Are you still home?"


    Hailey could sense an anxious tone in Vince''s voice. She wonders if something happens. But why is he calling her? She mused while responding to him.


    "Yes. I''m about to step out of the door. Do you need anything?" she asked.


    It seems Vince heaves a sigh of relief upon learning she hasn''t gone to school yet.


    "Thank goodness."


    Hailey heard Vince mumble. So she guesses Vince has a matter to deal with at the moment. She wondered if it needed her help, so she asked him, "What''s the matter? Can I help you?"


    "Um. The thing is... I think I left my sh Drive where I saved the presentation I was about to demonstrate to our new prospect investor. But I can''t find it in my suitcase. I wonder if I identally left it in the study. Can I ask your favor to look for it?"


    Hailey listened to Vince''s timid and soft tone; she wanted to giggle. He seemed shy to ask her favor this time over such a small thing.


    "Okay. I''m heading upstairs now. What color of your sh drive?" Hailey asked while she pushed the door to open.


    "It was a small silver-ck. It will be a bit hard to notice I think."


    "Hm... Let me see you at your desk."


    Meanwhile, inside the SHEN GROUP Conference Room. Vince was standing close to the floor-ceiling window. His left hand was in his pocket while his right hand was holding the phone close to his ear.


    Yet, still early for their meeting with the prospective investor, Vince already gathered his executives to discuss something. Just then, he realizes he left the sh Drive with the presentation he prepared over the weekend.


    Now in an hour, their prospect investor will be here. With the presence of the Board of Investors and Shen Group Managing Directors, they were eyeing the CEO, who talk leisurely on his phone after the fact that he did a stupid thing for the first time in history.


    The CEO left hisptop home, where he saved the files. And the sh drive he transferred the files left at home as well. Is it stupidity? They all can''t believe it!


    But as usual, the CEO doesn''t show any hint of panic or worries. Instead, a smile yed across his handsome face. So they have guessed. The person he was talking about is someone living with him. And who is living with him? None other than is his mistress!


    They shared a nce at each other with a question on their eyes, ''So what will happen now?''


    Back in the penthouse... Hailey already searched Vince''s study table, but she couldn''t find the sh drive. She opens the unlocked drawers, still, none inside.


    "I can not find it." She mumbled helplessly, but Hailey kept looking around. Her eyes sweep to the entire room.


    She walked toward the couch and checked if maybe the sh drive fell on it. She also searches around the coffee table when a shiny thing caught her eyes. She focuses her gaze under the study table.


    "I found it!" She burst out happily.


    "Really? Where I left it?"


    "I found it under the table," she told Vince, bent down to pick up the sh drive on the carpet.


    "I see. Um¡­ Is it okay if you will bring it over? It will save time, rather than Tim wille to pick it up."


    She agreed, "Sure! No problem." As she can not say no, is it? Hailey sighed in silence.


    "Great! I''ll be waiting for you to bring it over! Call me if you arrive at the entrance. Okay. Thanks!"


    It is what the executives heard the CEO mumbled into his phone.


    ''Who''sing over? The mistress?'' They have the same question stuck on their head, but they would not dare to spit it out. They only observe him silently.


    The moment Vince ends the call, his facial expression changes. He cleared his throat and took a seat. Sweeping his gaze throughout the room, he nodded. "Okay. While waiting, I want a quick report fromst week''s matters." Vince ncing at the General Manager and Head of Finance.


    They rendered speechlessly. This CEO is a real piece! He will leisurely listen to the reports as someone brings the presentation he forgets at home. How he was careless this time? Or maybe the reason he forgot the sh drive is that he made out first with his mistress before going to the office?


    Vince has no idea that the people in front of him are having dirty thoughts about him.


    Meanwhile, Hailey stepped out of the elevator and walked toward her car. Before she reached her yellow Ferrari Aparte, she bumped into a couple that was living on the 26th floor. The couple nced in her direction... while the man nodded at her, the woman peered at her with scorn.


    If she didn''t know that woman was only clinging to that man, but she is not interested to know who their real rtionship.


    The thing is, they could not have a gut to voice out their thoughts when they know that talking bad about her would bounce back at them once they provoke Vince by creating malicious gossip around the building.


    These people think more importantly about their partnership than putting themselves into the trash bin after ridiculing Vince''s mistress. And that was her.


    The only people that had the guts to cackle at her are the riches students in the university and a fewizens of this city.


    Shrugged a shoulder, Hailey pulls up the door of her car and slid her slender body into the driver''s seat. She turns up the engine and warms up the car. Unfortunately, the couple''s car she bumped into parked next to her.


    And because she could not see the person inside, the woman didn''t notice that Hailey studied her expression which her eyes filled with envy and disdain. Hailey contorted a smirk in the corner of her mouth.


    Clearly, this woman is one of the countless girls who envied her for having such a luxurious life being Vince Shen''s mistress.

 Chapter 8: Acts On the Spot

    <h4>Chapter 8:Acts On the Spot</h4>


    ''Bi¡­tch I own a car that costs double of this one. You might pass out if you know that.''


    But of course, she isn''t here to reveal herself but let them continue to believe she is a hoe, making her way to seduce someone like Vincent Shen.


    The more they believe, the more the game is fun. Hailey''s mouth pushed an amusing smirk from thinking about it. It was new to her, so she enjoyed the nders and gossip thrown at her. But sometimes, she was toozy to deal with those women, so she just ignored their disdain.


    Leaving the underground parking lot, Hailey trotted her car after she joined the main road. It ddens her the traffic flow is lighter today despite that it was rush hour; she made her way quickly.


    But halfway, the traffic-jammed somewhere. She realized there was an ident a minute ago. Patrol cars and patrol riders now arrive on the scene to control the traffic and investigate the ident''s cause. She was d it only took less than ten minutes.


    Patiently following the traffic''s turtle flow, she turned on the radio and yed her favorite band, ONE OK ROCK. She chose the song Wasted Nights, singing along with it.


    "Must be something in the water


    Feel like I can take the world


    Cause I won''t even feel the burn


    Don''t afraid to dive


    Be afraid that you didn''t try


    These moments remind us why


    We''re here, we''re so alive


    Let''s live like we''re immortal


    Live just for tonight¡­"


    Thank goodness for this song. She could calm down. She used to travel long drives without traffic at all. That is why, since she started living in this city, she made a lot of adjustments, including how to drive slower and squeezes in the traffic jams every time she goes to university.


    It frustrates her, but she has to bear the heavy traffic. Now she learns to apply to herself the saying...


    "Patience is a virtue."


    ''But not this time¡­'' Hailey helplessly watches the traffic in front of her. She nced at her Channel wristwatch. It''s been almost twenty minutes since she left the building. ''Come on!''


    She''s restless, of course. She has to drive back to catch up with her 10:15 ss, which the university is in the opposite direction toward Vince''spany. She must look for another route that has less traffic. Hailey mused.


    ncing at the watch once again, it was Vince who gave her this Diamond limited edition watch.


    On one of Vince''s trips to France, it surprises her to see the box on the coffee table.


    Vince arrives in the penthouse before sunrise. But then he has to leave again for a Business conference in a neighboring province. He just came by to grab clean clothes and left the gift in his study room.


    She''s thinking it over, and his gesture touched her. But Vince should not be kind to her but keep a distance from her. Hailey mused.


    Watching the traffic light shifted to green, Hailey stepped on the elerator. She could now see the SHEN GROUP building''s silhouette, but it will take her a while when she has to stop several avenues.


    Pondering, while she was getting closer to thepany, Hailey realized something¡­


    "Why do I have to bring the USB personally if I could email the file?" she thought. But on the second thought, it is confidential.


    ''Vince is careful not to leak the project.'' Hailey mused. ''And he trusted me, huh? Anyway, surely the file has a password. But he didn''t know I''m better at hacking... hehehe¡­ Well, never mind.''


    Hailey steps on the gas and speeds up.


    Finally, she got through the traffic jam. Hailey nced at the digital clock on her car. It took her thirty-five minutes. Twitching the corner of her mouth, she murmured, ''I could drive it for ten minutes without traffic but fewer cars on the road. It''s easy to overtake them.''


    Reaching thepany, she pulled over in front of the entrance door. Hailey dialed Vince''s number before she got out of the car. Heaving a long sighed, she prepared herself. ''Okay, this is it.''


    Hailey casually swayed her hips, walking toward the two Security Guards on the Entrance Door.


    "I''m going in now," she told Vince over the phone. But the security guards halted her.


    "Excuse me, Miss... May I know where are you going?" politely a tall and bulky Security Guard queried.


    ''In fairness, they aren''t showing they are scary.''


    Hailey pursed a smile. Instead of answering the man with a sweet voice, she kept talking to Vince. "Honey, your security personnel asked me where I am headed."


    The two security guards shared a nce. In their mind ying the question, ''who is she talking with on the phone?''


    Before any of them could speak up, the girl waved her hand to someone inside the building. They turned around to check who that person was just to find out it was their boss. In a sh, they straighten their stand, step aside to allow the girl to enter the building. Beads of sweat form on their forehead while musing, ''Did we treat her arrogantly? Will the boss question us as to why we didn''t let her in immediately?'' Fear lingering in their chest might they lose the job today.


    Walking in, every person in that lounge turned to head toward Hailey''s direction. Their eyes full of curiosity, scrutinizing her from the head down to her high-heeled shoes.


    Wearing a in white fitted blouse, tucking in her fitted jeans: Hailey''s body shows all her curves. Her full chest, small waistline, tight ass are proudly disying before their eyes. The cking sound of her high heels on the floor added to her alluring beauty walking past them. But what shocked them most, the CEO is meeting her halfway.


    Meeting Vince halfway, Hailey studied his expression. He was looking at her tenderly with a huge smile on his face. Instantly, she understood his game today. His purpose was to leave the sh Drive at home to make her appear in hispany and show to his employees I was the rumored mistress. Iugh out to myself.


    ''Bravo, CEO Shen. I want to smack you!''


    If she''s not smart enough, she would always lose poise with his sudden acts. ''I''m sulking at the moment. At least share your ns, so then I could dress up for my grand entrance!'' Tearing a big sweet smile in front of Vince and everyone. These are Hailey''s thoughts.


    ''Look at me? I just wore denim jeans, a in blouse with my school ID hanging around my neck! At least, I''m wearing five inches high heels brown shoes.'' Sigh.


    ''This guy is something¡­'' She frowned in secret.

 Chapter 9: His Sister-In-Law

    <h4>Chapter 9:His Sister-In-Law</h4>


    ''Sigh. Look at this CEO. He tricked me, so I would appear at hispany. On the record, it''s the first time I came here.''


    ''Why didn''t he use his tricky behavior to search for his wife and get the divorce he has been trying to get?''


    Well, yes, that''s him! Suddenly, he will call her out when he feels like doing an act in front of his friends, family, and now his employees. But Vince once said he hates chasing a woman. The reason he relies on hiswyers but still no progress.


    Shaking her head, Hailey heaved another silent sigh and mumbled. ''Forgot his sh drive and left it at home? Why the heck didn''t he bring hisptop where he saved his precious confidential data and his important presentation?''


    ''It seemed he wanted me to appear in thepany to be seen by his employees, which I wasn''t prepared for. At least I want to wear a short, sexy dress to have a grand entrance. I didn''t wear any makeup either. I''m upset!'' She pouted in secret.


    Hailey keeps mumbling in silence. Heaving a sigh of disbelief, she gathered her thoughts in one ce and focused on her act. She keeps her sweet smile stered on her face upon meeting Vince in the middle of the lobby.


    Today, hispany has several guests waiting for their appointment time to see certain personnel for business-rted visits.


    And as of the moment, in front of them is the CEO, who barely giving them a chance to meet in person to talk about a business proposal or business consultation. But today, he came down and met a girl, whose assistant could do that.


    Could it be this girl is the rumored mistress? What a lucky Monday for them to meet her today!


    Meanwhile, ignoring the curious people lounging in hispany lobby, Vince warmly meets Hailey in the middle.


    "Hi! Thanks for bringing it over!" said Vince. His voice is loud enough to hear in the entire lobby.


    What''s more interesting in this scene, Vince shamelessly showed his affection to his mistress. He leans over to nt a kiss on her cheek. For the female employee who witnessed this, their heart sank and fretted that someone already won over their dream man. They once attempt to seduce the CEO and trying to catch his attention, but he doesn''t care about women but work. But what is happening now? He doesn''t mind having PDA!


    Hailey didn''t anticipate that this act would cause a heart attack threat. Suddenly, Vince kisses her on the cheek! That required 70 percent of her superpower not to p him because her heart not only skipped one beat but countless beats!


    Ugh. Why is he not sharing any of his ns? If she wasn''t good at acting, her reaction would be awkward and poor.


    Came back to her senses, Hailey stretched her hand and handed the sh drive to Vince. Now that she delivered her task, she wanted to leave the ce sooner.


    "Here''s your sh drive."


    Vince takes it. He thanked her one more time. "It''s quite a relief. I''m sorry for troubling you like this when you have a ss soon."


    ''I''m d you know! Can''t you find another perfect time for your drama CEO Shen? Ugh.'' Hailey mumbling in her head.


    Gracefully shaking her head, she responded to Vince, "Don''t sweat it. It''s the least I could do. Anyway, I have one hour before my ss starts. I can catch up as long as I won''t get trapped in the traffic for an hour."


    "Yeah, that was bad. The university is in the opposite direction from the penthouse toward mypany."


    "Yeah. So I better leave now," Hailey whispered.


    Before Vince could say something, a woman''s thundering voice echoing in the entire lobby.


    "You!" The woman who just arrived couldn''t believe what she is witnessing right now. After she looked at Hailey with sharp res, she turned to Vince and used him, "How dare you to disy your affair and it''s should be in yourpany?! You really can''t wait for my sister to divorce you?"


    Darken his facial expression, Vince remains calm to respond to the woman. "And where is your sister? She was supposed to sign the divorce papers a year ago. During that time, I haven''t met Hailey yet. So don''t drag her into this, Zenaida."


    Pressing her lips from anger, Zenaida throws another re at Hailey, who didn''t back down to wrestle gaze at her. It was what Zenaida hated about Vince''s mistress. The woman is arrogant! Too proud because she had Vince''s backing up, and he showered her with everything.


    Breathing in, Zenaida replied to Vince. "I''m trying to ask her friends if they know her whereabouts. But it doesn''t mean she will divorce you! For what? So you can marry this woman? My sister will never allow you!" Zenaida cast a stern look at Hailey, scanning her from the head down to her brown Vegan high heels shoe.


    But of course, Hailey only contoured a smirk in the corner of her mouth that pissed Zenaida.


    In Hailey''s head, she was pping in amusement. ''Bravo. A round of apuse, please!''


    Here''s Zenaida Lan, Vince''s sister-inw. She is one of the first people who immediately discover that Vince has a mistress. But the more she and Hailey cross paths, the more Hailey could see the jealousy in Zenaida''s eyes. She is a woman, so she knew.


    ''Like I didn''t notice that you also like Vince, even though he is your sister''s husband. Hah! Eva won''t divorce Vince? You just speak on your behalf!''


    Hailey sheepishly smiles at Zenaida while having this thought. She knows the woman gets annoyed at her because she is never afraid of her insults.


    ''You wish for your sister to divorce Vince, so then, you got your chance.'' Hailey wishes to say this to Zenaida. But not today. She won''t embarrass Vince in front of his employees. It will be between women''s wars without Vince''s presence.


    Looking at Vince''s mistress, she is badly annoyed. She doesn''t like the way Hailey stares at her mockingly. She is Vince''s sister-inw! But this mistress is something! In her mind, she was cursing Hailey for how thick her face was.


    "Zenaida, if you n to create a scene here, you better go home. Don''t wait I will drag you out."


    Zenaida came back to her senses once she heard Vince''s icy voice. In a sh, her chest filled with rage. Why does she have to be the one for Vince to scold? They are family! How dare he embarrass her this way! He must have forgotten his wife is her sister!


    She wants to raise her protest, but Vince shoots a warning re at her face. Zenaida swallowed the lump in her throat, she swears. ''Just wait, bitch! I will show you your true color! People will know who you are! I''m sure you are a social climber! I will show to the world that you are a gold digger!''


    Zenaida couldn''t ept that Vince is intimate with another woman. She couldn''t ept that Vince gave importance to someone, not his wife. He has changed a lottely. She knows because ever since they were teenagers, Vince already had her eyes. But her stupid family arranged for her sister to marry Vince instead of her! She is older than Eva, but she is just the daughter of a mistress. Her position in the Lan family is always below Eva, and she hated it! She wished for her sister to disappear forever and never showed up again!


    While Zenaida fell in thoughts, Vince escorted Hailey toward her car. Jealousy crept toward her heart, watching him so gentle to the other woman.


    When does Vince spare a nce at her without stern or disdain? Why did the other woman so easily catch his attention? Does she also win Vince''s heart?


    She was so happy when her sister Eva didn''t care to live with Vince after their wedding. But her stupid sister stayed in the US and abandon her husband. All these years that Vince and Eva are married, it was she who stayed by Vince''s side. She did her best to please the Shen family to cover up Eva''s stupidity. If not for Shen''s financial backup, Lan Enterprise should be bankrupt and now live in the street.


    But Vince never sees her effort to get close to him. She clearly understood that she was only able to stand beside him because Eva is married to him, and Hilda Shen recognizes Eva as her daughter-inw. And as the sister, she received good treatment.

 Chapter 10: Helping Him

    <h4>Chapter 10:Helping Him</h4>


    Outside the SHEN GROUP building, Vince pulled up the door for Hailey to get inside her car.


    "Thanks¡­" Blushed, she thanked Vince. She knows this is part of their act, buttely, she couldn''t control her heart to flutter from his gestures. Her chest-beating crazily like she will have a heart seizure at any moment.


    Hailey thought Vince would leave now. But he remained leaning on the car. ''What is he doing?'' The way Vince actedtely left a concern in her chest.


    "All right. If you came across Zenaida and she bothered you. Tell me right away. Let me take care of her."


    "Don''t worry. I won''t yield without a fight. But if you don''t like me to do scandalous scenes, I won''t fight back."


    Hearing her reasoning like this, Vince couldn''t stop himself from bursting out augh. The scene they were witnessing surprised the two security guards at the entrance door. However, they pretend to see nothing.


    "Okay. Of course, you should protect yourself. But let me know if anyone causes you trouble. I''ll deal with it."


    Couldn''t find words to respond, Hailey nodded and tore a timid smile. She was more preupied settling down her chest than listening to him. She''s more worried Vince will hear how fast her heart is beating at the moment.


    "I might note home early tonight, so just fix something for you."


    Vince uttered, and she realized it was so close to her ears. ''Now he is acting like a lover?'' Hailey thought. It made her more ufortable. ''He''s not informing me of his activities before. That''s new.'' She mused.


    "Okay! Got it!" she sighs under her breath, Vince still so close to her.


    "Have a safe drive on your way to the university," said Vince. He then nted a kiss on her forehead.


    Meanwhile, Timothy Cheng, Vince''s assistant, was shaking his head while peering down below. His boss has the leisure time to flirt in the middle of work. Tim lifted his head, then to find out the other Executives were also curiously leaning in the floor-ceiling window to gossip. They were curious to meet the mistress, but they were on the 55th floor. Impossible to have a clearer view down below.


    Tim coughs to remind everyone to go back to their seat. Embarrassed, they sat down and waited for the CEO toe back.


    ~~~~~


    Like bitten red, Hailey trotted into her LaFerrari Aperta and squeezed the traffic to arrive at school on time.


    ''What is wrong with that CEO? He suddenly is touchy!'' Although it was in the contract that she would allow him to do such things for their acts like being intimate with each other.


    Maybe I''m just not used to have an intimate interaction with my opposite sex because I never had a boyfriend since birth. All she had was a bunch of boys'' friends.


    Hailey was in deep thoughts when she remembered what Zenaida replied to Vince about Eva. Does no one know of her whereabouts? That''s impossible.


    She didn''t believe it when Zenaida said her sister was still not contacting them. But what is Vince doing? Why didn''t he take this seriously? With his money and influence, surely he could afford to pay someone to look for his wife.


    Even though he hated chasing a woman, the case is his divorce from Eva.


    ''It seems like I need to step in and help Vince search for his wife. Once Eva found and signed the divorce paper, it meant it was the end of our contract.'' Hailey thought.


    When that happens, she can finally go back home to Australia. She mused.


    At that moment, she will act on her own to help Vince get his divorce as soon as possible. For three months she acted as Vince''s mistress. She slowly got to know him.


    Vince is a workaholic person like her. He never takes a break to rx or have two days of vacation once in a while.


    ''I could see myself in him.'' Hailey thought. ''Maybe the difference is that I am surrounded by many people who love me.''


    But Vince is hiding even from his family because of this marriage thing.


    ''It is the reason I signed the contract because I want him to get his divorce from that woman! She doesn''t deserve Vince.''


    That woman is taking advantage of the opportunity that Shen, giving her so much favor as the daughter-inw. But she was here to help Vince be free from that arranged marriage system.


    Vince deserves to be happy. Hoping when he gets his divorce, he will find a woman who would love him the rest of her life and not because she after for his money.


    ''I prayed she would take care of him and watch his health. Vince always misses his meal on time and always in dinner meetings and gatherings that end him drinking too much.''


    ''Maybe he needs a domineering wife? The one nags him always to eat on time, encourages him to visit his gym to exercise to stay healthy, and most of all, a woman who will insist for him to take time to rx, go on a vacation to bond with his family?'' Hailey mused.


    Yes! He needs to find a new wife! And I''m going to help him!


    Excitement crept into her chest; Hailey searches for someone''s contact on her IG ount and connects a call. She waited for several rings before that person answered it.


    "Hello, Princess?"


    The person from the other end of the call sounds sleepy and yawning.


    "Hi, Pitt! Where were you? Are you still sleeping? It''s almost noon in Australia!"


    "What''s up? I''m nowhere in Australia," answered the other end of the call.


    Curiously, Hailey asked the guy, "What? Where are you?"


    "I''m in the Caribbean."


    "Okay¡­ then isn''t it still evening there?" She''s uncertain, though.


    "I haven''t sober up yet."


    "I see. You were drinking for days again."


    "Well, I''m awake now. You won''t call me without a job for me, right?"


    "Yup! I have a new job for you. Well, not new, but another task."


    "Okay, I''m all ears, Princess."


    "I want you to locate Eva Lan."


    "It''s not about that. I don''t care about that woman anymore, okay? But I have important things to deal with her. I want you to send someone in the US to search if she was in there, or she was still in Australia. Please, assign someone who will keep an eye on Bryan. I''m sure he knows where that woman is. He is the closest lead to her location."


    "Okay. Haven''t you moved on yet?"


    "I do!"


    "But why are you looking for her and even want me to follow Bryan? You already called off the wedding, right?"


    Hailey could picture Pitt frowning upon hearing Bryan''s name. She replied, "It''s a long story! I will tell you more info once you find her."


    "Okay... So that''s the only job I should do? Or do you want me to do other things after that?"


    "I want you to do other things, but not yet. I will tell you what next step you need to do after you found Eva Lan, understand?"


    "Yes, ma''am!"


    "Alright! I''ll call you or you DM me about the progress."


    After a few more words, Hailey ended the call. Now the first step has been made to search Eva Lan.


    Secondly, to expose she cheated on Vince. Once had evidence, Eva will get nothing from Vince.


    And third, the search for a perfect wife. After that? She could go back to Australia and continue her life!


    Hailey felt like she just closed a 1 Billion Contract Deals.


    "Don''t worry, Mr. CEO. You will be happy soon!"


    Hailey had this smile on her face even when she arrived at the university. She waste because of the heavy traffic, but it didn''t change her mood.


    But not until she takes her seat in the next ss when whispers arise in the Audio Room.


    Hailey raises her brow. Is this rted to her? She needs to check her phone.

 Chapter 11: Her Mistake

    <h4>Chapter 11:Her Mistake</h4>


    She pulled out her phone from her bag and texted Nadia, a friend she made here in Metro City after renting an apartment. They became neighbors before moving in at Vince''s penthouse, but they were also ssmates in her other subjects.


    "Hey, is there new gossip about me?" she texted Nadia.


    Later Nadia sent a screenshot, and the post used her as a home-wrecker. She scoffed. She knew it was Zenaida behind this rumor.


    Hailey searches the OP to leave ament.


    "For the person behind this post? I guess you are not different from a home-wrecker as well. You know why? Because you wish your sister to divorce him, so it was your chance to be his next wife. Are you happy she is missing, or you actually pretend to know nothing of her whereabouts? Dream on, Sister!"


    Hashtag: SistersDream


    Later, her ssmates realized she''s the one whomented on the post. Netizens feasted just a minute before she posted it.


    At that moment, it drew the attention of another person. Severalizens guessed it referred to Zenaida Lan when it mentioned "sister" on the post.


    Now Zenaida has bombarded a question of whether it''s true that she has feelings for her brother-inw and seeks romantic treatment from him.


    Meanwhile, Zenaida Lan was in a rage inside her office.


    "That slut! How dare she nder me like this!" Zenaida screamed. It worries her now that the people will believe what that mistressmented on social media.


    Although she starts it, there''s no way she would admit it!


    But how if Vince believes it? How could she show her face from then on?


    She was cautious not to show any hint to Vince that she loved him for a long time already.


    "That Mistress! I will take my revenge on this one!" Zenaida swears that day.


    ~~~~~


    Later in the afternoon, her sses ended that day. Hailey went straight home from her original ns of treating Nadia and Liza to dinner.


    She was heaving a long sigh, musing how to apologize to Vinceter or tomorrow. She was taking the elevator up to the penthouse, and now she realized she made a mistake.


    She has to apologize. How stupid of her dragging Vince''s reputation into worthless gossip?


    Ah, you''re not thinking, Hailey!


    She didn''t think it would be a p in Vince''s image.


    The SHEN GROUP is the one that took over, for the Lan Enterprise survives bankruptcy. Zenaida is working under Vince, and Vince is the one who supervises thepany. For what she did, now the working rtionship between the two would put in a great awkwardness.


    Ah! I made a big mistake! Well, she doesn''t care about Zenaida. All she cares about is Vince.


    Hailey heaves a sigh before she opens the penthouse door. She wishes the floor to eat her.


    Vince is home!


    Now what she better do? She needs to apologize, and she should do it bravely.


    Hailey pressed her eyelids and bit her lower lip. Slowly, she changed her high heels into house slippers, silently walked toward the living room...


    Vince was sitting on the sofa, crossing his long legs while browsing on his phone. Certainly, Vince already heard about the rumors and her stupidment. Well, it isn''t ridiculous for her. But for Vince, it''s not a smart act.


    Hailey halted one meter from the sofa. She lowered her head and said, "I''m sorry."


    Without sparing a nce in her direction, Vince asked her. "What did you do?"


    ''Ugh. Now he ns to torture me with his queries? Can''t he assume that he already knew the reason I am apologizing now?'' She mumbled in silence.


    "Ahem! I made a mistake."


    Still, Vince kept his gaze on his phone. "What kind of mistake?" he asked emotionlessly.


    Hailey rolled her eyes in secret and secretly sulked. ''Dang, please!'' Heaving a sigh, she confessed, "I shouldn''t waste my time answering the rumors online."


    "Why?" Vince asked tly.


    ''Ugh! This CEO is childish! How old is he? 31? Do his employees know he''s acted this way? Is this how he scolded his employees? Wait, I''m doing the same too! Ugh. But at least I''m still 24. Even turning 25 soon, I could still act a bit childish at work.'' She giggles, and it''ste to cover her silly mouth.


    Hearing she seems to enjoy this, Vince raises his head and looks at her. "So, do you think it''s fun?"


    Hailey shakes her head. She lowered her gaze when Vince furrowed his brows and creased his forehead.


    "No..." she replied in a low voice.


    ''Dang. I''m done. Ugh. Dad never lectures me like this. It was the first time I was on trial.'' she pouted in secret, held herself not to roll her eyes.


    After a dramatic silence, Vince muttered, "What did I tell you this morning?"


    Remembering what happens this morning, her cheeks immediately blush, and her heart flips from how loud it thuds.


    ''Which one is he talking about?'' Hailey mused. She processed her brain until she remembered what Vince told her before he kissed her forehead.


    "Um... You said, you will deal with her..." she has to bear his scolding; she''s at fault, anyway.


    "Then, what now?" Vince snaps Hailey.


    ''What does he mean now?'' she made a careful thought, then she uttered, "I will delete what I posted."


    "Do you think that would be helpful? It''s already spread like wildfire. Countless social media users have taken a screenshot and shared it. Can you still stop it?"


    "I... If you want me to, I will find a way." ''OMG! I''ve never been scolded like this! The boys never dare to!''


    "I''m sorry. I would not do it again. I mean, starting today, I will carefully decide if it''s worth giving attention to. Next time, I will choose what battle I should fight."


    Vince only answered her with a sigh. He rose from the sofa and headed to the stairs.


    Furrowing her forehead, she asked the guy. "You are going to a business meeting, right?"


    "No. I sent Tim to take care of the deal."


    She swallowed. It only means Vince is mad. Not only that, the rumors just happened today. He should meet none of his business partners to avoid answering the questions rted to herment. Now it will be her fault if Tim would not close the deal. She needs to do something to lighten Vince''s mood.


    "What dinner do you like me to prepare?" she asked.


    Vince shrugs a shoulder; he replied, "I don''t know. Anything that won''t poison me."


    Her mouth dropped open. She frowned, mumbling in her head, ''He''s this mad to joke this way?'' But she won''t give up until he forgives her. However, Vince''s following statement makes her have second thoughts.


    "Leave the food on the table. I wille down if I''m hungry."


    Hailey rendered speechlessly.

 Chapter 12: He Really Makes Me Work Like This

    <h4>Chapter 12:He Really Makes Me Work Like This</h4>


    ''He is really that mad at me?'' Hailey thought. ''What should I do now? How could I earn Vince''s forgiveness? It seems like my cooking style won''t work this time.''


    Heaving a helpless sigh, Hailey strides toward the kitchen, gets an apron, and starts thinking about what dinner she could make for Vince.


    Later, Hailey remembers she bought a Salmon yesterday. She decides... ''I''ll bake a Salmon for Vince''s dinner!''


    With excitement crept toward her chest, she prepared all the ingredients she needed. After she mixed them into a bowl, she spread it all over on top of the Salmon. She also adds other vegetables in the rectangr ss container before she puts them in the oven.


    Next, she made crab and corn soup. It will be coldter, but if he doesn''t like to have dinner together... ''Then let him preheat it for himself.'' Hailey mumbled to her head with a pout.


    ''What dessert should I prepare for him? Is he even fond of sweets?'' Hailey mused. Vince eats the carrot cake and banana muffins she madest time. ''Maybe a cookie? With lots of chocte chips! That would be best with brewed coffee!''


    Preparing the cookie ingredients, Hailey continues pondering if what she could do that Vince forgives her.


    Not her dad, though. She will hug him and put on some sweet words; her dad would forget her mistakes. But Vince is only a stranger person to her. It will take a while before she could soften his rough treatment toward her.


    ''Ah, whatever.'' She''ll work well in the next few days and behave. Maybe Vince will forget what she did.


    When she''s done, Hailey ced all the food on the table. She ate quietly alone. After that, she wrapped the dishes with transparent cellophane.


    She didn''t eat any salmon, but she makes herself some pasta andsagna. She left the salmon untouched. And yes! It was her way of peace offering to him.


    As the night gets older, Hailey is pacing back and forth inside her bedroom. She couldn''t hear any movement yet. So Hailey assumes Vince hasn''te out from the Study to have dinner. She looks at her phone, and it''s past ten o''clock.


    ''He''s skipping dinner again? Or he''s really that mad to starve himself because he doesn''t want to see me?''


    ''Wait¡­ and why would I think of these matters? Do we even are a real couple? Why do I worry too much? Ah, whatever! If he wanted to starve himself, then fine!''


    Sulking, Hailey climbed on her bed and tucked inside her quilt. She taps on her phone to y her ylists to doze off. The digital clock awakened her the following day.


    Hailey rushed to the bathroom and washed. She made a quick movement around her bedroom that her knee kicks the stool in front of her dresser.


    ''Shot! Ouch...'' Dang, she never gets up this early every single day. She never took a shower for less than thirty minutes, either every day!


    She''s notining, though. She''s only upset that he is ignoring her this long after she apologized.


    Hailey came out of her bedroom, exactly as Vince went out of his room. Suddenly, an awkward silence past her thoughts, she forgets to utter a greeting. Vince turned his back on her without saying a word either, Hailey stammered. "I will make a quick breakfast."


    "I will have one in the office."


    ''Seriously? And whose employees are going to hispany at this hour? Even his assistants and secretaries are still enjoying the warmth of their beds!'' Hailey mused. ''Is he going to avoid me? I don''t mind, and he has the right to ignore me. But he should not miss his meals and starve himself!'' Hailey pouted. She couldn''t make another remark when Vince went straight to the door and left just like that.


    ''Who''s going to serve him breakfast? Is he nning to stop by in a restaurant? Then what''s the difference if he''ll let me make him a quick breakfast? He''s only wasting money!''


    ''Ah! Why am I stressing myself? He''s old enough, duh!''


    But on second thoughts, it gives her a brilliant realization. When she returns to Australia, she must look into her employees'' attendance and add rewards to those whoe early, and give awards to those diligent workers. She must take note of that!


    Well, since Vince left and her ss is in the afternoon. She''ll go back to sleep.


    Hailey dropped her body back to the bed and rolled around. After two minutes, she sat up and rushed to the kitchen.


    ''Ahh! I should not just sit around!''


    After three hours, she is all ready! Hailey trotted her Ferrari, squeezing the traffic while tapping her palms on the steering wheels, singing while driving.


    ''Dang! What insane traffic! How do people survive not beingte every day?'' She couldn''t helpin because she missed driving a two hours'' distance, which she would go down in just less than 40 minutes.


    Now she''s seated in front of the steering wheel for half an hour. And the distance from Vince''s office and the penthouse, she could drive it for at least twelve minutes with the speed of Aparte.


    Hailey nced at the bag in the passenger seat. She breathes in and releases it. ''This man... He really makes me work like this!''


    But things must be under control. So, she has to endure it until then. Hailey mused. Finally, the traffic is moving, Hailey has a smooth drive on the next avenues. Beforeing into the office, she already texted Tim that she has something to give for Vince.

 Chapter 13: Stupid Tim

    <h4>Chapter 13:Stupid Tim</h4>


    Meanwhile, Timothy Cheng, who was yawning even at this hour, is waiting for Hailey''s ring. He nced at the boss''s door. He understood that yesterday was not a good day for him after getting involved in another gossip. And this time is worse. But he did nothing to delete the news.


    ''But why do I have the feeling that I was the one that was punished?''


    The business dealst night was a sess after he apanied the client, drinking till past midnight. After the business contract is signed in, he exited the bar and went home to have a wonderful sleep. But it had been just four hours since he was in dreand when his phone didn''t stop ringing.


    However, he can''t ignore it when the call is from his boss. ''Damn!''


    And this boss never called him before the sun rises, unless they already set a day to leave the city early for business trips. But it''s not the case this time. His boss called him at five in the morning, to give his order to bring him some breakfast sharp at 7:00 AM!


    And it was like he hadn''t had someone to make him breakfast at home! He has a woman to do that. But it looks like the two had fights because of the issue yesterday.


    His boss left home before seven in the morning. And now his mistress came over to give something for him.


    ''It must be a peace offering.'' Tim mused. He nces at his phone; exactly, Hailey rings on him. He quickly rushed to the elevator and went down to the parking lot.


    He immediately spotted the yellow Ferrari in front of the elevator when the door opened. Tim walked toward the car and waited for the window to roll down. It took away his breath the moment he had a glimpse of the girl in front of the steering wheel.


    No. He doesn''t have a thing for his boss'' mistress, though just in a contract¡­ However, he knows how to appreciate the beauty, and he isplimenting his boss''s woman inside his head, secretly, yeah.


    Hailey smiled warmly at him, showing her beautiful teeth. He scanned her face, and he couldn''t trace any makeup but a pink color lip gloss. She wore a white sleeveless blouse paired with a denim skirt and a pink slipper.


    In his mind, Tim wondered if she had a sister. He will surely court the sister!


    "Hello, Miss Hailey." Tim bowed politely.


    "Hi, Tim! Sorry for troubling you. But could you hand this to Vince?" Hailey said, pointing the bag on the passenger seat.


    Hailey blushed. She smiled awkwardly, "No. I don''t want to bother him when he''s busy at work. Besides, I have my ss at 1:15¡­ I need to squeeze the traffic to reach university soon and have lunch."


    "Ah, right¡­" It means she troubled herselfing here just to give a peace offering to please the boss. ''Dang. Are they on that stage already?'' Tim mused.


    "Okay, Miss Hailey. Please, have a safe drive on your way back."


    Nodding, Hailey widened her smile as she thanked Tim. "Thanks!"


    Tim took the bag in the passenger seat. It feels heavy. ''How many dishes did she cook for the boss?''


    He wondered if he had a share. But it looks like all in this bag belongs only to the boss.


    ''What a lucky bastard.''


    Tim waved his hand, followed his gaze to the leaving car.


    Now he has to deliver the peace offering. Hoping the boss is in a good mood, which works nonstop since he steps inside his office. He even canceled all his meetings today, and it allows no one to enter the office but his assistant.


    ''That''s me. But I''m afraid to knock on the door.'' Tim thought. ''Is it safe for him to knock?''


    Standing in front of the President''s Office, Tim heaves a long sigh. ''Here we go!'' He cheered himself after a minute, and he remained standing outside the door.


    The three secretaries outside the ss partition that separates his table and the President''s Office from them are watching him helplessly. Until finally, Tim dared to knock.


    Waiting patiently for the boss to give his permission, Tim heaves a sigh of relief when the boss lets him in. Stepping inside the office, Tim saw his boss busy sorting blueprints on his long table.


    "What is it?" Vince asked tly, not caring to turn around at his assistant.


    Tim gathers his courage. He clears his throat. "Ahem. This is for you, Mr. Shen¡­"


    Vince nced over his shoulder; he noticed the blue lunch bag in Tim''s hand. He asked curiously, "What is it?"


    "Miss Hailey dropped it just a while back." Tim watched his boss''s reaction. He raised a brow but didn''t avert his gaze from the bag. ''Heh. You just pretended, but you can''t hide how your eyes twinkled. You are excited to know what was inside.'' But Tim won''t dare to voice it out, of course.


    Vince pretends he is less interested to know what was in the bag. Obviously, it''s food. Nonchntly, he told Tim, "Just ce it on the coffee table."


    ''Come on, boss! I know you are excited to know what was inside!'' Shaking head, Tim strode to the coffee table, carefully ced the bag. He was about to announce his leave when his boss muttered.


    "Why didn''t she give it in person?"


    The question astounded Tim. He mused, ''Certainly, she''s afraid of you. What did you do then, boss?''


    Waiting for his reply, Tim started bathing sweat when the boss raised a brow at him. ''Could he read my mind?'' Tim mumbled to himself.


    "Ahem. Miss Hailey had to drive back right away before she is stuck in the traffic. She has her ss soon," Tim replied. He makes sure that it sounded like it was the boss''s fault if she will bete for her ss. Because of their fight, Miss Hailey has to make him lunch as a peace offering. But this effort made her sacrifice her sses. Tim delighted in his thoughts. He observes his boss''s reaction, and he seems to have fallen on his thoughts.


    But in Vince''s mind, he knew that Hailey has two hours before her ss starts this afternoon. Of course, he knew her ss schedules. How dare his assistant try to use him of it being his fault? Stupid Tim.


    "Okay, thank you," he said coldly. "You can go¡­ Ah, wait¡­" Vince changes his mind; he walks toward his office table and picks up his wallet.


    Tim, we''re puzzled when the boss handed him his membership card in a famous restaurant.


    "Take them to lunch."


    Tim quickly ponders whom the boss is talking about. "You mean, everyone, Mr. Shen?" He wanted to assure if the boss was referring to all the executives for treating lunch.


    "Yes."


    Tim bowed. He left immediately before the boss changed his mind. ''Heh. I''ll order the most expensive dish! That''s my reward for waking me up too early in the morning! It looks like they better fight. When the boss is angry, the mistress will do her best to make a peace offering¡­ After that, the boss is in a good mood to treat us to lunch!''


    Pushing a smirk on the corner of his mouth, Tim posted a chat to their GC.

 Chapter 14: Play As A Disciplinary Action

    <h4>Chapter 14:y As A Disciplinary Action</h4>


    Tim had this huge smile on his face when he came out of the office. The secretaries were curious about what''s with the bag that he is grinning now. It must be something, and it made the boss happy.


    "Tim, what did you bring to the President? You look happy now. Did the boss feel good?"


    Tim nced at the three secretaries peeking at the entrance door of the partition. With a serious face, he replied, "You know that the President hates being asked about his personal life. How many times do I have to warn you? If you don''t want your sry cut into half from this month, you better do your work and stop gossiping about the boss!"


    "TSK! They need to threaten first before they stop nosing around." Shaking his head, Tim mumbled. He picks up his phone on the table, taps the Messenger App on the screen, and leaves a message to notify thepany executives.


    "Peps! Heads up! Free lunch from the boss! Let''s work harder! 11:30 we''re off..."


    "Great!"


    Bunch of replies all the way. But Tim didn''t read them as he needed to call for a reservation and ordered ahead to make the room ready and food served the moment they arrived at the restaurant. After then, they need to go back to the office before one in the afternoon.


    Exactly noon. Vince stops working on the long table: he stood straight, stretched his back while massaging his neck. He nced at the blue lunch bag on the coffee table.


    Honestly, he anxiously waited to finish sorting the blueprints of his current projects to check what''s in that bag. However, it took him a while to finish sorting his work, to properly turn it over to a team. He had to assign it to others as he had a new project that needed his full attention. This project will be his biggest work soon. He has to impress this big client to get the project.


    Now he could sit for lunch. Vince opens the lunch bag and takes out the five containers inside. One by one, he opened the lid of the boxes, an enticing aroma of dishes caught his nose.


    One container is a pork steak. The other one is a vegetable sd. One is garlic fried rice and boiled ribs? No. It should have soup in here.


    Vince took out the thermos and found out it was the ribs soup. dly, it''s still hot. If he had known, he would eat lunch earlier than usual to enjoy the soup.


    "Hmm... Is she trying to make a peace offering? So, she thinks I''m mad at her?" A yful smile tore across Vince''s handsome face. He uttered, "Silly girl..."


    She doesn''t know that it helped him instead. Now he could get rid of Zenaida to keeping to his office. It annoyed him that she always came to see him, even if he already assigned a Director to oversee the management of the Lan Enterprise. And if there are problems to ur, Zenaida could report it to that director who gives him weekly reports.


    But Zenaida insists on reporting directly to him. And by the time he reminds the woman of their real setup, she tells his mother, and boom! His mother nagged him every single day.


    "Women are annoying," he frowned while mumbling these words. "Well, that silly girl thinks I''m still mad at her, huh? Maybe it''s a good idea to put it that way."


    Pushing a smirk on the corner of his mouth, Vince rose from the sofa and went out to get a te. Hailey already sent him a clean spoon, fork, and chopsticks. Great! He didn''t need to use the utensil in his office which he needs to wash first. Tim isn''t here to do that for him. Anyway, no other people use the utensils in his office, but him. And Tim knew he could not touch them.


    Coming back, Vince slowly transferred the fried garlic rice on the te. He opens the fifth container; the content is a fried noodle with lots of dumplings.


    "Hmm." Vince stuffs his mouth with a slice of pork steak, followed by a spoonful of rice. He savored the food inside his mouth before he swallowed them and stuffed his mouth with quail eggs. He rolled lettuce, dipped it into the mayo.


    ''I will let her think I was mad about the issue. So it will y as a disciplinary action on her. If I showed that what she did is a nice job, she might act spoiled from now on.'' He mused.


    Meanwhile, in a restaurant near the University. Hailey keeps checking out his phone if Vince sends her a text. But nothing. She frowned. ''So he doesn''t like the lunch I made for him? What else should I do, so he''ll forget about that issue? Ugh! Why so hard to coax him?''


    Hailey helplessly sighed. She''s not good at persuading someone. Her dad and the boys always do the effort.


    ''And why am I fretting myself to please him? Ah! This isn''t right!''


    "Hey, what''s your problem?"


    Hailey came back to her senses when someone knocked her on the head, it was Hazel. Her ssmate in Management ss.


    Hazel is pretty with her beautiful natural tan color. She has jet ck long hair, big round brown eyes, and a proud nose paired with a heart-shaped lip.


    Every man in that restaurant can''t help nce at their table. Nadia and Liza; both are beautiful too. And she was blessed to meet these girls when she moved into the country.


    She was still in a trance of her thought when Hazel repeated her question and added¡­ "Is this about the gossip?"


    Hailey nodded. She lowered her head to stuff her mouth with the dumplings she ordered for lunch.


    "Jeez. You just did the right thing! I know the Lan family and Zenaida is the worst! She''s arrogant, and everyone in High Society already knows that she has a thing for her brother-inw, your boyfriend. So don''t be bothered about what you said, honey." Hazel''s litany.


    Hailey almost choked with the food she ate when Hazel mentioned the word ''boyfriend''. Of course, it was what was in the eyes of the people who didn''t know about the contract. Besides, ording to Liza, Vince''s marriage already dissolved because they never lived together or acted as a couple in these passing years.


    But it left her confused with a question in her head. ''Is this the reason Eva has the guts to cheat on Vince? And yet, she is enjoying Shen''s money. She is worse than her sister, Zenaida. And Vince¡­ it could be the same reason he is less concerned about searching for Eva''s whereabouts?'' Hailey mused. ''No way! If they haven''t had an official divorce, I will remain as Vince''s mistress! How could I be free from the contract?! Now, this is a problem!''


    Hailey suddenly in a great panic that her face didn''t hide it. Nadia, who had watched her in silence, gathered the courage to ask her. "Are you in a fight with Mr. Shen?"


    ''Ah, this smart girl!'' Hailey thought. She smiled at Nadia as she replied to the girl, "I wasn''t thinking when I made that post." She paused and rolled her eyes like she remembered something. Biting her lower lip, she mouthed, "I didn''t think it would drag Vince''s name and reputation. I beat his mom in great rage right now and cursed me a thousand times."


    Her friends froze from their seats and realized about that matter. They forgot Vince''s mom...


    ''The Great Madam Hilda Shen!''

 Chapter 15: They Are Moody!

    <h4>Chapter 15:They Are Moody!</h4>


    SHEN MANSION


    Hilda Shen is on the verge of an explosion. Her head had been throbbing since yesterday when the gossip came out. All of her friends in High Society have been calling her and messaging her, inquiring about her son Vince and her daughter-inw''s sister, Zenaida Lan.


    Everyone knows that Zenaida has a good rtionship with her; they were asking her about the status of the two. And one of her friends asked if she would favor instead¡ªfor her son to make Zenaida as the mistress.


    Hilda could not take it. How can she allow that? His son married the younger sister, but then his mistress is the older sister? That is a pure harem, isn''t it?


    And she could not agree with such a thing! She still has family values! The reason she was in an outburst that her son had a mistress was that it was an embarrassment for her!


    Still, having an affair between a marriage is a no, no¡­ Not for her! She condemned his son because of it! And that girl! But when she tries to separate them, her son now stays away from her and never came home since then!


    He forgets he has a mother! Now she would hear this gossip!?


    "Ah! I''m feeling my blood pressure is rising¡­ That son of mine has no care if I die in one of these days!" Hilda reaches for her head, massaging her temple.


    Carl, who is holding a fan, tried tofort his aunt. "You must calm down, Aunt Hilda. You should already use this kind of gossip."


    "I know, Carl. Before they threw whatever issues at us, I was less concerned about it. But now issues thrown at your cousin, I can''t sit still!"


    "Well, Vince is already an adult, Auntie. If the issue affects him. It''s easy for him to shut the media. But he only let the gossip and ignored them instead. Now calm down and let Vince handle his life."


    "Ah! Why am I talking to you? You are more yboy than my son!" Hilda blurted out. Poor Carl, it baffles him when her aunt is suddenly throwing her frustration at him.


    "Ouch. Why are youshing me now, Auntie?" said Carl, frowning?


    "Because I know that you have countless girlfriends!"


    "Auntie, I''m single. I''m not tied to someone like Vince or living with a girlfriend, so I can do whatever I want to..." he couldn''t finish his sentence when Hilda snaps him.


    "That is what I''m talking about! You are a bad influence on your cousin!"


    Twitching his mouth, Carl reaches for his shoulder, where Hilda smacks him. "Ouch. Auntie, don''t reproach me when I am here in front of you."


    "And what do you like? Behind your back? Ah! I''m going to lose my head! What am I going to do for Vince to dump his mistress?"


    Fred shook his head. He remains silent and never attempts to join the conversation because he knows they will only argue over again. Leisurely he sips on his tea when Hilda bbers again, and his tongue almost burns.


    "Fred! Aren''t you going to do something?"


    Twitching the corner of his mouth, Fred heaves a sigh. He pretended to hear nothing and remain reading on his iPad.


    "Fred!"


    "Would you shut up just for a day, Hilda!?" He couldn''t take it anymore that every single day, his wife has been talking about his son''s life. He has no problem with it. However, the issue is just repeatedly brought up. And it''s already so annoying to listen to.


    "As I told you. A day wille, and your son will get tired. By then, surely he will dump his mistress."


    In a low voice, Hilda asked her husband. She''s still afraid in Fred''s fury once provoked. "Why can you say that?"


    She''s curious if her husband did such a thing she didn''t know. Of course, even if she confirmed nothing that Fred had an affair, their marriage life is not peaceful and perfect. It also stormed many times.


    Fred, who is controlling his anger, calms down and respondszily. "You are aware that my friends and business partners were in an affair many times. Of course, I saw how they dump their girlfriends once they meet a new one."


    "What? I could not allow Vince to have another girlfriend after he leaves his current mistress!"


    Fred pressed his eyelids. He reminds himself to stay calm. "Hilda, why do youpare your son with those bastards! Did you see your son has girlfriends everywhere? None!"


    At the moment, Carl is sipping his coffee; he choked with the hot liquid. He coughs roughly to clear his throat.


    ''I guess it''s time for me to move out of this mansion.'' Carl thought inwardly.


    ~~~~~~


    Later in the evening, Hailey was working on herptop in the living room when Vince arrived. She was thinking of greeting him, but she chose to ignore him.


    Vince wanders his eyes around; the dining table is empty. The kitchen has no trace that Hailey was cooking. She even ignores him.


    ''So, what now? What she''s thinking at this moment? After she sent me a wonderful lunch, she ns to starve me in the evening?'' Vince mused.


    He nced at Hailey, who continued typing on herptop. It looks like the girl has no n to cook tonight.


    As he could see, she looked sulking. Well, maybe he will just let her be.


    In the end, Vince can''t stay silent. Before he took the first step of the stairs, he muttered. "So, you want me to deliver some dinner?"


    Hailey restrained herself from raising a brow. She replied timidly, "I thought you had dinner out. So I just fixed something for me."


    ''What? So she''s the one who is mad now?'' Vince rolled his eyes. ''Absolutely, it was so hard dealing with a woman... They are moody!''


    Heaving a silent sigh, Vince took the stairs without another word.

 Chapter 16: Pretending Not Care

    <h4>Chapter 16:Pretending Not Care</h4>


    Hailey lifted her gaze to watch Vince retreating. He hadn''t texted earlier to let her know whether he likes the lunch she sent over, so then, she didn''t waste her time making dinner in the evening.


    But honestly, she''s only sulking, not being appreciated. Or maybe she just acted childishly because all her life, she was pampered by everyone, so she isn''t used to being ignored.


    Anyway, why does she want Vince''s attention? He is only a stranger to her. She didn''t demand anything from someone that''s not close to her, or she hasn''t known this person for a long time.


    ''Ahhhhhhhh! A contract only binds us!'' Why is she acting like this, by the way?


    Did she only act stupid in front of him? Gosh! So, she just embarrassed herself to Vince? Ugh!


    Meanwhile, Vince sat on his leather armchair, rested his back, and closed his eyes.


    But to his disappointment, she prepared nothing this evening. And he is starving.


    Vince was in deep thoughts when his phone rang. He wants to ignore it, but maybe it''s important. He hasn''t visited his parent''s home over in a month now.


    "Hey..." He answered his phone.


    "Cousinnnnnnn! Huhuhuh....."


    Vince rolled his eyes. He massaged his forehead while listening to the man on the other line. "So? What''s up?"


    "Please, save me!" Weeping by a man none other than is Carl.


    Lazily, Vince asked his cousin, "What happened?"


    "Cousin, please give me one of your ts! I''m about to move out from here!"


    Listening to Carl''s ugly howls, Vince shook his head. He asked, "Why do you want to move out and live in a penthouse? You are living in a mansion."


    "Ah! Just don''t ask!"


    Vince burst outughing. He knew the reason his cousin wanted to leave home.


    "Stopughing! I''m doing this for your dad too!"


    "Huh? What''s going on?" he asked innocently, even though he already guessed the root of this drama.


    "We need a hiding ce! Or else, we''re going crazy one day!" Carl whined.


    "Heh. Just ignored mom. Like you weren''t used to her nagging yet." Ah. His mom surely could shake the ground. Vince mused. He pulled his ear away from the phone when Carl kept growling like a ughtered cow.


    "Ah! You could say that because you weren''t here!"


    "Well, now dad realizes why I leave home." Vince pushes a smirk on the corner of his mouth. Butter, he gives in. "Okay. I''ll get someone to clean and furnish the penthouse I have in the East Bay."


    Delighted, Carl jumped. "Can I borrow your yacht, cousin?"


    Vince raised a brow. Now he understood. "Don''t you dare to bring your girlfriends into my house and yacht!"


    Stammering, Carl scratching his head. Damn! His cousin quickly caught him! "I... I n to bring your dad to fish. Why would you use me of going on a date using your yacht?"


    Vince rolled his eyes. He knew his cousin. It''s better to warn him ahead. "I''ll let you live there and use it for dad to unwind and have a break from mom''s nagging. But it should be just overnight once in a while. You both should go home the next day to watch mom."


    "Ehhh?"


    "I want you to keep an eye on, mom. I will always be out of the country soon. So I want to make sure she does nothing weird."


    "Are you afraid Auntie will do something with your girlfriend?"


    "Kinda... But I was more concerned about her. I hope she wouldn''t do stupid things that put herself in an unlikely situation. So I want you to keep an eye on mom."


    "Okay¡­" Carl concurred. "But I need a break once in a while, you know."


    "I understood. That''s why I''ll allow you to use my yacht. But..."


    "But no girls! I get it¡­."


    Carl said something more, but he didn''t give attention when his nose caught something.


    "Wait..."


    "Huh? Oh, did I interrupt you in the middle of?" Carl tore a wide grin across his face, and Vince imagines it.


    "Shut up! I have a lot of work to do!" He rolled his eyes. Well, anyone would think this way since he opens his private life of having a mistress. "If you have nothing important to say, I''ll hang up now. I need to continue my work."


    "Hmm..."


    Carl sounded teasing; Vince just ignored and did not wait for his cousin to say another word. He pressed the end call button and ced his phone on the table. He breathes the enticing aroma from the kitchen that made his stomach growled in hunger.


    He sat up from his chair and walked toward the door. Vince peeps out from the study. He saw Hailey cooking something in the kitchen. Instantly, a smile tore across his face. ''Hmm...''


    So, after all, she could not stand not cooking for him. He wonders what it was. It smells like noodle soup, and he''s drooling already.


    Vince slowly shut the door close; he sits back in his chair and pretends to be busy. Well, he''s swamped. But for now, he will act like he didn''t notice she prepared dinner for him.


    After twenty minutes, in which he endured his hunger, finally he heard the knock he is waiting for that feels like it takes forever¡­ Vince quickly put down his phone. The truth is, he''s just ying on his mobile phone while waiting for Hailey to knock on the door. If he works in his state at the moment, he might pass out from hunger.


    "Come in." He said in a serious tone. He nced at his wristwatch, and it''s 9:15.


    When the door opens, he pretends to be busy browsing hisputer without sparing a nce at the girl standing between the doorjamb.


    "Ahem. I make a quick noodle soup. It''s the fastest I could cook, so there''s nothing much I prepared for dinner." Hailey informed Vince in a low voice.


    "Hum... I''lle down in a bit," he replied tly. But the truth is, he wanted to run outside. Of course, he would not make himself look like a fool in front of this moody girl, so he pretends he is less interested in checking out what she cooks.


    Seeing he''s busy with work, Hailey left without another word. Vince listened to the door shutting close gently; he waited for two minutes beforeing down and to the dining table. He sat across from the woman eating a slice of caramel cake while reading on her PC Tab. Beside her te is a cup of coffee.


    ''Is she reviewing her lessons?'' Having thought about it, he suddenly felt guilty. Maybe he acted childish earlier? He was the mature one, but it looks like he acted stupidly. However, at this moment, he''s starving. Nothing, all he could think about is food.


    He was staring at the bowl in front of him. The noodle seems to wave at him. He swallowed. He wanted to dig in the food in one mouthful. But Vince takes it slow. At first, he gradually twirls his chopsticks and slowly draws the noodle in his mouth. It tastes heavenly. But he had to take his time, even though he was tempted to pick up the bowl and drink the soup in one gulp.


    There are also small fried chicken cuts; he picks up one and dips in the gravy. He stuffed his mouth with three cuts. He notices that Hailey''s mouth is open, and the fork with a piece of caramel cake remains hanging in the air while watching him eat. He coughed, lowering his gaze and focusing on his food.


    He almost forgets that he pretended not to be so hungry. So he must unhurriedly put food in his mouth.


    Suppressing not to tear a yful smile, Hailey picked up her mug and drank coffee. She could see he''s hungry. But he pretends he just casually ate the food she prepared, not to waste them.


    Well, she won''t feel guilty that it was her intention not to cook tonight, which in the end, she had to, or he''ll skip dinner again.


    Ah! She is supposed not to care!


    Hailey is pondering when Vince spoke... She raised her head and looked at him.


    "You don''t need to bring me food tomorrow. It will be difficult for you to drive around, going toward the University."


    She rendered speechlessly. Hailey mused, ''Is he dering that we are okay now?''

 Chapter 17: Should Not Attached With Her

    <h4>Chapter 17:Should Not Attached With Her</h4>


    The next morning, Vince couldn''t take his eyes away from the lunch bag ced on the table the entire time while having breakfast. He is about to leave for work, and his curiosity is killing him whether the lunch bag is really for him.


    Last night, he and Hailey only had a quick talk over a simple but wonderful dinner. He already told her she need not make him lunch. So now he wondered why she''s still making peace offers for him.


    He couldn''t take the suspense. He asked Hailey, "Ahem. Why did you make a lunch box?"


    Vince didn''t mention "me" to not sound like he was so sure it was for him¡­ in case Hailey said it''s not for him, then he didn''t embarrass himself.


    Waiting for Hailey''s reply, Vince watched the girl with anticipation. She was wrapping some sauces in small containers, securing them by putting them inside Ziploc bags before she ced them in the lunch bag.


    "Here, it''s all done!" said Hailey. She then handed the bag to Vince.


    Sighing with relief in silence, Vince thought, ''Thank goodness.'' That the food was for him. But of course, he won''t show that it pleased him.


    "You need not do this like what I saidst night." ''I forgive you already.'' He added into his head.


    "Ah, well¡­ Like you''ve said, it will be difficult for me to drive around. So I will make it in the morning?" Hailey exined with a flushed cheek. Vince is gaping at her earnestly. She wants to tell him not to make a face like that because her heart flutters non-stop. However, she is shy to say something about it, of course. "Well, I couldn''t do it every day like tomorrow. I have to go somewhere early for our field demo," she added.


    "Okay, thanks!" Vince pursed a thin smile across his face. He is suppressing not to tear a big smile. The girl is talking cute. Her cheeks are flushing, and it amuses him. "Ahem. Well, I''m leaving now."


    "Hum! Have a safe drive!" Hailey watches Vince''s silhouettes disappear in the door. ''Ah. He looks in a good mood now. Then, good job for you, Hailey!'' Now then, it''s time for her to prepare to go to university!


    Meanwhile, Vince was now in the underground Parking Lot. He was walking toward his Maybach Exelero when he bumped into Kristian Keller, Vice President of a Pharmaceutical Company, one of his tenants.


    Vince was speechless about how to respond. Honestly, it''s the first time someone makes him lunch to bring for work. He pushed a thin smile, dly, the guy didn''t notice he felt awkward talking about stuff such as marriage or whatsoever likes having someone living in. But the thought of Hailey prepared him lunch boxes, somehow, brings a warm feeling toward his chest.


    Coming back to his senses, it was a good thing that he makes himself informed with the information he gathered for every tenant he has. Vince remembered that Kristian Keller is married and his wife is pregnant.


    "How was your wife? She seemed to be due soon?" At least, he takes notes in case he encountered something like this, and he is ready to have a quick talk. Unfortunately, ''marriage'' is on his Top List of being difficult for him to have a smooth conversation.


    dly, once it was mentioned, Kristian Keller''s face brightens. It shows how excited he is to see his child soon. Nodding, Kristian replied, "Yes. We are expecting our daughter next month. My wife is having a little difficulty in her pregnancy, so she couldn''t make meals for me anymore."


    Vince could see the joy in Kristian''s eyes. He couldn''t determine if it was how a man would look like being in love and a happy husband, plus soon to be a father.


    Now that they both reached their car, they nod at each other as a farewell. Vince opened the door in the back seat, he secured the lunch bag on the floor and his suitcase.


    Vince made a smooth drive, exited the parking lot, and joined the traffic. He was following the cars in front of him; he drove slowly. Contemting, it came to his mind the quick conversation he had with Kristian.


    He got married three years ago but he and his wife never lived as a couple. Now that he wants the divorce they agreed before the wedding, his nominal wife is hiding from him. So to get her attention, he came up with the idea of having a mistress. And it works. The Lan family confronted him. When he questions them where Eva is, they remain silent and said they also didn''t know and a bunch of reasons that sound bullshit as goes on.


    Now that he is living with his hired mistress, he somehow felt like living with a real wife... Except for that aspect of their rtionship: they need not sleep together or stay in the same bed.


    And today, when Hailey makes him lunch boxes, he can rte to what Kristian feels being taken care of by a wife. He would admit, he somewhat felt proud. However, sadness shes in his eyes.


    When this is over, he will go back to being alone and probably going back to live in the mansion and bear his nagging mother.


    Arriving at hispany parking area, Vince releases the air he hurls from his lungs before he steps out of his car and headed to the elevator, remains to ponder.


    What should he expect? Everything is just an agreement after all. One day it will end. So he shouldn''t make himself attached to her.


    Shaking his head, Vince put aside all the unnecessary things from his head. He must concentrate on his uing big project.


    Burying himself with work, he didn''t notice that it was lunchtime, not until Tim reminded him.


    "Boss, would you like me to have a take out?"


    Creasing his forehead without ncing at Tim, he asked. "What for?"


    "It''s lunchtime already. I''m asking if you want me to buy you lunch." Tim actually waited for Hailey to text him she brought lunch for the boss. But it''s noon already, Hailey didn''t bring any lunch for the boss, so he wonders if they are still not good or already in peace? Then no free lunch for him? He mused while waiting patiently for his boss to respond.


    Vince hummed. He nced at his wristwatch. "Hm, I didn''t notice. Okay, you can have your lunch."


    Question marks popping on top of his head, Tim asked his boss. "How about you? Are you skipping your lunch?"


    Vince lifted his gaze. He looked at his assistant with a perplexed look. "I brought lunch with me."


    Tim dropped his jaw. His boss brought a homemade lunch in the office? Wait, it''s the first time, is it?


    ''Oh, then did Miss Hailey make him lunch this morning?'' What a lucky bastard! No wonder he is giving a proud face! Tim hid his disappointment. ''Then no free lunch for me¡­ Huhuhuh''


    "Okay, boss! I''m taking my lunch now!" He makes a slow turn, might his boss change mind.


    "Hum¡­" Nodding, Vince remained looking at hisputer, working on his new project.


    Tim twitched his mouth. To his disappointment, no free lunch for him. "Jeez. Look who''s happy now."

 Chapter 18: Result of Being Heartbroken?

    <h4>Chapter 18:Result of Being Heartbroken?</h4>


    Hailey has just parked her car inside the University when her phone rings. It was a video call through Instagram.


    "Princess Hailey!" screamed a woman on the other end of the video chat.


    "Kelly? Do you really have to shout my name?" she rolled her eyes.


    Start whining, Kelly pouted, "How dare you not call me every day!"


    "We see each other grow up every day for almost two decades. Aren''t you tired of seeing my face?" she joked.


    Kelly widened her eyes with hurt and shock. "How dare you say that to me now! I was on the verge of bursting out every single day, worrying about you!"


    Hailey only smiled charmingly in front of her phone, letting Kelly continue bbing.


    "Well, looking at you¡­ You''re still pretty, so I guess nothing I should worry about."


    Haileyughed out, shaking her head. She asked, "Okay! So, what''s up?"


    "Is that how you only ask me? My God! When will youe back? I''m always on a fret. Might your dad one day show up, and you weren''t here in Dubai!"


    "It will be soon..." And she is hoping it was soon! She prayed.


    "How soon? Your dad called me almost every day asking about you since he can not contact you. You should phone your dad."


    Of course, she couldn''t tell Kelly this. She doesn''t want to exin anything yet to her friends. Besides, she''s worried about what would happen if her dad learned what she''d done!


    Jeez! She didn''t weigh things when she signed the agreement! But why does Vince let things be left off like this? He didn''t seem to look for his wife seriously! He has money to locate Eva''s whereabouts!


    Hailey hid her concerns. She beamed as she uttered, "I might only finish this school year, and I will go back to Australia."


    Hearing the word ''school'' Kelly''s face turned sour. "Really? And who says she''s going on a vacation? But then, I heard you enrolled in a University? Gosh! Thest time you go on vacation, when youe back home, you are waving your certificate as an International Chef! What kind of vacation is that? No one asks for a vacation to get another course in college! I''m done going to school!"


    "Hey, I know there are people out there who are still going to school even after they got their degree," she countered.


    Kelly twitching her lips, she bs, "They were on mastering their courses! Unlike you! How many courses did you already finish aside from your Vocational courses? If I''m not mistaken, you''ve finished three courses, and two of them got your master''s degree. I don''t know what course you will get after this? And don''t you dare wave your certificate on me the next time we see each other!"


    Hailey wasughing hard, staring at Kelly''s frowning face. Kelly is one of her closest friends whom she treats like a sister, so she loves joking with her. And she had one at the moment.


    "Hey, don''t worry. The next certificate I''m waving at you is my Marriage License."


    Popping out her eyeballs, Kelly dropped her jaw. "Don''t you dare joke like that!"


    Hailey burst outughing. She already guessed what Kelly would look like if she threw this joke.


    "Jeez! Don''t give us a heart attack! That''s not a nice joke! Because thest joke you ever throw at us is when you decide to get married to Bryan!"


    Seeing Kelly darkened her face, Hailey pursed a thin smile. She''s overwhelmed with the love her friends have given her. That is why she has no room to feel depressed. She''s not in love with Bryan, and she is honest about that.


    But he is the guy she trusted the most, next to her father.


    She thought she would be happy if she will marry her best friend. But things aren''t perfect even if what in the eyes of many on the surface. There is something that is missing from her rtionship with Bryan, and she never put a thought about it before she said yes. And it''s not enough for him...


    Hailey tilted her head to the side to bury the past. The part of her life she wanted to forget and buried deep because it was the stupidest decision she made.


    She thought her life is perfect, however, she is wrong. But she would not dwell on that. Shrugging her shoulder, Hailey stered an ''okay'' smile across her face.


    However, Kelly is still not over it. "I''m sorry. I should not mention that bastard''s name!"


    "Hey, he is your cousin!" she reminds Kelly.


    "Not anymore! Start when he breaks your heart!" Kelly snaps. Her sympathy is with Hailey all along.


    Tearing a wide smile, Hailey chuckled. She muttered, "It might be my fault as well. I only love Bryan like a brother. So maybe I take him for granted."


    Shocked, Kelly could not believe everything she''s hearing at the moment. She blurted out. "Oh, my gosh! Who are you!"


    "What?" Creasing her forehead, confusion written on Hailey''s face.


    "This! You are not the Hailey whom my sister is! You must possess her!"


    Sheughed. Hailey now understood. Does she truly sound different now? She mused.


    "Is this the effect of being heartbroken?" Kelly added


    Her statement made Hailey speechless, she pondered. She knows that in her case, it isn''t about like it. The bitterness that Bryan gave her is not the reason she was now the better version of herself.


    It was Vince.


    Since she met Vince, getting to know him and living with him¡­ She opened herself into someone she never imagined that she could be. She allows herself to grow and learn how to adjust in a situation such as; ''working a rtionship''.


    And she is happy¡­ However, there are feelings she could not determine because she had none topare. Or maybe the reason is that she doesn''t have any experience with such a thing yet? Like love?


    Besides, they aren''t an actual couple but as days on¡­ She finds herself acting as a mature person thinks. Of course, she already was in the past, but she is more spoiled because she got everyone''s back. Now she could actually rely on only one man. She need not an entire n to feel secure.


    The saying was true, after all. It was...


    "US against the WORLD!"


    ''Oh, wait! There is no US!'' They were only a fake couple. What she''s thinking!?


    Sadness shed in her eyes, Kelly thought she was still hurting from what happened. "Hail, I''m really sorry for what my cousin did to you. To be honest? I want to murder that guy!" she stressed out. She has known Hailey all her life. Hailey doesn''t deserve to be treated how Bryan knocked her on the head. But she could say nothing to make Hailey feel better. She has no experience with deep true love either.


    Pushing a cheerful smile, Hailey responded to Kelly, "Don''t worry about me. I am really fine! I enjoy going to Uni and learning new things." She is! She''s learning things beyond her imagination. And she''s discovering more things that are new to her and it''s not about school. She is talking about her being a fake girlfriend.


    Maybe this is the reason she felt sad when everything would be over¡­

 Chapter 19: You Seemed Possessed

    <h4>Chapter 19:You Seemed Possessed</h4>


    "Hail, just came back soon, okay? You don''t need to do this..."


    Hailey pursed a sweet smile. She could tell Kelly still thought that she left Australia because of her heartbreak. "Don''t worry, okay? I''m doing this for my LIFE Project."


    "Eh? Why don''t you send someone to do that, by the way? You had hundreds... No... You have a thousand employees you can choose from and assign to trained out there," she pouted.


    Hailey replied, "You know already that I want a vacation, so I''m doing this!"


    "Not going to school over again! How...!?"


    Before Kelly rants once again, she has to cut in. "Hey. It''s for thepany, remember? You know I am hands-on in everything. I want to understand it before my staff learns them. You''re the one who knows me well, of all people that are close to me."


    "Okay! But it should take so long? You were there for half a year already! I''m worried because this is the first time your dad didn''t know where you are. Why don''t you want him to know?"


    Ugh. The question she could not answer. Of course, she should not tell her dad something like this...


    "Hey, dad! I''m living with my boyfriend! Don''t worry, dad, it''s just an act! Once he gets his divorce, after then, I can go home!"


    Ugh. Who''s she kidding? For sure, her dad would fly in a mere second to get here, and it would be big chaos!


    It will be a big and long exnation of her real reasons why she was in the country. Vince should get the divorce he pursued so that their agreement will end soon. By then, she will have her freedom. She can finally go home!


    However, right now, she has to give a valid reason, which is also true. She told Kelly, "Like what I said... I want to train the crew myself, so I am taking the course here. I want to manage manpower properly. So then, I have a better understanding of how to oversee my employees."


    "But why are you doing it personally? You can send someone like your bunch of directors or even the Vice President! Why do you have to do it yourself?"


    "Ugh." Kelly ps her forehead. "I forgot. My cousin is the Vice President of Davies Group."


    Beaming, Hailey winked at Kelly. "You know me, Kel... I want to be hands-on with my projects."


    "Alright! Fine! But call me every day, so I know you are okay. Don''t give me an excuse that you are busy!"


    The truth is she is busy. "I have field training tomorrow starts early in the morning, and I heard it would be a whole day. So, I might go hometer in the evening. I will call dad the next day."


    "Why don''t you call him during the night?"


    Ah! She couldn''t make a call to anyone when Vince was there! And surely Kelly would pass out if she told her she is taking care of an adult man.


    Thinking about it, Hailey didn''t notice she shes a smirk across her face.


    "Hey, I saw that!"


    "Saw, what?" She made an innocent face.


    "That... That! You were beaming seconds ago! I felt there''s a story about it! Share it with me!"


    Kelly was bouncing in her seat, so Hailey couldn''t stopughing. Yes, they knew each other very well. So, she had to find an excuse to end this video call before her tongue slips out, something she is not prepared to exin to any of her friends, especially to her dad.


    "Hey, some other time! I have a ss to attend now." She does! And Nadia is already waving at her, gesturing that their ss is about to start.


    But it does not convince Kelly. "No! You are only avoiding to share anything!"


    Ugh. This girl knew her well, the reason she less contacted hertely.


    "I''m going, Kel..." Hailey steps out of the car. She sees when Kelly creases her forehead.


    "What car did you drive to your school?"


    Hailey brings her phone around for Kelly to have a view of the Ferrari. "It''s an Aparte."


    "Oh, so you love driving a chic car now?"


    "Nah. This car is intimidating already to drive around."


    Raising a brow, Kelly snaps at her, "Really?"


    "I could not drive its full speed, so it''s a bore to drive a sports car around here. The traffic would drive me crazy."


    "Oh, no wonder you didn''t ship your Bugatti. As I remembered, you have no patience, stuck in the traffic. That is why you choose Dubai for a vacation."


    "Yeah. I couldn''t believe I survived here until now."


    "OMG! That''s it! Since you traveled to that country, you seemed possessed! Am I going to recognize the Hailey I''ve known my entire life when youe back home?"


    "Hey! What would be the changes? I just went to school here and chose a low-profile living?" Hailey beamed.


    Rolled her eyes, Kelly snapped. "Fine! Okay! Shoo! Go ahead to your ss! Just mention nothing about your lessons. I''m fed up with all of those subjects!"


    Haileyughs. Kelly is smart. But she iszy with other things to do. She just wanted to stick to what she''s passionate about. And that is fashion and designing. "Okay! I''ll call you in the next few days!"


    "You better! Take care, Princess! Muahhhh!" Kelly flew a kiss before she ended the video call.


    "Finally¡­" she sighed with relief. If she didn''t force Kelly to end the talk, it would take hours! "Hey, girls!" Hailey greeted Nadia and Liza, who was waiting patiently for her; sitting on the stone bench under the shade of the Acacia tree.


    "Hey,e on! I saw Prof Carl is on his way to the Auditorium building!" Liza burst happily.


    "Jeez¡­ that yboy prof¡­" Nadia mouthed nonchntly. She rolled her eyes with irritation.

 Chapter 20: Going To A Class Reunion

    <h4>Chapter 20:Going To A ss Reunion</h4>


    N University


    Carl Johnson, the handsome professor of Operation Management course, and all of his student''s eyes were on him, pretending to listen to his lessons. But many of these girls just made a cute face at him.


    He always wanted to roll his eyes, thinking that these kids only came here to look for love life and mess their parents'' money paying the tuition fees.


    At the moment, he was discussing an important topic regarding his lesson. But as usual, these kids aren''t listening carefully but more on staring at his handsome face.


    It was his pride to look like Adonis and Hermes, but he is serious when ites to studying. He has passion, and he wants to make these kids understand. From here, their future depends on their performances in ss.


    His eyes sweep in the room to check the faces and reactions of his students. However, his gaze always settles in one ce.


    Of course, Vince''s girlfriend has been his student since ss startedst August, and it shocked him when by January, he heard that Vince is living with her as his mistress.


    Hailey Hillson is an international student, and he once helped her on the day she came to enroll in the university.


    She''s extremely beautiful, and he ns to get close to her. However, she''s a little aloof. He could sense she was avoiding him purposely. No. For most of the boys in the school, she avoids getting close to them. All he could get was a thin smile across from her face, but she wasughing cheerfully around her circle of friends.


    So how did his cousin win this woman''s attention?


    Until now, still a mystery to him. He attempted to ask Vince how he courted Hailey, but Vince just raised a brow and ignored his question.


    Ah! He believes they are a perfect couple; both have a mysterious charisma!


    He has known Vince all his life. So, he knew that his cousin doesn''t enjoy going on dates, but he didn''t say no to a drinking party once in a while. Vince loves studying and going to the office, even though he''s still in college. At such a young age, Vince was already learning how to run theirpany.


    After Vince graduated from the AB course, he took Architecture. Now he manages the SHEN GROUP and brings thepany into glory; climbed to the top as the best Developer Company in the country. And now, he aims to win a project Internationally.


    Vince, who holds several development projects in Metro City, is coborating with internationalpanies.


    He became a CEO at such a young age because he only focuses on working rather than looking for a love life or fooling around like the typical son and grandsons of High Society.


    The reason it shocked him how Vince captured the heart of a woman like Hailey Hillson. For him, she was a mysterious girl. It intrigued him to know who she really was.


    After over an hour, his ss finally ended. Carl watched Hailey and her friends leaving the building.


    ''My cousin is truly a lucky bastard. The girl looks like a model. Can she be? Never mind.'' Carl muttered inwardly. He walked toward his car and left the university.


    Meanwhile, Hailey, Nadia, and Liza headed to the Canteen to buy something to eat before their next ss began.


    And this time, Hazel joined them.


    Hazel was sitting at their table. Instantly she shared the news. And as friends, they usually cut in or snap when someone talks seriously or is in the middle of exciting gossip.


    "Hey, sis! Do you know?"


    "We didn''t..." Liza joked to Hazel that it made the girl pout.


    "Jeez! Just followed me!" Hazelined.


    Beaming, Liza gives in, gesturing her hand. "All right! Let''s go! Start from the top!"


    "Okay!" Hazel sat properly, her hands ced on herp elegantly to prepare herself with a gossip she wanted to share with her friends.


    Nadia, who is munching, shaking her head, watching her two friends look like idiots while Hailey is sipping a c¡ªeagerly waiting for Hazel''s gossip, as for sure it was interesting. She loves when the girls throw jokes and punchlines at each other. Sheughed hard, and her mouth tore broad smiles every time.


    "Did you know?" Hazel began again.


    Liza replied, "The... what?"


    "About the ss Reunion of those who graduated in the year 2015?"


    "Oh. What about it?" Liza asked innocently, putting chips on her mouth.


    Full of enthusiasm, Hazel mouthed, ncing at Hailey. "It means Vince will be there!"


    "Hm? Why are you looking at me?" Hailey creased her forehead, pretending she is less interested.


    Hazel exined, "Of course, Vince needs a date! Who else would go with him?"


    "Well, I may be his girlfriend. But it''s inappropriate that I go with him." She felt like it''s not right. It''s a formal gathering.


    "Why not? Vince and Eva were never a couple, you know." Hazel had guessed that it was Hailey''s concern. Vince indeed married, but where is Eva? She chose fame over her marriage. At that time, Vince is not the SHEN GROUP CEO yet. But in the past two years, he surprised everyone when thepany rapidly climbed to the top. "You know, you should go if Vince asks you."


    "It''s not just a business party that Vince could bring me around. It''s a ss reunion." Hailey reasoned out.


    "If it worries you because Zenaida was there? I will be there too! My cousin asked me to be his date."


    Hazel didn''t give up convincing Hailey. She has known Vince all her life because he and her cousin are childhood friends. She thinks Vince deserves to have a love life, and she could see that Hailey is a wonderful person and the two are perfect for each other.


    Thinking over, Hailey takes a moment of silence before she replies. Pushing a smile, she exined herself. "Honestly, I''m not afraid of that woman. I think that it is not a suitable asion for me to attend."


    Still, in the eyes of everyone, she is just the Mistress. Besides, she respects Vince''s reputation in the High Society. Also, she already guesses he would deliver a speech to that party. Vince must gain everyone''s recognition, and she might ruin that night with gossips and ndering words thrown at her. "I''m not needed for that party."


    "Looks like you are, girl!" Liza cut in. She went on. "Mrs. Gomez sent a notice! They are listing us to serve that night!"


    "Wait, what?" Hailey and Nadia muttered at once.


    "The ss reunion was going to be held at M Club Resort, the ce we are going to tomorrow. No wonder we have our field activity there."


    "Damn. So, you are going to serve the guests instead of you as a guest on that night?" Hazel mouthed in disbelief.


    Hailey shrugged a shoulder, tearing a delighted smile. "It''s for our grades, so I don''t mind doing the waitress job."

 Chapter 21: Turning Down

    <h4>Chapter 21:Turning Down</h4>


    Hailey is in the middle of making dinner when Vince arrives. He had just entered the door of his penthouse, an enticing aroma of Beef Teriyaki greeted him.


    It relieved him that Hailey is cooking for tonight. Hees home early to find out if she ns to make dinner for them, so then he could order something from his favorite restaurants. dly, the girl was in the mood.


    Meanwhile, Hailey didn''t notice Vince''s arrival. It surprised her when he spoke next to her while cing the lunch bag on the sink.


    Vince asked, "What did you cook?"


    "Gosh! You''re home!" she burst out in surprise.


    Vince was amused at her reaction. He tears a thin smile as he replies, "Yeah." He then strode toward the sofa.


    Hailey was wearing ear pods, the reason she didn''t hear when the door opened. Her gaze followed Vince in the living room. He ces his leather bag on a single couch, next to take off his coat, then loosened his necktie. While rolling up his long sleeves, he asked Hailey. "You need help?"


    ''Really? You look tired!'' Hailey mused inwardly. And it touched her that Vince tried to be thoughtful. Pursing a grateful smile, she offered him something to drink instead. "It''s alright! Do you want coffee? I will make you a mug. It will take an hour before I finish cooking them." At least¡­ all because it''s still too early from his usual time toe home.


    "Yes, please. That would be great." Pushing a thin smile across his handsome face, Vince sat on the sofa. He took out a folder from his bag and began reading the documents.


    ''He looks busier than before. So, what brings him home this early?'' Hailey thought. She nces at the wall clock... 5:30 in the evening, which it''s rare for Vince to be home this time around. His usual time toe home if he has no dinner meeting or gathering is 7:30 in the evening.


    Now she realized Vince left home at 7:30 in the morning, and he went back at 7:30 in the evening. It seemed he wanted toplete a 12 hours working routine.


    Is he killing himself? He needs a wife to take care of him!


    Hailey contemtes. Shees back to her senses when the coffee maker shows it''s done brewing. She then offered the mug of coffee.


    "Thanks!" Vince raised his head to thank Hailey.


    She blushed when their eyes met. "You''re wee."


    In the past, Vince didn''t spare a nce at her. But now that they were living together like a real couple, their interaction seems to be customary.


    However, it brought sadness and fear into her heart because she could feel that she''s getting used to this already.


    ''No. It''s just my imagination.'' Shaking her head lightly, Hailey continues cooking in front of the range top.


    She prepared a Beef Teriyaki dish, mushroom soup, and spicy sweet and sour fish fillet. Vince now changes his suit into house clothes and freshly showered. Exactly Hailey finished setting up the table, Vince descending the stairs. His eyes flickered, looking at the tter of his favorite Beef Teriyaki.


    He walked toward his wine storage, taking out a bottle of champagne.


    Hailey watched Vince cing the champagne on a bucket filled with ice, then reached for two sses from the cupboard.


    Now, sitting across from each other, both are eating quietly. Vince savored the Beef Teriyaki first and foremost. Using a spoon and fork, he ced the spoon on the side of his te, reced it with chopsticks. He stuffs his mouth with the broli Hailey added to the Beef Teriyaki; he also enjoyed the sweet peas. It tastes good!


    It looks like she simmered the beef teriyaki with sweet sauce, which he preferred, over the salty voring. And the fish fillet from usual sweet and sour, she added chili on the sauce. Again, Hailey spoiled him tonight.


    Vince opened the champagne, poured the two sses, and offered one to Hailey.


    "Thank you." Hailey tears a shy smile. She took the ss and sipped on it.


    She always dines out with Bryan or with their friends together, but strangely, dinner at home with a stranger warms her heart.


    It gives her delight at the same time as sadness. She doesn''t understand, but one thing she knew, she shouldn''t feel this way and think this way.


    Lately, her mind began messing up, and her heart started acting strange. She couldn''tprehend if this is what they called love.


    Halfway to finish their supper, Vince spoke. He asked, "So, where do you have your training tomorrow?"


    "Hmm. We''re going to M Club Resort." Oh! The ss Reunion! She almost forgot about it.


    Hearing the name of the ce, Vince raised his head and looked at Hailey. "Really? How coincidence. We have a 2015 ss Reunion with every department from N University this Friday. Do you have time to pick up a dress for you?"


    Vince notices the frown on her face, so he asks. "What''s wrong? Are you busy? I can ask one of my secretaries to search for dresses online. Then you can check out if you like them."


    It tempts Hailey to giggle. This guy is unpredictable. He already thinks about it, huh? It stated on their contract that part of her act is to be his date on any asion he''ll attend. So she must look fabulous and elegant standing next to Vince.


    However, thinking she''ll be a waitress at that event gives her more thrill than dressing up and showing her skin and curves, matching a sweet smile across her face while greeting and talking to Vince''s ssmates and schoolmates.


    So then, she wants to turn down Vince''s n to bring her on that asion as his date. Actually, Mrs. Gomez approached her after the ss. The prof is giving her choices not to be part of a service crew that night. When she told the prof she wanted to take part, Mrs. Gomez paled and tried to convince her that it''s not that necessary if she had another n. Hailey then realized Mrs. Gomez is doing this because of her rtionship with Vince.


    The professor didn''t point it out. But she''s doing this because SHEN GROUP is a huge investor in the school. In fact, Vince volunteered to helpplete the renovation of the university. So then, as Vince''s girlfriend, she was exempted and favored by the school faculties.


    At first, she doesn''t like it. She came to this country to have a low-key profile. But she made a mistake signing that agreement. Her life here is more controversial than her real-life back in Australia, and that was actually funny on her part.


    Hailey clears her throat; she swallows some champagne before she replies to Vince. The guy is staring at her with disbelief after she refused his invitation. In fact, Vince is making a funny face.


    "Why?"


    Hailey lowered her gaze to hide her pink cheeks, blushing while suppressing the yful smile on her face. Vince looks funny, creasing his forehead and furrowing his brows.


    "Um. I don''t want to miss my training." Just herme excuse.


    Vince took a long silence, and he didn''t speak again. Hailey isn''t sure if Vince was angry after she turned him down as his date to the ss Reunion. After he finished his food, he sat up from his seat.


    "Thanks for the food. If you change your mind, let me know tomorrow," he uttered before he walked toward the stairs.


    He''s mad, isn''t he? Hailey bites her lower lip, contemting what she should do.


    "Ah. What, now!?"

 Chapter 22: It Feels Strange

    <h4>Chapter 22:It Feels Strange</h4>


    The following day, Vince found Hailey cing food boxes in a gray lunch bag. He wondered why she made him lunch. He remembered her mentioning yesterday that she has to be at school at seven o''clock, but it was past seven now.


    ''Could it be that it was a peace offering lunch bag?'' Vince mused.


    Last night, he looked upset after she refused to be his date at the ss Reunion. And knowing she made lunch, her technique is working on him.


    Vince nced at his wristwatch, his gaze turned then to Hailey, scanning her entire get up.


    She was wearing the University T-shirt and Jacket provided by the school, paired with blue jeans. She tied her hair into a ponytail that emphasized the shape of her face. As usual, she only put on light makeup, but this time she applied red lipstick, which is rare for her to do unless he brought her into a dinner meeting or business parties.


    Hailey quickly raises her head upon hearing the shutting door from Vince''s bedroom. She saw him walking toward the staircase.


    "Hi, good morning!" she greeted instantly. "Breakfast is ready, and your lunch. I have to go now. The bus will leave by 7:30!"


    "You''re not taking the car?" he asked, eyes didn''t leave staring at her face. The first thing that captures his eyes is the red lipstick on her lips.


    To be honest, he hates looking at women who wear too much makeup and wear funny color lipstick. But it seems even more beautiful on Hailey wearing a red one.


    Hailey blushed when Vince''s eyes glued on her face, particrly to her lips. She already guessed it must be her wearing lipstick this time. She usually wears red lipstick at work.


    But not when she is going to school, even if the University mandated their female students to practice wearing makeup and applied lipstick to train them on how to look pleasing by the time they applied for a job and start working.


    Pursed an awkward smile, she exined. "No need! The school bus will take us there, so I will take a taxi to go to University..."


    Hailey was now changing her slippers into a pink Converse shoe. When she finished, she bid goodbye to Vince. "So, I''m leaving first!"


    "Okay." Pulling the dining chair, Vince watched Hailey stepping out the door.


    It was the first time Hailey left the house ahead of him. And it feels¡­ weird? Or maybe he was used to going first every day?


    Shrugging his shoulder, Vince sat down and began eating his breakfast. However, he still feels bizarre. No. It was more like emptiness¡­


    In these passing months, he was used to having breakfast and dinner with Hailey. And eating alone this morning felt strange.


    Watching her disappearing in the door felt like a fraction of his heart escape from his chest.


    Is Hailey feeling this way, too, every time he left home first? He mused. Later his head makes a counter to his thought.


    ''Why would Hailey feel it, anyway?'' It''s not like they were in a real rtionship¡ªhis reason to himself.


    Vince shook his head with the thoughts. He continued eating his breakfast but suddenly lost appetite. Thinking Hailey woke up earlier than usual to prepare his breakfast and lunch, Vince finishes all the food in front of him. After then, he washed the tes and utensils he used and put them into the dishwasher.


    Hailey mentioned to him that their field training would be the entire day. It means she will be homete. And by then, she''s tired already, but she needs to make dinner for them. So then, he washed the tes he uses this morning. Not to give Hailey more work when she''s back home.


    Vince is now ready to leave the penthouse; a smile tore across his face. He picked up the gray lunch bag and proudly carried it toward his car.


    When he woke up this morning, he already lost his appetite thinking, that he had to eat a take-out or go to the nearby restaurant around hispany at lunch.


    But now, those times have be boring, and the food has be less pleasing to his mouth.


    All he wanted after his work time was to go home and anticipate what Hailey prepared for dinner.


    ''Is this even normal for him to feel?'' Also, he could not stop thinking about her even though he was in the middle of work.


    Vince heaves a long sigh. He forgot that he is now inside his office, and Tim is waiting for his instruction.


    ''Why does the boss acting weird again this morning? Not to mention he''s always ncing at the lunch bag on the coffee table. Did the two have a misunderstanding again?'' Timothy mused.


    He coughs to remind his boss he is waiting. When there''s no response, Tim opens up a subject to wake up his boss.


    "Ahem! President Shen, about your uing ss Reunion. Should I book a shop for Miss Hailey to try on her dress for that night?"


    "She declined," Vince replied tly.


    "Huh?" Tim''s eyes flicked as he pushed a smirk. ''Oh. You felt rejected, boss. Hehe...'' No wonder he is wearing a long face. And that lunch bag is a peace offering. ''Heh. When did they make their rtionship real? They''ve already acted like one!''


    Tim quickly hid the smile ying across his face when Vince lifted his head and raised a brow.


    ''Damn.'' Is his boss can be able to read his mind?

 Chapter 23: Hasnt Pregnant Yet?

    <h4>Chapter 23:Hasn''t Pregnant Yet?</h4>


    Hailey''s POV


    "N University!" With a sweet smile, Hailey told the taxi driver the moment she entered the vehicle.


    Since it was still early morning, they did not encounter traffic on the road, and she arrived at school within less than twenty minutes.


    She already notified Nadia and Liza that she was now outside at the University getting off from a cab.


    The two girls already reserved her a seat. She quickly got on the bus the moment she arrived in the assembly area. Mrs. Gomez gestured her hand at her when she was walking toward the proof to register her attendance.


    She was running, thinking she only had five minutes left! Hailey heaves a sigh of relief after she sits in her seat.


    "Do you need to cook for him?" asked Liza. "He has billions to pay for his lunch even to the most expensive restaurant in the country!"


    Hailey exined why she''ste, but her friends react this way afterward. She smiled sweetly as a response, pondering that it might be true to what Liza remarked.


    But if she''s the one to ask, she would always prefer homemade food.


    One of many reasons she learned how to cook is for her future family. She would love to prepare their favorite food like her grandma.


    The old woman is a wonderful cook and always prepares her favorite dishes. During an event or asion in the mansion, her grandma makes one or two menus, even if their chefs are all top masters. And everyone loves it, especially her. Ah¡­ now she missed her grandma.


    Hailey didn''t share her thoughts as her friends had no idea of her real status in life since she lives an ordinary life in this city. However, not until she signed the contract with Vince.


    Ah! Hailey shook her head. Lately, whatever she''s doing, it always has this phrase, ''Ever since she signed the contract!''


    She never imagined it would be a big controversy after she apanied Vince to some business engagements. Of course, she already knew that Vince is married. One thing why she let him near her¡­ Vince is Eva''s husband.


    Heaving a silent sigh, Hailey pursed a smile as she replied to her friends. "I want to make sure he will remember to eat. He is busiertely."


    "Oh, right! I heard from my cousin. The SHEN GROUP is aiming to win an International project!" Someone cut in.


    "Hazel? What are you doing here? You''re not part of this field training?"


    It surprised Nadia and Liza when Hazel appeared in front of them. They did not recognize her seated nearby because of her disguise.


    "Jeez. So boring in my Math ss. I rather wake up early and have fun!" she replied to her friends, taking off the hat she wore and ck coat.


    "We will not y golf or have a party in M Resort." Liza mouthed at her.


    "Yeah, I know! But if I didn''t convince Mrs. Gomez, I would miss your gossip!"


    "Jeez. Are you nning to fail your Math?" Nadiamented, rolling her eyes.


    Hazel smiled sweetly. Her eyes flickered while cing her arms around Nadia''s shoulder. "You will help me pass, so I don''t worry."


    Stupefied, Nadia gaped at Hazel. "What am I? Your Math prof to mark perfect on your grades?"


    "You will apany me to study before the exams!" Hazel had this huge smile on her face. Before Nadia could react, she added. "Your favorite brand will release a new product next week. I already purchased a set for you!"


    Hazel wink at Nadia, who now tears a grin across her face.


    "When should Ie over to your house for a sleepover?"


    "Hmm¡­" Hazel tilted her head on the side, pondering her engagements in the next few days. "You cane over by Saturday afternoon as the party is Friday evening. I will have my beauty sleep till noon!"


    "Alright! Got it!" Nadia cheered happily.


    Liza shakes her head listening to the conversation, while Hailey is amused watching how her friends interact with each other. These two really get along well, despite their differences of attitude. She does like her new friends. Each of them has a unique character, which what brought them together is the same passion that they all love to do.


    sses have just started in August. The school already has charity activities and looking for new volunteers since senior students have graduated. She signed up, and it was where she met Hazel, who''s the one assigned to receive new volunteers. And since Nadia is her neighbor, the girl always apanied her anywhere, and both joined.


    Liza also signed up for the said activity. And Haileyter realizes that Liza is her ssmate in most of her sses.


    By now, even outside school, they are active in a Non-government Charity works as volunteers that Hazel''s family founded a long time ago. It is where their friendship blooms and solidifies.


    "Anyway, back to where we left. I believe it''s part of why Vince fell in love with you."


    "Huh?" Hailey blinks a few times, trying to process Hazel''sments. "How can you say that?" We''re only faking our rtionship! She screamed inwardly. There''s no way she would tell her friends about it.


    Hazel pointed out, "Men are prouder to be pampered by their queen. And cook for him, it will make him feel love and special."


    Finally, the two school buses left N University and headed to M Resort Club.


    The girls continue chatting further. Hailey was drinking water from her bottled water when Hazel asked. Every head of that bus turned in their direction. The four of them were seated at the back of the bus. And they were loud enough to be heard almost by the rest of their ssmates. Hazel was sitting next to Hailey while Liza and Nadia upied the seat across from them.


    Hailey was coughing to clear her throat. The water choked her after Hazel threw shocking questions at her.


    ''What with this girl!?'' She rants because Hazel threw the question when she was drinking water. Pushing an awkward smile, she asked Hazel to repeat her question.


    "I''m asking if Vince was good in bed!?"


    Hailey remained speechless. How to counter this question!? Everyone is staring at her curiously!


    ''Dammit, Hazel! You guys know how to murder me!'' She screamed inwardly.


    Liza and Nadia red at Hazel. They were curious too. But they believe it''s not something to ask around in public.


    "Why do you have to ask Hailey about that out of the blue?" Liza blurted out.


    "What? I''m just curious."


    Nadia cut in. She snapped at Hazel. "And why are you curious? It was Hailey''s privacy!"


    "What? I''m just curious that until now Hailey hasn''t gotten pregnant."


    Hailey fell her jaw on the road. ''What is this girl talking about!?''


    She was bathing in sweat. Every pair of eyes on that school bus is curiously looking in her direction.


    ''What the heck!?'' Why is everyone so interested in Vince''s life?

 Chapter 24: COMPARISON?

    <h4>Chapter 24:COMPARISON?</h4>


    Hailey sweeps her gaze to the entire bus. Everyone was staring at her, waiting for an answer.


    It was a pain in the ass when your friends are murdering you in public. But also, a pain when your friend''s question never happens to you yet.


    How would she know if Vince was great in bed? They even haven''t kiss yet on the lips!


    The sweetest contact they had been only a kiss on the cheeks and forehead. And nothing happens when they are alone.


    In these passing months, they somewhat like good friends who quarreled like lovers.


    Topare, she and Bryan are more intimate with each other, and even though it was only a friendly interaction, she used to as they grew up.


    She casually hugs Bryan or sits on hisp if she needs something from him: such as helping her pursue her dad after refusing to give her permission to the things she wanted to try out.


    She will run to Bryan to talk to her dad. By then, her dad just allows her as long as Bryan would apany her to her crazy activities.


    And when they be a couple after Bryan asks her for marriage out of the blue. And she says yes... She only kisses him on the cheeks.


    Never on the lips. So she hasn''t given her first kiss yet.


    That is why she could not tell if a man is a good kisser, so then, moreover in bed!


    Maybe Eva was right? She has no experience at all, but she can learn it, right? How if?


    No! Blushed, Hailey wanted to cover her face. ''Ah! What was I thinking!?'' She was embarrassed with her very own thoughts.


    But to be honest, this is something she always mulled over. Bryan and Vince are both good-looking and smart guys.


    Even though she didn''t know everything about Vince, he loves to do hobbies. She had a feeling that both men are super talented in many things.


    And one thing... All her life, she witnessed how women drool over Bryan, but she doesn''t care about it.


    He is handsome with a Greek God body. But something that Bryan is less attractive to her than Vince.


    She isn''t sure why... Maybe because she grew up seeing Bryan almost every day in her entire life. Bryan''s perfect features don''t thrill her as a woman.


    But why Vince? He is only a stranger, but it gives her a mysterious impression, and it is something she wanted to figure out, the feeling that lingers in her chest.


    She may admit that Vince is attracted to her. At first, she wanted to believe that Vince only got her attention because of his mixed Asian looks.


    Butter on, it is entirely different between Bryan and Vince, in which she could not determine what truly she felt for him.


    Surprisingly, there is a difference she felt between Bryan and Vince.


    Is she physically attractive to Vince like sexual attraction?


    Gosh! Why is she thinking about this matter at a time like this? Besides, she has a problem to face! She felt embarrassed about her thoughts once again.


    Everyone is waiting for her answer. However, Hailey was still inside her world. She was asking herself... What does Vince taste like? How warm is his touch?


    In which she didn''t notice that she''s biting her fingernails while her cheeks were flushing pink. She also thought, how if Vince suddenly kiss her on the lips because it is necessary for their acts?


    How should she respond? Now that is a problem.


    Maybe she should ask Vince to have practice?


    No! She could not ask Vince about such a thing! That was too embarrassing! What would Vince think? She should stop daydreaming!


    "Hey!" Hazel snaps at her imagination. "The way you blushed, you imagine boss Vincent, right now!"


    And it caught Hailey red-handed as her face could deny nothing. It was true that she''s thinking of the guy.


    Then, why not? ''Let them assume¡­''


    Hailey smiled shyly at Hazel. She let them believe whatever was ying on their head now. She need not answer Hazel''s question, and dly, Nadia speaks up for her.


    "Jeez¡­ Why are you asking Hailey this kind of question? It was President Shen''s privacy you were digging up!"


    "Ah!" Hazel now wakes up to her stupidity, worries now written all over her face. She apologized, "I''m so sorry, Hailey! I went overboard asking such a question! If the boss hears about it, I mightpromise his investment in ourpany! It should be a forbidden question!"


    "Great, that you woke up from your idiocy." Liza scolded Hazel. Later, she tosses back a stupid question at Hazel. For her, it was ridiculous for Hazel to ask Hailey that question. "Hey... Are you into Mr. Shen?"


    It took a long moment before Hazel process the question Liza asked her. Realizing it, she dropped her mouth on the road.


    "Not!" She blurted out, ring at Liza for taking revenge on her.


    Liza put her tongue out before she grins. Hazel rolled her eyes when everyone was staring at her with a sharp gaze. ''Jeez. These people love to hear gossip.''


    "Then why are you bugging Hailey with her sex life?"


    Hailey dropped her jaw again. These girls are so bold, spilling out the word so easily!


    Well, of course, she grows up in a more open countrypared to this more conservative country. However, it''s different when the person involved is her and Vince.


    Still feeling bad, Hazel rolled her eyes and reasons out at Liza. "I''m not bugging Hailey. And I''m not into Vince! Hailey and Vince are the ones whom perfect for each other! Besides, Vince''s best friend is who I have a crush on since I was younger!"


    "You''re still young, you know." Nadia jested, snickering at Hazel.


    "Jeez! He is my childhood crush! And he ising home to attend the ss Reunion! So, I need your help, girls!" Hazel''s eyes are now begging at them. She''s trying hard to look helpless. Her mouth, pouting, acted like her eyes were teary.


    "Huh? And how can we help you? Do you want us to be the bridge? Do we even know who he is?" Liza snaps, who is now attentively listening to Hazel''s gossip about her secret love life.


    "Well, he went to the state after graduating. And he rarely visits since then. So, I want him to notice that here I am! I''m already ady!"


    "So? How can we help you, then?" Liza repeated her question.


    "Help me find a fabulous dress tomorrow! Please! Let''s go to the shop after lunch. It''s on me!"


    "Count me in!" Nadia replied promptly after hearing the word lunch. "As long as we go to eat at a Korean Restaurant!"


    Nadia is a Korean fan. She''s following all the famous K- actors and watching all their dramas. And eating at a Korean restaurant is also her addiction, imagining she''s with her OPPA every time she grilled meat or making stew.


    However, Liza only rolled her eyes hearing Nadia make the same request. She already knew that Nadia just wanted something to post on her Instagram about Korean stuff.


    Well, she preferred eating Japanese cuisine. It''s not because she is half Japanese, but she has a craze with Sushi and ramen.


    "Well, anywhere you girls want to eat, I''m fine with it," Hazel replied. She nced at Hailey and asked. "How about you, Hail?"


    Replying to a message on her phone, Hailey lifted her chin to respond Hazel, "Hm? Well, I don''t mind eating grilled meat or ramen... I''m fine with anything."


    "How about looking for a dress? Hasn''t your mind changed to be Vince''s date that night?" Hazel wants to pursue Hailey.


    She wanted her to attend the party as Vince date to make Zenaida envied that night. But Hailey seemed to have no interest in having a grand appearance on the red carpet.


    From what she heard, those bachelors and bachelorette inviting models and actors as their dates. So it will be a star-studded event.


    "Hmm¡­ I want toplete my training," Hailey answered nonchntly. She was less interested in ying like Barbie that night.


    "Hey... Who are you texting to?" Hazel nced at Hailey''s phone. She found out it was Vince. "Oh... Missing each other already?"


    Hailey is shaking her head. She giggled as she replied to Hazel. "Vince was asking the same thing to me, and I replied the same reply I gave you."


    "Do you mean the boss didn''t know you were working as a service crew that night?"


    "Nope."


    "What?"


    "Yeah."


    "Oh, I see¡­" Hazel pushes a weird smile across her face.


    Liza and Nadia looked at her curiously. She winks at them as scenarios ying inside her head.


    She had a perfect n for that night, and she needs Liza and Nadia''s help!

 Chapter 25: The PROJECT

    <h4>Chapter 25:The PROJECT</h4>


    Arriving at the resort, Mrs. Gomez immediately brought them to the Country Club Garden. This open area is the venue of the ss 2015 Grand Reunion soon.


    Mrs. Gomez was assigned to oversee the preparation, and the reason she brought her students is to observe the work of organizing a huge event.


    The organizer ¡ª who will work with Mrs. Gomez, is also her student years back and now is a famous Event Organizer in the city.


    Kirk Lopez showed the students the theme he prepared for the event. He made quick exnations of the settings.


    Now Kirk divided the students into three groups. The freshmen, sophomore, and junior HRM students arebining into a group to work together.


    Mrs. Gomez wanted to see what the older students learned from recent years and what the new students could do.


    She believes that it''s not a matter if the older students learn it from her course or the new student will be more creative during their Senior High years.


    It was how Mrs. Gomez gets to know her new students of what capability they have already. In that way, she already has an eye for those showing early talents.


    Now that the students are divided. Hailey and Nadia end up in the same group. Kirk announced that they should make a theme of a backdrop for a red carpet photo shoot.


    All the materials they needed, such as; balloons, flowers, some art materials, curtains, etc., that they can use for an event, are all ready.


    But first, the group leaders have to pick a rolled paper in a ss bowl with the theme written on it.


    Mrs. Gomez and Kirk will judge the creation and possibly use the idea as decorations for the ss Reunion on Friday night.


    Hailey''s group picked up the flower theme. She enjoyed herself helping to decorate a flower stand to put up on the corner of the backdrop.


    She keenly observes the other groups of how they work on their themes. One group is doing a backdrop using curtains, and the other group is ballons.


    After forty-five minutes, the time for them to finish the backdrop, Mrs. Gomez and Kirk smiled at each other. It satisfied them with the creations the students came up with.


    Next is, Mrs. Gomez brought the junior students in the kitchen to help the chefs bake pastries while the freshmen remained in the garden with the sophomores to show how to create Fruit decorations.


    They started from pineapples, watermelons, apples, kiwis, bananas, oranges mixed with other fruits. When it was done, Mrs. Gomez led them to another kitchen to make a few dishes. They are happy that the food they prepare is for themselves.


    During lunch, the students gathered back in the garden, seated on the grass, and having lunch.


    Hailey and her friends choose a little isted ce from the others to gossip about sensitive topics.


    Hazel made a stolen photo of herself with her friends in the background and posted it on her Instagram.


    ~ ~ ~


    Lunch break, Hailey excuses herself from her friends to make a call. She sat on a bench under an Araucaria pine tree.


    Browsing her Instagram contacts, Hailey presses a call. She waited for a moment, but the other line wasn''t picking up her call.


    Hailey was about to hang up when a nervous voice echoed from the other line.


    "President Davies, I''m very sorry, ma''am, if I haven''t answered right away! Your father is talking to me just now. I have to take a distance from him." Exin by the person on the other line.


    Hailey instructed the manager not to tell her father whenever she''ll contact him. So then, she understood if Manager Brown didn''t answer her call right away. However, the manager made another mistake.


    "Ahem. You forget something, Manager Brown."


    The other person on the line was silent for a moment while he tried to process her words. "Oh, I''m sorry, Miss Hailey! I forgot about it."


    "Hm..." Hailey told her employees not to address her by her real name every time she was out of the country. Everyone only knew her as simply Hailey Hillson.


    "What report do you want to hear, Ma''am?" asked John Brown, manager of the HR Department.


    "I just wanted to ask regarding the hiring process, Manager Brown. How many applicants meet the qualities I am looking for?"


    "So far, President... I mean, Miss Hailey, I have more or less 500 applicants to approve, ma''am."


    "Only 500 so far?"


    "Yes, Miss Hailey. We received a lot of applications online, but they didn''t meet the required qualities we needed."


    "Hmm... For at least 5000 service crew, I needed only this number we got so far? As I expected, I kind of perceiving this matter already. Alright! Let me solve this myself."


    "Miss Hailey, are you going to fire me?"


    Creasing her forehead, Hailey mused. Did something happen? So then, she asked the manager. "Why should I do that?"


    "Because I am ipetent, ma''am. But I promised that the HR department would work harder from today onwards!"


    "I would be d then. And don''t worry, I''m not firing anyone. Anyway, there will be changed in our hiring process. I want the announcement to be open in P Country for now. I want you to negotiate with P Country''s Conste to introduce us to the best agency who will handle the hiring matters."


    "Miss Hailey, did I hear correctly? We will only hire from P Country."


    "Yes! You heard me right! I will revise the information about our hiring requirements. I will redo the Requirements we look for and information to the application they can fill up online until physical interviews."


    "Okay, Miss Hailey. So then, should I stop the ongoing online hiring?"


    "Yes! I will contact you once Iplete the new data."


    "Understood, Miss Hailey."


    "Anyway, how was everyone? Did dad already have final choices among the builder''spanies that submitted their proposals?"


    "In what I heard, Miss, they haven''t yet. Your father was firing the H Company because of the fault in the East Sector."


    "Come again? What happens in the East Sector?"


    Manager Brown swallowed the lump in his throat before he replied. "The Third Tower was built poorly that led to an ident, ma''am."


    "What!? Did anyone get hurt?" She freaked out. How does that happen!?


    Stuttering, Manager Brown replied, "Yes, ma''am. They took the workers that got hurt to Dream City Hospital to confine. Chairman Davies, your father, was furious about the matter. It was the reason he was talking to me. He was asking for new workers to hire for the meantime."


    "So it was that bad. But I''m surprised that dad who personally talks to you. Where is Bryan, who was assigned to oversee in construction of the luxurious condominiums?"


    "Um. The vice president made a trip to California, Miss Hailey."


    "Bryan went to America? How many days did he already have been in California?"


    "Almost a week now, Miss Hailey. But I heard he is on his way back to take care of the problem."


    "He better be!" ''Bryan, are you with Eva? I need to contact Pit to run a quick investigation!'' Hailey thought inwardly.


    ''Bryan, what are you doing!? You are supposed to focus on our projects!''


    Dammit!


    "At the moment, it was Director Wilson who helped the Chairman to solve this matter." Manager Brown added. "The nning Department was in chaos, Miss Hailey."


    "Hm. Then I better call Geoffrey. Thank you, Manager Brown."


    "You are wee, ma''am."


    After the call ended, Hailey was cursing inwardly. Bryan was out of the country, and now an ident urred to condominiums they were constructing at present.


    She was desperate to finish Dream City in the next two years. She is supposed to open it next year, but too much work. Besides, all proposals she got these passing years are trash ideas.


    She badly needed to find the best person who could work in her dream city and then hired all the workers she needed to fill the Exclusive Metropolis.


    The employees she needed are workers for the hotels and resorts around the city. She also needs hospitable and patient mall clerks, on-call housekeeping, and chefs... Including doctors, nurses, and entertainers to high in bars in her city.


    All decent works; she needed all!


    Within the following year, everything should finish preparing for the city''s opening in the next year.


    But how could she do that when problems after another ur?


    Hailey heaves a helpless sigh. She needs to go back to Australia. But first, Vince should find Eva to end their contract. She needs Pitt to hurry to catch Eva.


    And above all, the SHEN GROUP!


    "Vince, please send a proposal to mypany," she prayed.

 Chapter 26: The PROBLEMS

    <h4>Chapter 26:The PROBLEMS</h4>


    Letting out a long sigh, Hailey next dialed Geoffrey''s contact. She waited for the guy to answer. When he does, a tired voice greets her.


    "Hello?"


    "Hey, Geoffrey!"


    The guy remains silent for a few moments. Probably, Geoffrey was in the process if the voice from the other line is someone he knew all his life.


    Indeed, he checked the number registered on his phone. It was anonymous and stated that a call from overseas.


    Draw the phone back to his ear; he asked the other line. "Hail? Is this you?"


    "Yup! Do you have another Hailey in your life?"


    If Hailey in front of him, he would see how she pouted her mouth. But Jefferson could already picture Hailey''s look, so then heughed hard.


    "Haha. Yes, you are my angel. I''m d I heard your voice at just the right time I needed it. Or I might dig a pit and throw someone in there. Anyway, to think over what that guy did to you, my anger worsened instead."


    Hailey rendered speechlessly. She understood what Geoffrey meant about his words.


    Geoffrey is the first one who punches Bryan after the boys learned the truth about why she called off the wedding.


    He is like a big brother to her and several other men that are so close to her.


    "Hey, just forget it already because I''m through it now," Hailey told Jefferson, hoping that the guy would calm down.


    "Then why aren''t youing back yet? Everyone is worried about you, Princess."


    Hailey could sense the sincerity of Geoffrey''s voice. She already missed everyone, but she has a reason why she was away now.


    What happened between her and Bryan? Everyone now hates the guy. It shattered the once strong bond of friendship, and the person who could fix this is her, even if it did not go back to its true shape, but at least everyone would stop being furious at Bryan.


    But that''s her biggest problem. She needs to be free from the contract first, so then she could go home.


    Because one thing that she agreed on is she could not leave the country unless she was with Vince or Vince gave her consent.


    It''s not that Vince is keeping her in the city. He exins to her. He doesn''t want to make the same mistake he did by trusting Eva.


    They didn''t have signed any agreement papers. Now, Eva took him for granted and not holding on to her words to have divorced after two years. Also, Zenaida denied it when she''s the one who stands as a witness to their conversation.


    Yes. Vince told her everything, which his parents didn''t know about it the divorce agreement.


    So then, Vince wants assurance that she won''t ckmail him or create a scandal using all information she heard from him.


    However, that would never happen. She has no reason to ckmail Vince. Moreover, start up a scandal.


    She was hiding her identity! That was thest thing she would ever do in her entire life! But probably for the runaway part. She might do that if a big emergency urs in her projects.


    However, she needs Vince for real!


    Before she meets Vince, it already impressed her how the SHEN GROUP develops and improves Metro City''s structures.


    And after an investigation, it shocked her to find out that Vince is not only Eva''s husband but also the CEO of SHEN GROUP.


    What a fateful coincidence, isn''t it?


    The man she is looking for is the same person she wanted to meet as well.


    But she didn''te to Metro City to tell Vince about Eva''s affair with Bryan.


    She simply wanted to know more about SHEN GROUP and the CEO to offer the job and be a work partner.


    But then things got messed up and worsened the situation after she signed an agreement without thinking twice.


    She thought Eva would show up right away. She thought Vince would get his divorce so soon.


    Not only that, but she thought Vince wouldn''t be this attractive to her!


    Ah! What she''s doing now? She must stop thinking about this stuff. It only made her head swarming up about how to solve her issues with Eva.


    "Hail, are you still there?"


    Hailey came back to her senses after hearing Geoffrey''s voice from the end of the line.


    "Yeah. I''m still here. Just a little stuff came to my mind. Erm... You know, I should not have left in the first ce. But for now, I want you guys to forget about what happened. If we can''t start over the way, our friendships were before... Then at least we all treat each other nicely."


    "How I would be nice to that guy!?" Geoffrey couldn''t control his anger anymore. He went on, "That would never happen! And where is he now? He didn''t just hurt you, Hail! He knew how you built this dream! It was him who was there on the very first day you drew your dreams on the air like it was just a child''s imagination! He knew this is very important to you! So I want him to pay for hurting you!"


    "Calmed down, would you? Even you guys beating up Vince, we could not change what happened... I... I mean..." Shot! It''s toote for her to realize!


    "Who''s Vince?" asked Geoffrey.


    Oh, gosh! Her head was all over the ce! Hearing Geoffrey ranting his resentment toward Bryan, all she could imagine are the boys beating up Vince after they would learn that she was living with him. A stranger man!


    Now her mouth just spills out his name. What excuse should shee up with? Racking her head, dly words smoothly came out of her mouth.


    "Erm, he''s a waiter in the resort! He approached me to take my order. I... I was reading his namete! So my head and ears split up whom I listen to first."


    OMG! Did she just address Vince as a waiter? Hailey giggled inwardly. She bit her lower lip not tough.


    Well, Vince wouldn''t know, anyway! A yful smile pursed on Hailey''s lips.


    "Princess, I''m trying to do my best to act professionally every time Bryan and I have to meet because of work. But I can''t guarantee to keep my cool."


    "Then keep your cool for me!"


    Geoffrey heaves a long sigh. His face darkened to hear that Hailey seemed like protecting Bryan and even wanted to forget everything he did just like that.


    Could it be that Hailey loves Bryan, not just like a brother, but she already falls in love with him for real?


    "Please???" Hailey begged afterward that no response from Geoffrey.


    Listening to Hailey''s alluring voice, he knew that he could not further rant about Bryan.


    "Alright. I will be doing this because of you. We are already behind our target dates. I promised to work hard to help you build your Dream City."


    Hearing Geoffrey stating this, she knew the guy stood by his words, and she knew that Geoffrey is a reliable person. All of her friends are.


    "You guys can stop worrying about me. I''m also to me about this whole thing. Bryan and I didn''t act like a lover. I treated him more like an older brother rather than my future husband. So, normally he will seek someone who can make him a man."


    "That''s bullshit!" Geoffrey blurted out. "Why does he propose to you if he could not stay faithful to you!? I already had a hunch he is not serious about marrying you. I''m d you caught him before you both got married. Otherwise, I''m going to kill him if this happens after your marriage!"


    Hailey pursed a warm smile. It is one thing why she could not stay heartbroken because of her loving friends.


    She admits that she is not in love with Bryan. But she was hurt because she already made up her mind to give herself to him if Bryan asks to start a family after they get married.


    Hailey truly trusted him, the reason she epted his marriage proposal. But then Bryan sleeps with his ex-girlfriend after they meet again. Now they are together.


    Heaving a sigh inwardly, Hailey pursed her lips and tried to lighten the mood. "Alright. Let''s not talk about this, okay? I was more concerned about the workers. Tell me about their condition."


    "Two are in aa now. And most of the workers on that floor are badly injured."


    "Oh my God! Did you already help their family?"


    "Yes. Leo was alreadymunicating with the families and gave cash assistance. I''ll handle this matter. I promise to take care of it, Hail. So, don''t worry anymore, okay?"


    Hailey sank her heart, thinking about how worried her workers'' family was feeling at this moment. She felt her energy slowly fleeing from her body.


    "Are the workers going to be okay?" Gloominess written all over her face, she asked further. Starting today, she could not have peaceful nights again. Her chest filled with concerns.


    "Dream City Hospital has all the advanced equipment. So nothing you could worry about, Hail. Our doctors were attending them 24/7 and did everything to ensure they will wake up and live a normal life ande back to work."


    "I''m praying so, Geoffrey. Okay... I have a few things I must take care of first before I cane back home." Hailey tried to sound cheerful.


    But Geoffrey could sense the changes in Hailey''s voice. The cheerfulness has now disappeared. It''s the reason they didn''t report it to her because they knew it would affect Hailey like this.


    "Don''t worry too much, okay? We are all here to work on the problems. But since Bryan is the Vice President of the Davies Group, I have no choice but to work with him."


    Geoffrey hurls a furious sigh before he added.


    "If he properly took leave, we should know how long he will be gone so that we assign someone to rece him and oversee the work in his absence. But he just assigned the work to his assistant."


    Listening carefully, Hailey now understood why Geoffrey could not keep his temper. The ident happens under Bryan''s direction.


    "Okay. I will visit the Dream City soon."

 Chapter 27: Vince is Mad Again?

    <h4>Chapter 27:Vince is Mad Again?</h4>


    After a moment of silence that had passed, Hailey further queried Geoffrey regarding the ident''s badly hurt workers.


    She asked, "Geoffrey, are the two workers that are in aa were locals or from overseas?"


    "They were foreigners who are immigrating hereafter epted to work for us," Geoffrey replied. "What''s wrong?"


    Geoffrey was curious about what was Hailey is nning now. He has known this girl all his life, and so he is certain that Hailey would do something for those workers.


    Hailey ponders for a moment. She carefully weighs the idea shees up with.


    "Geoffrey, why don''t we help someone from their family toe over? They must feel devastated. It''s the least we could do to ease their worries. Manager Brown should assign someone to work on papers for the family representative''s visa and expenses."


    "Hm¡­ That was a great idea, Hail. I will contact Manager Brown to work on it immediately!" He knew it. This girl would not just sit around.


    "Thank you. I could not be at peace, knowing the family of these workers have no restful days, thinking about their injured family."


    "And you¡­ Stop worrying too much, okay? We will do everything we can. I''ll be more worried that you will keep thinking about the mishap as well," Geoffrey''sforting words to Hailey. Honestly, this is Bryan''s role. He is the first man Hailey runs to before her dad. Geoffrey thought, he added. "I''m furious at Bryan right now because he neglects his work because of the same woman that caused your heartbreak."


    "I''m not heartbroken anymore, so there''s nothing you have to be concerned about. It''s not worth mentioning either."


    "I''m hoping that was true, Hail. I don''t want to see you were protecting Bryan instead, and you were saying all of this now, so we stop hating him and beat him again."


    "Nah. I''m totally over it. I''m totally fine now." She does. Everything that happens in the past is just a bizarre event in her life now she couldugh at. "Well then, I must end this call, so then you can continue your work. I''m sorry if I burden you all with more task that is supposed to be my responsibility."


    "What are you talking about? It''s not your fault, although you have to put some action on Bryan''s negligence, I can punch him one more time if you allow me."


    "You just wanted to use it as an excuse to beat him up."


    "I would not deny it." Geoffrey chuckled as he admitted it, which made Hailey giggled as well. It ddens Geoffrey to hear Haileyugh.


    "Director Wilson, the meeting is about to start. Everyone is already waiting for you."


    Hailey picked up a female voice in the background. She recognized Geoffrey''s secretary.


    "Alright. I don''t want to keep you away from your work. I will call from time to time from now on to hear the progress of the injured workers. I wanted to meet them. I will try to visit soon."


    "Okay, Hail. See you soon, then? I have to go now to start the meeting."


    After a bid of goodbye to each other, Hailey ends the call. She heaves a long sigh to lighten the worries she felt at the moment.


    She needs to go home soon to make sure that everything is alright. Even if Geoffrey assures her to take care of the matters, it was her sole responsibility to make sure that her men are working seriously and the ident won''t happen again. And Bryan is not exempted from this matter.


    She needs to visit Australia to meet the injured workers and call for a Board Meeting. But what excuse can she tell Vince?


    ''Ugh! Pit should hurry his investigation and find Eva!''


    ~ ~ ~


    When Hailey came back to her friends, they noticed the sadness in her eyes. The three girls exchange nces. It was Hazel who could not behave, not to ask what bothers her.


    "Hail, what happened? You were gloomy after you made a call. Is there some problem with your family?"


    Hailey nodded. She pursed a sad smile and said, "Just a minor ident," she said.


    "Are you sure that''s all?"


    Hailey smiled. "Yes. It''s all right. I feel my aunt''s sadness." She lied. But she has no other choice.


    Honestly, she doesn''t want to lie to her friends. But it''s not the right time to tell them the truth. Maybe time woulde¡­


    ~~~


    Now their field activity in the afternoon ended, it''s time to go back to N University.


    Hazel and her friends n to have dinner in a fast-food restaurant near the university before heading home, but Hailey refuses as she has to make dinner for Vince.


    Hailey sent Vince a message to ask him what time he wille home. She also includes her message that she might be homete, as maybe they''ll be stuck in traffic on their way back.


    However, instead of a reply, Hailey''s phone rang. Vince is calling her. She was lining up to climb onto the bus. She excused herself and took a distance to answer Vince''s call.


    "Hello?"


    "Hi¡­ Are you going back to the city now?"


    Hailey could sense something different in Vince''s voice. It hints to her that Vince is not in a good mood. So then, she cheerfully replied, "Yes! The bus is leaving soon."


    "Huh? Do you mean?" ''Vince is picking me up? No. Vince ising to the resort!''


    It surprised her a bit. He is too busy at work, and this ce is outside the central city, it''s far from hispany. Maybe just a coincidence, and he is nearby.


    ''Or maybe, he needs me to escort him for a dinner meeting with his business partners? Or¡­ Ah!''


    She doesn''t want to assume, but she has a bad feeling. Vince came because of what happened earlier.


    Honestly, she has all these ideas because Vince has no reason to act like a real boyfriend unless for a show-off purpose that would reach the media or let someone recognized her as Vincent Shen''s girlfriend.


    "Hailey,e on!" Liza calls out to her after all the students now inside the bus.


    Hailey turned around to face Liza while pointing the finger at her phone. Liza figures out that it was Vince on the phone. Not that long; a ck sports car ising toward Hailey.


    A worried look in her eyes sh for a moment, then she pursed a smile on her lips, staring at the car parked in front of her.


    She bit her lower lip, settled her heartbeat. Vince didn''t drive his Maybaching here. Instead, it was histest ck Lamborghini Aventador.


    And because she was standing across the parking lot, opposite the school buses, all eyes were like watching a romance drama whom the FL picked up by the ML.


    Suddenly, everyone took out their phone to take a photo. However, on the bus where the first-year college students, Hazel casually coughs and says...


    "If you don''t want to face the consequences, I better delete it."


    Everyone growled in protest. But they know better that they could not post it on their social media and spread gossip.


    Meanwhile, Hailey could still not believe that Vince is picking her up. She keeps convincing herself that maybe he has some business matter in the resort or something.


    She holds her breath when the car door opens, and Vince gets out.


    Hailey hid her emotion when Vince walked toward her.


    She gathered her thoughts in one ce to prepare herself. She knew the game. When they were in public as this, she must do her act.


    "Hi! You''re here!" Pursed a sweet smile across her lips. Hailey held her breath when Vince lowered his head and kissed her left cheek.


    ''Of course, it''s for a show.'' Hailey reminds herself.


    Hailey blushed when Vince scanned her from the head down to her shoes. She did not perceive that Vince would pick her up today, and so she didn''t think of an excuse to give him.


    Vince knew that these are not the clothes she wore when she left home this morning. But why does she have to change her clothes?


    Well, it was better than seeing her look earlier. dly, she still has extra clothes left in the suite that belongs to Vince in this resort. She got to shower and changed into afortable dress, recing her pink Converse shoes, now wore a green stiletto.


    "Um... About the clothes..." Hailey attempts to exin, but she stops talking when Vince raises a hand.


    His eyes sweep to the three buses that park across them. Later, the bus one by one left the resort. On the second bus, Hazel, Nadia, and Liza wave at her. Hailey nodded and waved back to her friends.


    Everyone didn''t hide their curiosity¡ªevery pair of eyes staring at them when the busses pass them.


    Now that they were alone in the parking area, Hailey even brightened her smile.


    "So? It''s time for us to go as well?"


    The uneasiness she felt was still there. Now that no one is around, Vince''s smiles disappear from his face and rece it with a serious expression.


    ''He''s truly mad, does he?'' Hailey thought.


    She doesn''t need to guess. She''s certain that someone in the resort reported to him what happened earlier.

 Chapter 28: His Woman

    <h4>Chapter 28:His Woman</h4>


    "Since you were here, I can go home straight. Then I could start cooking early. What dish did you prefer tonight?" Hailey did her best to sound and look sweet. It is the charm she is using to coax her father or Bryan and the boys.


    However, Vince remained expressionless in front of her. Another moment passed, Hailey heard Vince hurl a long sigh.


    "Forget making dinner tonight. We can dine out. But before that, there''s something I wanted to do."


    Hailey remained silent. There''s no enthusiasm in Vince''s tone. It means what he is about to do is to be feared¡­


    And before she could ask, Vince already took her hand and pulled her toward the car.


    "Let''s go."


    "Where to?" Hailey asked, pretending she did not know what was going on. She already guessed that it rtes to what happened, and so she hopes that Vince just let it off and leave this ce. To what he is acting right now, Hailey was sure that Vince heard about the encounter today. "Can we just leave now?"


    "Not until I''m done," said Vince. He drove his car toward the resort''s main building, where the private halls and suites are located. He parked at the entrance, and before getting out of the car, he told Hailey, "Stay in the car."


    She wants to raise a protest, but Vince already mmed the door closed. Biting her lower lip, she was pondering whether to follow him.


    It''s not the first time that someone insulted her as Vince''s woman. In the past, Vince would deal with them in silence. But today, she was nervous. The expression Vince has when he gets out of the car is the same as thest time...


    Meanwhile, climbing the patio, displeasure was written on Vincent''s face. Earlier, he was in the middle of a meeting when he received a video. After watching it, he wanted to kill that person who treated Hailey like trash.


    "President Shen!"


    The manager of the resort rushes to meet Vince halfway. He looked like he was going to piss on himself.


    "Where is he?" With rage in his voice, Vince asked the manager. When the manager didn''t reply, he nced at him with fury. "Do I need to repeat myself?"


    Shuddering, Vince''s cold voice sent him to hell. The manager, Edgar Reid, knows that he must obey him. After all, the Shen family is an investor of this resort.


    It pressed Edgar Reid between two giant rocks. However, he is more afraid of the family background Vincent Shen had.


    Leading the way, Edgar is wiping the beads of sweat on his forehead. He brought Vince to one of the VIP''s rooms and opened the door for him.


    The moment he stepped inside, Vince swept his eyes in the hall. He fixed his gaze on a particr person, the one he saw in the video.


    They formed a group of 16 people: 9 men and seven females. When everyone fell silent, one gathered the courage to greet Vince.


    "President Shen! What an honor to have you!"


    The man named Ken Gutierrez stood on his feet. But the rest couldn''t dare to move or breathe. It appears to them that Vince''s facial expression is like a person who was about to murder someone.


    Instead of replying, Vince only ignored Ken but shot sharp stares at the host of this exclusive party.


    Sensing that burning stares shooting at him, Howie Gu lifted his head and nced at the door. At the sight of Vince, Howie smiled awkwardly, but arrogance in his eyes remained.


    He sat up on the couch he seated at, then strides to meet Vince halfway. "Wee, President Shen! I thought you were busy at work, so I didn''t invite you. Bute and join us!"


    Howie Gu was overconfident. It was what his friends thought.


    Honestly, they could not think of why someone like Vincent Shen would spare time to visit or join them. Shen and Gu would not be a close family unless one of them offended Vincent.


    It answered their question too soon. Those who remained seated stood on their feet and stepped backward. The female gasps in shock and most of them hide behind the men.


    *


    Vince walked straight to Howie Gu. The moment he had a glimpse of him. Only one thing is in his mind; to beat him up.


    And to Howie''s surprise. He wasn''t able to react quickly when his body made contact with the floor.


    Vince kicked Howie on his stomach using his right foot, and no one could dare to help him. Now, Howiey t on the floor, still surprised by what just happened. Vince kicked him out of the blue.


    When hees back to his senses, Howie attempts to get up. He reaches for his stomach when pain ripples his body.


    Howie was cursing Vince. And before he could sit up, he received another kick from Vince. This time, Vince steps on his chest, pressing him on the floor.


    "What is your problem!?" Howie shouted. He attempted to look fierce despite the pain he felt on his body and a bit of fear forming inside his chest.


    However, Vince keeps pressing his foot on his chest. The tip of his shoe is pointing at his throat, making it hard to breathe.


    "Vince!" Later, a woman rushed to the room and pulled Vince away from Howie.


    Hailey didn''t wait for Vince toe back. She followed him, and the scene she saw shocked her. Vince is stepping on the man''s throat, firmly pressing him on the floor. "Stop! It''s not worth wasting your energy on him!"


    She begs Vince, pulling his arm. But Vince was like a huge rock; she cannot move.


    "No one can insult my woman!" Vince''s voice is echoing in that room.


    Hailey was rendered speechless. A scene like this is not new to her. It''s just an ordinary act.


    Bryan, Geoffrey, Leo, and the rest of the boys beat the people who harass and do wrong to her. But this time, it was someone considered a stranger man who protects her other than the boys, which filled her chest with warm feelings she never felt before being a woman.


    It touched her that Vince takes revenge on people that humiliate her. It was a different feelingpared to what she felt around Bryan and the others.


    She felt more special... and loved?


    But to think over, it saddened her it was only an act. Remembering these facts, Hailey snaps herself to wake up. She stared at Vince, and he looked determined to beat up the guy.


    "Vince¡­" Hailey called his name one more time.


    But Vince only shrugs her hands. He kneeled on one knee, and his one foot remains on Howie''s chest.


    Helpless, Howie wanted to scream at his friends to help him. But everyone didn''t even dare to watch the scene but turned their heads in different directions.


    Howie could not believe that his friends were useless. It enraged him. But at the moment, his life was at stake.


    "I... I''m sorry... I didn''t know that she is your girlfriend. It was just a joke!" Howie tried to apologize, between hisck of air. He felt like the air passage on his lungs was blocked, and it was because Vince put his weight in his chest and throat.


    "Your apology is useless!" Vince hissed. He went on. "But since you just came back to the country. I will give you two options."


    "Anything! Please!" This time, Howie swallowed his arrogance but submitted to Vince. The way the guy looking at him was like daggers shing his pride as a man.


    "Very well, then. So listen carefully. First, you should regreting home to P Country. Second, you should regret that I''ve seen you in Metro City."


    Howie remains silent. He''s trying to process the words, Vince told him. And he doesn''t like it because that was not an option but a threat!


    It was a warning that he should not step on Metro City from now on!


    *


    Even though Vincent left already, Howie remained to lie down on the floor, frozen, staring at the high ceiling of that hall. He just came back to his senses when someone stressed out at him.

 Chapter 29: Howie Gus Idiocy

    <h4>Chapter 29:Howie Gu''s Idiocy</h4>


    Howie Gu moved his eyes toward Ken Gutierrez, ring sharply. It annoys him that his friends did nothing to help him.


    Vincent Shen is alone. If the nine of them beat him, Howie could imagine that the guy turned into a pulp now.


    Howie sat up, his one hand reached for his sides, while the other one on his throat. He coughs a few times to breathe properly, rubbing his rib cage. He needed an x-ray to make sure nothing had broken. Having the thought, he yelled at the manager, who does nothing but remained standing by the door.


    "Why don''t you call for a doctor!"


    Edgar Reid did not reply. He only stared at Howie with displeasure.


    As of this moment, President Shen will put him on his list of people who disappoints him.


    Edgar Reid thought to himself.


    When reports came to his office about a scene in the Reception lobby, he already anticipated that something would happen before the day ends. And his prediction was correct.


    Vincent Shen made a move. But what he didn''t expect, Vincent came himself to deal with Howie Gu.


    "What kind of manager are you!?"


    One more time, Howie yelled at Edgar Reid. The manager remains unmoved. He blinked to look at Howie Gu indifferently.


    He stated, "Mr. Gu, I thought you read the policies of the resorts. Being a member of this Club Resort, you have a responsibility to follow the guidelines. Offending someone from VIPs nor any guests vites your membership."


    "What the heck of policies is that!? Are you telling me I am stupid? I never heard of such a thing!"


    Edgar Reid twitched the corner of his mouth. Customers always right! It was what he believes in.


    Well, sometimes people wear their honors on their heads, not in their hearts. Their pride bes arrogance that they forget to use their brain.


    Edgar Reides across countless people in the past. And thank goodness, there''s someone like President Shen who can make them kneel on their knee and reflect.


    But Howie Gu remains arrogant. He is lucky President Shen didn''t beat him until he turned into a pulp. But probably he did it when that woman didn''t arrive.


    Vincent Shen is a reserved person. But once provoked, it was the end of the world.


    Edgar Reid fixed his gaze down to Howie Gu, who remained seated on the floor. His friends didn''t even bother to help him get up and sat on the couch.


    Anyway, he wouldn''t have to be surprised. Each of them has no desire to associate and be part of Vincent Shen''s anger.


    And it was true. All of them who attended Howie''s exclusive party knew these policies Manager Reid brought out. Also, they know whose guests they have to avoid offending. But damn. Howie dug a pit for his ass to beat up. They could not believe he has the guts to humiliate Vincent''s girlfriends.


    "What? Why is no one answering me!" Howie Gu, screamed one more time. It pissed him at how everyone only ignored him. "I will call my father, and I will make sure to close this resort!"


    Most of the people in that hall only rolled their eyes, didn''t feel threatened when Howie reached for his phone and started dialing.


    "Dammit! I just purchased this phone!" he cussed, staring helplessly at the limited edition new phone model of a particr leading mobile phonepany in the world.


    Howie kept his phone inside on his back pocket, and it must have cracked it when he fell on the floor.


    Howie waited impatiently that his father would answer his call. Howie cussed once again when his call only forwarded to a voicemail. He tried to make a call three times, but his father only ignored him.


    "Dammit! What is he doing!?"


    Ken Gutierrez was staring at Howie with amazement. This guy is absolutely not using his head. "Hey, Howie. Your dad must be in the middle of the Senate session. Have you forgotten that he is the majority leader? He must be leading the senate session right now!"


    Howie fell in his thought for a moment. He did forget about it, but he has pride, and there''s no way he would admit his stupidity.


    "So what? I am his son! How can he run a country if he won''t prioritize his son!? He must take care of his family first!"


    Everyone in that room gape at Howie with a funny expression on their faces, including the service crew; their mouths fell open.


    Ken, on the other hand, thought it was just a joke. He asked, "Are you seriously saying that?" ''This idiot! Where is his brain?''


    What kind of reason does he have? Everyone wanted tough at him, but they remained silent. Howie wasn''t like on the verge of severe wounds that he is dying. The trouble he was in is because of his stupidity. Now he wants to involve his father''s name in his idiocy.


    The service crew was disappointed to witness this scene. He is one of those sons who wanted to use the power of their family to be superior. It was funny how Senator Gu didn''t discipline his son to behave in public.


    Later, he felt that everyone just made him look like an idiot. Howie yelled at them. "Everyone, out! I don''t want to see you again!"


    Howie''s friends shared nces at each other. It was the females who left the room, leaving behind their boyfriend. Manager Edgar Reid also left the room and ignored Howie''s tantrum.


    If he were Vincent Shen, he would beat him until Senator Gu would not recognize his face.


    But how ironic. Vincent did not even use his hand. He only used his right foot to deal with him. Maybe what Howie Gu needed was a knock on his head toe to his senses. Walking down the hallway, it was Manager Edgar Reid thought.


    Meanwhile, left in the room, Ken Gutierrez and five other men remained. Their reason, they want to gossip further. They would like to go, but they were more interested in what will happen to Howie Gu now.


    On the sofa, Howie was typing on his phone and sent a message to his father.


    "Dad! Please send me an ambnce right now! I want to go to the hospital and have a check-up! Vincent Shen beat me up, but no one even helped me! Everyone here in M Club Resort is useless!"


    After a minute, Howie receives a call from his father. A huge grin ying on his mouth to drop it closed after he heard his father''s scolding.


    "Idiot! What did you do!?"


    Howie at first confused why his father questioned him instead of feeling worried at him.


    "Did you offend him!?"


    Howie got irritated. All he heard today is questioning him if he offended Vincent Shen. What with that guy!? Their family is almost equal in terms of wealth and political instance!


    "How if I did? Why do I have a feeling that your sympathy is in him instead of me?"


    "Idiot! He is thest person you should provoke! What did you do?"


    "That is not important. If you don''t help me, then it''s just a waste of time to talk to you."


    As he heard this, blue veins popping out at Senator Philip Gu''s forehead. ''What a bastard son!'' he cursed inwardly.


    "How dare you talk to me like that now after sending me a message whining like a girl!"


    "And why are you more concerned about Vincent Shen than your son!?"


    "Shut up! Go home now, and let''s talk!"


    The other line gone, Howie cussed. It looks like his father would not side with him but reproach him instead!


    ''What with Vincent Shen that even his father seems afraid of him?'' Howie mused, he had to raise a protest why his father only ignored him.

 Chapter 30: Insulting the Shens

    <h4>Chapter 30:Insulting the Shen''s</h4>


    At the resort lobby, Vince and Hailey exited the building. She nced at Vince''s hand gripping hers. It was tight, but she didn''tin. Rather than hurting, delight filled her heart, holding Vince''s warm hand.


    But still a wonder to her... Every time Vince has to fight someone on behalf of her, he never uses his hands. It intrigues her that sometimes she wanted to ask Vince.


    "Get in the car."


    Pulling up the Lamborghini door, Vince told Hailey. She immediately slid down at the passenger seat and sat quietly.


    Hailey keenly observes Vince''s every action. He had big steps walking around the car and sat in the driver''s seat. The silence inside is deafening her. Vince hasn''t said a word yet since he starts the car. He steers the wheel with no emotion on his face until they exit the resort''s main gate and now take the lonely road.


    Vince''s car speeds up. After like fifteen minutes, they had to stop and bumped into a traffic jam. Hailey was driving speed cars for years. Compared to Vince''s speed, it was nothing to what she was used to.


    However, Vince only concealed his anger. It didn''t hide to her how tightly he was gripping on the steering wheel. It concerned her he only remained silent now they were alone.


    For Hailey, she does not need Vince every time someone insulted her. But when she saw the anger in his eyes and the act of taking revenge on her behalf, she could not help feeling being please.


    Again, Vince made her feel protected. And once again, Vince made her heart flutter and skip a beat.


    Hailey keeps ncing in his direction. She wanted to say something, attempting to open her mouth, but no words form on her tongue as she could still sense his rage.


    How can she make him calm down?


    *


    When their lunch break was over, Mrs. Gomez brought them to the Cer in this resort to have a wine tasting.


    After then, the junior students performed on how to make a cocktail with tricks. Mrs. Gomez encourages the first year to try it.


    Both sophomores and junior college students teach first-year students. However, the male first year''s making fun of while mimicking the tricks.


    Hailey sat down on a chair. She already mastered making cocktails years ago, so then she only watched everyone attempt learning how to make cocktails.


    However, one reckless student. He identally poured the wine on her head. The guy was behind her, trying to do his trick. But the other students are teasing him so that he made a mistake. And that happens.


    Mrs. Gomez scolded the first-year students, and she apologized to Hailey on behalf of the students. But Hailey believes it''s not needed.


    "It''s okay, Mrs. Gomez. idents happen," she said, then excuse herself to get a hand towel.


    "Oh my gosh, Hailey! You were soaking with wine! You need to change clothes and wash your hair."


    "Yeah. I guess I have to go to the main building to wash." She told Hazel, who freaked out seeing her drenched with red liquid.


    "Oh, right! Vince has a suite in this resort, not mentioning his family is an Investor."


    "Yeah," Nodding at Hazel, Hailey dered, "I have a few clothes left in there. I''ll go change."


    "Great! I will tell Mrs. Gomez to wait for you. We still have more time before heading back to the city."


    "Thanks!" After thanking Hazel. She drove one of the golf carts that parked outside the Cer. The main building is a few minutes away; she has to get it done quickly.


    Arriving at the ce, Hailey immediately walked toward the Reception counter. Her eyes traveled the entire lobby. She notices many guests are visiting the resort at the moment.


    She guesses that some of them are part of the ss Reunion, as she recognized a few of Vincent''s schoolmates in college he dines out sometimes.


    At the counter, Hailey waited patiently for the Receptionist to be avable. But after Cheryl notices her, the Receptionist left her post to attend to her.


    Hailey didn''t think it was wise to do. Honestly, she doesn''t like it. Once her city is finished and starts operating, she must train her employees and strongly implement the policy: firste, first served.


    It doesn''t mean that the person who arrives holds more power and has an extreme family influence in the world than is to serve first than the guests who arrive ahead.


    She dreams of giving fair treatment to everyone who wants to live in her city. Even if you are a Billionaire or you are only a millionaire or just an employee of a particr member in her Exclusive City, everyone will be treated excellent and fair as long as firste-first served applies to a situation.


    She loves traveling; she encountered many situations where they always ignored her the moment someone arrived who wore morous designer clothes and rode in a limousine. That person then served first and treated extra special.


    But her situation in Metro City is different.


    Being Vince''s girlfriend, everyone felt the need to treat her special, so then, they could gain favor and recognition from him, which made her roll an eye every time. People just wanted to take advantage of Vince.


    But in Cheryl''s case, they are neighbors before she bes Vince''s fake girlfriend. "Hi, Hailey! What can I do for you?"


    "Hi, Cheryl! Can I borrow the key card?"


    "Oh, are you going to use the suite? I will call housekeeping to clean it right away and rece the sheets. We didn''t receive a notification from Mr. Shen that you will use it today, so it was only scheduled to clean tomorrow."


    "Oh, that''s okay! I won''t stay longer. I will only wash my hair and change my clothes."


    "What happened?" Cheryl scanned Hailey from the head down to her soaked t-shirt.


    "Ah. Just a minor ident during our field training today."


    pping her hands, Cheryl figures it out. "Ah, right! They notify us about N University''s field training today, but they haven''t informed us it was your ss. Then, Nadia is with you?"


    "Yes, she is. Also, the sophomore students and junior students are in this training."


    "I see. I will..."


    Cheryl was interrupted from talking when someone mmed on the countertop. A man in histe 20s is in rage and startsining.


    "Miss! I got in here first! Why are you entertaining this girl instead?" The man who none other than is Howie Gu, casting a stern look both at her and Hailey.


    Hailey smiled at Cheryl, gesturing her hand. "Go ahead. I can wait."


    Cheryl nodded. She turned to theining customer and tried to smile.


    "I''m sorry, Mr. Gu. It was my senior who suppose to assist you. She was just out for a minute," Cheryl exined, but Howie did not listen.


    "I don''t care! I got in here first! You should not make me wait!"


    "Mr. Gu¡­" Cheryl attempted to exin, but the guy now ignored him but faced Hailey.


    With disdain in his eyes, he scanned Hailey from her head down to her pink Converse. He tried to recall if he met her before in his family gatherings or political events by his father, Senator Gu, but nothing he could remember. It seemed like this girl was not from this city.


    "Who are you?" Howie asked rudely.


    "She was President Shen''s girlfriend, Mr. Gu." It was Cheryl who instantly responded to Howie''s query. She hoped that Howie Gu would now shut up and ignore Hailey. Honestly, she indeed ignored him because he was arrogant.


    "Who? Mr. Fred Shen? Really?" tearing a smirk on his mouth, he looks at Hailey with mock.


    Cheryl had a shock on her face. How dare this man insult the Shen''s!? Cheryl gathers her patience to respond politely to this rude man.


    "No, Mr. Gu. It was President Vincent Shen, CEO of SHEN GROUP."


    "Oh, really? What a surprise that Vincent Shen has a girlfriend. Isn''t he married to Eva Lan? Does Eva even know about this?"


    The lobby that was noisy a while ago has now fallen in silence. Every pair of eyes curiously watches the drama in the Reception Area. For them, it was an exciting scene.


    Meanwhile, Hailey has no time to deal with this man. She just ignored Howie Gu, who kept grinning at her. And because she did not reply or nce in his direction, Howie got pissedter on.


    "I''m talking to you, slut! I wonder which Escort Agency Vincent Shen bought you? Maybe I will ask for his advice and refer me to someone? What do you think?"

 Chapter 31: Her Command

    <h4>Chapter 31:Her Command</h4>


    She could hear gasps and lowughs in the lobby. A few did an insultingugh toward her, and she knew it was from those jealous women who wish to be in her ce. Not only that, but she could also hear their insults.


    And among these mockingughter, that echoed in that lobby, it was meant for Howie. For them, he is digging his own grave.


    One man''s bystanders whispered to his friends. "I wonder what would be President Shen''s reaction after watching this video."


    "Send it! I want Vincent Shen to kick Howie''s ass!" One concurred and encouraged his friend. Theyugh inwardly. It was a rare sight to have a scene like this one.


    Even after receiving an insult from Howie, Hailey still ignores him. She turned around to look at every face in that lobby.


    She recognizes most of the men from the same circle as Vince. But for the women, she guesses that few of them are from the entertainment industry, which had no name yet.


    Hailey''s gaze fixed on this group of women. She stered a sweet smile on her lips, ignoring the curious eyes looking at her.


    "Jealous of me?" She ridiculed those whough at her. If she wasn''t aware, these starlets are only here to hunt executives to have a name in the entertainment industry, and one they hope to fish is Vincent Shen.


    Ironically, Vince didn''t spare any attention to them, and that makes them hate her to the extreme. On one hand, it intrigues them how she seduces Vince. Until now, it was a mystery for them.


    Anyway, even to her, she doesn''t know either. She just wakes up one day signing an agreement with him.


    Seduce? She never seduces Vincent Shen. In fact, she was avoiding him. However, their paths always cross. And one day, that''s it! She just found herself being a friend of him, before he offered her the contract.


    But then, everything came naturally. Vince is not difficult to talk with as to what the rumors saying. Therefore, he would listen and consider things on her behalf.


    He is also sweet she could reckon it was romantic? Honestly, she doesn''t know what is the difference between a friendly romance like her and Bryan or the fake romance she and Vince acting.


    Wait... Why is she thinking of this stuff at the moment? Back to reality!


    Hailey gather her thought in one ce. Staring downward at those women, no one dares to counter but only meeting her stern gaze.


    In their mind, they were cursing her. But in reality, all they could do is justugh behind her back, but shut up when she faces them.


    "What? Why don''t you say it loudly? Come on girls! Don''t be shy!" Hailey challenges those women who gossip about her, but now none responded to her.


    They only had the guts to talk when the person they insult is out of their sight. But now that she faces them, no one can open their mouths.


    Shaking her head, Hailey chuckled. "Next time, don''tugh at me if you can''t open your mouth in front of me."


    She was staring at them menacingly, and they felt ridiculous how ass she is to feel superior. For them, she is only proud because of the person backing her, and that is Vincent Shen.


    For them, she is nothing.


    However, Hailey never uses her family wealth and influences to show people she is superior to them. She would never waste her time and energy on unimportant people unless something serious happens that challenges her tolerance and for some reason, that will soon test.


    Howie Gu, who was annoyed a while ago, now he''s grinning with excitement. He thought that Vincent Shen''s mistress was interesting.


    Howie Gu pped his hands and said, "I like you! How much did Vincent Shen pay you? I might double it. No, I can triple it!"


    But again, Hailey only ignored him. Howie felt embarrassed that he looked like an idiot talking to the air.


    Hailey turned around and talk to Cheryl. She said, "Can I have the key card now?"


    "Ah, right away!" Cheryl left, she headed toward the room where it keeps the Super VIP keys. From there, it needs the authority from the floor manager to release the key card that belongs to President Vincent Shen.


    "Here!" Cheryl handed the key card to Hailey, who left the lobby immediately.


    Meanwhile, Howie was in a fuss that someone dared to ignore him. He followed Hailey on the hallway headed to the left-wing of this resort main building.


    When he caught up to her pace, he grabbed her arm.


    "Get your filthy hands off me!" Hailey shrieked, ring at Howie coldly, but the guy only sneered at her.


    "You excite me." He uttered, thrills could sense in his voice.


    Hailey felt so disgusted encountering a pervert like him. She tried to pull her arm, but Howie gripped it tight, in an attempt to pull her closer to hug her.


    "Let me go, now!" Gritting her teeth, she scowled at the guy.


    "Wow. I like it! Are you ying hard to get during have sex with Vincent Shen?"


    Howie mumbled further that it causes for her ears to buzz, upon hearing his remark. She furrowed her brows and darkened her gaze.


    "What a psycho!" she yelled at him.


    After saying it, Hailey punches Howie in the face and kicks his balls. He kneeled, holding his precious buddy.


    "Dammit! You bitch!" He cursed, ring at Hailey furiously. "My father is Senator John Gu! I will make you pay for this!"


    How foolish! Hailey felt ridiculous how sissy this guy is. Now he threatened her by boasting about his father''s position in the country. She was really disgusted by this kind of people like Howie Gu.


    Now that she knew little information about his family, Hailey left Howie and pressed the elevator button and get inside once the door is open.


    Vince''s suite is on the fifth floor of this building. Hailey stepped out of the lift when she arrived at the floor, she followed the left-wing hallway.


    While she open the door, she dialed someone''s contact.


    "Hello, James? Give me all the information about Senator John Gu from P Country and the name of his son. I need it ASAP..."


    Hailey ced her phone on the table and began undressing. She only had a quick shower, blew dry her hair, and changed into clean clothes.


    Hailey scanned the closet. There are three sets of dresses that she has never worn yet. She chose the emerald green off-shoulder short dress that perfectly hugged her body.


    Since she was wearing a dress, she cared to apply light makeup but wear a Violette bold mauve shade of lipstick.


    She styled her long hair with a messy bun, emphasizing her long neck and shoulders. Hailey scanned her reflection in the mirror. Now, all she needs is high heel shoes.


    What she has here is a cream and green stiletto. And of course, the perfect to pair in his dress is the green one.


    When she''s ready to left, Hailey ces her dirty clothes in a stic bag and ces them in a leather tote bag.


    She was trailing the hallway when she received an email from James. While on the elevator, Hailey read the reports. She could not help to push a grin on the corner of her lips.


    "How interesting," she mumbled upon stepping out of the elevator.


    Howie Gu is one of the Architects who design her hotel.


    "What a fateful coincidence!" Hailey mumbled inwardly.


    And those women whough at her, swallowing their saliva in shocked. The contempt they felt for her has drastically deteriorated because of the envy they felt toward her.


    They could not stop scanning her from the head down to her shoes. In their eyes has the wishes that they were in her ce as Vince''s mistress.


    And as usual, Hailey would only ignore them, but full of enthusiasm when she''s talking to Cheryl like nothing happens awhile ago.


    "Hi, Cheryl! Here''s the key card. Thank you."


    "Your wee, Hailey!"


    "Bye! See you around!" Hailey bid goodbye to Cheryl. Head high, she left the Reception counter with a bright smile across her face.


    Cheryl waves her hand, staring at Hailey with admiration. For the short time that they were neighbors in the apartment they rented, she got to know a little about her.


    Hailey was a nice person. She actually helped her once when she was in night shifts, and her grandmother had a fever. It was Hailey who watched her grandma for days. She makes her soup and blends mixed vegetables and fruits for her quick healing.


    Hailey also helps Nadia before, and she was sure they are not the only people she helps.


    Outside the building, Hailey dialed Geoffrey''s contact and made a quick talk.


    "Hey, Hail! What''s up?"


    "Hi! I have a brief word for you."


    "Okay. What is it?"


    "I want to remove the LN Group in our project," shemanded Geoffrey.

 Chapter 32: Whoever Insults Vince

    <h4>Chapter 32:Whoever Insults Vince</h4>


    Geoffrey remains silent for a moment. He would like to assume that Hailey must be joking.


    "Are you sure about this, Hail? We granted them the Pearl Hotel project, and we added the three skyscrapers across the South Sector. They already submitted their designs, and all it needs is for you and Chairman Davies to approve it and discuss what changes you would like."


    "No need now that I changed my mind."


    It baffled him. He knew Hailey very well. For him, impossible, for she would joke around with her projects. She is always careful when deciding on Dream City. Although, he admits that in some aspects of her private life. Hailey makes decisions out of a whim, such as marrying Bryan.


    "Alright! Then I have to send a formal letter. But how should I exin to LN Group we take back the projects?" Geoffrey queried.


    "Don''t worry. I will write the letter myself. I will email it to you tomorrow," she said.


    "Alright! It seems you had a final thought about it. But can you tell me what happens or the reason, Hail? You won''t do this without a serious reason."


    ''Damn. Geoffrey is the first person I should be careful with. He should not know about my life here in P Country! Especially about Vince!'' she mused.


    "Hail, are you still there?"


    "Yeah! Well, I''m eyeing more worthy designs, that is why. Anyway, I have to go! I will call you tomorrow to discuss this matter once again. Bye!"


    Before Geoffrey could ask further, Hailey already hung up the call.


    ''What is going on here?''


    ~ ~ ~


    "I''m sorry. Come again?"


    Vince nced at her hands as he repeated his query. "I asked how your hand was."


    "Oh, you mean?" Hailey looked at her two hands, contemting which one Vince was talking about. "Um..."


    "The one you used to punch him."


    "Ah, that¡­" Wait! Vince knew? Then he saw a video? It was what Hailey concluded. She smiled at Vince and said, "It''s alright!" ''His face was thick. I felt pain afterward!'' She screamed inwardly. But it''s not needed for Vince to know.


    But to think of it now. It made her wonder whether Vince intentionally held her left hand because she used it to punch someone today.


    Vince is gripping it tightly since they left the VIP room, walking in the hallway, passed in the lobby, and Vince just let it go when she got inside his car.


    "What else did he tell you?" He asked further after Hailey avoided his question. In the video was sent to him, he saw Howie Gu following Hailey, but it didn''t record what happened next after Hailey left the lobby and headed to the left wing where the suites were located.


    On his way to the resort, he asked someone to send him a copy of the CCTV footage. Howie Gu whispered something to Hailey that made her furious after.


    She was provoked and urged to punch Howie in the face and kick his thing. It only means that it was a serious insult.


    Rendered her silence, Hailey could feel Vince''s warm gaze on her face. She blushed. She was certain Vince was waiting for her answer. However, he could never share what Howie Gu says to her. Not Vince!


    "He said nothing more."


    ''She lied. She thought I didn''t see the CCTV.'' Vince thought. He has no n of giving up on asking Hailey.


    "Tell me¡­"


    Oh, my! Now he''s persistent!? But since Vince now starts talking, she must take this opportunity to shift the topic.


    "There are no interesting words thate out of his mouth, so it''s just a waste of time to talk about him." I appreciate what you did, Vince. But I already handled him. For sure, tomorrow, Chairman Lewis would rack his head to find the cause why Davies Group takes back the project. "Oh, are we going to West Harbor?" Drifting the subject, she asked Vince after they took a left turn in the next avenue.


    Vince heaves a sigh. Since Hailey is not speaking, he didn''t insist anymore. And the next fifteen minutes was silenceid inside the car.


    "We''re here..." Vince announced after he parked and got out of the Lambo.


    Vince opens the car door for her. Hailey gets out of the vehicle and takes the elbow that he offered.


    West Harbor is one of the SHEN GROUP projects in thest three years. The twin skyscrapers designed by Vince are the first thing you will notice when you are in the middle of the ocean.


    And a half-mile away from the condo is the West Port, where expensive yachts of known people in the country and foreign investors had headquarters in the city ported here, including Vince''s.


    Hailey traveled her eyes to the shore. The sun is about to set in this part of the world. She realized what Vince told her to dine out is dining at his yacht.


    All the way, Vince carefully guides her toward his yacht. He kept ncing at her shoes, but he didn''t say anything.


    ''Is he worried I stumble?'' Hailey thought. It is one thing why she could say that Vince is romantic. Although it''s just a pretense, she could not stop her chest from fluttering, and a warm feeling filled her heart.


    And when their agreement was over, it made her wonder if she could feel it again because only Vince made her feel this way.


    "Oh!" her shoe stuck in the boarding ramp.


    "Careful..."


    Damn. Her head is all over the ce. She needs to snap herself to focus on the current moment and set aside her future worries.


    "I think it''s time for me to change this boarding ramp," Vince murmured in a low voice. He was more like talking to himself.


    "You need not do that! It was my recklessness, not the ramp''s fault!" she expressed. ''Ah, that was my fault! Because I was thinking about you!'' And, of course, she will not share Vince with her thoughts.


    "Okay." But I''m still doing it. Vince thought inwardly.


    Hailey breathes with a sigh of relief now they were inside the yacht. Vince led her toward the pool area, where a candlelight dinner was waiting for them.


    There was a chef currently cooking behind the counter and two servers setting food on the table.


    She headed to the sofa and sat down. Vince went to fetch her a ss of water.


    "Thank you."


    It''s not the first Vince brought her on his yacht. In fact, in this yacht where she and Vince were photographed and posted online.


    It was the first rumor that Vince spends a night with a woman where the entire country digs every social media site to get information about her, which soon takes down the photo.


    But everyone was making a tremendous fuss because Vince allowed no women to board his yacht unless you are a female rtive. Mostly he invited his male friends. That is why he was questioned about his sexual orientation when he sails out with just a bunch of men on his yacht.


    But for Vince, although he has two younger sisters, he doesn''t like to deal with other women, especially the flirty one who whines and fakes it to get attention.


    Honestly, Vince is romantic all along in their fake rtionship. Maybe it was just a pretense, but it still made her wonder how those critics base their opinion?


    Oh well, that is why it is having a term of criticism. These people only loved to create gossip in a baseless rumor that turns humor to those who truly knew Vince. Besides, Howie Gu should be an example of what Vince could do once it provoked him.


    "Let me see your hand."


    Hailey almost choked with the water she was drinking. She blinks a few times about whether to give her hand, but before she could decide, Vince was already scanning her fingers.


    ''What''s with him? Why is he concerned so much in my hand?''


    Hailey could not think of any reason Vince should throw a fret over her hand. She only punched the guy who insults him.

 Chapter 33: His Mood

    <h4>Chapter 33:His Mood</h4>


    Vince held her hand; Hailey could not hide when her cheeks flush pink. Sure it hurts her knuckles after she punched Howie''s thick face, but to her surprise, Vince was very concerned about it.


    Maybe, for Vince, hands are one of the most precious parts of the body. Even before, she didn''t see Vince punch a man yet.


    "What I told you before? Just tell me if someone bothered you, and I will deal with them myself," said Vince with a soft tone in his voice.


    Hailey stared at him with marvel. She often heard Vince saying this. Now she understood what he meant.


    Honestly, she is already used to this pampering from the boys. They are like wolves who will hunt those who do wrong to her.


    But surprisingly, it has a different effect on her when Vince phrases that and does the beating on her behalf.


    She always reminds herself that what Vince is showing to her is the same treatment as her friends. But as days passed, it troubled her heart because she never went through like this before, nor any of her friends make her feel this way.


    Is this love?


    Meanwhile, as they were lost in their own world, someone speaks.


    "Ahem. President Shen¡­"


    Hailey and Vince didn''t realize that they were staring at each other''s eyes. On Vince''s part, he was waiting for Hailey''s reply. But she is only staring at him.


    So then, he stared back until he didn''t notice they stayed frozen on the sofa, holding hands and eyes locked at each other.


    If it weren''t for the server, who approach them. Who knows what will happen next?


    Vince, who came to his senses, slowly let Hailey''s hand go and face the waiter.


    He clears his throat, then asked the server coldly. "What is it?"


    Bowing his head, the waiter replied with a flush cheek. Actually, he was hesitant to approach the boss when he was in a sweet moment with his rumored mistress. But already finished their job and were now ready to leave if the boss has no more orders.


    "We''ve finished setting up the table, President Shen. You can dine now."


    "Okay. You all can leave. Thank you," he ordered.


    Hailey''s face was blushing upon thinking that she was gazing at Vince dreamily. It wasn''t like her at all. Lately, she''d noticed that she started acting like a teenager having a crush on someone.


    And it was so hard to hide her feelings when her heart was only betraying her as it flutters and beats crazily every time she sees Vince, or even she''ll just think of him.


    Fell on her thoughts, Hailey returned to reality when she heard Vince inviting her to the dining table.


    To her carelessness and startling heart, she stood on her feet with hasty but misstep on the carpeted deck, causing her to stumble and almost fell.


    Thankfully for Vince''s good reflexes, he catches her, his arm gripped her waist tight. Hemented, "I guess you don''t need to kill your feet with those."


    Hailey understood what Vince meant. He was talking about her shoes.


    "I will just take them off," she said while reaching for the stiletto.


    "Wait¡­ stay right there."


    It confused her what Vince meant about that. When he came back, a pair of slippers in his hands.


    "Better wear this¡­" he told Hailey.


    Vince''s gestures made her speechless. He bent and ced the slippers in front of her. He then kneels on one foot and about to reach for her ankle.


    "It''s okay! Let me change my shoes." She promptly refused, but then disappointment was written on Vince''s face. It made her taken aback to do anything after seeing his sullen look.


    Without second thoughts, Hailey ced her hand on Vince''s shoulder. She reached for her left foot and the right one to take off her shoes, then dropped them on the carpet.


    Now that her feet were free from the high heels, she slid her foot in the slippers.


    "Thanks! Now I feel rxed!" she told Vince gleefully, a sweet smile tearing her lips. "So, let''s eat?"


    "Yes. Come on."


    Nodding, Vince pulls a dining chair and offers it to her.


    Hailey felt relieved seeing Vince''s face now brightens. Honestly, she refused him because she was shy, and her heart is acting crazily. But once displeasure exhibits on his face, she gets worried that he will misunderstand why she rejected his gesture halfway.


    Besides, Vince didn''t need to do this when they are alone now. He can stop act sweet to her.


    Hence, on these passing days, Vince has been extra sweet to her even when they were alone, which seems everything bes a casual interaction between them.


    However, every time she remembers that one day everything wille to an end, it made her sad.


    So then, from time to time, she reminds herself why she signed the agreement.


    Sighing inwardly, Hailey watches Vince spoon a soup. When the soup bowl was full, he ced it on her te.


    "Which one do you want to eat first?"


    Hailey hears Vince queried. She snaps at herself and stops musing. Her eyes swept on the table, and she saw a mouthwatering crab.


    "The crab looks tasty," she told Vince, who immediately picked up a smaller te and ced two crabs on it, then put it down to the left side, near her te.


    She let him ce food in front of her. She was grateful that he was in a good mood now.


    What happened earlier at the resort and her refusal with the slipper thing, she got to know more about Vince. And in those situations, she should add that on the List of What Triggers his Mood.


    Then, once his future wife is keen to consider these things, there will be no misunderstanding between them. Hailey mused.


    She watches Vince continue fixing food on the te.


    ''It''s no doubt. His future wife would be so lucky,'' she thought inwardly, drawing the soup spoon on her lips and leisurely sipping the wonderful beef soup.

 Chapter 34: Whos Calling?

    <h4>Chapter 34:Who''s Calling?</h4>


    Hailey immersed herself in eating the crab, setting aside her uncertainties and worries, which she should not make important at all.


    She came to this country for her Life Project, not a LOVE project.


    She must not let herself be bothered every time her heart is acting strange. Because once everything is over, it will only be bittersweet memories.


    Hailey was in deep thoughts, and her silence is apparent to Vince. She was focused on burying her feelings; she fails to notice that Vince is watching her earnestly.


    Seeing her silence, he coughs to get Hailey''s attention. "So, how was your training today?" he asked afterward.


    Honestly, he can not think of any topic to start up for Hailey to feelfortable around him. Sometimes he could see how she was being distant or seemed to put up a wall between them; which at times, she turned down his gestures like what happened a while ago when he was about to take off her shoes from her foot.


    Her refusal upsets him. But dissolved after Hailey held on to his shoulder to get support not to out-bnce.


    Lately, he was figuring out what he better do that Hailey won''t feel too civil toward him.


    Somehow, it ddens him she is obedient in public, not refusing their intimacy. But as she is just following their agreement, it made him a little sad.


    He always had this thought. Sometimes, he wishes for the situation to be different.


    Pondering, Vince sighs inwardly and then withdraws his gaze from Hailey. He picked up a te of Italian pasta and offered it to her.


    Tearing a sweet smile on her lips, she thanked Vince. "Thank you."


    Putting down her spoon and setting aside her soup bowl. Vince then ced the te in front of her.


    She takes off the disposable stic glove on her left hand and reaches for the water; she gulps half of the ss.


    Is it a wonder she was eating by her hand?


    Truly, she was born with a silver spoon in her mouth, and she grew up learning table etiquette strictly. But traveling in Asia teaches her a lot of exciting new things.


    At first, it amazes her. Now eating with hands has be a habit of hers. But it depends on the dishes she''s dining such; crabs, lobsters, or big prawns.


    The first few days she started living in Vince''s penthouse, and hees over for dinner. It surprised him when she used stic gloves to eat with her hands.


    Now that Vince is used to her usages, he makes sure to prepared one for her to enjoy eating crabs more easily.


    She could see that he is bing considerate toward her, which pleases her. And having a candlelight dinner in his yacht out of the blue is a romantic gesture for her. However, as usual, this is just one of the acts she must y.


    Hiding the sadness in her eyes and the bitter smile on her lips, she


    answer Vince''s query with cheer.


    "It was so interesting today. Mrs. Gomez and Mr. Kirk, the Event nner, gave us an activity of making a backdrop, and everyone is so creative! It blew me away at how lovely they are! It was like, wow! It amazed me! I always love seeing an enchanted reception, especially wedding ones! I''m always ecstatic to know someone is getting married! Not only that, but I love those flowers hanging from the entire ceiling with wonderful lights! And the table arrangements filled with flowers and..."


    Hailey stopped talking after Vince stared at her with amusement in his eyes. She didn''t realize that she was bbing without a pause.


    But truly, it excites her to learn how to do flower arrangements. She grew up having people to do everything she wanted, which sometimes she doesn''t like the results. But she was shy toin. And so, she let it be even if it disappoints her.


    That is why she is keen to learn how to organize different events, themes, and decorating.


    And her stay in P Country came to fruition. She''s not only learning, but she is also enjoying it, and meeting amazing people is a plus that bes her prospects to employ them in the near future.


    It added to her excitement to open her city very soon. Traveling these passing years teach her to have a better assessment of everything and gaining an understanding as to how should she act like a boss and not a spoiled brat to everyone.


    She wanted to be hands-on even she has everyone on her back. Her friends are very talented individuals and had a great contribution to make her dreame true.


    But having full knowledge of how to run Dream City is a must. She wants to understand every field that needs attention once her city is open to the world.


    She is targeting celebrities and wealthy families to purchase residences in her City.


    And so, she must offer the best amodation and a world-ss job to satisfy them.


    But first, she needs the best builderpanies and architects to design andplete her city.


    And she already eyeing SHEN GROUP to work with at the very start before she meets Vince.


    But how crazy when she signed an agreement to act as his mistress?


    "So, what happens next?" asked Vince after Hailey''s long paused.


    Hailey then gets back to reality. She didn''t notice that she fell into deep thoughts once again. Vince is keenly listening and staring at her.


    She lowered her gaze as her face flush pink. To distract herself, she picks up a fork and begins curling the pasta.


    She resumed, "At the end of the day, they teach us how to make a cocktail drink. My ssmates are making fun of doing tricks. I was sitting close by, and the wine spilled all over me. So, I have to use the suite, and then, I meet Howie Gu in the lobby."


    Hailey coughs. She should not bring up the matter that upset Vince, but she had promised to tell him everything if people had mistreated her. She nces at Vince, whose face frowned upon hearing that guy''s name.


    "How about if I make a cocktail drink? Would you like to have tonight?" She proposed. She wanted to distract Vince from recalling the resort incident.


    But hearing her suggestion, she saw the meaningful stare from Vince''s eyes. She caught him ncing at her exposing cleavage, which disyed generously.


    Vince withdraws his gaze and coughs. He said, "You still have ss tomorrow, and I have to stay overnight to finish some work." He sipped on his champagne before he continued, "Anyway, you have another dress in the closet, right?"


    Hailey understands the message Vince conveyed to her. He thinks her dress is too daring, and if she will mixing the liquors to make a cocktail, her breast would bounce in front of him.


    Why didn''t she think of that? Oh, goodness! She''s not being careful!


    She would love to p her forehead for being reckless.


    Hailey then dropped the idea of making cocktail drinks for Vince. Instead, she exins why she chose this dress instead.


    "Um, well¡­ When Howie Gu insulted me at the Reception counter. Several girls wereughing at me in the lobby. They must criticize my appearance when my hair and clothes are drenched with red wine. I look like trash. So, I wore this dress instead."


    Hailey cast a nce at Vince. She could notice his jaw tighten and furrowed his brows. She could determine he was mad, butter, Vince raised his head and smiled at her.


    "Alright, let''s enjoy the food. How was the pasta? Is it good?" he asked. But he was more like distracting himself to whatever runs in his head at the moment.


    Hailey, who sees that Vince is trying to make a conversation, made a cheerful response.


    "Yeah! The pasta is perfect! I love it!"


    "I see. So? You prefer flower themes in an event?" he casually asks Hailey in between stuffing his mouth.


    She replied, "Yes! It always feels like a fairy tale!"


    And because she''s obsessed with this fairy tale set up, she stupidly epted Bryan''s proposal of marriage with the idea in her mind to first get married at her ss Castle Garden, that filled with various flower vines and trees.


    She always dreams of fairy tale garden weddings that she wished to experience.


    However, she never falls in love in the passing twenty-four years of her life. And by next year, she turns twenty-five.


    But she already decided. She will finish her dream city first, before any stupid love or dream wedding.


    And speaking of Bryan... Hailey stared at the phone screen.


    Bryan is calling on her mobile phone!?


    ''Where did he get my other number?''


    It surprised her because there are only a few people that knew about it and she knew they won''t give him her contact as to how they wish to beat him up again.


    So, who among them gives Bryan my secret contact? Hailey mused.


    "Why don''t you answer it? Maybe it was important." Vince notices she is only ignoring the call. He asked further, "Who is it?"


    ''Huh?'' Hailey stared at Vince with a perplexed look on her face.


    "Um¡­ the one calling is..."


    It was my ex-fiance, your wife''s boyfriend! Ugh! Should she answer Vince this way?

 Chapter 35: The Calls

    <h4>Chapter 35:The Calls</h4>


    Raising her heart rate, Hailey is bathing with cold sweat. Vince is waiting for an answer. She looked up at him and smiled.


    "It''s not important. It was my ssmate. Probably he wanted to apologize again regarding what happened earlier. I will just talk to him tomorrow at school," she exined.


    Hailey ignored Vince''s suspicious stare. She picked up her fork and began stuffing her mouth when her phone is vibrating again. And once again, it was Bryan.


    "Do you want me to talk to him instead?"


    It freaks her out. Instantly, she refused and reason out. "It''s alright! I will send a message that he need not bother about what happens. Since we have the same ss tomorrow morning, we can talk about it, even though it''s unnecessary. He apologizes already, anyway. So it''s not important to talk to him."


    Upon saying this, Hailey swipes the RED button to cancel Bryan''s call. She then types a quick text.


    "I''ll message you tomorrow when I''m avable. Please, don''t call me at the moment."


    Hailey then put down her phone and continued eating. But he received another call. She nced at Vince, and he looked very curious about whose calling her.


    Hailey was about to swipe the red button when she recognized the number that''s calling her at the moment. It was her dad!


    ''Oh, my gosh! What am I going to do now? Dad would be suspicious if I cancel his call!'' she freaked out. She can''t figure out whether to answer it or let the call continues.


    ''I''m sorry, dad.''


    In the end, Hailey only simply nced at her phone and avoid making an obvious facial expression that she was like on a trial. She ignored the call and continued eating again. She picks up the winess and gulps the champagne in one go.


    Vince is shifting his gaze between Hailey and her phone. It made him concerned whether it''s still regarding her ssmate. His head running wild thoughts that maybe other people bothering Hailey like Zenaida or Howie Gu.


    Could not take the suspicion he is having, he asked Hailey after the call continues. "You want me to deal with him?"


    Confused, Hailey processes Vince''s words. Later, she understood and it made her anxious. "Oh, no! There''s no need for that! I will just ignore it."


    It freaked her out. ''There is no way dad should know I''m with a man! Ah! It will be the end of the world when the boys know! They dug a pit after they learned what Bryan did to me. It will be more than chaos once they learn about Vince.''


    She''s worried. The longer it takes for Vince to get his divorce, the more she was in trouble hiding the truth from her family. But Vince seemed to stop chasing the divorce. So what will happen now?


    She knew how crazy it was. Other mistress wanted their man to divorce the legal and original wife. But in her case, she wants Vince to divorce his wife so that she gets free from their agreement. How ironic isn''t it?


    Meanwhile, Vince could see the trouble lingering on Hailey''s face. He looked at her intently, studying her actions. She might casually put food in her mouth while ignoring her phone, but she looked nervous.


    Not long, Hailey felt relieved when the call stopped. She was crying inside her head thinking about her father.


    ''I''m sorry, dad! I will call you tomorrow after Vince left the house!'' She muttered inwardly.


    But what happens next... Geoffrey and Leo are calling her as well. Her phone never stopped vibrating that Vince could feel the shaking on the table. And because she was ignoring everyone''s call now, they were sending her messages.


    This time, James and Kelvin also messaging her. ''What''s going on!? Is there an emergency? Why is everyone contacting me?''


    And after a while that everyone stops trying to contact her, one name shocked her...


    Andre? Andre is home!?


    Her heart thumping rapidly. Knowing that Andre attempt to call her, this unsettles her.


    Vince, who was extremely curious now, could not hold to query. "What''s the matter? Is everything alright?"


    "Ah, yes! It was... It''s Hazel this time! I think she already heard about what happened, so throwing a fret."


    Ah! Howme excuse! No one would dare to contact her when they know she was with Vince! "I will message her now."


    Hailey picks up her phone and types on it. She has a feeling that Vince only believes half of her lies. But she is more worried about the boys finding out the truth.


    "Hi, dad! I''m sorry if I didn''t answer your call. I have a meeting with someone today. And might if took long before our meeting ended. I''ll call you tomorrow! Please, have a nice dinner and rest early. Don''t work too much, okay? Love you!"


    Hailey pressed the send button. After that, she set her phone on airne mode. So then, all the calls and messages won''t get through at the moment.


    "There! We can continue eating now," she dered cheerfully, hiding the tension she''s feeling. "By the way, Hazel wants us to help her choose a dress. So we''re going to the mall in the afternoon."


    Hailey nced at him. She could sense a little roughness of his voice. ''Is displeased him when someone keeps calling my phone?'' She mused, and it quickly answered.


    "Tell me if someone bothers you. I will..."


    "It''s okay! It''s just school stuff! Nothing to be concerned about!" She interrupted whatever Vince wanted to say, which she already guessed the phrasing he used to tell her.


    ''I will deal with them myself.'' That is what he would quote.


    It touched her. But a question always raises inside her mind. ''Why is he wasting his time dealing like Howie Gu? Why didn''t he look for his wife instead of taking care of anyone who troubled me when I can deal with them myself actually?''


    Well, she would answer this question herself. ''Vince didn''t know my true background.''


    Meanwhile, being cut by Hailey, Vince rendered his silence. He senses something is going on, but Hailey is avoiding sharing anything with him. So he guessed it was a personal matter.


    ''Could it be her family?'' Vince had this thought.


    He didn''t ask further but finished their food. Hailey, on one hand, keenly observes Vince''s expression. He may ask nothing, but she could feel that Vince was upset again. But she could share nothing with him. Not about her real identity. Not yet until she didn''t find Eva and appeared in front of Vince.


    To lighten the heavy atmosphere that filled the room, Hailey got an idea.


    "Um... Can we visit M City Market before we head home?"


    Vince nced at his wristwatch. They still had plenty of time to enjoy dinner then went to the market after. He has work to finish soon, but he could not allow Hailey to go there alone. "Okay. There''s still time, so don''t hurry your food."


    Hailey smiled. Vince encourages her to eat this moment.


    They almost finished eating when Vince''s phone rang. He answered it and talked to the other line.


    Hailey finishes her food quietly. Later, she sat up and gestured at Vince to go to the washroom.


    "Where are you?" asked Vince.


    He looked outside the window of his yacht, then fixes his gaze on the Two Towers skyscrapers he designed years back for the SHEN GROUP: the ''Luxurious Penthouse Project''.

 Chapter 36: An Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 36:An Encounter</h4>


    "Just across you. I''m hungry... Please???" The person on the other line is growling like a bear, and it irritates Vince.


    "Alright. We just finished eating and about to leave. There''s a lot of food left." Frowning, Vince told the person on the other line. He wanted to end the call as soon as possible. "I''m hanging up now."


    Vince didn''t wait for the other person to reply. He already ended the call before Hailey came back.


    In the washroom, Hailey already washed her hand and relieved herself by releasing the sses of champagne she drank.


    After then, she scanned her reflection in the mirror. Her cheeks are flusher now. Is she a little drunk? But she feels alright. Maybe she was only pressured from a while back. Hailey scans her reflection, and her eyesnded on her chest. She pulled her dress upward to hide more skin on her breasts as they were disying too much in front of Vince.


    She wondered what is Vince''s impression seeing her wearing this dress. Because in her perspective, she was more like selling herself to him rather than ying the role of his fake mistress.


    Having more perplexed thoughts, Hailey unties her hair andbs down. She divided it in half and finely pushed it in the front to cover her chest.


    "It looks better," she mumbled.


    Now it won''t get much attention once they are strolling the market. However, she found another problem. It was because she pulled her dress upward, now it almost showed her butt.


    "Damn. Vince is right. I should wear the other one instead. Now it was like I''m showing my soul," she grumbled to herself.


    And it took her a while before she could get out in the washroom.


    At the dining table, Vince looked at his wristwatch one more time. Hailey has been gone for over fifteen minutes. It worries him if she feels alright. In his mind, maybe her stomach upsets and the food that causes it.


    If so, he needs to question the chef if he properly cooked the food and what spices he uses.


    Vince waited another couple of minutes. Finally, Hailey came out of the washroom.


    He sees that she pulled down her hair, and now it covered her chests. But he almost spits out the champagne on his mouth after seeing how skimpy it turned out her dress is. It hides somece, but it is now exposed somewhere else.


    But he was more worried if she felt alright than concerning her dress. He asked, "Are you okay?"


    "Yeah! I''m fine," she replied Vince.


    Indeed, she looks fine. Vince thought, staring at Hailey''s sweet smile. "I was talking about your abdomen. It didn''t upset?"


    "Oh, no. I''m totally fine." Hailey was confused why Vince is asking her about it. But thenter, she recalls. It takes her a while before shees back, then Vince suspecting that might be the case.


    "That''s a relief. Then, shall we?"


    "Yep! Oh, wait..." Hailey walked toward the sofa to put on her high heels. But she realized it''s a beautiful sight if she bent down. Vince would have a peep on her ass!


    Hailey decides to sit down on the couch first, then bend and reached for the stiletto. But Vince already had them in his hands, and it made her speechless when he squats and puts the shoes on her feet.


    Actually, he didn''t need to do this as they were alone, and no other people to show their sweetness.


    After Vince putting her shoes, he offered his elbow to hold on. She dly held onto him and sat up from the couch.


    "Thank you," she said with bittersweet deep down her heart. ''He''s making me miss him like this.'' Once their contract is over, all these acts will end as well. But isn''t that what she wanted? To end their agreement as soon as possible, so then she got free?


    "Small thing." He replied, putting his coat around her shoulder. "Here, it''s getting colder."


    ''This is what I am talking about.'' She was used to being taken care of by the boys, but Vince''s gestures could only make her heartbeat crazily.


    Hailey hid the sadness in her heart as they are now exiting Vince''s yacht. The guy is attentive in guiding her to cross the boarding ramp.


    However, when they were in the parking lot. It surprised her to see the two men getting out of the car parked nearby Vince''s Lambo.


    "Hey, cousin!"


    Hailey froze after recognizing the person stepping out of a green Ferrari. But what surprised her more is to see the other man. It was Vince''s father, Fred Shen!


    Hailey nced at Vince, who uttered a surprising question. It seems like he does not know what is going on, and his family is here.


    She turned her attention to the car. She wondered if Madam Hilda Lopez came along as well. But it looks that there''s no other person in the vehicle.


    "Dad? You''re also here?" Vince asked with confusion. He threw a re at Carl, who immediately reasoned out at him.


    "Ah! I''m sorry, cousin. I was too hungry. I forget to mention that Uncle Fred is with me. We''re going to fish tomorrow!"


    Raising his one brow, he sneered at Carl. "Really? Is it you have a ss tomorrow?" How dare this guy mess up with me?


    Vince was thinking how Carl knew he was preparing a dinner at the yacht for Hailey. Now he ruins the night because of his nosiness.


    Carl, who somewhat understood the fury in Vince''s gazes, realized he made a mistake.


    It seemed like he had to exin to him that everything is just a coincidence, but he could not do that in front of Hailey. He has a reputation in the University, and begging Vince would be a huge embarrassment! For now, he will bear how Vince''s stares were like daggers, murdering him.


    "I''m sorry, cousin! I won''t be careful next time!"


    It tempted Hailey to cackle, but she suppresses herughed, as she was also felt awkward at this moment.


    Vince''s father is ncing at her. She was trying to pull Vince''s coat to hide her skin. And Vince notices it. He took a few steps and used his body to hide her from the two men. She then casually slid her arms into the sleeves and fastened two buttons of Vince''s coat.


    Vince, who made such gestures, didn''t hide this from Fred''s eyes. It does surprise him to see his son and his girlfriend this evening. Carl didn''t tell him that Vince was using his yacht at the moment. He thought it was Carl who ordered to bring food to the yacht. This bastard nephew of his needs a beatingter tonight.


    Now he didn''t know how to answer Vince why he is here as well. But he could not ignore the scene he is witnessing¡ªhis son disying his intimate rtionship with a girl, which impresses him.


    He mused.


    ''When does my son start caring so much for a woman other than his sisters?''

 Chapter 37: He Was Ignored

    <h4>Chapter 37:He Was Ignored</h4>


    "Dad, what are you doing here?" Vince repeated his question.


    Fred suddenly turned timid in front of his son, and it''s because of his bastard nephew, Carl. He coughs to clear his throat; he replied Vince. "I have some business needed to take care of around here. I asked Carl to apany me. Then we stop by at your penthouse to check out the ce. We might stay there once in a while."


    "I see. Carl mentioned it to me. Anyway, I''m d that I''ve seen you this evening. Please, watch my yacht if Carl uses it. I will only let him borrow it if you go fishing with him," Vince''s rendered a request from his father.


    And hearing this, Carl dropped his jaw to the ground; he was in disbelief that Vince would punish him like this. He wanted to protest, but Hailey was there. All he could do is ept the humiliation that he is receiving from Vince.


    If he has predicted, this is what will happen. He should not trick his uncle into intruding on Vince dating Hailey this evening.


    But it was only an ident he heard that Vince ordered the restaurant to prepare dinner on his yacht. The luxurious penthouse has five different restaurants exclusive to the Two Towers Garden residents, where Vince is a co-owner of these restaurants.


    "Well, then... There is more food on the yacht. You both enjoy the night."


    "Wait, cousin. The night is still young. Why are you in a hurry? It could be..."


    Meaningful smirk ying on his mouth, both Vince and Fred red at Carl, while Hailey also understood Carl''s tease, now blushing pink.


    Sometimes, Fred doesn''t like how Carl''s jests go overboard as he is invading privacy. Although, he is not happy that Vince has a mistress. There are circumstances it''s none of their business to mention or discuss.


    Tightening his jaw and throwing sharp res, Vince snapped at Carl. "We have to drop by at M City Market before heading home."


    Even though Vince''s irritated tone is obvious, Carl did not stop teasing him.


    "Seriously?" Disbelief was disyed in his eyes, scanning both Vince and Hailey''s outfits. "Are you guys going to the wet market wearing clothes like that?"


    "What''s wrong? Does the wet market have a dress code, which allowed shopping and which aren''t? Could I not buy a fish in a wet market wearing an Armani handmade suit and Louis Vuitton leather shoes?"


    Upon hearing this, Carl burst outughing, while Hailey suppressed from giggling. She thinks Vince is too cute tonight.


    After a while, Carl shut his mouth and exin.


    "Ahem! That is not my point, cousin. It was..."


    Carl nced at Hailey, who was now wearing Vince''s coat. Honestly, his eyes popping out to see the beautiful girl clutching on to Vince''s arm. Her clothes are darn sexy, but it does not look vulgar.


    The woman who wears it carries herself with elegance. That is why sometimes he is too intrigued to know her background. She''s too mysterious in his eyes. Her presence seemed so deadly that he could feel she was trying to conceal it.


    Before leaving, Vince informed his father. "Dad, I might talk to you one of these days."


    Nodding, Fred smiled awkwardly at Vince. "Alright. Just ring me."


    "Okay, dad. We''re going ahead first."


    Upon Vince saying this, Hailey partly bowed at Fred Shen and her professor Carl Johnson. The older man nodded while Carl salutes.


    Fred watched Vince and Hailey entering the car. His son carefully assists his girlfriend, settling in his car before walking toward the driver''s seat.


    Fred discerns. His entire life is mostly about work. He could not remember if he was this intimate with Hilda in the past. Both he and Hilda were busy and had many things to take care of as individuals. They may attend events and parties together, but most of the time, they were talking to different people regarding business and politics.


    Hilda Lopez was from a n of politicians, and she is active in helping her family run their Camp, and she handled many government projects. Every Lopez family has one or two members that entered politics and have an important position in both local and national government.


    And because they are both busy, their children grew up with only nannies and bodyguards.


    Now he realized he has nothing remarkable he teaches his son but only sends him to school to educate himself with all the school lessons and books he could read.


    It ddens him to see how Vince seeds and surpasses his achievements. But he''s happy that his son learned one thing he didn''t witness from him, and that being loving to a woman.


    Although he''s still opposed that his son had a girlfriend inside his marriage, Eva refused to live with him but chose her career.


    People could not me his son. He is a man, and he needs a woman. If whatever reason had Eva, Shen could give her fame even if she lived in P Country. They could provide her resources and backing up whatever she wanted. But where is she now?


    Fred and Carl waited for the car to exit and disappeared from their sight before they walked toward the yacht.


    "Uncle, Vince''s girlfriend is an intriguing woman, isn''t it?"


    Coming back to reality, Fred snaps at his nephew. "Shut up!"


    "Huh? Why are you snapping at me, uncle?" Carl pouted. The father and son only bullied him tonight.


    "Of course, I would! Look at yourself! How dare you drool over Vincent''s girlfriend!"


    "Huh? I did not! I only appreciated her beauty! Besides, I was only racking my head if where did I see her before."


    "Really?" Fred red at his nephew suspiciously. Many rumors say that maybe that girl was working for an International Escort agency.


    "Is that so?" Fred ponders whether he reruns a background check on her. Because from thest time, he could get no suspicious information against her. In fact, almost nothing about her.


    "I''m not certain, actually. Well, let''s drop this subject, Uncle Fred. I''m so hungry already!"


    "We could already have dinner two hours ago, but you are saying the preparation has not been done yet. Now I know what you mean. You want to invade Vincent''s date!"


    "Not really!" He denied even being caught red-handed. The grin forming on his lips is evident in how his actions contradict his words.


    Fred shakes his head. He crossed the boarding ramp and headed inside. Finally, he could have a break from Hilda with her no ending rant about her son.


    ~ ~ ~


    Meanwhile, Vince''s Lambo made a smooth drive toward M City Market. It was just fifteen minutes away from the Two Towers Garden.


    And the moment he pulls over, everyone''s eyes pop out, staring at his car. Most of the people strolling around in that area are workers and vendors in the wet market. Tonight, fish vessels are delivering fresh fish. So then, night shoppers areing. But seeing thetest Lambo, pulling over in a parking lot is a rare sight. No one dared to park near Vince''s car. It leaves both sides empty.


    Anyway, the vendors in this market knew Vince very well. He is the one who designs this new city market and constructs it by SHEN GROUP.


    Now, it is the cleanest and vast market in the country. That even wearing Ralph and Russo heels is not a trouble at all.


    However, their presence was too attention grabber. Every pair of eyes ncing in their direction, particrly scanning their outfits.


    In their eyes, they were like supermodels suddenly made a walkway in the middle of fish stalls.


    They were absolutely overdressed for a shopper. Especially Vince, whose aura could intimidate anyone.


    "Boss! What a surprise, seeing you tonight! But you are not here for inspection, right?"


    The person who approaches them is the overseer of the market called Mr. Bill.


    Bill knew that his question is dumb andme. But he has nothing else to say. He nced at Hailey, whom he knew is the rumored girlfriend whoes here once in a while to shop during the daytime.


    "Good evening, Miss Hailey."


    "Good evening, Mr. Bill! How was your night?"


    "It''s alright, ma''am." Bill couldn''t take away his eyes from this beautiful woman. He only came back to his senses when he heard a rough cough in front of him.


    Immediately, his eyes shing fright after realizing that he made a huge mistake of staring at the boss'' woman.


    Now he began bathing cold sweat. Bill meets Vincent''s eyes, and a chill runs down his spine. Vince''s ck pupil was casting a cold re downward. He feels his foot nailed on the hard tile floor.


    "Ahem. We don''t need your assistance, Mr. Bill. We can shop on our own."


    Bill understood that Vincent Shen wanted him to disappear as he was blocking their way. Bill ran to the side, bending his body, stuttering the words from his mouth.


    "Of¡­ of course, boss! I won''t bo¡­ bother you! Please, enjoy shopping!"


    Without looking at the guy, Vince nods and resumes walking. Hailey, who was tightly gripping her one hand at Vince''s arm, could sense that he is somewhat upset, but she has no idea what triggered his mood again. Figuring out, she heard Vince speak in a low voice.


    "Would you lessen how sweet your smile is to others?"


    Hailey waspletely puzzled by what Vince was saying now. ''When did I overly smile sweetly to others? Is he referring to Mr. Bill?'' she mused.


    "When did I do that?" She wanted to make sure that her suspicion is correct.


    "Just now," answered Vince tly.


    His face is expressionless, so Hailey cannot tell whether he is joking or really mad? But isn''t that ridiculous?


    "Okay¡­ But, Mr. Bill is kind to me. He always helped me carry the bags of seafood I shopped."


    Upon hearing this, the corner of Vince''s mouth twitching. Later, he muttered that shocked Hailey.


    "I''m jealous."


    Hailey dropped her mouth on the floor. ''Is this a prank? One of Vince''s jokes?'' Nah. He never joked with her before!


    It took a long moment before Hailey recovered from the surprise.


    Meanwhile, Vince is waiting for Hailey''s response. The truth is, he is pretty nervous. He nced at the girl next to him; he could see the bewilderment on her face.


    "Wow! That was huge!" Hailey eximed upon seeing the lobsters disy, she rushed to the stall and talked to the middle-aged woman''s vendor.


    Vince, who was left behind, felt like the roof fell onto him. He was only ignored!

 Chapter 38: Enslave Him?

    <h4>Chapter 38:Enve Him?</h4>


    "Hi! Good evening!" Hailey cheerfully greeted the fish vendors.


    They are gleefully attending to her, and soon, their attention shifts to the man halted next to her. Hailey tried to ignore his presence, but everyone started a conversation with him.


    Of course, they all know about him. His family is famous in the entire country not only because of SHEN GROUP but because of his mother''s family.


    But inter years, Vincent''s name gained poprity after he built plenty of infrastructure projects in the entire Metro City and its closest provinces.


    "Good evening, Mr. Shen!"


    "Good evening." Vince politely greeted everyone.


    "Mr. Shen, is it true that you will run for Senatorial candidacy?" one fish hauler, who came closer the moment he was seen.


    Hailey nced at Vince. It''s not the first time this question was asked. He often asks if he had a n to enter politics like the rest of his rtives.


    "No. That''s not true. I don''t have interest in it."


    And the usual, Vince would decline following the expression of regret from these people.


    The upper ss, especially the lower-ss families convince him to run for a higher position in government in the uing election about two years from now.


    "It would make us happy if you ran for Senatorial position, Mr. Shen! You can hope for our votes!" said one man.


    "That''s right, Mr. Shen! I can assure you. My entire family will cast our vote for you!" And the others would also express their feelings.


    "Even running for Presidency, you can have our support, Mr. Shen! My rtives in the province will also vote for you!"


    "Only your rtives?" Cracked by the other vendors. "My entire town will give their support for Mr. Shen!"


    Then everyone concurred and cheered, showing support for him.


    Hailey knew Vince was ufortable discussing this issue. He is the type of person who would rather hide from the spotlight than in the center of attention.


    Having the thought of joining politics is thest thing on his mind, which often he is urged to run for a national position.


    While the vendors and workers continue discussing, they resume strolling around the market and avoid further questions.


    Later, Mr. Bill arrived to warn the market vendors and workers to not disturb their shopping.


    Hailey beamed, thinking how Vince suddenly put in a hot seat. She could see he is having trouble exining and put a few words into why he is not interested in entering politics.


    In the months, that they were in contract, she witnessed how Vince worked seriously in his projects for the benefit of many.


    Not only to earn a profit but to create tremendous changes throughout the country. Vince had a big dream to do huge changes in Metro City and turned it into a better ce to live by.


    Vince was following quietly behind her. They are now approaching the area where giant fish are disyed. Salmon, mackerel, named it all!


    "Can I have only half of the salmon, ma''am?" asked Hailey.


    "Sure! Should I already slice thin sizes?"


    "Yes, ma''am. Thank you."


    The woman cleans the whole salmon before she cuts it in half then thin slices. Within like five minutes, the woman was done.


    She was really impressed how these fish vendors could finish clean and cut in a short time.


    She queried them before and their answer; they got used to it, but it takes practice yes. So then by now, they could clean a fish in a short time, which in the beginning, it took them over ten minutes to cut everything.


    Hailey pays for the fish, the woman handed her the stic bag. And before she could hold on to it, Vince already takes them.


    They stroll through a few more stalls to check out the disys. She saw huge squids, and she bought a kilo of them. She nced at Vince and said, "I''ll make you a Cmari for lunch!"


    Vince nodded, who was quietly following her. She wandered her eyes to other stalls when she glimpsed newly disyed seaweeds.


    "Whoa! They have various seaweeds now!" Hailey rushed to the stall, leaving Vince behind. She asked a series of questions to the vendor while she bought half a kilo of red algae named Eucheuma that naturally grows, mostly in tropical ces.


    "I''ll make a sd when we get home," she turned her head and asked Vince, "You want some as well?"


    Vince only nodded at her and said nothing. Hailey thought, ''Is he mad because I didn''t respond to him earlier?''


    However, the truth was Vince in deep thoughts. He was thinking if he should hire an errand assistant for Hailey to do all sorts of shopping, especially here in Market City.


    He ponders, that it should be someone who knows about fishes, seaweeds, and seafood such as ms, crabs, shrimps.


    Vince was about to open his mouth, but he was approached by other market workers and conversed with him.


    Hailey didn''t notice that Vince tried to talk with her, but these market vendors and market workers always stole his attention.


    While Vince was talking to them, she gestured at him to go toward the stalls that were selling eggs.


    She is looking for quail eggs.


    It was also the moment Vince turned his head in her direction and their eyes locked. She blushed.


    Hailey withdraws her gaze and pretends to converse with the shopkeeper.


    Well, she truly avoided talking with him about what he said earlier.


    Why would Vince suddenly say he''s jealous? Why would he feel that way?


    Isn''t it in their agreement no one should fall in love? Is he breaking their contract?


    Wait¡­ This is not cool. She should review their agreement. Something is wrong here.


    Because until now, it made her dazed, thinking about what Vince meant when he said that he is jealous.


    She could still notprehend if he was serious when they were in a public market.


    Is that a perfect time, a perfect ce to discuss it? She believes it''s not.


    Ah! What she wanted to do was pretend she didn''t hear him.


    Because she had a bigger problem to deal with. She has to exin to her dad and friends why she is blocking their calls and didn''t reply to the messages right away.


    Right now, she was sure that it troubled them why she was avoiding talking to them. It''s been almost a year since she left after she called the wedding off.


    Hailey was now done buying what she needed. She went to one store and bought a styrofoam bucket with a handle.


    "What are you going to do with that?"


    Vince spoke behind Hailey, and it surprised her because she fell into deep thoughts.


    "Ah. We will put the fish inside. We won''t leave your car to have a foul smell," she exined to Vince.


    "That''s okay. Someone can clean the car tomorrow."


    "But it was..."


    Vince''s phone rang. He could not take it from his pocket when his hands were full of shopping stic bags.


    "Um¡­"


    Hailey could see that Vince was having trouble answering the call. He needs to free his hand.


    "I can have those stic bags." She offered help but Vince decline.


    "No. Can you reach for my phone and check who''s calling?"


    "Oh¡­" Suddenly her heart thumping loud. Vince''s phone was in his right front pocket.


    Her chest is beating wildly. She was too nervous, praying Vince won''t hear her heartbeats.


    But before Hailey could reach for Vince''s pants, the call died.


    Their eyes met for a moment, she was about to sigh with relief when his phone rang again. It looks like an important call.


    This time, she didn''t think twice, Hailey reached Vince''s phone and showed it to him. It was Tim. She swipes the green button and extends her arm to put the phone on Vince''s ear.


    Hailey held her breath. Their bodies are too close. Biting her lower lip, she looks away to avoid Vince''s gaze into her face while he talks to Tim.


    It looks like a serious problem as Vince mentioned for a meeting tomorrow, and he gives several instructions to Tim.


    "Miss, what color do you want to choose?"


    The shopkeeper asked her, who has no idea what is going on as Vince''s facing his back to the store, covering her. She could not answer, she peeps over Vince''s shoulder and her finger pointed to a blue color styrofoam bucket with a handle. Soon the woman handed it to her.


    The shopkeeper who looked younger than her, just realized what was happening. Her face turned excited while beaming at them.


    Hailey blushed, she tears a shy smile. She took the box and gestured at Vince to put the stic bags inside.


    Now that his hand is free, he took the phone from Hailey to let her pay for the bucket. He takes a few steps away and resumes talking to his assistant.


    Meanwhile, Hailey was done paying. "Thank you!"


    "Your wee."


    Hailey grabbed the handle of the bucket to carry it. But she realized it was heavier, she has to bnce her stand to walk.


    Soon, the styrofoam bucket was taken from her hand. She looked up. Vince is now standing in front of her.


    "You should have waited for me. It was heavy. The next time, I want you to ask me to carry things for you."


    Hailey opens her mouth, but no wordse out. She tried to process her head.


    To recall what happened today. First, Vince was in a rage and took revenge on her behalf. He then announced that no one must touch his woman. Vince is telling everyone that she is his woman.


    Although it was just an act so that everyone would think twice before they offend her.


    After that, Vince prepared a special dinner for them. And when they had a shopping trip at the city market, Vince admits he is jealous if she smiles too much in front of other men.


    She would like to think he is being possessive now. But she concluded, it''s just an act.


    Now, Vince is saying that she could enve him?


    Could it be the correct interpretation?

 Chapter 39: Im Only Blushing

    <h4>Chapter 39:I''m Only Blushing</h4>


    Walking next to Vince, Hailey was still in a trance.


    What she hopes in these passing months is progress that he will find Eva.


    She believes it would be easy for him to search for her with the wealth and connection he had.


    The longer she stayed by his side is harder for her to leave him. And with everything he is showing to her now, the deeper she found herself gotten used to his attention.


    She truly signs an agreement that she must not fall in love during the time they were acting. She agreed because she thought he would not be this attractive to her and their contract only takes a month.


    In these passing years she travels, she meets hundreds of men, but no one could make her heart move like how Vince did.


    Lately, Vince overdoes his acts. It made her think if he is putting her on a test whether he could make her fall in love with him.


    Because if that''s the case, he is seeding.


    However, this is not the right time for her to worry about her love life but her dream.


    And her dream right now is to finish her dream projects. And to finish her projects, she needs Vince.


    She needs Vince, not for herself but her dream project.


    Although she won''t tell Vince who she is. She must not attach to him but keep a distance and create a professional rtionship once he began to work for her.


    ''Why are you hurting yourself?'' Hailey could hear a part of her protesting about all her reflections.


    Of course, she would take a precautionary measure after what happens to her and Bryan. The decades of friendship have now tainted and seem impossible to get back to what supposed to be.


    And that is because of her stupidity. Everyone now has a problem working with Bryan, and it worsened after his negligence that results in an ident and now a dilemma for the nning team. Not to mention the damages that inflict more dys.


    How if something happens and the boys raise a protest to kick out Vince? Can she protect Vince by then?


    She wanted to avoid things to happen in the future. She doesn''t want to affect her friendship with everyone once again, because of her love life.


    Vince has the perfect ideas she thinks highly of.


    She badly needed him to work for her, and so she is being careful not to make stupid decisions again.


    As of now, Vince only wanted is his freedom from the arranged marriage he got into.


    Before he hired her, he never went on a date. ording to Hazel, he always avoids being introduced to any woman, more on blind dates. It only means one thing...


    Vince has no interest in having a rtionship.


    So then, she did not hope after she realized that she is falling for him.


    It broke her heart once, but it has never disturbed her life like this. She even cares less thinking about Bryan''s betrayal.


    But when ites to Vince, it confused her, whether to listen and follow her heart.


    Or she must kill this feeling while it''s early.


    She only came back in reality after Vince shook her shoulder slightly.


    "Are you okay?" He asked Hailey.


    Vince is peering at her earnestly. Hailey''s cheeks flushed pink when she realized how close he was to her.


    "What... What are you doing?"


    "I wonder if you catch a fever as your face is red."


    Red? Really? And why would it turn red? Hailey touches her face using the back of her palm. She is not hot!


    "Are you feeling unwell?"


    "Oh. No! I''m feeling fine!"


    "Are you sure? Do you want to drop by in a clinic or hospital?"


    What? That was exaggerated, is it? She just blushed!


    Hailey refused Vince''s suggestion. "There''s no need for that! I''m totally fine."


    "But..."


    "Believe me, I don''t have a fever. I''m only blushing!" After saying it, Hailey rushed inside Vince''s car.


    Meanwhile, Vince was trying to understand what Hailey told him. He weighs what is the difference between a face turning red when it has a fever, or cheeks turned red because...


    Ah. He got it. Hailey indeed was blushing. Why didn''t he know about this simple human expression?


    Is he that focused on his career that he missed each emotion humans had?


    Maybe this is the reason he had no girlfriend until now. If he hadn''t offered Hailey an agreement, he would never have one. Too sad it was just an act.


    In the past, he made even just minor mistakes. It was his mother who will scold him and reprimand him.


    And because his mother is keen to punish him, he works hard to perfect everything: from his lessons, grades, projects, and he starts learning to manage theirpany even before he graduates.


    All he did is studying to please his parents.


    His family has high hopes only for him to seed. Also, he was the only son and the eldest, something he takes upon his shoulder seriously.


    Not until the contract he offered to Hailey. His mother began bragging to him how displeased she was and forcing him to coax Eva.


    Vincent shook his head to throw away this unnecessary thought running in his head.


    At this time around, he wanted to reward himself. He is done pleasing his family, especially his mother. Now he wanted to do something for himself.


    It won''t be that bad, is it? To desire to be happy?


    Thinking over it, Vince''s lips curled a smile ncing at the woman seated at the passenger seat.


    Hailey confessed she was blushing. Earlier, he told her that he was jealous.


    It seems like they are slowly being open toward each other. Maybe it is what they needed...


    Being honest to what they feel, it will be morefortable for them, living in the same roof.

 Chapter 40: We Are Not A Couple

    <h4>Chapter 40:We Are Not A Couple</h4>


    Inside the car, Hailey was nervous. She freaked out for a moment after she told Vince she was blushing. What would he think of her now?


    Ah. That was embarrassing, Hailey! She could not stop scolding herself.


    Anyway, who will go to the hospital just because she was flushing red? That was hrious, you know. But it touched her how Vince being concerned about her. And she didn''t want to put a meaning on it.


    ''Stop thinking too much, Hailey.'' She reminded herself.


    Hailey froze when the driver''s seat opened, and Vince slid inside. She''s thinking hard about how she can ignore his presence and avoid having a conversation with him.


    She is thinking to y on her phone or pretending she is browsing on her phone, but she needed the mobile inte. And if she turned on her mobile data, her phone won''t stop ringing and making noises with her iing messages.


    Hailey felt relieved when Vince drove his car quietly. But heavy traffic took ce when they were entering the central city from West Bay. The cars didn''t move at all.


    Vince is tuning in on the radio, but he didn''t find any good songs. He is hesitant to y his ylist, might Hailey would not like it.


    "I rarely used this car, so I haven''t downloaded any songs yet." Later, he exined.


    Hailey turned her head and smiled at Vince. It seemed like she was not the only one who''s nervous. Vince is uneasy too, and he is trying to distract himself.


    "It''s alright. I could listen to my phone." After saying this, Hailey takes out her ear pod and browses the ylists of her favorite songs. Her phone is always ready to connect to her car to y her ylists while she was driving. It was the same here in Metro City when she was always stuck in the traffic.


    Meanwhile, Vince seemed gloomy. Now that Hailey wearing an ear pod how could he start a conversation? He should open up something else like about her ss or if her mind change to be his date on his ss Reunion.


    Hailey seriously ignoring his presence. It was a long one-hour drive back to his penthouse when it could only take less than thirty minutes without traffic.


    Hailey hit the pause button on her phone to stop the song, then took off her ear pods when they were reaching the parking lot.


    She gets out of the car in silence and waits for Vince to get the ice bucket from the trunk of his car.


    Headed to the elevator, she noticed an olddy. Hailey rushes to her side and helps her carry the grocery bags.


    "Good evening, Mrs. Flores."


    "Oh, dear! Hello!"


    "Let me help you carry them."


    "Ah. Thank you. How sweet of you."


    Hailey matches the olddy''s pace. Mrs. Flores is a widow who prefers to live in a penthouse than purchase a house in the exclusive viges outside the central city.


    "Good evening, Mrs. Flores." Vince politely greeted his tenant.


    "Good evening, Mr. Shen." Mrs. Flores smiled warmly upon seeing him.


    Vince was already in the elevator and holding the door, waiting for both Hailey and thedy. After the twodies got in, he pressed the 20th button where Mrs. Flores'' lives.


    "Why are you shopping alone, ma''am?" Hailey asked afterward, she lowered her gaze at the shopping bags she was holding. They are heavy.


    Meanwhile, Mrs. Flores shifted her gaze between Hailey and Vince. She was scanning them from the head down to their shoes. Their outfit, telling her they were from a party or a date. But in Vince''s hands is an ice bucket, and she could guess what was inside.


    After she finished checking them out, she fixed her attention to Hailey and began chatting with her.


    "I see. Are you going to cook your son''s favorite dishes, ma''am?" Hailey notices the ingredients of the shopping bags she was carrying.


    "Yes! He said he missed the dishes I made. I would love to live with him in the States, but I''m not so fond of their weather. I still like our tropical climate here."


    The olddy continued chatting with Hailey, Mrs. Flores nced at Vince then whispered to her.


    "When you find a man who doesn''t mind carrying an ice bucket of fish. Don''t let him get away but marry him."


    Hailey dropped her mouth. She was sure Vince heard that as he coughs suddenly. Now, her neck stiffened not to nce in his direction. She didn''t see when Vince curled a smile across his handsome face.


    However, it made her daze. Hailey was pondering what is the relevance of carrying an ice bucket of fish to marriage?


    As Mrs. Flores sees the confusion on her face, the olddy exins, "When you meet a man who is willing to apany you shopping in the fish market. He values your marriage."


    Hailey even became confused. These facts are vague to her. She doesn''t understand because she never had a boyfriend, nor in a marriage, except for the fake rtionship she has with Vince.


    Hailey looked at Mrs. Flores, who smiled warmly. She mused that maybe the olddy is referring to businessmen, who are wearing expensive suits that would never dare to step into a public fish market.


    But her male friends also wore those designer suits but then went fishing on weekends and vacations.


    Maybe that is the reason she always heard women saying, ''They were men of every girl''s dream!''


    Still, she could not figure out the rtion to that. Her friends who were in their 30s still single and rare for them to go on dates.


    Not to mention they also went shopping at fish markets or visiting fish ports. And they had huge ice buckets and coolers kept in their fishing boats.


    So, how does it be relevant to marriage, especially to her and Vince?


    Seeing a man wearing expensive suits doesn''t intimidate her at all. She grew up living with a man that had countless expensive suits in his wardrobe. Her dad.


    And even Andre, Bryan, Geoffrey, James, Leo, and everyone in her circle of friends have different brands of designer suits.


    But she would be honest that Vince is different among them all. He possessed something that she wanted to discover herself, the reason she could not distance herself from him.


    Ah, why she''s thinking about it too much? Haileyes back to her senses. She gathered her thoughts in one ce the moment the lift opens.


    Vince let the twodies step out first. He noticed how Hailey had been confused by Mrs. Flores''s statement. So then, he leaned over to her and whispered.


    "This is my first time to shop in the fish market. And the first time I carried an ice bucket."


    Hailey rendered speechlessly. She tried to process everything, but she only has one conclusion.


    ''We are not a couple!''


    Fish, ice bucket, marriage? There is no relevance at all! She needs to be enlightened.


    Any man does not mind going to the fish market and shop, right? Hailey mused, popping big question marks on her head.

 Chapter 41: Wish To Meet Her Family

    <h4>Chapter 41:Wish To Meet Her Family</h4>


    Hailey followed Mrs. Flores inside her unit. It was spacious. The penthouse is only one floor and two-bedroom, enough space for the kitchen next to the living room.


    And in the middle of her garden is a small fountain surrounded by both imported and local nts that bloom breathtakingly. Mrs. Flores also has hanging nts around the ceiling of her penthouse.


    And on the terrace, in which Vince makes sure it was spacious enough to ce a small garden for the tenants, it has a coffee table and two sofas where Mrs. Flores spent her time reading her books or having tea with her friends that also lived in the same building.


    "Would you stay for tea?" Mrs. Flores asked Hailey after she ced the shopping bags on the counter.


    "Ah, we might turn down your invitation, ma''am. I would love to, but Vincent has work to finish." Hailey politely declined the olddy''s offer.


    "That''s what I''m talking about. He has a lot of work to do, but he gives time to apany you shopping. Not to mention, it''s not a supermarket but a public fish market."


    Hailey smiled at how the olddy seemed thrilled while stating it. The olddy must have a beautiful love story, and she actually referred to her husband''s thoughtfulness of going shopping in a fish market. Shemented, "I could see that yourte husband used to apany you shopping."


    "Oh, yes! He always picked me up from the school I work as a teacher, and together we will go to a public market and buy everything we need to make dinner!"


    "That was wonderful, ma''am. Instead of going out for dinner or takeout, you give time to make meals for your family. No wonder your son spends time visiting you even for a short time. I''m sure just to share a meal with you."


    "I am d, yes. It made me miss the times when they were little and my husband still alive." Mrs. Flores swept her eyes to the wall, where she filled them with photos of her family. Sadness exhibits in her eyes, but it also shone pride in them. It only shows she had many wonderful memories with her family.


    Mrs. Flores ps her hands and says, "Well then! I took too much of your time while your boyfriend was waiting outside. Thank you for helping me."


    "Your wee, ma''am." Hailey smiled at the olddy. She was always close to aged women because she always remembers herte grandmother Meredith.


    Mrs. Flores escorted Hailey to the door. She thanked Vince for sparing time to apany her back to her unit.


    "If you find any problem in your unit, Mrs. Flores. Please, reach out to the Building Maintenance office, ma''am."


    "Oh, I will! Thank you for making our livesfortable, Mr. Shen."


    "It''s my pleasure, ma''am," Vince replied politely before he and Hailey walked toward the elevator.


    "Have a wonderful night for the both of you!"


    "Good night, Mrs. Flores!" Hailey waved at thedy before she stepped inside the elevator.


    Talking to olderdies brings dness to her heart. She was fond of them because they were equipped with good values and became wiser from all they learned in life throughout the years they ovee all the circumstancesid in their path.


    Well, not everyone acting their age, though. She also came across those arrogant old women who think highly of themselves. But she always has faith in humanity. There are good people out there, and she felt blessed to find people she treasures now.


    Vince didn''t leave his eyes staring at Hailey. He noticed how it brightened up her face after their brief encounter with Mrs. Flores. He thinks Hailey had a soft spot for older women. Something he admired about her.


    Now being alone in the elevator, Vince casually looks in her direction. She could feel his burning gaze on her face, which made her blush again.


    Hailey let out a breath when they arrived at the top floor. Vince''s penthouse has a spacious lounge the moment you step out of the elevator.


    The door is located in the right corner, which next to it is a rectangr floor-ceiling window that gives more light to the lounge aside from the chandelier in the middle of the ceiling andmps hung on the walls.


    It waspletely peaceful up here from the noises below the building and traffic in the neighboring streets.


    Hailey quietly follows Vince inside his penthouse. She watched him ce the ice bucket on the sink and wash his hands after.


    "Where should I ce these fish?" he asked. Vince knew where to put them, but he wanted to make sure he would ce them correctly as Hailey organized his refrigerator very well.


    "About that, you don''t have to worry. Let me do it. You can start your work now."


    "Alright! Then, I''m going upstairs now."


    "Okay¡­ I''ll make a light snack for us!"


    "Sounds great!"


    Both of them seem to have other things in mind they wanted to share, but both of them are having second thoughts.


    Vince smiled before he turned around and walked toward the staircase. He nced at Hailey. He wanted to talk with her about something, but his work is waiting already.


    While Hailey put the fish in the fridge, Vince went to his bedroom and took a quick shower. He put on another business suit and went to his study; opening hisptop.


    Later on, Hailey headed to the study. In her hand is a tray she ced a bowl of seaweed sd with unripe tomatoes and cucumber. Hailey used an Apple cider, and she added ck pepper and sesame seeds to the sd. On another te are lettuce and a small bowl of mayonnaise she mixes with banana ketchup and three tablespoons of apple cider, she sprinkles a little ck pepper powder.


    Hailey halted in front of the door. She noticed Vince left it open, and she guessed he intended to leave it this way.


    Using her right foot, Hailey pushes the door, and she finds Vince having a FaceTime meeting at the moment with his foreign investors.


    She entered the study with careful steps not to make any sound and walked toward the coffee table and ced the tray.


    Vince could see how Hailey was very precise in her movement. It is one thing that impresses him. Something he ponders, whether Hailey was just obedient after he included in their agreement.


    He quoted that he doesn''t like noises, especially during the time he will work at night. Now he somewhat regrets that. He realized he actually sounded rude.


    But he could see that Hailey has a great personality and sensitivity. She could handle things and yed it well.


    And when ites to his work, she is always careful not to bother him. He could see that she was brought up wonderfully. Her family must also be wonderful people, which is why he is keen to meet them one day.

 Chapter 42: He Has A Thick Face

    <h4>Chapter 42:He Has A Thick Face</h4>


    After Hailey brought Vince light snacks in the study, she went to her bedroom and took a shower.


    Under the running water, she could not stop thinking of what excuse she will give to everyone why she has to ignore their calls and messages.


    Hailey put on her pajamas and dried her hair.


    She gets off her room and headed outside.


    She was now at the pool area eating her sd while debating within herself.


    Restless, Hailey sat up; pacing around the pool area.


    She halted near a pine tree and watched the city lights that dazzle her eyes. She could see the heavy traffic is still going on.


    Seriously, those flyovers need to finish soon to lighten up this problem.


    She learned that it was supposed to be Vince''s projects but another builderpany wins the bid. But then several issues she heard about thispany that dys thepletion of the said project.


    And after Vince lose on the bidding, he was more focused on building tall skyscrapers, such as space buildings for lease, penthouses, and condos.


    Hailey heaves a long sigh. She shook her head and prepares herself to turn off the airne mode on her phone.


    And she was right! She almost passed out to receive hundreds of messages from the boys, including Kelly. They also contacted her. Not only that, countless voicemails keeping in.


    She tried to read everyone''s messages, but it was too much. Hailey could not finish it in just a short time.


    At the moment, she didn''t know who first to reply. But she must call her dad before anyone else. Hailey heard a sigh of relief after the call connected.


    "Hailey! My goodness! Why did you turn off your phone?"


    "I''m sorry, daddy!" she apologized. Hailey''s heart is breaking at the moment. She is missing her dad badly.


    "Princess... Do you know how worried I am that I can''t reach you every day? What is going on?"


    "I am very sorry about that, Dad. I''m working on somethingtely."


    "What is it?"


    "Okay¡­ But please,e back home."


    ''I want to, dad! But I signed a contract, and you will have a heart attack once you knew I was living with a man and acted as his mistress!''


    Heaving a sigh inwardly, she was careful not to let her dad hear it. She uttered, "I''lle home soon, Dad."


    "When is it, Princess? Everyone is worried about you!"


    "I didn''t mean to make you guys worry."


    "We don''t want you to feel sad or think that you are alone. We are all here for you!"


    Hailey pushed a thin smile across her beautiful face. Everyone still thinks that she was heartbroken until now.


    "Don''t worry, Dad. I am long over about Bryan. Everything I am doing now has nothing to do with him or in the past." ''I only wish for the future.'' Hailey wanted to add this, but she kept it to herself.


    But what will be her future? She cannot look past through yet when she has to focus on her dream project.


    "Anyway, Andre is here for a vacation. He wanted to talk to you," said Jacob Davies.


    "Okay, dad!"


    Not long, Hailey heard the voice she was missing all this time. She held her tears from welling up.


    "Hailey? Why didn''t you answer my call?"


    "Andre! Hi! Your home?! Are you going for a long vacation?" she dodged the question.


    Andre could tell Hailey is avoiding answering his query. But he let it be and answered back, "Yes. And, I am going to Dubai to get you."


    "What!? Seriously?"


    On the other end of the call, Andre creased his forehead. "Why are you so shocked? You don''t want to see me?" There is a hint of pain in his voice.


    "Nah. I''m just surprised and happy!" Haileyughs nervously. At the moment, she is freaking out.


    ''Oh, my goodness! What am I going to do now? How can I make an excuse to Vince that I need to fly to Dubai? Ah! What a chaos!'' Hailey is pacing back and forth around the pool area.


    "Hailey, are you still there?" Andre asked afterward when the other line fell silent.


    "Ah, yes, I am! I have something in mind. Anyway! You don''t need toe to Dubai. I will go home next week! So¡­ I will see you by then!"


    On the other line, Andre fell silent. He ponders whether to wait or he will take the flight for Dubai tomorrow as he nned already.


    Hailey prayed that Andre would not insist. She didn''t foresee that he would be home. And now he wanted to follow her in Dubai, as nowhere she could find!


    It''s been six months since she flew to P Country to check out all the Shen Group projects that changed the entire Metro City for only two years.


    ''Now what!?'' Hailey sat down on the chase near the pool. She needs to contact Pitt and Kelly for a n!


    "Okay. I will wait for you then." Soon, Andre speaks on the other line that made Hailey breathe with relief. He added, "Don''t take too long bute back soon. I missed you so much. And I want to talk to you with something."


    Hailey''s eyebrows curled up. It seemed like it was a serious matter for Andre, and she need not guess. It is about Bryan.


    Andre and Bryan already ymates even before she was born. They have been ssmates from kindergarten until Senior High, and so; they treat each other as brothers.


    Their friendship built a great brotherhood with the other boys for over two decades until it ruined everything because of the breakup and calling off the wedding.


    Sometimes it makes her heart sad that it also affects their brotherhood. But she could not undo everything and go back to the days she and Bryan treat each other like siblings.


    "It''s cold out here."


    Hailey freaks out when someone speaks behind her. Her eyes wanted to pop out from her face. dly she is using her ear pods. Andre would not hear Vince talking to her.


    Hailey settled down her heartbeats before she turned around to face Vince. She smiled and said, "Hi! I''m fine!"


    She then pointed to her phone, gesturing that she will get inside after the call.


    Vince nodded and said, "Okay. Or you want me to light the firewood?"


    Hailey cannot control her heart from fluttering with delight. Vince get used to seeing her chatting with the girls in the pool area. And now, he is even more and more thoughtful toward her.


    And him, acting like this; it only makes her miss him badly, living under one roof.


    Hailey shook her head and refused Vince with a sweet smile curled on her lips, "Thanks! But you need not bother."


    Vince didn''t leave yet. He seems in deep thoughts but then chooses not to share his mind.


    "Then, I''m going back inside," said Vince after a moment.


    Hailey nodded. She sighs with relief after Vince leaves and goes back to his study.


    Meanwhile, Andre keeps asking her in the other line when Hailey didn''t speak.


    "Who did you talk to?"


    "Ah! I''m sorry about that, Andre! Another guest passed by my table and greeted me." Herme excuse.


    "Okay. Are you having dinner now?"


    "Yes, I am!" Ah. She had to lie as Dubai is five hours different from Australia!


    "Then I should hang up now. By the way, what time should I call you again tomorrow?"


    "Oh. Let me be the one to call you tomorrow!"


    "Alright. Please take care of yourself, Hailey," said Andre.


    "Yes, I will."


    Hailey wishes Andre was in front of her to hug the guy. She already misses everyone, especially her dad.


    After the call ended, Hailey dialed Geoffrey''s contact.


    "Hail! Thank God! What happened? Why can''t we contact you?"


    "I''m sorry about that. I have a few things I need to take care of." Herme excuse again. As days passed, it''s getting harder for her to hide her situation. She wondered how long she could keep it from everyone, especially from Vince about her identity.


    "Are you okay?"


    "Yeah! I''m totally fine!" Hailey replied to Geoffrey''s query. "So, Bryan is back?"


    "Yes. And he has a thick face to ask for your number."


    Hailey could tell the anger in Geoffrey''s voice. She wondered if the two fought earlier.


    "Tell me... Did you punch him?"


    It took a long moment before Geoffrey replied to her. Hailey heard him heaving a sigh. "Geoffrey?"


    "Yeah, I did. I beat him up."


    It made her rendered in silence for a long moment. She could imagine now; both have bruises on their faces.


    "Geoffrey, did you do that because of me?"

 Chapter 43: Her Hot Uncle

    <h4>Chapter 43:Her Hot Uncle</h4>


    Davies Group, Dream City Headquarter


    Geoffrey raised his gaze when his office door opened. He frowned upon seeing the person who entered the room.


    "So? You finally realized you have a job here." His tone is full of sarcasm and he meant it.


    "I''m not here to quarrel with you, Geoffrey. I only wanted to ask Hailey''s new contact."


    Geoffreyughs, shaking his head. Soon after, he res at Bryan. He was in fury after this guy showed up in his office acting as nothing happened. But before he could open his mouth, Bryan went on.


    "I know my negligence, and I will deal with it. But if your anger is personal, you can hate me all your life, Geoffrey. However, it will not solve the problem of our projects."


    "Oh, have you just realized that you shouldn''t be mixed up your private life and your position as Vice President of thispany? Unfortunately, your interest blew up!"


    "Do you think I am after Hailey''s wealth that''s why I proposed to her? I may not be as rich as you or Hailey? But I don''t want her fortune, nor want to hurt her! And I see it will be useless if I continue to exin myself to you or anyone. So let''s set aside any personal grudges, but be professional," said Bryan.


    "Bullshit! It was you who isn''t working professionally here!" Geoffrey retorted. He continued, "At least, after you broke her heart and her trust in you... You should stop there! But you keep hurting her by neglecting your job and giving Hailey more problems!"


    "As I''ve mentioned, I know it''s my fault! The reason I am here is to talk to her. You have her other contact. You can''t deny it, Geoffrey. I already asked Mr. Brown. Instead, he forwards me here that you are now in charge of everything once Hailey is not around. But I want to talk to her first."


    Geoffrey pushes a grin as he looks at Bryan with contempt. He uttered, "How if I won''t give it to you?"


    "Stop acting childish, Geoffrey!"


    "It was you who acted childish from the beginning, Bryan!"


    Geoffrey mmed his hands on the table as he promptly sat up from his swivel chair. Both are shing gazes.


    It was Bryan who first withdrew his gaze. He turned around, giving his back on Geoffrey, as he ced both of his hands on his hips.


    After a few moments of silence as he ponders, Bryan faces Geoffrey once again. He queried, "Tell me the truth, Geoffrey. Do you like Hailey?"


    With Bryan''s query, Geoffrey''s ears rang. It is also the reason that his patience runs out. He only controls himself not to punch Bryan every time he saw him.


    Geoffrey walk around his table, he grabs Bryan in the cor and sneered at him.


    "Don''t you dare mistake my care for Hailey! I''m not like you! I know how to sort out my feelings and my work!"


    "So you did like her?"


    Instead of a reply, Geoffrey throws his knuckle as he didn''t like how Bryan scoffed at him.


    However, Bryan won''t just stand there. He returned a punch, now both have bruises on their faces.


    Geoffrey throws another punch, which Bryan dodges easily. And the next seconds, they exchanges punches that few of them sessfullynded on their faces.


    "What are you two doing!?" A man in his fifties echoed his voice in the entire room.


    "Uncle Jacob!" Both Geoffrey and Bryan froze on the floor. They straighten up their pose and face the man.


    "Can''t you both wait after office hours to knock each other''s faces?" the Chairman sharply shot the question.


    "I''m sorry, Uncle Jacob." Bryan and Geoffrey apologize at once.


    Shaking his head, Jacob Davies walked toward Geoffrey''s table and sat down on the chair. He was very disappointed in them.


    "The two of you are Hailey''s right and left hands," he began the lecture. "Either of you is a great loss to her, and both of you know very well of her dreams. That is why I need not lecture you for what you must do. But one thing I wanted you both to do right now. Clear your heads or leave thispany in an instance."


    "But uncle¡­" Geoffrey wanted to defend himself, but Jacob raised his hand.


    "My daughter formed this TEAM when she started this sisterpany of Davies Group. Her very ownpany to build this city and she dreamed of finishing it in the next two years. Whether you like it? But your only choice right now is to work together. She trusted both of you. No. All of you! So, at this moment? I want to agree with the saying, ''let us set aside the past'' but look at the future. And the future Hailey has been looking forward to has already been dyed! My daughter was already brokenhearted. And seeing you like this would only make her even sadder. Do you understand?"


    Jacob Davies carefully drops his words one at a time to beprehended clearly. And every word stabbed not only Bryan''s heart¡ªbut also for Geoffrey and James.


    Meanwhile, in the door: Leo, Kelvin, Josh, Chester, Trevor, and Alfie heard everything as well.


    Geoffrey''s assistant and his secretary called them toe over. But as they could see, the fight is over, and now a lecture from the Emperor is taking ce.


    Leo knocked on the door before they entered the room. The six of them red in Bryan''s direction before their gaze settled at Geoffrey.


    "Damn! Both of you should wipe your noses," Josh suggested as the two men''s faces were now covered with bruises.


    "I''ll ask your secretary to get the medicine kit and ice bags," Chester echoed and left the room.


    Bryan massaged his jaw, then a box of facial tissuended on hisp. He looks up, it was James. "Thanks, man."


    James just shrugged a shoulder, sat next to him. "Don''t thank me," he told Bryan. He is looking at him down before he swept his gaze across the room. He added, "After all, if Hailey were here? She will stress herself seeing you both have these scrapes on your faces."


    James is right. They all agreed with him. Later, Geoffrey''s secretary named Helen brought ice packs and the medicine they needed. How swiftly she entered the room, the quicker she got out.


    Her knees are trembling. She dropped her bottom on her chair, reaching for her chest, breathing in and breathing out.


    Helen''s heart beating wildly. Entering that room overwhelms her entire being!


    She had been working in thispany for three years. But she is still in a daze seeing these hot men in the same room!


    The CEO really knows her way. She could gather these talented, sexiest, handsome men to be her executives!


    It may because they are her childhood friends?


    However, formon people like her? It creates astonishing facts to envy!


    At first, she didn''t understand why everyone called them the Queen''s Knights.


    After months, that she works at thepany. She learns that only a few people knew the real identity of the CEO and few only allowed to meet her.


    These men ran all the work in thepany under hermand. They built thepany when the Queen was twenty-one years old and a fresh graduate of her first course.


    Even the Queen, wandering around the world... these men loyally work for her. Until the crazy proposal and betrayal. And the reason the top executives are punching each other''s faces.


    "Hey! Why are you daydreaming?" cing a folder in front of Helen, Maine queried? She is an employee from the Finance Department. "Don''t tell me the boss was inside that room?"


    Helen can only nod as she was still in a trance thinking their hot bosses. But then another handsome man appeared behind Maine.


    "Excuse me? Is Chairman Davies was inside?"


    Helen made an abrupt stand from her seat as she retorts, "Captain Hillson! Yes, he is, sir!"


    "Thank you."


    After the man in uniform thanked Helen, he strode to the door and stepped inside. They could hear how the men cheered upon seeing him.


    Meanwhile, Helen shook her head, looking at Maine, whose mouth remained dropped open. "You can now close your mouth, Maine."


    "Wait¡­" Maine bent down, then stood straight. "There, I pulled up my ck lingerie. I think it loosens the garter."


    Helen giggled and said, "Don''t worry, you are not alone. I have the same reaction as you after meeting all the bosses. I have a hard time keeping my panties around on my waist."


    "Oh, god! Who is that officer just now?" asked Maine,pletely thrilled seeing another hot man in thispany.


    "Oh, right! You just joined thepanyst year. He is the Commander of the Knights! Royal Air Force Captain Andre Hillson," Helen acknowledged gleefully.


    "The Queen''s Hot Uncle!"

 Chapter 44: Post Valentines Day (Spoiler 01)

    <h4>Chapter 44:Post Valentine''s Day (Spoiler 01)</h4>


    Months ago...


    Hailey hugged herself when the night breeze kisses her skin. She is only wearing a halter dress, and she didn''t bring a coat.


    She was at M Resort as one of her ssmates celebrated her neenth birthday today, and they got a VIP room just for themselves to have fun all night.


    But Hailey only drank little since she volunteered to drive her friends home. So here she is, hiding from them. Otherwise, everyone would force her to drink.


    At the moment, she was at the back exit door, sitting on the staircase while watching the night skyline.


    She misses home: her dad and everyone. She also misses those times they spent on her yacht and watching the night sky like this.


    But so many things change after Bryan proposes to her, and then without a second thought, she epts it, but Bryan reunited with his girlfriend he met in New York when he took his second course years ago.


    Even though she didn''t love Bryan like how a woman should love her future husband, she already set her mind to spend her life with him.


    She loves him, but it''s not the love he needs. It''s not enough for him, and she understood that. So now, she wanted to move on and forget everything that had happened.


    But every time she would tell herself this, she chickens out. She could still not bring herself to go back to Australia.


    Now then, she''s stuck in this city, and it feels bored already. Each day only bes lonelier for Hailey.


    She enjoyed the times she was hanging out with her new friends. But she could not avoid feeling lonely every time she is alone.


    Hailey was in deep thoughts when her ears caught a faint voice, and it''sing closer in her direction.


    Later, the voice is getting louder, and she could sense the fury in it. Besides, she recognized this voice.


    "What do you mean, she already moved out? I paid you to take care of everything! Then you have to look for her!"


    Hailey doesn''t want to eavesdrop, but she got intrigued. ''He didn''t know where his wife was? What kind of husband is he? Why didn''t he know the whereabouts of his wife? Don''t tell me he does not know either she is cheating on him?''


    "Find her, and if needed, force her to sign the divorce paper!"


    The following statement makes Hailey freeze. ''He''s divorcing Eva? Did he find out already that she cheated on him?''


    Hailey nced over her shoulder when the ss exit door opened.


    The man, who none other than is Vincent Shen, halted when he realized that there is another person outside.


    Hailey pushes a thin, friendly smile before she withdraws her gaze.


    ''Oh, my God! I will pretend that I hear nothing.'' Hailey is biting her lower lip, pretended that she browsed her phone, waiting for Vincent Shen to retreat and go back inside.


    However, it startled her when he spoke behind her, and he was this close already!


    "Would you mind if I sat here?" Vincent gestured to space next to her.


    Hailey carefully gathered her thoughts in one ce, not to look flustered in front of Vince.


    She looked up and nodded at him. "Sure! Of course! I don''t own these stairs."


    She said jokingly, which she knew howme it was. dly, Vincentughs at her poor humor.


    Somehow, it settles her heartbeats. Unexpectedly seeing him made her chest flutter wildly.


    She never felt this way before when she was near other men. It''s only Vincent Shen, and it confused her... ''Why is that?'' Hailey mused to herself.


    "What are you doing here, alone?" Vince queried after he sat down beside her. He added, "It''s cold. Are you waiting for someone?"


    Hailey tried to reply in a casual tone. "Yes."


    "Ah, your boyfriend, then?"


    "Hm? I don''t have a boyfriend."


    Vince is nodding. He seemed trying to guess. "I see. Then, your friends?"


    "Um... No." Hailey shook her head. It looks like he is interested in ying punch line games with her


    "Who, then?"


    "My forever..."


    A long silence passed between them. Later, they are bothughing. Hailey then apologizes afterward.


    "I''m sorry! That was toome for a joke! Honestly, I borrowed it from my crazy college friends throwing a joke at each other." Hailey tried to be sound cheerful to hide her embarrassment.


    "I actually would like to retort on that, but it would be a moreme response," said Vince.


    "Oh. Try me! I won''tugh." She urges Vince, and a huge smile tore across her face.


    Vince stares at her beautiful face. He blinks, then scratches his temple as he chuckles. She appeared eager to hear his retort, and it looks like he has no choice but to share what''s on his mind.


    "Okay. Well, I''m about to say that... Maybe I''m the one you are waiting for?"


    Hailey blinks several times. It took her a few moments to recover from the thrill. She pursed a sweet smile and said to Vince, "That was a perfect line!"


    "Ah, you know..."


    Seeing Vince blush, Hailey made a quick exnation for not having an embarrassing moment between them.


    "I''m embarrassed with thatme humor of mine. Ever since I moved here, I heard a lot of great jokes from everyone! I mean, the humor here is hrious!"


    "I could see that, but... I mean, I am married, so you would only think it''s a joke." Honestly, he is having a hard time rifying himself because he doesn''t want to be misunderstood, even if he meant what he said just now.


    "No worries! I''m just making a joke out of myself. I''m a little bored waiting for my friends. I need not get drunk to drive them home."


    "I see." Vince nced at his wristwatch. The time is eleven o''clock. "Hm. Then it would be best if you stayed awake. How about coffee? I will treat you at the same time if you would not mind. I''ll keep youpany."


    "Oh, I might bother you and bore you!"


    "Not at all. I''m also kind of bored at the drinking party of my friends. Especially when I can''t follow their topics."


    "Oh..." Hailey contemtes whether it''s a good idea if the people will see her hanging out with Vincent Shen.


    "So?"


    "Okay! I''m actually thinking of buying a cup of coffee when it''s getting cold out here." Finally, she epted Vince''s invitation, setting aside her troubles.


    Delight exhibit in Vince''s eyes when he remembers.


    "Oh, I''m sorry. I forget to introduce myself... Vincent Shen."


    Hailey nced at Vince''s hand. He extended it for a handshake. She smiled and uttered, "No problem! I already know you, since I saw you in school and¡­"


    "Yeah, and on TV... Oh, Hailey Hillson, by the way."


    "It''s a nice name."


    "Thank you." Hailey took Vince''s hand. It was warm. Somewhat she likes to stay held by him. But she quickly takes back her hand when the warmth crept toward her heart. It was an electrifying sensation she never felt before.


    "Shall we?" Soon, Vince sat up. Once again, he extended his hand to help her stand.


    He was a gentleman! Why is Eva looking for another man if she has a perfect husband? Rich, handsome, talented architect and¡­ ''Ah! Why am I thinking all of this stuff?'' Hailey contemted as she strides toward the door.


    And before he reaches the door, a warm coatnded on her shoulder. Her eyes filled with awe, meeting Vince''s eyes, peering down at her.


    "It''s cold. You can borrow it for a while," he said with a soothing voice. Vince pushed a warm smile on his lips. He walks to the door to open it. "Ladies first."


    Hailey was in a trance. She could not control how much her heart reacted crazily to his handsome smile and gentle voice.


    Why does it get her excited that she''s with Vince now? What is he doing, by the way? Is he flirting with her?


    She has seen this in movies! A coffee and talk, and what next?


    ''Chill out, Hailey! Remember, he is a married man! Stop having wild imagination!'' She scolded herself after she could not stop feeling thrilled.


    ''It''s just a coffee.'' She keeps reminded herself. ''But why does it feel different being with him?'' She keeps reasoning within herself.


    "Is something wrong?" asked Vince when she did not move but remained frozen on the floor.


    Hailey shook her head to wake up from her crazy thoughts. She smiled at Vince as she replied, "Everything is fine! Let''s go!"

 Chapter 45: Post Valentines Day (Spoiler 02)

    <h4>Chapter 45:Post Valentine''s Day (Spoiler 02)</h4>


    Vince chooses a table on the corner to have a private talk with Hailey.


    Seated opposite each other, Hailey noticed that every pair of eyes in that room curiously looking at their table, and it made her ufortable.


    She nced at Vince, and he seemed only ignoring everyone, even talks start arising in the caf¨¦.


    Well, everyone knew he was married, and they have never seen him dated after then. But here he is, having coffee with someone tonight.


    Well, for Hailey, they are just having coffee. However, she''s still in a state of debating within herself why did she ept the invitation?


    Now she was on the hot seat. All the eyes were scanning her from the head down to her t Strappy sandal.


    dly, their coffee arrived. She ignored everyone but leisurely sipped on the mug.


    Later, Vince spoke up. He said, "Just ignored everyone. Don''t pay any attention to them."


    "Ah, no. I''m not really..." I was only anxious that I''m with you!


    "Anyway, about what you heard. It was true. I ask for a divorce from my nominal wife."


    Hailey chooses to listen, as she didn''t know how to react. Besides, a question was ying on her head.


    ''Why is Vincent Shen telling her this?''


    She truly overheard his conversation, but it''s not something she would gossip around.


    Is it the reason Vince invited her for a coffee? She could perceive that if other people heard it, they already posted it on social media or sold the information to Entertainment sites.


    "You have nothing to worry about. I won''t spread out what I heard. I don''t mind others'' business," she assured Vince. Sheprehends that it must be what he worries about.


    "I''m d to hear that from you. But I still wanted to tell you, if you don''t mind?"


    "Oh! I''m all ears! I will pretend that my left ear heard it but exited to my right."


    Vince chuckled. He thinks she is cute and honest. "Well, as what you heard. I want my nominal wife to sign the divorce paper."


    "Is the marriage didn''t work out?" she asked curiously. She wanted to find out why Eva was still having an affair with her ex.


    Vince onlyughs at her question. She finds it offensive, but he quickly apologizes.


    "I''m sorry. I... No. We don''t need to work on our marriage. Eva and I were only forced into this marriage. So, we both agreed to get divorced after two years."


    Hailey studied Vince''s face. He is sure not joking, but why is he more sounded exining? She mused.


    "So what happens?" And why am I making questions here? Is this a talk show?


    However, she could see Vince seemed willing to answer her queries.


    "Yeah. We never live as a couple. After the marriage, we go separate ways."


    "Really? You didn''t check on her or what she is doing all these years. Are you both married? I mean..." She''s still married to you! She''s still your wife!


    "I''m not interested in her life. I think she is living with her boyfriend after our wedding ceremony..." Vince paused when he saw her coughing. "Are you okay?"


    Hailey was choked with the coffee she drank. That has brought a real shock to her nerves.


    So, Vince knows Eva is seeing another man, and Vince doesn''t give a damn about it!


    "Ahem! So... You know she has a boyfriend?"


    "Yes. She didn''t agree with the marriage as much as me because we both have someone we care about."


    "I see. So, you also have a girlfriend?"


    "Nah. I don''t have one."


    Hailey raised a brow. Seriously? Then why say you care about someone? "Then, it''s Secret love?"


    Vince chuckled before he replied to her. "I think that was the perfect word."


    Hailey fell silent and pondered. She tried to figure out and weigh the information she now heard.


    So, Vince and Eva were only forced into the marriage, then had agreed to get divorced after two years.


    After they got married, they took a separate way, which Vince knows Eva had someone else.


    ''But where is the girl he loves?'' A question that intrigued her.


    "Why didn''t you marry the girl you love instead?"


    This is Q&A! Hailey could not stop herself from asking a question after another.


    She makes believes that this is getting to know him. So then, soon, she could offer him a project. She has to make Vince sign a contract with her to work on her dream projects she aims to finish quickly.


    That''s right! She should make friends with him first, and this is the best opportunity she has!


    And since they will work together soon, they should know about each other to feelfortable.


    Hailey has been contemting while she waited for what answer Vince will give her. However, Vince looked hesitant to answer that question. So give the hint of apologizing.


    "Um... I think I went overboard. I should not query too many personal questions."


    "Not really," Vince smiled at her. "I just have no precise answer with that one."


    "Oh. Why is that? I mean... I''m sorry for asking too much again."


    Hailey bites her lower lip, and Vince finds that fascinating. He blinks, then coughs as he straightens his back. He ces his arms on the table, sping his palms.


    "It''s okay. I''m willing to answer them. Also, it''s because you are the first person I''m telling about this," he told Hailey with a handsome smile across his face.


    "It is such an honor, then!" Hailey pursed a sweet smile. She lowered her gaze when Vince didn''t leave his eyes staring at her face.


    After a short moment, Vince went on. "Well, I wish I knew where she was by that time my mother nagged me about the marriage."


    Hailey curled her forehead. She queried, "So, you also separate ways without knowing where she goes?"


    "Ah... she didn''t know."


    "She didn''t know, as in? Oh, it''s secret love, so you didn''t tell her that you like her." Haileyughs awkwardly. She drew her mug toward her mouth and drank half of the coffee on it. But she could not stop querying further.


    "Why didn''t you tell her what you feel about her?"


    ''What''s wrong with this guy? He doesn''t know where the girl she loves is, and now he doesn''t know where his nominal wife is?


    So what he intends to do with his life?''


    ''In what I am seeing. His life is farplicated to imagine. Not only that, his life is more boring than mine at the moment!''


    Hailey keeps mumbling inwardly while she patiently waited that Vince would answer herst queries.


    She looked up and met his gaze. But he only remains to stare at her. ''What is happening to him now?''


    After a long moment of silence, Vince heaves a long sigh before he expresses out...


    "I wish to tell you."


    "Huh?"


    What did he say? What does that mean???


    Hailey tried to figure out what Vince is trying to tell her, but her phone rang. It was Hazel who is calling her and looking for her.


    ~ ~ ~


    The following day, Hailey woke up to a loud ring of her phone. She forgets to set it on airne mode.


    She reaches for the gadget and checks out whose calling. It was Hazel, and she also has miscalled from Liza and a bunch of messages!


    "Hey! What happens?" She asked Hazel the moment she swipes the green button.


    "Miss Hailey Hillson!"


    Ouch! Hailey draws out her phone when Hazel shouted so loud from the other end of the call.


    "Are you trying to deafen me?"


    "I am. Remember what time you guys went home? But it''s a miracle you already are awake this early after you got drunk."


    "Well, mom woke me up after she saw the news. And it helps me sober up."


    "News? What news?" Hailey tried to follow what Hazel was trying to tell her. It confuses her if anything is rted to her.


    "So, you haven''t seen it yet?" asked Hazel. Her voice is entirely thrilled.


    "About what?"


    "I''ll send you the links!" Hazel suddenly ended her call.


    Soon, Hailey''s eyes popped out from her face, reading the headlines.


    ''What is going on here!?''


    It dazes her reading all those headlines and gossip.


    It''s just a coffee and a great talk with Vincest night about his marriage to Eva.


    But now she was all over the news! The Headlines are saying like these:


    "Is She Vincent Shen''s Rumored Girlfriend?"


    "Who is the girl CEO Vincent Shen datedst night?"


    "Did Someone Finally Won Vincent Shen''s Heart?"


    ''Why the headlines saying like this?'' Hailey could not believe to see all this news. What is happening!?


    ''Dear God¡­ I know I prayed for some adventure in my loveless life. But not like this! What am I going to do now!?''

 Chapter 46: Finding Out the Reason

    <h4>Chapter 46:Finding Out the Reason</h4>


    Office of the Chief Operating Officer


    Inside the office, everyone was surprised to see the person who entered the room.


    "Andre!"


    "Hey, dude! Why you haven''t informed us you areing home?" asked Attorney Leo Grubber, he is the Head of the Legal Affairs Department of Davies Group.


    Andre retorted, "It would not be surprising anymore if I told any of you of my arrival."


    "Yeah!" They cheered.


    "Wee back, Andre!" Jacob sat up from the chair and met his brother-inw halfway. Andre is Marley Hillson''s half-brother when her father got married again after 15 years that he is a widow.


    "Thank you, big brother." Andre stretches his arms and offers Jacob a warm hug. Once they parted, he sweeps his gaze to the entire room and queried everyone. "So? What is going on here? And why Hailey hasn''t returned yet?"


    Andre throws a re at Bryan. Until now, he still could not believe that the first man who would break Hailey''s heart is his best friend he treats like a brother. A family.


    All those years that he is away for training. He knows that Bryan is always on Hailey''s side. The one who looks after her and protects her. And that he was very grateful.


    At first, it surprised him when he heard the news. But possibilities for them to fall in love, so he gives his blessings. However, he was wrong to entrust Hailey to him.


    "What''s the reason, and you both beat up each other?" Andre queried after no one answered him.


    "Someone has a thick face to barge in my office and forced me to give him Hailey''s other contact number." It was?Geoffrey, who replied.


    "Hailey is my boss. Why can''t I talk or report to her?" Bryan has no way to let Geoffrey just use him of all he wanted. Still, he is sincere in helping Hailey to finish the projects they had nned for years.


    "You know the reason why!" Geoffrey shrieked from across the room.


    "All right enough!" Chairman Jacob cut in. It irritates him watching this scene. "Since Hailey wasn''t here yet, you all can report to me if you have issues. Now I''m all ears."


    Bryan and Geoffrey shared a nce. Both withdrew after a moment of shing res.


    "I want to talk to Hailey myself, Uncle Jacob. I have something important to discuss with her," Bryan''s request.


    "And why can''t you let us hear it as well?" Trevor Johansson queried. He is the Chief of Finance Department.


    "No. I want to hear Hailey''s reason why she pulled out the project she gave to LN Group."


    "Pulled out? The Pearl Hotel Project? What''s going on?" asked Jacob, his gazes shifted to each of them, waiting for an answer.


    James White clears his throat. He is casually coughing and pretends he is browsing his phone. Meanwhile, Geoffrey remains silent while the rest express they didn''t know anything about it.


    And in this case, only one or two people must know something, Bryan and Geoffrey. But since Bryan also queried, then it was Geoffrey.


    All eyes fell in his direction. Anyway, he was about to report this to the Chairman. And that is what he was typing on hisputer when Bryan barged in in his office.


    "I received an order from Hailey, Uncle Jacob. She wanted to take back the project and cklisted the LN Group from our future projects,"?he confessed.


    "Okay. But what happens? Why does her mind suddenly change? This is a big project. Who does she n to continue the project?"


    It seems no one can answer. Jacob leaned on the chair and pondered. They already had a big problem with the identst week. He fired out the H Group and now the LN Group? They could not afford to dy more time to finish everything Hailey has been working on.


    Jacob needs to talk to his daughter. Something is not right, and the best way is to beg Hailey toe back.


    Seeing that the chairman fell in his thoughts and no one is concerned, Bryan pursued his means to get Hailey''s secret contact number.


    "Uncle Jacob... This is the reason I want to talk to Hailey, why her mind suddenly changes. Something must happen to her and I was worried."


    However, across the room, Geoffrey scoffs at Bryan''s. Including Andre, all the boys are looking at him.?They are shaking heads.


    When Hailey announced that no more wedding, everyone saw Geoffrey in a rage after they learned the reason the wedding called off.


    Until now, Geoffrey is the first one to mock Bryan in every way.


    "I know you have a problem with me, Geoffrey," Bryan said, tightening his jaw. However, he has to keep his cool. Still, he admits his negligence. "But this is not the time for your disdain on me."


    "Why can''t I? Naturally, you wanted to talk to Hailey, not because you are the VP and the Chief Administrative in thispany but because it was you who introduced the LN Group to her. And that ex-girlfriend of yours once working with them!"


    "So, you made an investigation?"


    "No. But Hailey said it''s not worth it since that woman resigned from thatpany before you cheated on Hailey. And she won''t go against apany with such childish reason. But probably, there is a bigger reason."


    Bryan remained silent. He could not counter Geoffrey''s point against Eva. All he could reason out, they already signed them for this project.


    "We already give the LN Group a contract."


    Geoffrey throws a re at Bryan and says, "Are you questioning Hailey''s decision?"


    "Not. I just wanted to know what bothers her to change her mind. If whatever it is, I will deal with it myself."


    "Forget it. Hailey already assigned me about this matter."


    "I''m part of thispany, so a matter to me too!"


    "Enough!" Andre cut in. It irritates him, listening to these adult men arguing like kids. "I think I understood why Hailey was taking her distance. If this is what she witnesses every day, then she should note back. It was so annoying to listen to any of you making this reasoning, which? I could sense the personal resentment!" Andre shifted his gaze between Bryan and Geoffrey. He went on, "Honestly, I am not happy about what happened. But if we will always talk over about it. I believe that the great team Hailey formed years ago will only prevent from working on the projects smoothly."


    "I''m still unhappy and angry that Hailey''s heart broke by the person she trusted all her life. But this is not the time for you to keep fighting and act like wild animals wearing suits! Save your energy to finish Hailey''s project as soon as possible!"?Andre added.


    "I''m giving all my energy to help Hailey to make her dream possible. Unlike someone else out here," Geoffrey mumbled, enough to be heard by everyone.


    "I do know my shorings. You need not remind me all over again about my affair Geoffrey. I already regretted what I did. But I cannot turn back the time."


    "Really? Do you regret and n to repent? Not! Where were you? Look what happened now? It''s a huge casualty that happens because you prioritize seeing your girlfriend over your work!"


    "You know what? It''s no use I will exin myself. Fine! You can me me for everything. All of you can hate me for the rest of your life. But I won''t give up working here. At least it is what I can do for Hailey. I want to finish her dream city project," said Bryan to them. Then, he fixes his gaze toward the chairman. "Uncle Jacob, I know you are disappointed in me. I know you haven''t forgiven me, yet. But please, allow me to make right my mistakes by working hard from here on. The ident? It won''t happen again. I will not take my eyes from everything from now on."


    Jacob is about to open his mouth. But Geoffrey cut in.


    He eximed, "You better be!"


    "This is what I am talking about! Both of you only barked at each other! You can''t solve one problem by acting like this! Both of you are the top executives that Hailey trusted to handle thispany!"


    Bryan and Geoffrey were also the best buddies when Andre wasn''t around. Both know how to please Hailey and both are the overprotective brother to their Princess.


    But now they who could not stop hating each other.


    Jacob could only shake his head. No matter the lecture they do, Bryan and Geoffrey won''t stop shing.


    It didn''t hide to him that Geoffrey has special feelings for Hailey. But he guesses his daughter doesn''t have the same feelings for Geoffrey.


    "Alright! Starting this evening, I don''t want to hear or witness any of you arguing and ming each other. Maybe Andre is right. Hailey chooses to distance herself if this is what she witness every single day." Jacob paused from his speech. He hurls a long sigh before he went on. "Now, let us talk about the LN Group. Do any of you have any idea why Hailey pulled them out of the project?"


    "I know nothing, Uncle Jacob." The rest of them answered.


    But one person they see that is not taking part in the meeting.


    "James!" Leo yelled at the guy. "You know something, aren''t you?"

 Chapter 47: Cut James Fingers

    <h4>Chapter 47:Cut James'' Fingers</h4>


    "James White!"


    "Huh? What is it?"


    "Are you not listening? Or just pretending to have heard nothing?" Josh Lynch chimed in. He is the Chief of the Marketing Department.


    "If you act like that? You know something." Alfie Rinaldi seconded; the Chief Officer of the Human Resources Department.


    James denied. He uttered, "What would I know? I''m just the IT guy here!"


    "The more suspicious you are."


    "I told you. I don''t know anything." James stands on his lie.


    "James!" Andre''s voice echoed in the room.


    James, on the other hand, shuddered to hear hismanding tone. ''Too bad it happens when Andre is here!''


    "Tell us what you know." Andre did not stop pursuing him. The more he avoids meeting his eyes, the more it proves he knew something.


    James now cornered. He could not remain to lie when the boys were throwing suspicious looks at him. Ah! He has no choice anymore!


    ''Andre''s face is scary despite how handsome he is.'' James mumbled to himself. Andre is what he feared most. However...


    "My loyalty is for Hailey! You can''t force me!"


    "Even if we cut your fingers?" Threatened by Chester Liang, who began striding toward him. He is the Chief Officer of the Innovative Department.


    James swallowed the big lump in his throat. When ites to Hailey, these men would not care to threaten their very own buddy!


    "Wait a minute! Can I make a request?" James began bathing cold sweet. He knew better these men would not joke around but did all means to make him speak.


    "Good luck!" Bryan whispered to him, ying a smirk on the corner of his mouth.


    It pissed James how Bryan only taunted him now after he showed a little care to their friendship. But he could not take it wrong. Bryan also wanted any information to reach out to Hailey. And so he would support everyone''s threats!


    "Say it now!" Waiting, Leo demanded, which made James twitch his mouth.


    "If you guys are going to cut my fingers, can you cut my feet instead? I need my fingers to continue working with Hailey!"


    "That''s the point. Your fingers are the most precious part of your body. So then, it is the part we will use to torture you."


    James started to pale. He cried, "Can you do this to your friend?"


    "We are talking about Hailey here," Leo pointed out.


    "But I promise to say nothing!" Oopsie¡­


    "So you do know about the matter between LN Group?" Andre queried who is now standing in front of James.


    "I¡­ guys! I can''t betray Hailey!"


    "We know. But how if the matter was serious, James? How can we assure Hailey is alright?" said Josh.


    "James!" Yelled Geoffrey. He received an order from Hailey, but she didn''t provide any reason why her mind changed. He was also worried if something happened to her.


    "Okay! I''ll talk!"


    Finally, James surrendered. It is also his conscience if anything happens to Hailey.


    "Hurry up!"


    "Fine! You guys are making me peed on my pants." He frowned.


    "Then start talking now!"


    James heaves a long sigh to prepare himself from confessing. The room is suffocating already, but more tension arises when all the boys threaten him to know what information he holds.


    "Alright. Earlier, Hailey asked me to do something. She asked the information about a senator named John Gu. And it turned out? His son named Howie Gu, is an architect of LN Group. No. He is one who designed the Pearl Hotel."


    "Has Hailey said anything about why she needs it?"


    "No. But in my further investigation, in the past, LN Group sued by physical harassment and sexual assault."


    "What?" At once, everyone looks at Bryan.


    "Do you know about these cases, Bryan?" Andre queried him.


    "I heard something like that happen but said they already fired those employees."


    "Really? But the information I gathered says the clients provide women while their architects and engineers are working on their projects."


    "The hell! That won''t happen in our projects! What a bunch of trash!"


    "We are not going to work with that sort of person! How if our female employees experience this harassment?"


    "My further investigation about Howie Gu. He has many cases of sexual assault but always wins the case or the defendant back out."


    "It looks like he is someone who has tricks on his sleeves. It could be his father?"


    "That is possible, and maybe something has happened."


    "Is this person crossing paths with Hailey and offending her?" Josh''s conclusion.


    And Chester concurred, "I think he is! Hailey won''t have made a big decision if nothing happens."


    "Then we need to teach that person a lesson! I need to see this man and beat him up till he turns into a pulp!" Trevor suggested, and everyone agreed. They never let off whoever offends or harasses their princess.


    Jacob only listens to the boys. He knew that these men would always do something for his daughter, and he is grateful for it.


    "Okay. I understand what you all feel. But we better ask Hailey. James gives Hailey''s contact to everyone."


    "But... uncle?"


    "I know your loyalty is for my daughter rather than for me. But we can''t just sit around here... Right, James?"


    "James, I need Hailey''s contact now."


    Poor James¡­ he''s crying inside every time Andre speaks. He is the only person that could shake his knees.


    "Okay!" Soon, James gives Hailey''s WhatsApp number to them.


    The men save it in their Contacts except for Jacob, who already has it, and Geoffrey.


    Immediately, Bryan dialed Hailey''s number. However, she only canceled his call. He knows that Hailey is still mad at him.


    Not long after, a message arrived. It was from Hailey. He is supposed to be happy. However, the content of the message is like a sharp knife, cutting his heart into two.


    "She doesn''t want to talk to me." He said bitterly. He understood, but he still feels strange. Until now, he could not get used to the fact that Hailey keeps her distance from him.


    Observing him closely, James mocks Bryan. "And do you expect her to talk to you casually after what you did?"


    James peeks at Bryan''s phone and reads Hailey''s message. He intentionally presses hard his hand on Bryan''s bruises.


    "Ouch! Can you treat my wounds gently?"


    "Really? And you dare toin? Here! Treat yourself! In the first ce, I''m not your girlfriend!" Upon saying it, James throws the ice pack at Bryan.


    Meanwhile, everyone is trying to contact Hailey by sending her messages and attempting to connect a call.


    "Hailey is not picking up the call."


    They attempted once again, but then, they could not reach her phone anymore.


    But before that happens, Jacob received a call from his daughter. He told the boys, "Hailey says she was in a meeting."


    Everyone sighs helplessly. All they can do now is to wait until Hailey replies to their messages.


    James created a Group Chat and added everyone, including Bryan. But before that, he warned Geoffrey and Bryan to behave, or he will kick them from the Group Chat.


    They also have Group Chat in the past, but James deleted it after killing Bryan in the chat. They all cursed him nonstop.


    ~~~


    GLIMPSED:


    Bryan dropped his body on his bed. He massages his forehead while closing his eyes.


    Everyone had dinner, but he understood if no one invited him.


    Of course, things had changed for a long time already. Everyone is avoiding him unless it is rted to work. They had no choice but to approach him.


    He isn''t sure how long he took a nap. He ns to review the reports regarding the ident, but he falls asleep.


    If it weren''t for his phone ringing nonstop, he probably continues sleeping till morning.


    Bryan sat up and reached for his phone. He was disappointed to see the person who is calling him.


    "Hello?" Lazily, he answered the call. "What do you want?"


    "Huh. Are you disappointed that it was me who is calling you in the middle of the night?"


    "For once, can you stop, Eva?"


    "Stop treating me coldly! I''m not someone stranger to you!"


    Bryan heaves a furious sighed. He could feel his head throbbing hearing Eva''s shrieking voice.


    He uttered, "I have important things to do, Eva. Since you only called me for a fight. I''ll hang up now."


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 48: Because of Her

    <h4>Chapter 48:Because of Her</h4>


    Anderson Vi


    "Bryan, you are back. Have you had dinner yet?" Mrs. Anderson asked her son with a cold tone in her voice.


    Bryan cast a nce at his mother, seated on the long sofa in the living room. He knew very well that Tina Anderson was still angry at him after he cheated on Hailey. And what made it worst is when he reunited with his ex-girlfriend.


    "I''m still full, mom. I had dinner on the ne." He lied. He just simply wanted to be alone right now.


    Besides, he wanted to avoid his mother from inquiring him if he meets Eva, the reason he flew to the US.


    "Okay," Tina replied tly. She didn''t ask further but watched her son''s back, climbing the stairs.


    Until now, she could not forgive her son for breaking Hailey''s heart.?Hailey is her dream daughter-inw. It''s not because of her family wealth but because Hailey is a sweet child.


    She witnesses her growing up, and so she is certain that Hailey would be a wonderful wife and a mother to her future grandchildren.


    In her circle of friends, they have this small dispute about who will be Hailey''s mother-inw. She alwayspetes with the Wilson family or the Grubbers or Johansson family, and everyone in High Society. And she thought she won, atst.


    However, her bastard son lost his mind! It still upset her. Moreover, Bryan got back with his ex. Now she could not keep in touch with Hailey. It has been almost a year since thest time she saw that poor girl.


    And she prayed that Bryan woke up and woo Hailey back. But where is Hailey?


    *


    Bryan pushes his bedroom door and drops his body on the bed. He closed his eyes and massages his forehead.


    When they parted ways in thepany, everyone went to dinner and had a little drink after Andre''s Wee Home dinner.


    And he understood if no one invited him. Of course, things had changed for a long time already. Everyone is avoiding him. They only talk to him if it is rted to work. That is the only time that they approach him.


    Like what Andre lectured them. It is the least he could do to repent what he did to Hailey, for breaking her heart.


    "I thought you are different from other men!"


    That was Hailey''s words while her eyes welled up with tears. Her voice still echoed inside his head.


    Bryan presses his eyelids, hard. He needs something to drink to fall asleep tonight. But it must be his jetg that dozes him off.


    He isn''t sure how long he took a nap. He ns to review the reports regarding the ident when he wasn''t around, but he falls asleep.


    If it weren''t for his phone ringing nonstop, he probably remains sleeping until morning.


    Bryan sat up and reached for his phone. He was anxious to answer the call in the hope that it was Hailey. But he was disappointed to see the name of the person registered on his phone.


    Lazily, he answered the call. "Hello? What do you want?"


    The person on the other line frowned the moment she heard Bryan''s indifferent tone.


    "Huh." The woman on the other line scoffs. "Are you disappointed that it was me who is calling you in the middle of the night, Bryan?"


    "Not. I''m tired. Of course, I was sleeping." He reasons out, but the woman only nagged at him.


    "Yeah? But you are waiting for her call, is it?"


    "Are you checking on me? For once, can you stop it, Eva?"


    "Why would I? Because it''s true, right? Just one call away, you are like a ve running toward her!"


    "You know what, Eva? I have no time for this now. If you have nothing to do, but I have tons of..."


    "Stop treating me coldly! I''m not someone stranger to you!" Eva didn''t wait for Bryan to finish his sentence.?Bryan is just making excuses to her.


    On the other line, Bryan heaves a furious sighed. He could feel his head throbbing hearing Eva''s shrieking voice.


    "Look, Eva. I have important things to do. But since you only called me for a fight. I''ll better hang up now."


    "Don''t dare to hang up on me, Bryan!" Eva demanded.


    Bryan massages the back of his head down to his neck to stay calm. Honestly, he is tired of this crap which has nowhere to go in the end after they talked.


    "Speak. What do you want?"


    Eva frowned when Bryan talk to her like she was his employee. "Why can''t you resign your job and join me? I can introduce you to bigpanies in the US and let''s live together! Why is it hard for you to leave Australia?"


    "How many times should I exin it to you, Eva? This is my life project! I would never abandon the team! We started this, and we will finish this!"


    She wins Bryan back. However, Bryan never discusses settling down with her in Australia or anywhere! That is why she always finds a way for Bryan to give time to her.


    Meanwhile, listening to Eva''s childish rants, Bryan was annoyed. Eva will always include Hailey in their fights. It was the reason he could not tell Eva that Hailey is his boss.


    He is certain that once Eva learns the truth. She would throw not only a tantrum, but she won''t stop nagging him.


    "Eva, you already knew why I have toe back very soon. Several people almost died because I neglect my work! Do you understand what that means, Eva? It will be my conscience!"


    "But I am your girlfriend!"


    Bryan cursed inwardly listening to Eva''s selfish behavior. Before he replied, Bryan hurls a long breath then releases them.?He uttered, "I think we better take it easy from here, Eva."


    "Are you breaking up with me, Bryan?"?Eva clenches her fists, tightens her hold on her phone.


    "You need to cool off, and I need a break, yes! I have a lot of things to fix out here, Eva. If you could not understand my job. Then yes, maybe we should break up,"?said Bryan.


    "Like I agree! Don''t give me those crap reasons! Fix things? Like I didn''t know that it includes her you wanted to fix things!"


    Bryan knows one thing. He is already fed up with Eva''s jealousy. And he is getting tired of their fights.


    "Why do you hate Hailey so much?" he asked Eva.

 Chapter 49: His Regrets

    <h4>Chapter 49:His Regrets</h4>


    A ridiculousugh echoed from the other line, followed by Eva''s shrieking voice.


    "Are you kidding me, Bryan? Ever since that girl is a thorn in our rtionship!"


    "For god''s sake, Eva! Why are you bringing up the past now? That was ages ago!"


    "She is the reason why we separated!"


    "What are you implying now? You do know how Hailey needed me that time around!" F...CK! Bryan is hardly keeping his cool arguing with Eva.


    However, Eva would take this opportunity to let out the weight she is carrying all these years. She would not let Bryan abandon her again.


    "Can''t you see, Bryan? Small things, she will call on you. Over minor things, she will call on you! And you act like the Superman brother, who will grant all her capriciousness!"


    Bryan cannot control his annoyance anymore. "Dammit, Eva! You are throwing an issue during the time Hailey''s grandmother died! She only called me to inform me what happened! Grandma Meredith is a wonderful woman. She always looked after me when my parents had business trips throughout Australia! Even if Hailey didn''t phone me that night, I would still rush home to attend her funeral once I heard the news! Why are you so heartless?"


    "You knew it''s not true, Eva! But no matter what, you don''t understand. You never will!"


    "Of course, I would never ept how unfair you are to me! How many times did I phone you for a date? But it was so hard for you to visit me in New York when you are just living in a neighboring state! However, it takes only one call from her who lives in Australia! Immediately you booked a flight tofort her, and you leave me just like that!"


    "I did not leave you, Eva. You broke up with me... On the phone."


    "And what do you expect me to feel? Have you forgotten what happened that night? We are in the middle of lovemaking! But when your phone rang and yed her favorite band as you assigned the song in her calls! You stop halfway to answer your phone and just like that! Like a snap of a finger you left!"


    "For god''s sake, Eva! I just told you what I feel about that time?! Why are you doing this to us?"


    "Whatever! I don''t care! My point is, you can take a flight the next day! But the moment you heard her whine. You wanted to jump off the window like if only you could fly? You already did to be with her too soon! And did you consider what I feel? Wow! My boyfriend isforting another girl! Not only that, you are using your sweetest tone that you never use to me!"


    "That''s it, Eva. Your jealousy is overboard. That was years ago!"


    "Oh, yeah? And how will you exin to me that you almost married her?"


    Bryan tightens his jaw. His head was now pounding extremely, and he wanted to get some rest. Think and enjoy a few minutes of peace.


    After a moment of silence, Bryan hurls a furious sigh before he speaks. "Do we have to discuss it over and over again? Because I am so fed up with this crap, Eva." Bryan paused for a moment, heaving a long breath once again. He thinks it is not very sensible to continue exining things to Eva. All she did is remind him of his regrets in life. And that is not making the right choice.


    "You know what, Eva? Please don''t force me to regret that I got back to you. I''m tired. I need to visit the workers in the hospital first thing in the morning. Bye, Eva."


    "Bryan! Don''t..."


    Bryan hangs up on her. Eva was in disbelief that Bryan continued treating her coldly. She already wins him back. She sessfully prevented Bryan from marrying that girl by destroying their rtionship.


    Buttely, Bryan is ignoring her again! She was afraid that Bryan was going back to that girl.


    "And I won''t let that happen!" Eva shrieked. She was pacing back and forth inside her bedroom, thinking whether she will follow Bryan in Australia. And she wanted to go!


    "Hey, Eva! What''s the matter with you? You were in a bad mood again," frowning, said Ruth. She could hear her screaming on her phone. Ruth is Eva''s best friend, and she was hiding at her house. "It was Bryan again? Can you stop losing your head over that worthless guy?"


    "Don''t you dare to call Bryan that way, Ruth!"


    "Okay! Then stop screaming, would you? What is your problem, huh? You don''t want to break up with Bryan, but the two of you always fight!" And she is sick of witnessing it over again!


    "The only cause of our fight is that girl!" said Eva.


    "Who''s the girl? That girl Bryan says is his little sister?"


    "That girl seduces Bryan by using her helpless state! Look what happens? Bryan is marrying her! If I didn''t learn about it, I would never know and had the chance to get Bryan back!"


    Ruth shook her head as shemended. "Okay, you win! You ruin their engagement! So, what''s the reason that you are always throwing a fret?"


    "Bryan is getting cold on me!"


    Ruth rolled her eyes. She gulped the beer in her hand, but Eva snatched it and emptied the bottle. "Why don''t you get your beer?"


    "I really, really hate that girl! She is my nightmare even when I am awake! She needs to disappear from Bryan''s life! I would never let her win over me! She has to suffer! It''s unfair that I am always the one who felt left off! I was the original girlfriend! Why do I have to overwork to keep Bryan stay in our rtionship!?"


    "Well..." Ruth cannot say anything. She witnesses how Bryan and Eva''s rtionship started. They look great together. But yeah... Bryan is somehow worrying about this teenage girl he said to his little sister, who he almost marries in the end. "You know what, Eva? My head is throbbing and spinning around every time I imagine your love life."


    Then, don''t be! You need not be concerned about it. But I need to find a way to win against that girl!"


    Eva is racking her head about what she could do to earn Bryan''s sympathy toward her, and hepletely forgets that girl.


    She would not allow that girl to defeat her.


    *


    Meanwhile, Bryan already ended Eva''s call, but he remained staring at his phone.


    Bryan was debating whether to minimize the volume of his phone. All these years, his phone set into loud tones for him to wake up every time Hailey phones him, even though, in the middle of the night or the sun has not risen yet.


    Now, Hailey never rings him anymore. So, maybe it''s time to set his phone into a silent mode.


    Bryan heaves a lonely sighed. He throws his phone on the foot of the bed. His gaze wandered around his bedroom, then his eyes glued to the photo frame he ced on the right bedside table.


    Hey down on the bed and reached for the photo frame. Bryan peered at the woman wrapped around his arms.


    She was too beautiful in her white dress, tearing a sweet smile across her face.


    It was their engagement party, and it feels enchanted. It feels unreal, but it did happen. He was...


    Bryan covered his eyes with his right arm. He presses his eyelids tight. He doesn''t want to remember what happened next. It was a nightmare for him.


    That night, he falls asleep, holding the photo frame in his hand. In fact, it''s not a new scene. He always falls asleep holding their engagement photo frame.


    Meanwhile, Eva is trying to phone Bryan to apologize, but he was not answering her call.


    Ruth rolled her eyes when Eva threw her phone on the wall. It made her speechless to share her thoughts with Eva.


    ''Couples are crazy. Better stay single.'' Ruth mumbled on her head.


    * * *


    Metro City, P Country


    On her hand is a tray with a big mug and a te of sweets she bought yesterday from her favorite Pastry Shop.


    Before she enters the study, Hailey knocks lightly on the door. Vince was typing on hisputer. He stopped and lifted his head, staring at the door.


    He saw Hailey carrying a tray, and he could smell the coffee she brought over.


    "Hey, need help?" Vince was about to sit up, but Hailey stopped him.


    "It''s alright!" She ces the tray on the table. She told Vince, "Here, the pie is perfect! You should try their new recipe."


    "Hm... Looks delicious, and I could smell berries."


    "Yeah! I was thrilled they start selling berries pie! Although it costs more than the prices of their local pies. But berries are the best! Well, next to pineapple... For me!" Hailey giggled while exining her preferences.


    Vince smiled, seeing her blush. He could now determine Hailey''s natural pink cheeks. And the time she was blushing.


    Her hand or fingers would tap on the object, or she would lower her gaze, avoiding meeting his eyes.


    "So, you are nning to fatten me?" Vince is teasing Hailey, which sheughs at his jest.


    "Not really. But if you don''t hit the gym once in a while? Surely, you will!" she returned the tease.


    "Hm..." Vince pretends that he was pondering something. He queried, "Do I look fat now? Someone asks me if I gain weight."


    "Oh..." Hailey carefully scanned from his face down to his broad shoulder. And then his chest, t stomach, which is his long white sleeves perfectly fit on his body down to...


    ''OMG! What am I doing?'' Hailey shook her head and withdrew her gaze from Vince''s body. Her face flushing red after she realized how keen she peers at him.


    Without looking at Vince, shemented. "You still fit, and you don''t need to worry if you''ll limit yourself doing some exercises. Anyway, I will make sure you had a proper diet. So, leave it to me!"


    It amused him watching Hailey blushing again. He muttered, "How lucky I am."


    Vince tore a big handsome smile across his face that made her heart thumped loudly.


    Biting her lower lip, Hailey retorted, "Well, I''m happy to oblige! So... I''m going out now for you to resume working."


    "Thanks for the midnight snack," said Vince.


    "Small thing!" Hailey smiled. She turned around and headed to the door with long steps.


    "Good night, Hailey," said Vince.


    Hailey halted at the door. She nced at him and nodded. "Good night."

 Chapter 50 - His Dream Project

    <h4>Chapter 50 - His Dream Project</h4>


    The following day, Hailey carefully ces the food on the lunch boxes she prepared for Vince. dly, he mentionedst night that someone noticed he started gaining weight.


    In these passing days, she is feeding him too much meat, fatty and oily recipes.


    And so today, Hailey will begin to watch Vince''s bnced diet. She prepared more vegetables and fruits for his lunch.


    Lately, she notices that he is not having a proper sleep but working too much each day and night.


    She did research and refreshed her memories with the lessons she had before.


    Four years ago, while she took an apprenticeship under the best chefs in Paris, she also took up a course to be a Nutritionist.


    Actually, the reason why she studied this course is for her dad. And her future family, of course.


    But now, she''s happy to use her knowledge to watch Vince''s health.


    "Good morning," Vince greeted Hailey. "Ah, sorry to startle you." He quickly apologizes after he sees that Hailey was surprised.


    "Good morning! It''s okay! I didn''t notice youing over."


    Hailey was making fresh fruit and vegetable juice when Vince joined her in the kitchen. She didn''t notice him approaching, just then when he spoke beside her, and that made her gasps in surprise.


    Vince''s eyes swept to the table, and he saw the food Hailey made for his lunch. Staring at the lunch boxes, he wanted to skip breakfast but eat his lunch now. He could not help but begin drooling at how enticing the sight of the food was.


    Lately, Hailey wakes up earlier than her usual time to prepare his lunch, and it touched the bottom of his heart.


    This is whyst night, he expressed how lucky he is to have Hailey by his side. Having her living with him, he never imagined that life would be this exciting.


    On the contrary, he hopes that Hailey didn''t do all of this because of the goddamn contract he proposed. He wished that things aren''t this way in the first ce.


    "I made fresh fruit juice for you. I was thinking of what you askedst night. So, I''m fixing the meal I am preparing. I realized it was more meat and fatty foods, so I added more veggies! But if you prefer anything?" Hailey took the opportunity to discuss this with Vince while they are having breakfast.


    "Oh, I''m not picky. Besides, I trust you," said Vince, tearing his lips with a warm smile.


    Delight crept toward her heart, hearing Vince''s telling her this. It was more like a reward for her hard work to please him. It''s all worth it. Of course, it made her happy that he appreciates her efforts.


    Though she won''t want to invade his life without his full consent, she was overconfident to do things her way because Vince allows her without aint.


    Except for the part when someone is insulting her being his girlfriend or aka Mistress.


    Before she signed the agreement, Vince promised that he would protect her. He is putting her in an unlikely situation. And so it is his responsibility to assures no one harms her.


    And Vince did protect her more than just a contracted fake mistress. She wanted to think about it more than that. But she doesn''t want to assume.


    In these passing months, she yed as his mistress. It surprised her how she survives living with a stranger man.


    dly, she used to be around men, which helps her to corrte with Vince.


    Not that she isparing him to the boys, but one thing is for sure. Living with a stranger is not so bad at all but exciting.


    She got opportunities to know him a lot more. Learning about his personality, discovering what he likes, reading his moods... She found it as a priceless adventure.


    A real adventure than the ones she did before. Maybe this is how a married life feels like?


    Ah, right! They never y dating for a long time, but they live together!


    Fortunately, things went smoothly because Vince is treating her nicely. At first, she was nervous because she was a foreign to this country. So, she had various scenes ying on her head.


    But it turns out; her fear is quite the opposite. Vince is treating her right. She felt like she was a real princess.


    No. Everyone is treating her like a princess. But with Vince, she felt more like a woman.


    Why could she say that?


    Her dad, Andre, and the boys are treating her like a fragile little girl. Although, she understood that they are only overprotective of her.


    But now that she is with Vince. The overprotection he showed during the times someone offended her gives unusual emotions in her entire being that she wanted to remain wrapped by it.


    It was the feeling she longs as a woman who wanted to feel a one-of-a-kind of security.


    It''s not just some brotherly love because she was blessed with these, being pampered by her family.


    What she needs is someone who made her feel like a woman.


    Of course, she is a girl! A female species. But she needsfort from her opposite sex that no one made her feel more like herself.


    Ah! Why is she thinking this way? She must stop daydreaming!


    Her love life is not her priority. She has to focus on herpany and life project first. No other things at the moment!


    Hailey breathed in, gathering her thoughts in one ce, and focused on washing the tes.


    Vince is enjoying the fruit juice she blended for him.


    After she put away the clean dishes, Hailey went to her bedroom to change her house clothes into a blue knee-length off-shoulder dress paired with brown wedge sandals.


    She applied light make-up of nude shades, and she ponytail her hair and sprayed a little perfume on her neck and wrists.


    Hailey ns to call her dad and talk to Andre and then Geoffrey before attending the university. But probably she will also talk to Bryan. She also needs to contact Pitt to make ns to take a quick visit to Australia within three days!


    She needs to think of an excuse. A persuasive lie!


    However, to think about it, she was nervous if she could do it wlessly.


    It was the first time she let herself be attached to someone this close which she avoids it everytime she travels and lives in the country with her ordinary identity.


    That is why she avoids being tangled with someone when she is traveling. Now it will mess up if she could note up with the best ns!


    Hailey is done. She rushes outside with herptop to have FaceTime with her dad and Andre.


    However, it shocked her to see Vince still home!


    She nced at the wall clock, and it was 8:00! It''s the first time Vince stayed home past 7:30 in the morning.


    What happens to his twelve hours of work cycle outside the home?


    "Did something happen?" she asked curiously.


    Vince lifted his gaze and smiled at her. "My board meeting moves at 9:30. So, I still have plenty of time to arrive at thepany before it starts.


    Hailey raises a brow in secret. Vince is very keen on punctuality.


    But what is he doing? He was still home lounging on his sofa and leisurely sketching on his Transformer Book.


    ''Why is he working at home at this hour? He always leaves on time!''


    "Are you going to the University now?" Vince queried as he returned his gaze to hisptop. And he missed seeing when shock struck on Hailey''s face.


    Hailey did her best to sound natural, replying to Vince. "Ah, yes! I''m going to school early to work on our group report!"


    She freaks out! What will happen now? She ns on calling her dad and everyone! But Vince is still home!


    Then her choice is to make up a lie because her first period today would start at 10:15.


    Vince must be thinking she has important things to do in school, and she has no choice but to y well with her excuses.


    "Okay. Then, let''s go?" said Vince. He sat up from the couch and wore his coat, fetching his things on the coffee table.


    It confused her. But Hailey was thinking. Is Vince waiting for her?


    *


    They were now in the parking lot, standing in front of their cars. Vince opened the door for her.


    "Have a good day," said Vince. And then, he nted a kiss on her right cheek.


    Instantly, Hailey blushed. But then she saw a couple passing them.


    Ah... Their act, of course. Hailey hid the disappointment in her eyes. She pursed a fake sweet smile as she bid goodbye to Vince.


    Hailey followed Vince. She nodded before she turned to the North direction of the city.


    "Vince..." It''s not just a coincidence. Am I correct? You waited for me to leave home together.


    ~~~


    SHEN GROUP


    Timothy is pacing back and forth in front of the CEO''s office door. He is waiting for the President because the meeting should start half an hour ago!


    Besides, he has good news! He received an important email early this morning. The reason he drove to thepany before 7:30 in the morning, before the boss arrived!


    But where is he now?


    Tim knew that his boss and his fake Mistress had a yacht dinnerst night.


    Could it be that his boss and Hailey had a real rtionship now?


    Tim was pondering; he didn''t notice that Vince was already behind him.


    "What are you doing in front of my door?" Raise one brow, Vince asked his assistant with a cold tone.


    "Ah! Boss! I''m happy that you are here!"


    "What happens?" Stepping inside his office, Vince queried his assistant, who is tailing him.


    Tim, who has been anxious for hours, grumbling on his head. ''What happens? Do you know what time is it, boss? At least phone me if you move the meeting!''


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Vince noticed Tim staring at him keenly. It was more like he was checking his body. What with his assistant?


    Well, true Tim scans Vince''s body whether he could see evidence that his boss was doing that thing until morning, the reason he waste today, for the first time!


    "Timothy Cheng!"


    Tim came back to his senses. "Ah! Right, boss!" Damn. Why does he have to startle me like this?


    "Reports?" Vince is waiting impatiently.


    "Yes, boss! Here..." Timothy ced a folder in front of his boss. "It''s an email from Mr. Geoffrey Wilson of Davies Group. They are inviting us for a tour in Dream City."


    Vince widened his eyes. The project he has been eyeing for years!


    Finally, it''s here!

 Chapter 51 - Shes Still Naive

    <h4>Chapter 51 - She''s Still Naive</h4>


    Excitement crept into Vincent''s chest that he could not hold himself to mmed his hand on the table.


    He read every word written in the letter that was sent by the Chief Operating Officer named Geoffrey Wilson.


    In the letter, the COO includes a note to contact him if he has inquiries. Geoffrey Wilson is also the Head of the nning Team Department. It means, he is the one he will work closely with in the future.


    Visiting Dream City to survey the entire ce to had ideas and prepare a presentation, Vince is confident to win a project. Anything, as long as the Shen Group has the opportunity to contribute work to the city.


    "This is it, Tim! Set a meeting with our Senior Engineers and Architects this afternoon. I have important things to discuss with them and I will select whom I will bring over to Australia."


    "Got it, boss!" Tim responded with enthusiasm while typing notes on his TAB. His boss''s delight is contagious, and so he is in a good mood as well.


    "Tell the board I''ll be there after an important call overseas. "


    "Okay, boss!" Tim turned around and left the room.


    Vince reached for the telephone and made a call for Australia. He patiently waited until the other line answers his call.


    Meanwhile, Geoffrey was on his mobile phone, talking to his boss.


    "Hail, can you wait for a sec? I have to answer another call."


    "Sure! Go ahead. It must be important." Hailey knew that when a call is directly toward Geoffrey''s office, it will be regarding Dream City.


    Geoffrey picks the phone receiver and greets the caller. "Hello? Davies Group nning Department."


    "Good morning, Mr. Wilson. This is Vincent Shen of Shen Group. I read your email. Thank you for a quick response to my proposal."


    "Ah, President Shen! Yes, I am pleased to inform you that we offer yourpany a project here in Dream City. No further dy, we should discuss the schedule of your visit."


    "Any time, any day, Mr. Wilson."


    "That''s great! I am thinking about next week. My boss ising home by then. It was a perfect time for you to meet her and discuss the project she will assign you," said Geoffrey on the other line.


    Vince, on the other hand, was surprised. It seems too fast that his proposal approves in a snap of a finger. He just submitted it yesterday, and now he received a positive response.


    "Mr. Wilson, are you saying that I won a bidding without showing my presentation?"


    "That is not necessary, Mr. Shen. My boss approved your proposal, and she was impressed by your previous projects in your country."


    "I see. Then I will take that as good news?" Vince would like to assure he heard it correct.


    "Congrattions, Mr. Shen. I look forward to working with you."


    "The honor is mine, Mr. Wilson! I look forward to meeting your boss and helping her build Dream City."


    Vince and Geoffrey exchange a few more words before they end the call.


    Vince could still not believe it. The news dazzled him until now. Of course, he is. SHEN GROUP has severalpetitors around the world.


    He often heard that the DAVIES GROUP CEO is very particr to all designs submitted to her. Giant firms only got rejected, which thesepanies are known to their name and reputation for decades.


    And so, Vince had a little bit anxious if Shen Group has a chance to work Dream City.


    But then, he won a project without shedding sweat like crawling his way to get their attention. Although that was half true, he is confident to prove he could build a city into the modern world that is Eco friendly.


    It sounds ironic. But he shares the same vision and mission of this CEO to build an ecosystem city. He likes the idea of nting more trees.


    Unfortunately, he has no chance to join a school movement of preserving mountains from dying by illegal logging, back in his college days. That time around, he started his training to run theirpany when he is twenty years old.


    And after his AB degree, he took Architecture to join the nning team, and now he earns the position of being the CEO and President of SHEN GROUP.


    He molded his skills in these passing five years so that, the Shen Group will be recognized internationally. He made careful nning how to transform Metro City that it won''t harm the lower ss citizens, but promote a healthy environment by nting trees and building more forest parks around the city.


    A man-made forest andke. That is something surprising for neighboring countries how the P Country transforms in a short time.


    It''s not an easy battle. He needs to win the Shen Group investors and gain foreign partners and climb the steep stairs to earn his sess today.


    And Vincent Shen didn''t know. What he did in Metro City impressed Hailey.


    *


    Last night, Geoffrey emailed Hailey the list ofpanies that submitted a proposal. And yes, Vince is one of them.


    Of course, it was Hailey''s main objective why she traveled to P Country, and that is to offer SHEN GROUP a project.


    Vincent Shen''s works in Metro City are what Hailey desired for Dream City. And now that Vince applied to be a part of Dream City builders. She won''t dy, but approved his proposal without the initial presentation she required for every builder''spany that wished to win a project from her.


    "Hail, am I reading correctly?" Geoffrey queries over their WhatsApp chat.


    "Yes. It is correct. I want you to schedule the SHEN GROUP tour in Dream City."


    "Okay. I will sort out things tonight to amodate our newly hired firm. Without H Group and LN Group, we will be more dyed tounch, Hail."


    "I know. That is why we need SHEN GROUP to speed our construction to at least finish sixty to seventy percent of the city."


    "You seem very confident with the SHEN GROUP performance?"


    "Yes, I am! I did research, of course. Wait... I will email you the files I sort out. These are the SHEN GROUP projects in these passing years."


    Hailey shared the link to the PowerPoint she created. Geoffrey watches it, and he could say it impresses him.


    "All right, Hail. I will email SHEN GROUP first thing tomorrow."


    "Great! Thank you for the hard work, Geoffrey. I don''t know what am I going to do without you and everyone."


    "Does this include Bryan?"


    "He is an original Team Member, so yes. Geoffrey, I am aware that you still hated him, but I want to be free from Bryan. The more I will think about how he broke my heart, the more I couldn''t find my happiness."


    "So, you are saying that you are moving on now and ready for a new rtionship?"


    Geoffrey waited for Hailey to reply. He guesses that Hailey carefully thought about his question.


    It seems like Hailey has finally grown up after Bryan cheated on her. Of course, he is one who spoiled Hailey a lot.


    She grew up dependent on them. Buttely, he noticed these big changes. So maybe Hailey now learns to be careful if ever she would love someone.


    It looks like Hailey didn''t need someone who could tame her down and control her reckless behavior. She just needs to be brokenhearted.


    "Okay, Hail. You need not answer that. Just know that you can count on me always. I will stay by your side even after Dream City ispleted. Whatever you n to do after? Don''t forget to sign me up!"


    Geoffrey didn''t wait for Hailey''s response, he sent this message. And Hailey pushes a warm smile.


    She knew that Geoffrey is a reliable man. Any woman is so lucky to have him as a boyfriend and a husband.


    "When Dream City is about to finish, you should start looking for a girlfriend. No. You should settle down. Life is precious. You should share it with someone special."


    Geoffrey dropped his jaw reading this message from Hailey. Heughed bitterly and pitied himself.


    ''This girl has gone mature. But a part of her remains naive.'' Geoffrey helplessly leaned on his chair. ''Well, you are forever in Friendzone, bro.''


    "Well, I''m not looking for a girlfriend yet. But who knows, yeah. Maybe the one will arrive one day." Although he is saying this, his heart knew who he desired.


    Geoffrey and Hailey chatted further until they bid good night.


    Hailey turned off herptop and ced down her phone. She stretches her arms and breathes in. She was happy that Vince finally sent a proposal.


    "Wee to DAVIES GROUP, Vincent Shen."


    And to celebrate, she will reward his hard work with coffee and berries pies.


    Hailey went inside the penthouse and brewed coffee for Vince. She also preheats the pies and brings them over to the study.

 Chapter 52 - Haileys Grand Plan

    <h4>Chapter 52 - Hailey''s Grand n</h4>


    Hailey remains seated in front of the steering wheel, phoning her dad and the boys.


    At the moment, she was discussing with Geoffrey about the LN Group when he had to answer another call.


    Geoffrey ced his phone on his desk without disconnecting Hailey''s call, and she heard his conversation with Vincent Shen.


    "There, I set President Shen''s visit by next week," said Geoffrey. He resumed talking with Hailey. He informed her of the date the SHEN GROUP is going to visit Dream City.


    Hailey is biting her lower lip. Now that Vince''s visit was scheduled. It is time for her to make ns on how she could go home to Australia.


    "Pitt, it''s me." She phoned the guy to make ns.


    "Hey, Princess! Right timing! I have good news! I finally found Eva Lan!"


    "Great! But I have important things to do, Pitt."


    "Wait... So, what am I going to do now with Eva Lan?"


    "I have no time for her." The only reason I am looking for her so that Vince could finally get the divorce Eva promised him. Hailey thought inwardly. But she didn''t share her mind with Pitt.


    "Okay. So I should stop following her around?"


    "Yes and no. Yes, because I have very important things for you to do for me. No, as we will continue to keep an eye on her but paid someone to do it. Someone you trusted, whom the other boys didn''t know this person."


    "Okay..." Pitt has begun feeling bad about it. He started fearing for his life. How could he remain to lie to everyone? He is certain that they will kill him the moment they hear about what Hailey has been doing, and he didn''t inform the truth! But he has a choice? No. As his loyalty remains to Hailey. "Alright! Leave it to me! Now, what is the important thing you wanted me to do?"


    "Pitt, I want you to go back to Dubai and bring Kelly along with you."


    "Where to?"


    "I need my jet, so I want you to bring it over in P Country. However, I need you and Kelly''s help."


    "Oh, we should fetch you from P Country?"? he queried.


    "No. You and Kelly will remain in P Country."


    "Huh? Why is that?"? It confuses Pitt, he wondered what she''s nning now.


    "Can you and Kelly pretend as a couple having a vacation in P Country?


    "What the hell, Princess? No way! No, no, no, no! I will never work with that perfectionist girl!"?Pitt blurted out. He wanted to think that Hailey is only joking with him.


    "What''s wrong? You and Kelly will only stay on the ind I will rent out for three days. It will only for three days, Pitt... Please?"


    ''Ah! Dammit! She is using her spoiled brat voice to me!'' Pitt grumbled to his head, helplessly hurls a deep breath. How can he refuse?


    "Princess, you know that Kelly and I are not on the same page." He is a free-spirited guy who wanders the world, while Kelly is a super traditional woman. "She is boring, you know."


    "Hey! That''s offending, you know? Kelly is my best friend, and true that her grandparents raised her strictly, following traditions from her father''s custom and culture. Well, she was only a very introverted person with awesome talent!"?she convinces Pitt.


    He retorted, "I didn''t doubt her talent. But you know that sheins a lot."


    "She will not if you refrain yourself from teasing her a lot!" Of course, she witnesses how they were like a dog and a cat, fighting. They truly are very opposite personalities from each other.


    Hailey heard Pitt hurl a long sigh. Later, Pitt agreed.


    "But on one condition. You should talk to her. If she agrees, then I will do it,"?said Pitt.


    Hailey tears a yful smile across her face. She could sense something was going on, and it excites her!


    "Alright! I will talk to Kelly now too. Hang on." Hailey cuts the call. She phone Kelly after. "Hey, Kelly!"


    "Hail! I missed you so much! You haven''t called me again!"


    "But we''re texting?"


    "I want a FaceTime!" Kelly pouted, crossing her arms above her chest.


    "Then, brace yourself! Because you are going toe to P Country!"


    "Really? Oh, wait. Why do I have a bad feeling about this sudden n?" she doubted it, as she knew Hailey very well.


    "Well..." Haileyughs nervously. Kelly could really see her through. "Okay! Hear me this... I have a huge favor from you! Can I count you in?"


    "Why do I sense that I''m not going to like it?"


    "Kel, please?"


    Rolling her eyes, Kelly nodded. She retorted, "Alright! I''ll listen. So, what is it?"


    "Can you and Pitt pretend as a couple for three days?"


    "What the f...uck, Hail!?" Kelly screamed. Her big brown eyes widened in shock. Soon, her face twitched from disgust. "That... That, that guy? No, no, no, no way! Ah-uh! Over my dead body!"


    Hailey was helpless, watching Kellyughing crazily. But she has to pursue Kelly to help her out!


    She already promised her dad and Andre to go home next week. Good timing that Vince is leaving P Country.


    "Kelly, please? It''s just three days!" Hailey begged. All she needed is to convince Kelly as Pitt was ready to do it as long as Kelly was also willing to.


    "How about that guy? Have you told him already?"


    "Yes."


    "And what he says?" Kelly started to have the anticipation that she could not say no!


    "Pitt would do it if you are willing to."


    "If I agreed? Why are we pretending to be a couple?"


    "Okay. I''ll exin. I can''t just leave the country without exining to the people I got close here. So, I will make up a story that my couple friends areing to visit an ind here in P Country, and that I will meet you there! But the truth is, you and Pitt will stay on that Ind, and I will fly to Australia. That is so simple, right?"


    Ugh. She''s exining lies, which only one person is the cause why she is creating this story. She needs a believable excuse! And Vince has to believe that she''s still in the country.


    "You know how I hate that womanizer!" Kelly stressed out after she listened to Hailey''s exnation. She could say no to Hailey!


    "Kel, Pitt is a good man. He may tease you a lot, but he is our friend, right?"


    "But how if he would only flirt with every girl he saw over there? I don''t want to look stupid that my fake boyfriend is flirting with other girls!" She won''t allow that guy to humiliate her pride!


    "Okay! I get it! If I talk to Pitt about it, would you do it?"


    "Fine! I will if that guy behaves!" Kelly finally gives in.


    Hailey controls herself not to tear a huge smile in front of Kelly. Somehow, it excites her to imagine that these two would work on something to understand each other!


    "Okay! I will negotiate with Pitt!" Hailey assures her best friend, who''s wearing a long face. She ends the Video Call to talk to Pitt again. "Hey!"


    "Princess? So? Have you talked to her already?"


    "Well, yes! Kelly would agree in one condition."


    "Oh, and what is that?"


    "Kelly doesn''t want you to humiliate her during your pretense being a couple."


    "Huh? What did that mean?" He knew that girl would make his life miserable!


    "Pitt, can you be nice to her?"


    "Hey! I''m nice to her!" He may say this, but Hailey sees how his lips are pushing a smirk.


    Hailey rolled her eyes and said, "All she wanted is you both can agree once in a while."


    "So, what should I do?" asked Pitt. If it weren''t for Hailey, he won''t do this!


    "Okay! All Kelly wanted is your restraint from flirting with another girl. I think what Kelly meant is, you act like a loyal boyfriend who only sees one woman and no other else."


    "Is that what she really says, huh?"


    "Well, I just interpreted what she told me." She''s telling the truth anyway. Or she assumes it was? And that is because that was Vince to her? Ah! She''s pushing her friends to act like how she and Vince! But maybe it''s not bad, right?"


    "Alright! Fine! I will do it!"


    "Great! You both really save my life!"


    After Hailey''s conversation with Pitt, she chatted with Kelly.


    ''Finally! Everything is all set!'' Hailey sighs with relief. She has nothing to worry about now. ''Okay! Now I could focus on Vince''s ss reunion! If I cross Zenaida tomorrow, I want to test her to see if she knows where Eva is.''


    Pitt emailed Eva''s address. Hailey would like to see if Zenaida knew where Eva is hiding and she is only keeping the truth from Vince.


    "Will see..." Hailey purses a smirk before she steps out of her car and walks toward her ss. She already anticipates what scheme Zenaida would do tomorrow night to humiliate her after seeing she only wears a waitress attire. She mumbled, "How exciting."

 Chapter 53 - Their Sons News

    <h4>Chapter 53 - Their Son''s News</h4>


    SHEN MANSION


    Fred is on his way toward the dining hall when his phone rang. It was his son, calling him at the moment.


    He was happy that Vincent phoned him. His son only does when it involves thepany. And so Fred wondered what kind of news Vincent would report to him.


    Fred swipes the green button and speaks, "Son, it''s rare for you to call me with personal matters. Then, it is about thepany?"


    "Dad, yes, it was. I phoned you to inform you that my proposal was approved."


    "Oh, that''s good news! I heard that you are working to win an International project. Which one did you propose to?"


    "Dad, it''s the Dream City," Vince replied.


    "Dream City? Where..." The name rings a bell inside his head. Fred widened his eyes now that he remembers. "That project! You got it!"


    "Yes, dad. I will fly to Australia next week to meet our biggest client."


    "Congrattions, son! Davies Group is the biggest client we ever had!"


    "Absolutely, dad!" On the other line, Vince tears a huge smile.


    "Son, I''m so proud of you. Finally, your hard work paid off," said Fred to Vince.


    "Not yet, dad. It''s just a beginning," he humbly asserted.


    "Of course! It is one of your greatest achievements, son. I remember several years ago when you said, you would bring Shen into its glorious days. And you keep your promise."


    Vince answered with honesty, "I have my inspiration, Dad."


    "Oh... I see." Fred could not share his thoughts with his son. He was thinking that Vincent is talking about his girlfriend.


    Of course, he had seen how his son focuses on learning how to run theirpany at such a young age, and it made him so proud that Vincent is a responsible son. He is not a happy-go-lucky heir who only does fool around with different women, visiting bars and every night going out to attend any parties. In fact, his son is quite the opposite.


    And when he turned over the management of theirpany, Vince even worked harder than before, which the more he limits himself to enjoy the nightlife but asionally sailed into the ocean with his friends. Mostly only male friends!


    He started to worry though. But then news broke out that Vincent has seen dating a woman. He was happy. Well, it''s only partly because he could not agree about his son cheating on his marriage.


    But then, as a father who only had one son, it worries him about Vincent''s sexual orientation. His son living with a woman is extremely a relief to him.


    He wished for his son to live a normal life; building a family of his own and giving him grandchildren. However, what turned out in his son''s life has be controversial.


    Vincent never lives with his wife but with a mistress. As a parent, it didn''t make him happy on that part. But it confused him why Eva didn''t insist on living with his son.


    Sometimes, he''s thinking that Eva might believe that Vincent has questionable preferences when ites to His Romance. But he witnesses how intimate his son toward his girlfriend. And the way he looks at her, as a man he is certain, his son cared for that girl.


    No. Vincent is in love with that girl. That is why his son is willing to give up being Shen.


    But there is another thing that suddenly shes on top of his head. What happened to the girl he was searching for a few years ago?


    He is curious, but Fred believes this is not the perfect moment to query an unrted matter.


    His son was already happy. Although it was a forbidden love after he fell for another girl, he remains married to Eva.


    And as a man, he doesn''t want to tolerate his son for having an affair outside marriage. However, his son''s situation seems weird.


    Impossible that Eva didn''t hear about Vincent''s affair. The Lan family surely has told her already, but why does Eva seem didn''t care?


    Fred wanted to talk about it with his son. But Vincent is even busier now. Maybe one day, they could catch up and have a seat and a great talk man to a man.


    While Fred was having deep thoughts, Vince spoke up. "Dad, I''ll be spending more time in Australia in theing weeks. So, I''m thinking that... Um, about mom..."


    Fred could sense that Vincent is referring to how Hilda threw a fret about their son''s affair. And so he understood what his son feared.


    "Don''t worry about your mom. I know she won''t do more than things that harm anyone. Also, I am keeping an eye on her."


    "Thank you, dad. But I am more worried that mom harms herself because of her displeasure toward me and my girlfriend. I don''t want her to put herself in an unlikely situation for making an effort to get rid of my girlfriend."


    "Don''t worry, son. Your mother is always careful with the words she shared with the public, especially to the media seeking gossip about our family. Son, your mother is angry because she doesn''t support your affair. I know you understand what I''m talking about."


    "Of course. I do understand mom, dad. It''s my choice. And you... You''re still mad at me, right?"


    "We''re not happy you had a mistress. But I will be even disappointed if you neglect ourpany. We don''t support your affair, but I count on you for doing a great job for thepany."


    "I assure you, dad. I would never let you down. And mom, and you... one day, you guys will understand me."


    Once you know the truth. Vincent only said it to himself.


    "Dad, I will hang up now. I have another meeting after lunch. I need to sort out the teams to handle all the projects I will leave behind."


    "Sure! Take care of yourself, son. Don''t miss your meal, and as advice from a workaholic like me who is abusive to my own body, you should eat healthy foods."


    "Don''t worry, dad. Hailey makes sure I eat on time, and I stuff my mouth with healthy foods."


    "Oh. I see... That was great!" He does hear from their business partners that Vince always skipping lunch and dinner meetings with them. And they heard interesting facts... Vincent is bringing lunch boxestely. That girl is taking care of his son. Somehow, he wanted to thank her.


    "Dad, I will catch up with you some other time. I have to go now."


    "Okay, son. Let us talk before you leave for Australia."


    "Then, that''s a n, dad."


    Vincent already ended the call. But Fred remains standing beside the corridor window, gazing out to the mansion''s garden. A lot of things are ying inside his head. He is pondering what the best advice to give to his son regarding his love life. But the question is, can he even put a good word?


    "Fred? What are you doing here in the corridor? The butler fetches you like half an hour ago. But no shadow of you shows up in the dining hall. What''s the matter?"


    Fred came to his senses after hearing his wife''s voice. He turns his head to look in Hilda''s direction. His wife walked toward him and eyed him with curious stares.


    Hilda, on the other hand, is waiting for Fred to respond. Soon, she saw him tearing a big smile, followed by good news.


    "Your son just hung up the call. I was talking to him just now, why didn''t I join you right away."


    "Oh, is the call about the good news?" Hilda grew excited. She imagines what kind of good news it is. There are two things she wishes to happen. First, her son dumped that girl. Second, that girl leaves her son. But honestly, the first one is more possible. "Did our son already break up with his girlfriend?"


    The smile across Fred''s smiles disappear. Frowning, he retorted, "Don''t start now, Hilda. Don''t ruin the mood."


    "What? Why is it me to me again?" Hilda furrowed her brows, feeling ridiculous that Fred only sees her as the viin here. Normally, she would care about their family reputation! She is from a long line of politicians who had a great prominence, even from ancient times! Having a mistress is an ugly image of their name!


    Fred shook his head. Heaving a helpless sigh, he left his wife and headed to the dining hall.


    Hilda was stunned. It upset her that Fred now only ignored her. She followed him and began nagging him.


    "Fred! Ever since that girl came, our family has always been in an argument!"


    "But you are the only one who argued here!" Fred reminded his wife. He rolled his eyes as Hilda kept repeating the issue.


    "Okay, fine! me me all you wanted! Now I want to know what Vincent says to you?"


    They now reached the dining hall. Fred sat on his chair and began filling his te with food. Later on, he replied to his wife''s query.


    "Vincent was offered a project in Dream City. His initial proposal was approved. It will be a big project, and so, our son will always be out of the country."


    Hilda''s eyes lit up with delight. Another big project her son won, and so, they must celebrate!


    "Fred, we should invite our son for a wonderful dinner! We need to celebrate another sess of our son. I will hire the best chef in the country, or maybe I should book a private room on the top floor in Belle Tower, instead. What do you think?"


    "That''s a great idea, Hilda. But the sound of it? You would only invite your son, alone."


    "What''s wrong about that? It was a family dinner! Who else I should invite?"


    Fred is shaking his head. He grew irritated with the whole conversation that was only repeating every single day. He chooses to shut his mouth and eat in silence, ignoring Hilda''s fretting face.

 Chapter 54 - You Are Cunning, Hail!

    <h4>Chapter 54 - You Are Cunning, Hail!</h4>


    After their ss ended, Hailey and Nadia waited for Liza and Hazel at the west parking lot. Nadia spotted Hazel''s car. They followed them and drove toward East, where Metro City Garden was located.


    It was the most luxurious mall in the country, more likely an exclusive mall for the High Society.


    Five years ago, the country''s biggest firms joined to build this mall, and the SHEN GROUP won the project.


    Vincent was in hisst year, a graduating student of his Architectural degree. And Fred Shen, who is the CEO at that time around, took Vincent to help him design the entire mall. Vince came up with the idea to build a twenty-five stories hotel within the mall.


    At the moment, Metro City Garden attracts a lot of foreign tourists to have important business trips. It holds Expos not only for Asia but for the whole world that targeted not only big but also smallpanies.


    Metro City Garden often bes the host of significant events such asunching new products.


    It has be the favorite destination because the guests feel it convenient to stay in a hotel where all they need is just an elevator away: to shop at the mall below, and then dine in ten-star restaurants plus a Convention Hall to hold their business events.


    Plus, Hailey loved how Vince designed the mall, using ss roofs to provide natural sunlight to the trees and nts throughout the mall and also gives natural light to the surroundings.


    It is how exactly she imagines to be her malls in Dream City. A wilderness ambiance while strolling the mall since Dream City arises in the middle of desertnd. And that made her thrilled to working with Vince soon!


    *


    Approaching the mall, Hailey slows down when they enter the Parking Lot Building next to the mall. She was about to pull over and park next to Hazel when a ck Lambo trotted behind her and take her spot.


    "What the hell!" Nadia cussed. She opened the window in her seat and shouted at the driver of the ck car. "Hey! That''s our spot! Why are you stealing our space!?"


    However, the driver of the car only ignored them. He walked toward the passenger and opened the car door.


    A beautiful woman steps out, arrogantly peered at Hazel''s car. She saw the whole scene, but she only shrugs her shoulders. Head high, she throws a menacing nce at Hailey''s car, which makes Nadia infuriated.


    Nadia tried to open the car door, but Hailey kept it locked. "Hail unlocked this door now! I''m going to show to these people what a nightmare is like!"


    Instead of feeling angry, Hailey only feels amused. But not her friends. She shook her head, watching Nadia throwing a fret.


    "Just ignored it. Please don''t waste your energy on them. It''s not even worth talking to them," said Hailey to pacify Nadia.


    However, Hazel gets out of her car and confronts the guy on her behalf.


    "That''s it! Let me out of here, Hail! I will help Hazel beat these monkeys! I will send them back to their mountain!"


    Haileyughs at Nadia''s rant. She advised her, "Stay here. Let me talk to Hazel."


    "But, Hail?"


    "Just watch..." Hailey winked at Nadia before she stepped out of the car. She walked toward Hazel and pulled her away. "That''s enough."


    "Don''t stop me, Hail! I will teach these ignorant people!"


    "Ignorant? We parked in first! And that''s how it is!" The man replied ridiculously. He scoffs at Hazel, but the moment he sees Hailey, his eyes spark with curiosity. "Ah, I''m sorry about that, Miss! No hard feelings! It''s just life."


    The guy and the woman mockinglyughed before they left and headed to the elevator. It infuriates Hazel and Liza, including Nadia, who get out of the car. She could not stay just seated inside and do nothing.


    Nadia didn''t hear everything that the guy quotes, but her ears caught thest part. And it upsets her the way the woman is looking at them downward.


    "Let them be... We don''t need to argue with them," Hailey phrased, hoping to coax them to calm down.


    But Hazel doesn''t want to let this off. She is prepared to quarrel against them. "That arrogant guy and his b...tch starlet girlfriend! Do they think they were that special? Liza, let''s go to the hardware store and buy a sledgehammer and smash that fuc...n car!" She stressed out.


    "I''m going too!" Nadia echoed in.


    Hailey was dumbfounded, listening to her friends. She couldn''t brace herself fromughing. It amused her the way they reacted, and it brought warmth toward her heart.


    "Thank you, girls. I appreciate your concern. But we should not let them destroy our day.?We came here to have fun shopping, notmitting crimes." Hailey reminded them. She winks at them, "I can park anywhere. Look, a car is leaving! I can take that spot instead! I''m getting hungry so let''s better find a great restaurant to dine!"


    Hailey runs back to her car and takes the spot that just emptied. Even though her friends remain upset, they took Hailey''s advice to forget what happened. Besides, the more they are in a rage, the more hunger struck them.


    *


    "Hail, are you sure we will dine on here?" Liza and Nadia alternately asked Hailey this question.


    She suggested dining in one of the most expensive restaurants in Metro City Garden that serves both; French and Italian cuisines.


    "Yup! It''s my treat!"


    "Then, let''s go!" Nadia and Liza almost jump in joy. When they heard that Hazel would purchase her evening dress at Metro City Garden, they made sure to dress elegantly today.


    Hailey and Hazel walk ahead while Nadia and Liza follow behind, endeavoring to stay calm walking on the marble floor that they could mirror on it.


    But since it needed a reservation to dine in this restaurant, Hailey negotiated with the receptionist. And since Vince signed her up to enjoy the privilege of dining here as a VIP, Hailey does not need to speak a lot.


    The restaurant manager called out. He rushed to the lounge the moment he had a glimpse of Hailey. Of course, she is one of the very important guests he has to remember in his entire life.


    "Good noon, Miss Hailey!" Greetings from Manager Denise. He gestures at the receptionist that he will take it from here. It means he will assist them personally and make sure to serve them well. "What can I offer you, Miss Hailey?"


    "Hello, Manager Denise! Um, well... We would like to dine here. But I didn''t make any reservation, so I''m wondering if you had an avable table for us."


    "Ah! No problem, Miss Hailey. However, all our private rooms are upied at the moment by foreign guests. Would you not mind if I will only give you our regr table?"


    "Of course! That is fine!"


    "Then, follow me!"


    The manager leads them inside the restaurant; Nadia and Liza dropped their jaw, seeing how nice it was in reality. It was the first time they visited here, and they only see its ads on social media.


    "Here, it is!" Manager Denise gives them a table located in the middle of this luxurious restaurant. However, they noticed the couple that stole Hailey''s spot at the parking lot.


    Hazel, including Liza and Nadia, frowned upon the sight of them. They would like toin, but Hailey persuaded them to ignore the couple.


    "Let''s better give our order!" she suggested. She understands that they were reckless and hot-headed because of their age. And as the older, she must stay calm and pacify these teenagers.


    "I''m still not getting over how ignorant people steal your parking slot, Hail. That was reserved for the SHEN FAMILY!"


    "I''m not SHEN, only my boyfriend," Hailey reminded her friends.


    "Still, you have the privilege!" Hazel insisted. Shen has two slots reserved for them, and she took one already and the second one supposed for Hailey. Thinking over, Hazel figured it out. "Wait, a minute... Don''t tell me you didn''t put up a fight because you know that someone''s car is going to throw outside the parking lot?"


    Hailey didn''t say a word, but her lips tear a meaningful smile. The three girls dropped their jaw upon realizing it.


    "Oh. I see... Now I get it! You are cunning, Hail! You already perceive it!" said Nadia, pping her hands. It excites them to imagine that someone''s ass is going to kick out soon.


    They nced at the third table across them; cast a stern look at the arrogant couple, which realized nothing yet.

 Chapter 55 - Banned From Metro City Garden

    <h4>Chapter 55 - Banned From Metro City Garden</h4>


    Waiting several minutes, their food has finally arrived. Upon having the sight of the food, Hazel and Nadia forget how annoyed they are at the third table that pesters them since in the parking lot.


    The girls continue chattering over the food, Hailey casually typing on her phone while stuffing her mouth. Geoffrey is inquiring about the project she would like to assign for the SHEN GROUP.


    However, she could not make a phone call to discuss it at the moment. She replied to Geoffrey that they would talk about itter in the evening over FaceTime.


    And she was about to put away her phone when it rang and Vince''s name shing on the screen.


    "Oh. The boss is missing you!" Hazel teases Hailey after she peeks on her phone and sees the name sh on the screen.


    "Go on! We will pretend to hear nothing." Nadia echoed, followed by her giggles.


    Hailey opens her mouth with awe. Shifting her gaze from the three girls who are puttering silly smiles at her, she asks with confusion. "What? And why is that?"


    "It means sweet talk!" Liza chimed in, who were also thrilled to witness her love life.


    Hailey rendered speechlessly. It amazed her how these teenagers knew more stuff than her!


    "Hello?" She finally swipes the green button and answers the call. Rapidly, her heart flutters upon hearing Vince''s soothing voice.


    "Hi! Have you had lunch already?" Vince queried while he nces at the time on his wristwatch. It says almost one in the afternoon.


    Using her sweetest voice, Hailey replied to Vince, "Yes! We''re in the middle of having lunch."


    "That''s great! But I was calling up at the wrong time." Said Vince apologetically, which made Hailey purse a sweet smile. She doesn''t mind if Vince calls her any time in the day.


    Meanwhile, listening to her, Hailey red at the three girls who are looking at her dreamily. She giggled and shook her head. And with what she did, it didn''t escape from Vince''s hearings. He thinks it was cute, and he could picture Hailey blushes and had that facial expression she was often showing to him every time she sounded like this.


    While Hailey is talking with Vince, Hazel muttered to her. "You should tell the boss that someone stole your slot in the parking lot."


    "What was that?" asked Vince. Hazel was bbing about something, and he didn''t like it. "What happens?"


    "It''s not that biggie." Hailey would like to withhold it. But it''s toote for her to deny when Manager Denise escorted three bulk men from Metro City Garden Security and a man that Hailey recognized as the General Manager of this mall. The group is walking toward the middle of the restaurant.


    Everyone is looking in their direction, curious why the mall security is visiting the restaurant at this busy hour.


    "Good noon, sir. My name is Ricky Lim, General Manager of this mall. I have a question. Are you the owner of the ck Lamborghini park in Level 3 Slot number S01?"


    "It was mine. What''s the matter?" The guy is arrogantly answering Ricky Lim.


    The General Manager is dumbfounded, being replied rudely when he is inquiring politely. Ricky pursed his mouth to control his annoyance. He notified, "Please, remove your car. Or a tow will drag it out."


    "Are you threatening me now?" The guy shifted his gaze between Ricky and the three mall securities. It did not show he is afraid of them, but he sneered at them instead. "Do you have to bring three security guards to scare me? What kind of treatment is this?"


    "Please, sir. All I wanted to happen is for you to move your car and park in another slot. That spot is reserved for the SHEN GROUP and Shen family."


    "Really? And why is that?" The guy questioned Ricky, but it was hispany that answered his query.


    "They are the ones who build this mall, Mig."


    However, the guy only raises a brow andughs. "So what? My family is also an investor in this Mall. Why don''t we have our parking slot? Why did the firm, who is only a builder, reserved a slot for them?"


    It pissed Ricky to listen to this guy but had to keep control of his tolerance. "Sir, the Shen Group runs monthly inspections of the entire mall to ensure the safety of the establishment and hotel. Besides, the Shen had frequent business with us as they are one of the major investors of this mall."


    Ricky said it bluntly, enough to shut the guy''s mouth. His girlfriend, who is just an aspiring new actress, feels the coercion thrown at their table by other guests. She could hear the words from the surrounding table, and it''s not good news.


    "That was embarrassing! Who has the guts topete against the SHEN?" Commented by someone from the other table.


    "And it happens if someone''s presence!" Chimed in by another woman from the table next to them.


    "Right! President Vincent Shen''s girlfriend is here!" And they nced at Hailey''s table, admiring her pretty face and the dress she is wearing. They are always jealous of how she always looks elegant and gorgeous.


    In the meantime, the guy and the starlet began realizing that they were in a hot pot. Also, now that it mentioned Vincent''s girlfriend. Ricky takes the opportunity to continue his statement.


    "Ahem. And your next offense, sir. President Shen notified us that his girlfriend and her friends woulde to the mall to shop. He informed us to let them park in the reserved park belonging to Shenpany. And themotion you created in the parking lot is not tolerable behavior. Now please leave the mall. We are banning you and yourpany froming back."


    "What? I have nothing to do with this! I apany him for lunch! Likewise, I have a car show on Sunday! You can''t ban me! I already signed a contract!" The starlet model named Divine stressed out after Ricky dropped the bomb. Her poprity has just begun, and she can''t afford to have a scandal like this. Banning her means she is now cklisted in Metro City Garden to do any project such as International Fashion Show or any events that need her talents. "Mig, this is your fault!"


    "Shut up! Who''s the one nagging me to dine in here? This is your fault!"


    Everyone was dumbfounded watching the couple who are now quarreling. Ricky grew irritated listening to them. He gestures his hand at the three securities and gives orders. "Escort them outside. Remember their faces. They are no longer wee in this Mall."


    "Please, this has nothing to do with me! You can''t cklist me! Mr. Lim!"


    "Serves you, right, bisshh!" Hazel ridiculed Divine. She could not stay only to watch this drama. Shees forward to mock the couple. "You should know who you offend or else? You''ll be banned forever!"


    Actually, Hazel''s words are meant for Divine and for every guest dining in that restaurant.


    Divine and her arrogant boyfriend were dragged out from the restaurant and escorted to the parking lot to make sure they left.


    Meanwhile, now that the matter was taken care of. Ricky Lim walked toward Hailey''s table. He bowed and apologized. "I''m sorry about that, Miss Hailey. It won''t happen again."


    "You don''t have to apologize, Manager Lim. But I am d you''ve noticed right away." Hailey replied with a warm smile. "Vince is on the other line. He wanted to talk to you."


    Suddenly, Ricky gets worried that Vincent is upset about what happened. He was to me if worse had happened in the parking lot.


    Ricky only talked to Vince for a brief moment. He gave back the phone to Hailey and apologized once again before he left the restaurant.


    "Now that''s karma!" Nadia muttered pleasingly.

 Chapter 56 - Her Privileges

    <h4>Chapter 56 - Her Privileges</h4>


    "Everything is fine now," Hailey told Vince on the phone.


    "You should call the security immediately if this happens again, or any situation in the future."


    "Ah, that... Okay... I will keep it in mind," Hailey didn''t argue might Vince insist another thing. Sometimes she wanted to stop Vince from being exaggerated in showering her a luxurious life.


    She is used to this kind of life, but it was too much already! It made her ufortable strolling around the mall followed by bodyguards. At first, that is the setting, until sheins to Vince.?She understood though because the media wanted a piece of her.


    Well, her dad is the same anyway. It takes a while before he let her roam Australia alone. Ah... Not really... Unless she is with the boys or one of the boys apanied her.


    And now, it was Vince who assures that she wasfortable, where she was treated well and served which became unbelievable.


    "All right! I phoned you to inform you that I mighte homete tonight. I have multiple meetings today for my business trip next week."


    "Oh! You''re going out of the country."


    "Yes! Well... Let us talk about it more tomorrow over breakfast."


    "Right!" Hailey bites her lip to suppress her yful smile. Of course, she knew where Vince was headed! It was her who requested Vince to fly to Australia and survey Dream City, and him to began to design what she dreamed of for a long time.


    "Um... I''m hanging up now for you to continue having lunch. Please, have a good time shopping," said Vince.


    "Thank you."


    After exchanging a few more words, Hailey put down her phone and continued eating her food.


    "What?" She red at the girls when they haven''t settled down from being thrilled over her and Vince''s conversation.


    "Boss is too Romantic!" Liza squealed, which made Hailey blushed.


    "And you''re in love!" Nadia and Hazel echoed.


    "Hey!" She could not believe these teenagers would tease her like this. Probably, because she is now transparent about her feelings for Vince.


    "You know, Hail. You should report it to the management the moment that a*hole steals your spot."


    "Honestly, I don''t want to take advantage of Vince''s influences."


    "Nah-ah! You should start getting used to the privilege given to you. It''s no difference when you be Mrs. Shen."


    Hailey was choked with the sparkling sweet wine she is gulping. She looks at Hazel with awe. She said it loudly and their neighboring table ncing in their direction!


    "Hey, keep your voice down!" Her face is flushing red. Hazel really got her good with her jokes.


    "What? Vince is not getting younger!" Hazel snaps. "He needs a real wife and you two should have children as soon as possible."


    "Okay. But Shen already had grandchildren. Vince''s sisters had children already." Hailey realized, Hazel always cheers on her rtionship with Vince. Sadly, Hazel didn''t know that it was just a contract.


    "That''s the point! Vince is the oldest, but he hasn''t produced any child yet! Thank god he didn''t make Eva the mother of his child. That girl is annoying, you know?"


    "Okay." That was what she could only respond to. What else could she say? She is only the Contractual Mistress, she is not Vince''s real girlfriend, to begin with. And she could not tell Hazel, Nadia, and Liza about the truth.


    The thought of her being Vince''s wife does not sound bad. And being a mother of his child? It even sounds better. No. It was wonderful! However, things areplicated between them. A lot of things to consider first. Several things have to take care of first. It''s not only on Vince''s part but moreover, on her part.


    Besides, remain in her mind about the girl mentioned that he likes before. How if Vince met her again?


    Ah. Why was she thinking about this stuff? She has nothing to do with Vince''s real love life. That is supposed to be...


    *


    Lunch is over, they head to the shop where Hazel picks out her dress.


    "Good afternoon, Miss Hazel! Wee! Please,e in." The store manager leads them upstairs where the expensive party dress can try on and makes changes on the spot.


    Liza and Nadia stop breathing after they checked the prices of those dresses worn by the mannequins. The same as the dresses hang on the racks.


    And because Hailey already turned down Vince''s invitation to be his date. She leisurely sat on the couch while flipping through the catalog of other dresses that were made to order.


    Meanwhile, Hazel began her fittings. First, she tries on a white dress, but it looks like she is getting married. She tries a pink one next. And she looks like having her eighteen birthday for the second time.


    Hazel tried blue and red dresses, but she could not choose which one made her look stunning.


    "Hail, I think you should try on, too!" Hazel suggested. She was looking at her reflection, wearing a purple evening dress.


    Hailey replied, "Nah. I''m not attending the ss reunion."


    "I know. But why not try them some?"


    "Oh, can we try on a few dresses too?" Liza was hoping to try on these gorgeous gowns and have a photo of them to update her Instagram. It''s a rare opportunity she has and she will seize this opportunity!


    "Yes, Hazel! Can we ask the store manager''s permission?" Nadia whispered to Hazel not to be heard, but the store manager came to her.


    The store manager smiled. "Of course, you can! Miss Hazel rented the store for a whole afternoon to try on all the dresses we have her upstairs."


    Nadia and Liza look at Hazel with amazement. Having money can do anything. But being a kind and down-to-earth person in front of your friends is something in this world.


    "Thank you, Hazel!" Both Nadia and Liza hug Hazel tight. The two girls were enthralled while they were picking out the dresses they wanted to try on.


    Hazelughs nervously. True that her family runs a few businesses, but it''s nothingpared to Shen''s! And what happens today is that because of the privilege she received from her sponsor and she could not tell her friends about it.


    Now that both Nadia and Liza were immersed themselves in which dresses they would try, Hazel fixes her attention on Hailey, who seems not thrilled to see all of these gowns in the store. She walked toward Hailey and pulled her hand. "You too! You must try these dresses!"


    "That is not needed!" Hailey refused. She remained seated on the couch, but Hazel is persistent.


    "Come on! I saw a gorgeous red dress! You should try it on!"


    "Hazel?" Hailey gives up when Hazel dragged her toward the fitting room and pushes her down to the round couch in front of a wall mirror.


    "Wait here! I''ll bring you the dress!" Hazel told Hailey, she rushed outside. Not long after, she brought the red dress and a cream evening gown she talked about.


    "I don''t need to try them on!" She insisted.


    "Yes, you will! We are already here, then why not?" said Hazel with a yful smile. In the end, Hailey tried the dresses Hazel gave her.


    And it''s not just two or three dresses. Hazel keeps giving her all the style and designs the store has! She was like in a photoshoot! And that because Hazel always takes a photo of her every time she steps out of the fitting room where her friends would judge the dress she puts on.


    "Guys? This is the sixth dress I try on."


    "But none is perfect yet," Hazel remarks.


    "Perfect for what?"

 Chapter 57 - We Have A Huge Problem

    <h4>Chapter 57 - We Have A Huge Problem</h4>


    SHEN GROUP HEADQUARTER


    Vince is currently resting on his swivel chair. His third meeting today just ended, andter is another discussion with his engineers and architects.


    With a knock on the door, Tim entered the office and handed him his TAB. "Boss, it was sent to me just now. Which one do you prefer?"


    Vince swipes the screen. He keenly scanned the photos and tried to pick one, however, he found it hard to make a choice when all are nice. "Hm... I think each one of them is beautiful. I mean, anything looks great on her."


    "Then I will instruct to purchase the best one?"


    "Two or three, to have other choices," Vince suggested. His eyes remain glued to the photos he already checks countless times.


    "Ahem! Boss, can I have back my TAB? I need to make a reply."


    Vince straightens his back and clears his throat. He handed back Tim''s gadget and said, "Forward it to me and make sure..."


    "I''ll delete them after! Understood, boss!" Tim finished the phrase, hiding the smirk on his mouth. He quickly emailed the photos and replied to the sender to keep him updated, so then, he could report them to the boss.


    Honestly, it does surprise him that for the first time, his boss gives attention to this kind of stuff. "I didn''t expect he''d be sensible."


    "What did you say?" asked Vince to his assistant. He could hear him murmuring to himself.


    "Nothing boss! I''m just saying that my TAB is now sensitive. It looks like I need to buy a new one. Would you give me one boss?"


    "If you did great work, then I''ll double your bonus."


    "I''m always doing an incredible job, boss!"?Tim boasted, and say it proudly.


    "Then, I''ll assign you to form a team to create an easy and friendly App."


    "What kind of App is this, boss?" Tim would take this opportunity to show off his multiple talents. He''s not only a reliable assistant. He can go beyond if his boss wanted to test him this much. ''It''s for the double bonus!''


    "I want to offer a greater service to my tenants. Exclusive to all SHEN condos and penthouses in Metro City."


    "What kind of service is this, boss?"


    "A partnership with the Metro City Public Wet Market and a Metro City Supermarket. I realize several of my tenants are elderly. Many of them live alone as their family works abroad. Not mentioned housewives, and busy moms, couples that are always on the run."


    "Hm. Is this about shopping online?"


    "Yes!"


    "But you will offer goods such as groceries and vegetables to deliver at their units?"


    "And fish! Crabs, shrimps, any kinds of seafood."


    Tim is trying to process what kind of site offering service his boss is trying to start up. He has already had multiple businesses. Why does his boss want to start being a goods distributor? And exclusively for his condos?


    ''Could it be that it has something to do with Miss Hailey? Hm... It''s a fishy idea.'' Tim thought so. ''Why is it sudden he came up with it?''


    Tim is certain. His boss did this for his fake that possibly real girlfriend. Well, his boss acts that way, though.


    "You have until Monday afternoon to present theyout."


    "Then that means work on the weekend for me, boss!"


    He had this huge grin on his face when he came out from the boss''s office. His colleagues think the boss is in a good mood. Well, honestly, the boss has been in a good mood for a while now.


    *


    Evening, Hailey arrived in the penthouse exactly as the sun was about to settle in. She dropped her body on the single-arm chaise, stretching her legs, and rested her back while watching the sunset.


    Hazel spent three hours putting on those dresses and picking out high heels, which include her. She has no idea why she has to try on when she already told her friends she''s not attending but works as a service free that night.


    For her, it will be more fun watching everyone on the sideline and observing their faces seeing her wearing a waitress uniform. Besides, she loves the usherettes uniform for tomorrow''s ss reunion. They did a fitting this morning, and she loves it!


    Recalling the outfit she has to wear tomorrow, Hailey forgets her exhaustion. She vigorously stood from the chair and headed to theundry room to hand washes the uniform provided by the school.


    And since Vince will be homete tonight. She has the opportunity to call her dad, Andre, and queried the boys about the problems in thepany.


    It should avoid having more dilemmas among her executives that resulted in not onlypany issues but also personal matters.


    That night, Hailey fixed a light dinner for herself before she phoned her dad and Andre. Later, she chatted with the boys before she headed to bed.


    When Vince arrived, he saw a tter of light snacks and fruit sd on the table. He had dinner and coffee at thepany. But nothingpares to food waiting at home.


    Vince looked up upstairs. Hailey must be sleeping by now. He thought. He nced at the wall clock, and the time was exactly ten-thirty of the night.


    Vince ced his bag on the sofa. He took off his coat and rolled his sleeves as he sat down on the dining chair.


    Vince poured the creamer and condensed milk into the bowl of mixed fruit and began stuffing his mouth. He could tell that the strawberry was very fresh. The raspberry is also naturally sweet. He guesses Hailey stopped by at the supermarket before she heads home.


    "Hm..." Vince took a bite of toasted garlic bread after he emptied the bowl. "This is best paired with coffee."


    Vince sat up and brewed some coffee beans. While waiting, he munches the buttered toasted bread and sometimes putting small cubes of cheese on his mouth, Vince fills his stomach with delight.


    "She''s really serious about feeding me healthy foods, hmm..."


    *


    The next day, Vince went to hispany on time to finish more work.


    "See youter!" Vince bid Hailey goodbye in a hurry after breakfast. He picks up the lunch box she prepared and nted a kiss on her cheek before he walks out of the penthouse.


    Hailey was left in a trance after Vince kissed her. ''Why did he do that!?'' Of course, it confused her because they were not on the act!


    Meanwhile, in the parking lot, Vince is tapping his palms onto the steering wheel. It was toote when he realized... Out of impulse, he kissed Hailey goodbye on her cheek!


    He was in a hurry, he didn''t think of anything but his body to move on his habit. And kissing Hailey has be natural to do things, it seems.


    Vince pursed his mouth with a sweet smile. He started his car and drove smoothly out of the parking lot.


    Andter in the afternoon, Hailey was already in the resort with the other students that picked out to serve tonight''s ss 2015 get-together.


    Mrs. Gomez led them toward the venue. Everyone dropped their mouths seeing the decorations.


    "Holy shot! Are we really in the right ce?" One student blurted out in shock.


    "Is this a wedding? Or someone is having a one-of-a-kind proposal of the century tonight?" Echoed by another student.


    "Where do these thousands of flowerse from? They are all fresh, right?"


    Everyone is looking up at the ceiling that is made of pink and white roses.


    "How do they manage to build a flowering roof in just one day?"


    And it is not just about the floral roofing but everywhere was covered with pink, red, purple tulips and peonies mixed up with other nts.


    "Obviously, SHEN GROUP can do the trick."


    "Shen Group?"


    "President Shen is the major sponsor of this ss Reunion. Who else can work out this enchanted reception?"


    Awkwardly, Hailey chuckled when everyone was looking in her direction. The whole ce indeed like a magical wedding reception. But could it be possible it was Vince? "Honestly, I didn''t know anything?"


    "And why are you here, by the way? You are supposed to be his date."


    "To pass this semester and earn my second year!?" She reasons out with a big smile to sound convincing. "So... What we should do now?"


    Hailey sessfully shifts the topic, and Mrs. Gomez quickly took the opportunity to assign them different tasks.


    But before that, they must set the table first, putting the tablecloth followed by flower arrangements and candles, then tes, wine sses, and utensils.


    When the time is approaching. A problem urs in the kitchen.


    "Mrs. Gomez, we have a huge problem!" Kirk informed the teacher. Both began in panic.


    "We have to do something!" Mrs. Gomez retorted, her face exhibits the trouble they are dealing with at the moment. "I have to talk to the chefs. Miss Hillson, can you drive me toward the main kitchen?"


    "Yes, ma''am!"


    Hailey followed the olddy. She promptly sat on the driver''s seat and drove the golf cart after Mrs. Gomez settled in. She could see how restless the teacher was.


    Could not keep her curiosity, Hailey asked the teacher. "I''ve been noticing that you seem troubled, Mrs. Gomez. Is everything, okay?"


    "No. We have a huge problem, Miss Hillson. The French chef that we hired to prepare two French cuisines tonight had an emergency. She could note anymore, so we have to find another way. Either invite an international chef working in one of those ten stars restaurants or make another cuisine. I can''t fully decide."


    "I see. But local cuisines in P country are outstanding, ma''am. I believe that would do."


    "You are correct, Miss Hillson. But we have important guestster, and the French Ambassador is one of them. His daughter is married to one of our alumni."


    "Oh." Then the ss 2015 wished to amodate the French Ambassador. It was what Hailey mused.


    "Are you familiar with Tessa DeRose?" Mrs. Gomez queried Hailey.


    She nced at the teacher and returned the question, "Chef Tessa? Is she in the country?"


    "Yes. She was paid to fill the menu tonight. However, her youngest was brought to the hospital and heard it was in critical condition."


    "Oh, no! Nichole must have eaten something that triggered her allergy! She is a very delicate girl."


    "Oh, you know them?"


    Hailey nodded. "Chef Tessa was my culinary instructor four years ago in Paris, ma''am."


    "Oh! Then you are once enrolled in her Academy and earned your certificate?"


    "Yes, ma''am."


    "You''re an angel, Miss Hillson! Can you help us?" Mrs. Gomez is thrilled after she figures out a solution to their problem.


    "Ma''am?"

 Chapter 58 - Class Reunion (One) Where Is Your Date?

    <h4>Chapter 58 - ss Reunion (One) Where Is Your Date?</h4>


    They have arrived in the main building and trailing down the corridor toward the kitchen, and they spotted the Head Chef was talking on the phone. Immediately, his face lit up the moment he saw Mrs. Gomezing to the kitchen.


    "Thank god, you are here, Mrs. Gomez! Chef Tessa is on the other line. She wished to speak with you."


    "Sure, give me the phone." Mrs. Gomez took the phone from Chef Uy, and she was thrilled to talk with the famous culinary instructor. "Good evening, Chef Tessa."


    "Hello, Mrs. Gomez. I''m very sorry about this matter. I would love to be part of the event. However, I could not leave my daughter yet. She''s still under observation." The famous chef exined.


    "We understood, Chef Tessa. Your daughter''s condition is more important than cooking for us. In fact, I found someone that was actually is your old student."


    "Oh. Is that true?"


    "Have you remembered, Miss Hailey Hillson?"


    The female chef fell in thoughts. "Hailey? Hm... Oh, yes, of course! My student from Australia! Yes, I remember her! She is one of my best students! So, she''s in the country, as well?"


    "Yes, she is! As a matter of fact, she is my HRM student."


    "Oh, great! Can I speak to her?"


    "Sure! I''ll pass her the phone." Mrs. Gomez gestured at Hailey as she handed the phone. "She wanted to talk to you."


    "Okay, Mrs. Gomez." She took the phone and greeted her former teacher.


    Mrs. Gomez and Chef Uy shared a nce. It happens; Hailey talks with Chef Tessa in French. At this moment, they had no idea what they were discussing is about.


    After a brief talk, Hailey returned the phone to Mrs. Gomez, and the two instructors continue to discuss the problem. Chef Tessa highly rmends Hailey to rece her.


    "Thank you for helping us out with this, Miss Hillson,"?Mrs. Gomez sincerely expressed her gratitude.


    Hailey replied, "Small thing, ma''am. I''m d to help."


    "Alright!" Mrs. Gomez pped her hands. "I need to go back to the reception. I have to make sure everything is taken care of over there."


    "I understand, ma''am. By the way, can you keep it a secret?"


    Mrs. Gomez and Chef Uy exchange nces. Soon, both nodded amd swear not to acknowledge that she is the one who saves this year''s ss Reunion.


    And in the next two hours, Hailey prepares the food Chef Tessa is supposed to make. Not only that, but she also makes another dish. It''s Vince''s favorite Italian dessert, Tiramisu.


    "It''s done! We can serve them now," Hailey announced.


    *


    Meanwhile, in the venue, the event has already begun. The alumni are one by one arrived, and each of them has the same reaction upon seeing the reception. They were all blown away by how spectacr the reception is in this year''s Homing.


    Not long, Vince appeared. The emcee acknowledged his arrival, which he hated an introduction this way.


    "Ladies and gentlemen... Let''s all wee our Alumni President, Vincent Shen! Around the apuse, please!"


    Vincent nodded at everyone, struggling to return the greetings and shaking hands. Soon after, the university President met him halfway and guided him to the table where the Administrative school personnel seated.


    As the gathering continues, it is time for dinner. This time, Vince joined the table of his AB ssmates.?Last 2015 is the year when Vince finished his first-degree course before he took Architecture.


    "Hey, hey! It was the famous CEO Vincent Shen!" Jake Vsco, Vince''s best friend and childhood friend who migrated to the US after their graduation. "Where''s your date?"


    "Jake, wee back! You just arrived this morning, right?" Vince throws a knuckle at the guy, and they hug each other as they have not met for two years.


    "You haven''t answered my question, huh?" Jakeughs, shaking his head. He knew Vince very well, and this guy hasn''t changed at all.


    Vince, on the other hand, was looking around, but he could not find Hailey. He attempts to ask one of her ssmates or friends, but the school president and other administration members keep chatting with him; he could not free from them until dinner was announced.


    He smiled at Jake and said, "She will be here soon."


    "Alright! Don''t forget to introduce me to her, hm?"


    "Okay! Now, let''s go to get our food! The Alumnae paid a great chef from Paris. We should try the food." Vince leads Jake to the buffet table.


    Falling on the line, Lloyd Khan joined Vince and Jake. Seeing what he did, the two men tease the guy.


    "You''re cutting the line!"


    "Hey! What are friends for?" said Lloyd,ughing. "Thank you for reserving my spot, friends!"


    "We''re not!" Vince and Jake said at once. However, Lloyd has actually had a thick face.


    He turned around and waved at the back. With a bright, handsome smile, he told the people behind them. "Excuse me, girls! They actually reserve me a spot here."


    Jake and Vince could not help it but shook their head from embarrassment. Meanwhile, the girls behind them only giggle and drool. The truth is, they don''t mind at all.


    Vincent Shen, Jake Vsco, Lloyd Khan are the hottest men in their department. They once dreamed of being their girlfriend, but the lucky girl was never them.


    "Wait... Who is she? Is she your girlfriend, Lloyd? Why don''t you introduce me to her, huh?" Jake throws a punch on Lloyd''s left shoulder. He notices this girl standing behind Lloyd.


    But the truth is, she was hiding behind Lloyd.


    "Hey, you forget my little cousin?" Lloyd nced behind him and pulled the girl to show herself. "It''s Hazel!"


    "Oh... She''s not little now! Wow!" Jake scanned Hazel from the head down to her red stiletto. She is also wearing a red shimmering tube dress with a long slit on the right leg. "Hazel! I didn''t recognize you!"


    "Hi! Well... It''s been a while!" Hazel casually took Jake''s hand when the guy extended his arm for a handshake. What she didn''t expect, Jake would kiss the back of her palm instead. This sent a thousand bolts throughout her nerves.


    "Ah-uh! Hazel is still a little girl!" Lloyd leaned over and whispered to Jake to warn him. "Don''t dare to hit on my cousin."


    "Hey, I only appreciate a beauty!"?Jake reasons out, but the smirk on his mouth is visible.


    "Remember that you are eleven years older." Lloyd reminded his friend.


    Jakeughs. He thinks Lloyd is just an overprotective cousin. He made a point, "Why does age matter?"


    "Not! But Hazel is just too young for love yet!" Lloyd reasons that cause Hazel''s mouth to drop open. Lloyd is embarrassing her!


    "Hey! What are you talking about now, Lloyd!" Hazel is ring at her cousin. She wanted to hide in embarrassment.


    However, instead of to replied to Hazel, he faced Jake. "I am a man. So I know how you look at my cousin."


    "Okay! I''m just thrilled that she grew up this gorgeous!"


    Lloyd would like to argue further, but it was now their turn to take food. The tree men excitedly scanned the table while Hazel followed silently. Her face remained flushing red. It made her happy that Jake had an eye on her.


    Checking out the food, Jake asks the server to put only a little food of this and that to have a taste of them first.


    "Hm! This really tastes spectacr! Is this French cuisine? I never tasted it this good!" Jake''spliments.


    Vince was encouraged to have a taste as well. His forehead curled up. The moment the food reaches his tongue, there''s only one person whoes to his mind. It tastes more like Hailey''s recipe.


    Of course, he is now very familiar with every dish she prepared for him. Hailey''s recipe is different from those he had tried in a French restaurant, Italian or Asian food he knew...


    Now that he got to taste the French cuisine prepared tonight, he has no doubt¡ªHailey, who cooks them.


    At the round table, the three men were seated along with their other two friends back in college. They were merrily eating while having a random topic which ends them up cracking.


    Hazel is eating silently. She wishes Hailey were here to keep herpany. Listening to this men''s lousy joke made her roll her eyes in secret.


    ''Where are you, Hailey!?'' She has to ask Nadia and Liza. It''s time to dress, Hailey!

 Chapter 59 - Class Reunion: Who Did This To You (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 59 - ss Reunion: Who Did This To You (Two)</h4>


    As the gathering went on, the Alumnae enjoyed the food, and Vince is one of them.


    "Waiter! Can you get me another bowl of this?" Vince made another request. The waiter bowed at him and rushed toward the buffet table.


    Meanwhile, Jake and Lloyd blink countless times. They have noticed, Vince is eating a lot tonight and the opposite of him. One thing they always teased Vince during their college days, he is picky with food, especially in unknown restaurants.


    "Aren''t you hungry, huh?" Jake was astounded to see Vince acting like this in front of them.


    "Have you realized that is your fourth bowl?" Lloyd reminded him which Vince only shrug a shoulder and continues eating until he has his fifth bowl.


    "Man! I think that''s enough already! You do know that dish has a lot of cheese?" Clifford Wong chimed in.


    "It is what makes this dish yummier," Vince bragged about the food instead, with a huge smile across his face. He would love to tell his friends that it was precisely like Hailey''s dishes. Even he will close his eyes. He could tell that it was her who prepared them.


    "Mr. Shen, a dessert for you."


    "Oh, thank you!" His eyes spark with delight upon seeing the tter of tiramisu. It didn''t hide from his friends how his face brightened when the server ce the te on the table.


    Lloyd wants to try it, but Vince ps his hand. "Hey!" Lloyd was astounded by what Vince did.


    "You heard the waiter. It''s only for me."


    "Can you still stuff your stomach for more? We wanted to try it too! It looks different from the usual tiramisu."?Lloyd has observed.


    "Why not? Can''t I enjoy the food?" Vince muttered between stuffing his mouth with the dessert.


    His friends could not believe what they see at the moment. The meticulous Shen prince does not mind etiquette at all.


    "The rest of the dessert will serve soon, sir." The waiter politely informed them.


    "Oh. So this is special treatment, huh?" Jake chuckled after he figured it out.


    On the other hand, Vince ignored his friends, who remain giving him a face. He looked up at the waiter and queried him. "Is Miss Hillson done making the dishes?"


    "Yes, Mr. Shen... She is on her way back at this moment."


    "I see. Thank you."


    "You''re wee, Mr. Shen." The waiter bowed and left.


    Vince''s friends were staring at him with amazement. He lifted his head and saw them gaping at him with funny faces.


    He asked, "What? Is something on my face?"


    His friends nodded. And one of them stated... "Wow. How envious we are. It feels like this gathering is made to show off your love life."


    "Huh? What is that mean?" Vince is no clue at all, especially that he has no experience with love.


    "Look at you. Having a personal international chef? And what kind of reception is this? It was more like a wedding to me!"


    "What are you guys talking about?" Vince pretends he has no idea what his friends are talking about. He is casually putting a spoon of tiramisu on his mouth to avoid everyone''s meaningful stares.


    "You''re a kind of denial now," Lloyd expressed between hisugh.


    "How do I be one? And what to deny?"


    "Aw,e on, man! You wanted to impress your girlfriend, aren''t you? It was the purpose of these whole magical decors, right?"


    "Hm..." Vince ignores the question. He keeps on eating his dessert while casually he nced at Hazel.


    She had the fun of her life watching the boys putting the mighty Vincent Shen in the hot seat.


    Hazel meets Vince''s eyes. She nodded at him and stood from her chair. "I''m going to excuse myself, gentlemen. I need to go to the powder room."


    Hazel wandered her eyes to the entire reception. Searching for Nadia, but it was Liza she found. "Hey, is Haileying back?"


    "Not yet. She might be still in the kitchen. Mrs. Gomez told us that the kitchen needed more hands," Liza replied.


    "Okay, but we need to dress her up now! Where''s Nadia, by the way?"


    "She''s checking out if Hailey cane back already."


    "Okay! Informed me if she''s back!"


    Liza nodded. She left Hazel as a guest called on her. Hazel opens her purse and takes out her phone.


    ''Boss, Hailey wasn''t here yet.''


    It was what Hazel typed on her phone. She put it back in her purse and headed to the powder room when she met Zenaida and her fake friends in the hallway.


    "Stupid waitress! She almost messes up my dress!" Zenaida stresses out to her friends.


    Hazel halted from walking. She turned around and watched Zenaida and her minions step out of the building, headed back to the venue. It intrigued her if who she was talking about.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hailey has just arrived at the venue. She first headed to the Staff Locker Room to fix herself before she appeared in the reception.


    "Nadia? Are you crying?" It surprised her to hear sobs the moment she entered the room. And it shocked her more to recognize the girl struggling to wipe her uniform that was drenched with wine.


    "What happened?" She rushed at Nadia''s sides to help her dry herself. The girl was reeking with wine that poured from her head down to her sleeves. "Who did this to you?"


    "I... She freaks out when I almost bumped into her carrying a tray of wine."


    "Who did this to you?" Hailey repeated her question. She prayed that her guess is wrong because there is only one person she knows who would do this to people below her.


    However, Nadia is hesitant to name that person. She lowered her head and averted her eyes, not to meet Hailey''s eyes.


    "It was her, isn''t it?" She had a strong hunch that Zenaida is the witch who would love to embarrass someone.


    Now that Hailey had her presumption. She had no reason to remain quiet. "I didn''t mean to, Hail. I heard that Zenaida and her friends areshing you! So I put wine on the sses and walk straight toward them. It is stupid of me, but I want to pretend I was identally poured the wine on them. But what happens instead... Zenaida suddenly turned around, and I wasn''t prepared to spill the wine on her."


    "This happens to you because of me..." Hailey extends her arm and rubs Nadia''s cheek. "Thank you. But next time, just ignore them."


    "But Hail..."


    "I know... Let me handle her. And if I am the one who heard about it. I know how to protect myself. You don''t need to make a reckless decision that will put you in an unlikely situation. Okay?"


    Nadia tears a smile as she nodded at Hailey. "Okay."


    "Promised?"


    "I do promise," Nadia swears at Hailey.


    "Okay. Just stay here. Let me fill your ce," said Hailey.


    "Thank you, Hail."


    She nodded at Nadia. She fixes herself before she heads to the venue. And the moment she steps out of the Staff Room, the smile on her face disappears.


    And it is fate that their path crosses easily.


    "Well, well... Well... Look who''s here! Peasant always a peasant."

 Chapter 60 - Class Reunion: "How Did She Know?" (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 60 - ss Reunion: "How Did She Know?" (Three)</h4>


    Zenaida contorted a pleasing smirk on the corner of her lips. She is delighted to see this mistress wearing a service crew uniform tonight.


    "Peasants will remain forever a peasant. And you belong to peasant man like you, not with Vince!" However, the smile on her face disappeared.


    Zenaida frowned when Hailey scoffs at her. She really hated how Vincent''s mistress has a thick face to fight back at her.


    "Why do you hate so much where you came from, Zenaida?" Hailey queried the woman.


    "Excuse me?" This mistress is something!?Zenaida casts a stern look at her.


    "You don''t need to look down on the people that are lower than you. Ah. That''s not the correct phrase. You need not be superior above others just to make yourself look greater than them."


    "And what are you implying? What does a peasant like you know about superiority? Look at yourself! Vincent probably has now woken up from his craziness and realized you are not worth keeping as a woman that he is now ashamed to introduce you as his girlfriend. And because you are so ambitious to be in the same ce as Vincent. You came to this gathering as a waitress. What a shame!"


    Upon hearing this, Hailey burst outughing, and it catches the attention of other people on that side of the reception. From the soft lights surrounding them, they recognized Zenaida in a dazzling golden yellow gown and Vincent''s girlfriend in a waitress uniform.


    At first nce, it was easy to guess that there was a sh between them. And the people near them anticipated what would happen next.


    Soon after, Hailey settled down fromughing.?She pursed her lips and uttered, "Don''t be so stupid. Vincent and I had a silent war because I turned down his invitation to be his date tonight. Do you want to know the reason?"


    "And why would I be interested to hear it?" Zenaida scoffs, pushing her left brow?upward.


    "You should be because it is out of my pity for you." Hailey is looking at Zenaida?downward.


    "Excuse me? You pitied me?" This time, it was Zenaida whoughed?loudly. "Stop your exaggeration,?bitch!"


    "Do I? Because what I know, it isn''t me who is trying hard to get Vince''s attention or other?people. Wearing this several thousand US?dors handmade gown won''t make you beautiful when your heart is full of envy and resentment toward others," said Hailey meaningfully, gesturing her hand to the?gown.


    "Says, who? You are?just?a mistress!" Zenaida pursed her lips in annoyance. She is about to open her mouth again,


    but Hailey raises her hand to stop her.


    She said, "What will happen to you if I showed up wearing a contoured dress by a famous designer? You surely are out of the ce, and people would only have their attention on me." Hailey makes sure that she sounds boastful to annoy Zenaida. Ridiculing her is the best way to anger her at the same time, leaving her upset. "I''m only wearing a waitress uniform, but I look more elegant than you."


    "Hah! Who is dreaming now?" I really, really wanted to p this mistress! Zenaida was on the verge of her control. No matter what insults, she''s throwing at Hailey. The girl never backs down! Instead, she felt criticized. Her jaw tightens, and she grits her teeth. It annoys her that this mistress just easilymbasted her without restraint. "I do admire how thick your face is."


    "Is it me? Or you?" Hailey countered.


    "Shut up, bitch!" Zenaida snaps. It irritates her how Hailey keeps oppressing her, and she had no chance to retort.


    "Do you think that once Vince dumped me, he would run toward your arms and choose you as your sister''s recement? Come on! Stop dreaming! Vince is not stupid to court you next." Hailey tears her lips with a mocking smile.?But in the back of her head express out... ''Besides, I would not allow you! You are not deserving of either of your sisters to be Vincent''s wife!''


    "Mistresses these days are truly the ones who are braver and shamelessly act like the original wife! But whatever you do, Eva would never divorce Vincent, so stop dreaming yourself!" Zenaida struggled to crush Hailey''s arrogance, and it pissed her even more!


    "Oh. Isn''t Vince and Eva''s marriage automatically dissolved a year ago?" She reminded Zenaida.


    "What are you talking about? What do you know about thew? One month before their marriage turned two years, Vince and Eva met in New York. It means they are still husband and wife!"


    "Oh. Then too bad for you. Vince remains married to your sister. You still had no chance!" Hailey clicks her tongue to tease Zenaida. She watched how she explodes in anger as her face is like bitten red now.


    Zenaida clenched both fists on her side. She wanted to pull Hailey''s hair. However, she knew better not to expose her feelings for her brother-inw. If she did that, everyone who heard Hailey would think that what she said was true, that she had fantasies for Vince!


    "Why would I worry about that? You should worry yourself! Who knows, that one day, Vince''s first love came back. Do you know that Vince is keeping a picture of his first love on his phone? I heard he often looked at it. Such friendly advice? Don''t be overly arrogant that you will remain as Vince''s mistress! Why don''t you stick to being a waitress? You are an expert in seducing men, anyway. Why don''t you start looking for, new lover? Do you like married men? There''s a lot of older men who are d to be your sugar daddy!"


    Haileyughs, shaking her head in amazement. Zenaida would try everything to disheartened her. Too bad no one knows that her rtionship with Vince is only fake. On the one hand, a pinch of pain crept toward her heart. Of course, she knew that Vince has someone he likes, the reason he refused to marry Eva. And all the sweetness Vince shows to her is part of their agreement.


    "Nice try, sister. But too bad.?I don''t feel troubled about it at all.?I am Vince''s new love. Just ept it." Not feeling trouble? What a liar! Haileyughs to herself in silence. But the truth is, Zenaida''s words are partly hurtful. "Besides, what is wrong with being a waitress? It was a decent job, the same as a secretary job."


    "And what do you mean by that?" Zenaida scowled at Hailey. This girl would still not give up!?Dammit!


    "Like what I mentioned earlier, you shouldn''t feel ashamed of where you came from."


    "I am a Lan! And I never feel ashamed of it!"


    "Is that so? And then why do you hold a grudge against people who have ordinary status in society? Have you forgotten what kind of job your mother had before??It is decent work for me, and I would never look down on her."


    "And what do you care? You know nothing about us!"


    "And you know nothing about me, too!" Hailey blurts out. "So why judge the other people or me??You know what? You should be proud that even your mother is just your father''s secretary, they fell in love with each other, and you are the fruit of their love."


    "Don''t be concerned about my family!" Zenaida was infuriated that Vincent''s mistress is well-informed about her mother and father''s love story. That is true. But she understood that Hailey is implying her out as a peasant daughter. But her father is from a Lan Household that was once a powerful family in High Society! How dare she criticize me this way! "You really have guts because my brother-inw had your backing!"


    "Is that so?" Hailey sneers at Zenaida. She added, "Your brother-inw? Then where is your sister, Zenaida?"


    "And why would I tell you?"


    Hailey steps closer at her and whispers, "I know you are keeping your sister''s whereabouts. I wonder what Vince would do once he knew the truth."


    "I didn''t! And I have no idea what you are talking about!"


    "Really? Well, you can deny it all your life. But unfortunately, you can''t keep a secret that Eva is with another man until now."


    Hailey steps back to see what would be her reaction. And Hailey was right. Zenaida''s face paled like a ghost. Now that she confirmed it. She didn''t need to waste her time with her.


    She leaned over and whispered, "You do know that the court would favor Vince if the evidence were presented. However, you would not let this kind of scandal for the family Land to face, right? Headlines... Eva Lan was sentenced to several years of imprisonment.?File case? Adultery! Ah, P Country would love to see this kind of drama.?And it will be a long drama because Eva''s boyfriend didn''t know she is married, right?"


    Hailey tears her lips with a smirk across her face. She walks past Zenaida. She intentionally bumped into her shoulder as she said, "I''m watching you, sister."


    Zenaida was left in a trance. Her mouth remains open from shock. She reached for her right hand when it began shaking. She squeezes it to calm down. And inside her head is one question, ''How did she know about it!?''

 Chapter 61 - Class Reunion: Sweet Dance (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 61 - ss Reunion: Sweet Dance (Four)</h4>


    "There you are!" Hazel finally found Hailey.?"Did you juste back? I heard you help out the kitchen?"


    "Yeah! So, I could resume my waitress job!"


    "What are you saying? Let''s go! We have to change your clothes."


    "Huh? What''s wrong with my uniform?"


    "That''s enough ying waitress or chef, Miss Hillson! It''s time to rock the party!" Hazel grabbed Hailey''s hand and led her toward the Electronic bus to send them to the main building.


    "Where are we going?" Hailey asked as she yed, confused.?She''s been noticing that Hazel is acting strange since yesterday.


    "We are only waiting for Liza and Nadia," said Hazel.


    "Oh. I hope Nadia is alright now."


    "What happened?" They were seated at the UV bus waiting for the two girls.


    "She seeks revenge on my behalf.?It turns out she''s the embarrassed one."


    "Wait a minute! Is Zenaida the witch involved in this?" Hazel guess.?"Dammit! Where is that old hag, and I will teach her a lesson!"


    "That''s enough. From now on, she will have a second thought crossing my way.?So, I''m hoping she won''t provoke me anymore."


    "Oh! Is a drama just happening, and I missed it?" asked Hazel.?Her eyes widened, seeing Hailey nodded.?"Ugh! I want to witness it! You should call a backup!"


    "That''s not necessary." Haileyughs, watching Hazel throwing a tantrum, frowning.?She smiled and reached for Hazel''s hand.?"You don''t need to get involved in my issues with Zenaida."


    "But Hail..." Hazel didn''t finish her words when Nadia and Liza climbed on the Electronic bus. "Nadia! Are you okay? I didn''t know that old hag bullied you!"


    "I''m alright. Hailey takes revenge on my behalf.?Although, it''s my fault for going into a war not fully armed."


    "Still! I?hated that woman!"


    "Alright! We don''t need to ruin our night because of Zenaida." Hailey has to stand in between.?She is grateful that these girls would fight for?her.?But she would never want them to get harm because of?her.?As the oldest, she has to appease?them.?To forget this matter, she changes the?subject.?"So... Where are you guys taking?me?"


    "You will know soon!"


    The topic changes, and the three girls are more immersed in carrying out their n of dressing up Hailey.?They arrived at the main resort and dragged her toward the suite that belongs to?Vince.


    "What are we doing here?" Hailey had the anticipation, reading the girl''s?actions.?First, they head straight into the?room.?Second, Hazel had the key card?already.?Only one thing it means, Vince is behind?this!?''What are they nning?''


    Hailey was astounded seeing three evening dresses worn by a mannequin inside the suite.?She queried, "What is the meaning of?this?"


    "Come on! You should choose one of these dresses to wear tonight!" Liza encouraged?Hailey.?She began undressing her, unbuttoning her waitress uniform."


    "Wait a minute! Is this Vince''s n??Or?"


    "Obviously, your Majesty... Yes, of course!?The boss wants you to stand by his side!?He wanted you to be his date tonight, but you just refused him."


    "And he asked for your help? That is my understanding of what I see now."


    Hazel, Nadia, and Liza giggles.?Indeed, Vince contacted Hazel yesterday morning to inform her that he rented out a store for Hailey to have her fittings.?But as she refused, he needed help to make things secret, and the rest is a long story to be in detail.


    Now here they are! Everything was all ready!?What only matters is for Hailey to show up at the party wearing one of these dresses.


    "Hail, give me your uniform! I still need to work on my grades!" Nadia pleaded with Hailey.


    At this moment, she felt like she had no choice because she wanted to help Nadia.


    "Okay. But I need to take a quick shower first," she told them.


    "Yes!" Nadia, Hazel, and Liza said at once.?They sigh with relief after Hailey entered the bathroom.


    Hailey didn''t stay longer in the bathroom.?Liza dried her hair while Hazel helped her apply makeup on her face.


    Nadia took this opportunity to wash her hair that was drenched with red wine.?She wandered her eyes to the entire bathroom.?Wealthy people do know how to spend their money.?She thought to herself.


    Outside, Hailey is almost ready.?She chooses a dress that is the same as her skin tone, the cream-colored that shows every curve of her body and generous to disy her chest.?And the dress has a long slit on the left side, showing her long-legged.


    Since her dress is backless, Hailey leaves her hair rested on her back after Liza iron it.


    "Thank you, girls!" Hailey was grateful that she met these three angels here in P Country.


    She is uncertain of where they n to work after college.?Hazel''s family has its own business, so a job is already waiting for her while Liza''s parents work in famous hotels, and both are managers.?So then, all that needed her help was Nadia.?Her mother struggled to work somewhere in the Middle East to support her college and her younger brother in Junior High.


    She is already preparing Nadia''s documents to receive a sponsorship from Dream City Foundation.?Once Nadia graduated and had a rmendation after an internship, and is willing to work with her in Australia; she will assign her as one of the instructors to train her service crews.


    However, right now, she could not tell Nadia about it yet.?But probably, soon, she would finally confess to them who she is.


    Back in the venue, the ss Reunion proceeds by giving tributes to those who help make this year''s alumni sessful. At the moment, Vincent called on stage to make a speech. He thanked everyone who attended tonight''s gathering. He also acknowledged the sponsors one by one. And when he was almost done, his eyes caught the beautiful woman entering the reception.


    Vince took a deep breath. The woman who slowly walked on the red carpet made him breathless.?Few of the alumni noticed that he seemed distracted all of a sudden.?They followed his gaze when he stopped blinking and settled his eyes in one direction.


    At the entrance, they saw Hailey Hillson walking toward the table reserved for the AB Department.?Everyone could not take their eyes away from looking at her.


    And at the moment, Hailey would like for the clock to stop.?Now that every pair of eyes was staring in her direction, it made her anxious.?She could not believe that Hazel left her in the middle of the entrance.?That girl disappears out of thin air!


    She struggled to find her way in which direction she must go.?Her eyes traveled, and she saw Lloyd Khan waving at her, and Hazel was there already!?I''m going to pinch thisdy!?Hailey thought inwardly.


    She was on her way to the table when Vince started making a statement that made her chest beating loudly.


    "Andstly, I would like to thank the person who saves us all tonight.?To make this gathering more special, the Alumni Association invited this famous chef that is currently visiting our country to prepare our food tonight.?However, she had to bring her daughter to the hospital.?dly, her former student, is now a student at N University.?And she highly rmends her!?And tonight... On behalf of the Alumni Association and N University Administration.?We want to give our gratitude to Miss Hailey Hillson!?Round of apuse, please."


    After Vince made this acknowledgment, he walks toward Mrs. Gomez and gets the bouquet they prepared for Chef Tessa.


    Vince came down from the stage and walked toward Hailey.?Meanwhile, she wished for the ground to open and eat her.?She is never used to this kind of appreciation as all her life, she is hiding from her nobility status.?She never gets involved in her father''s poprity in the business world.?And if herpany needs to attend such gatherings, she has the boys to send over.


    And tonight, she didn''t see iting that Vince would do such a thing.?As much, she wanted to stay low.?But what a coincidence. The chef they invited is her former teacher, and what a coincidence such an emergency happens.


    Everything in her life at the moment is full of coincidences.?Life is indeed full of surprises.?She mused.


    Hailey set aside her thoughts when Vince is now standing in front of her.?She looks up and meets his eyes.?He was looking at her lovingly, which made her cheeks blushed.


    She wished it was real. And she wished this was also a dream.?That only two people were enjoying this magical moment.


    "Hi! It''s for you..." Vince handed the flowers. He also leaned over and nted a kiss on her cheeks.


    "Thank you." She smiled at Vince, blushing, and prayed that he would not hear how her heart is beating wildly.


    Hailey recalled the incident this morning when Vince kissed her cheek even they were not on the act.?Thinking it over, it causes her cheeks to flush red.


    And witnessing this sweet moment... Mrs. Gomez makes an announcement.?"Ladies and Gentlemen, to proceed with the program, I am inviting Mr. Shen and Miss Hillson toe in the middle of the dance floor to lead our traditional Sweet Dance!"


    pping their hands, it filled the venue with cheer and apuse. Vince ces his right arm into his chest and leans slightly.


    "Can I have the honor of this dance, Miss Hillson?"


    Hailey''s eyes spark with delight.?She thinks Vince had be more handsome in her eyes.?Bowing like a knight, thrilled crept toward her chest.


    "It''s my pleasure, Mr. Shen." Hailey ces her hand into Vince''s waiting palm.?He guided her into the middle of the reception.?Vince ces his left hand on her waist while his right palm still holds her left hand.


    Their body swayed at the first beat of the song.?The famous singers whom they invited to perform tonight are singing the famous song that is Hailey''s favorite song.?She wished this night would never end...


    *


    Moon so bright, the night so fine


    Keep your heart here with mine


    Life''s a dream. We are dreaming


    Race the moon, catch the wind


    Ride the night to the end


    Seize the day, stand up for the light


    I want to spend my lifetime loving you


    If that is all in life I ever do


    Heroes rise, heroes fall


    Rise again, win it all


    In your heart, can''t you feel the glory?


    Through our joy, through our pain


    We can move worlds again


    Take my hand, dance with me, dance with me..."

 Chapter 62 - Class Reunion: THE PHOTO (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 62 - ss Reunion: THE PHOTO (Five)</h4>


    The first song reaches its ends. But Vincent has no n to stop. The next song that was yed by their guest band has a song titled Destiny by Jim Brickman.


    This time, both of her arms rested on Vince''s shoulder and both of his palms sping her slender waist. Their body was pressing each other. Too close that it made her difficult to breathe.


    To hide her blushing cheeks, Hailey rested her head on Vince''s shoulder. She could not meet his intense gaze either. It feels like, his eyes drawing her into space she knew she should not enter. She''s afraid to fall deeper.


    "You look lovely in your dress," Vince whispered into her ear.


    Hailey parted from Vince and met his eyes. There is sincerity on them. She smiled and thanked him. For her, Vince is such a gentleman. In months, they were living together, he didn''t try to take advantage of her. Instead, it''s quite the opposite. However, in these passing days, he started acting strange, and she doesn''t want to assume that Vince is also falling for her.


    How if Zenaida is right? How about one day, Vince finally sees her again? How if he finally found her?


    It means Vince''s real love has finally arrived. And all of these acts would be only as her wonderful memories.


    Hailey closes her eyes. At the moment, she was lost in her thoughts. Once again, she self-pitied herself and consoled herself not to fall too much.


    Sheprehended that the heartbreak she experienced with Bryan is different from the pain she will feel once she let herself fall for Vince. Because what she felt for Bryan is only brotherly love and Vince is different.


    There are many times she wishes, that every intimacy they were acting is real. But in the end, she has to wake up, because, in reality, she is not part of his life.


    She is simply His Contractual Mistress.


    Hailey lost her enthusiasm for dancing. She asked Vince, "Can we take a seat now?"


    "Sure! How about dinner?" Vince queried on their way back to the table he was seated at with his friends.


    "Ah... I''m a little hungry, yes." Her excuse. Because whatfort she could only offer to herself is food.


    But Vince is acting gentlemanly again. In the end, she cannot escape from his charm.


    "Seat here. I''ll get you something to eat." said, Vince. He pulled a chair and helped Hailey to sitfortably. He gathered the hem of her dress and carefully tucked them on her side so that she would not step in on herself.


    "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. I''ll ask a server to serve some water."


    Hailey observed Vince at the buffet table. She sighed helplessly and hid the sadness in her eyes. Every day, she always works on killing her feelings for him. But every single day, Vince is showing her a reason why she must fall for him.


    ''And it should not happen.'' Her thoughts but not her heart. ''Ah! Stop! You can''t decide on your own!'' Hailey keeps scolding herself.


    Later, Nadia approaches her with a pitcher of water in her hand. She poured the water into a clean ss and offered it to Hailey.


    "Thank you, Nads."


    "You are very wee, Madame Shen," Nadia said teasingly which made Hailey dumbfounded for a moment.


    "Hey! Don''t make a joke like that." She warned the girl. However, she could not hide the smile she tried to conceal.


    "You and boss are a perfect match!" Nadia could not stop fangirling and showing how thrilled she was. "Darn! Earlier, when you made a grand entrance, the boss stopped blinking and his eyes couldn''t take off from you! His expression was actually caught on camera. And everyone sees it on therge screen."


    "Okay. But I''m actually quite nervous, you know." Still, everyone knows that Vince is married to someone else, and she''s here as the mistress taking the wife''s ce.


    "Why would you? You are so lovely and the way you walk was so elegant! When the boss acknowledged you? I saw how Zenaida''s eyes were popping out from shock. And when the boss gives you flowers and kisses you and dances with you? Her face is throwing a fret of jealousy!"


    Hailey chuckled. "Alright. The night is great! And the reception is truly amazing. No one should spoil this gathering. And speaking of amazing things to happen..." Hailey pointed her lips toward Hazel dancing with a tall handsome man. "Is he the one Hazel mentioned as her crush among Vince''s friends?"


    "Oh! He must be! Darn, Hazel. She looks too obvious that she had a crush on him."


    "I could tell too." Both of them giggled. When Vince came back with tes of food, Nadia quickly left.


    Hailey looked at the tter Vince ced in front of her. Her mouth drop opened after realizing how much food Vince took for her.


    "Whoa! I couldn''t eat them all!"


    "Don''t worry, I''ll help you," said Vince with a smile. He picked up a clean spoon and began putting food on Hailey''s te. "Which one do you like?"


    "Oh. That fish fillet!" Hailey pointed to the bowl of sweet and sour sauce. Vince ced it next to her te, she immediately had a bite of it. "Hmm... I watched the chef who makes them. I figured out how to make the perfect sauce! I''m going to try it tomorrow!" She told Vince excitedly, she put more fish fillet on her mouth.


    When ites to food, she and Vince develop a greater rtionship that Hailey hasn''t realized yet. And for Vince, food is the best part since he meets Hailey. Honestly, he never enjoyed the food this much before. Unless it''s homemade.


    Coming back from dancing, Jake, Lloyd, and Hazel had a second thought if they should go back to their table. They just have a feeling to bother the sweet couple sharing food at the moment.


    "Damn. I want to believe I was only deceived by my eyes." Jake stated. "Where did he put all the food he''s eating tonight?"


    "He must be a cow. He had three stomachs." Lloyd''s opinion.


    Listening to these men, Hazel could not suppress fromughing. She shook her head from amazement at how stupid these two men are. It seems they had no idea that food is man''s happiness. ''The only food they knew is women.''


    Hazel frowned and rolled her eyes. She left them and headed to their table, casually seated across Hailey and Vince who made everyone envy at how lovey-dovey they were.


    "I started thinking that I was attending your wedding, bro," Jake uttered after he sat next to Vince.


    The guy could only curl up his forehead. His mouth was filled with food, but only humming his words.


    "Don''t talk when your mouth is full." Jake took this opportunity to annoy Vince. The guy could only throw a dagger look at him, but it''s not threatening at all. Instead, he ignored Vince and stared at the beautiful woman seated next to him. "Hi, Hailey! It''s nice to finally meet you! Jake Vsco."


    "Hello, Jake. Nice to meet you, too." Hailey reinstated. She shakes hands with the guy.


    "Yeah! I''ve been thrilled to meet you for a long time already." Jake added, to which he received a sharp re from Vince. But the usual, Jake ignored him, and he continued chatting with Hailey.


    On the other hand, Hailey is a bit intrigued. Why does Jake say he is thrilled to meet her for a long time already? So Vince told him about their agreement? She could not stop thinking about it. And it made her wonder what Vince told Jake about her.


    "I have to go to the powder room." Later, Hailey informed Vince.


    "Okay." Vince stood from his seat and helped Hailey sit up from her chair. His friends rendered speechlessly witnessing his acts. They could tell that their friends are head over heels to Hailey.


    And when Hazel saw Hailey stand up and gesture at her, she followed Hailey and both girls left the men.


    "He''s chatty," Hailey whispered at Hazel.


    However, Hazel didn''t understand it at first. "Who?"


    "Jake Vsco. He is your crush, isn''t it?" Hailey teases Hazel. She didn''t need to ask the teenager. Her flushing cheeks answered her curiosity.


    Meanwhile, left at the table, Lloyd left as well to get some dessert. Seeing this an opportunity, Jake pulled his chair closer to Vince.


    "She is more pretty in person," Jakemented.


    Furrowing his eyebrows, Vince asked Jake suspiciously. "You saw the news about us? Someone sending you photos of us which I take them down already?"


    "Yes, ah, no! I''m not talking about the recent photos of her!" Jake having a hard time exining himself when Vince is throwing sharp res at him. "I''m talking about the photo you showed me four years ago!"

 Chapter 63 - Class Reunion: He Wanted To Keep Forever (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 63 - ss Reunion: He Wanted To Keep Forever (Six)</h4>


    "Shut up!" Vince immediately covered Jake''s mouth now that Lloyd came back to their table.


    The guy looked at them suspiciously. He asked with curiosity. "What are you guys doing? Are you talking about secrets?"


    "No. He has bad breath. So, I was covering his mouth from talking," Vince''sme excuse, causes Jake to burst outughing.


    "Damn! Who eaten a lot tonight? It was you who had a bad breath now."


    "Hm..." Vince concurred after he smelled his breath. "I need to go to the washroom."


    Jake and Lloyd stared at him with astonishment. Thetter phrase, "I think it''s a scary thing to be in love."


    "Man, I will tell Jessie you said it." Jake threatens Lloyd, who instantly paled from his statement.


    "Hey, no kidding! Of course, I am in love with my wife! Well, great timing! My love just texted."


    Lloyd found an excuse to dodge his friend''s tease. Then, he loudly read the message from his wife Jessie, who is seventh-month pregnant, the reason it was Hazel he brought as his date tonight. Well, the purpose is for Hailey to have a friend apanying her if Vince will crowd by everyone.


    "Jessie texted... She needs... Pineapple? Where could I buy a pineapple at this hour?"


    "Try to visit the Metro Public Market. They were still open until midnight. A few stores still open," Vince suggested. He knew, of course.


    "Wow, man! Thanks!" Lloyd stood from his chair and walked toward Vince and Jake, tapping their shoulder. "Well, I wanted to continue chatting with you guys, but the boss is waiting home. I need to go... Oh, Hazel! I bet she doesn''t want to go home, yet."


    "Don''t worry, bro. Let me drive her home," Jake offered. However, Lloyd raises a brow and gives him a suspicious stare. "What? Do I look like someone would do something to a teenage girl?"


    "I am more suspicious of hearing it from your mouth."


    "Hey! What do you think of me?" Jake is defending himself, but Vince chimed in.


    "You are a yboy New Yorker."


    "You''re offending me!"


    "Like I didn''t know you were sleeping around with different women," Lloyd added.


    "I''m single right now. But I''m loyal once I am in a rtionship! I only sleep with my girlfriends!"


    "See? It''sing from your mouth. I''m taking Hazel home with me."


    "Come on, bro!"


    Lloyd and Jake continued their argument. Vince decided to leave them alone, excusing himself to go to the washroom. When he came back, Lloyd left already.


    Their table is now filled with their other ssmates, chatting with Jake. He travels his eyes to look for Hailey, and he found him talking with the French Ambassador, along with Mrs. Gomez and the university President.


    Vince sat down, he took the ss of champagne Jake offered him.


    "Cheers!" sses nk, the men gulp the liquor in one go. Jake poured their sses again, but this time, Vince only half-emptied his drink, he put down the ss on the table.


    "Hey. I saw Evast week." Jake whispered at Vince. He studied his reaction. And as usual, Vince''s expression didn''t change when he heard his wife''s name. He went on, "She''s with her boyfriend. I think he is the same guy back then."


    "Hm. Where did you see her?"


    "Somewhere in Florida when I visit my sister. What happened to the divorce you are filing?"


    "She''s hiding from me. Now mywyers are trying their best to catch her."


    "Hah. Why don''t you file awsuit? You must gather evidence that she is with another man."


    "I''m living with someone else now." Vince pointed out, giving Jake a meaningful stare.


    "Okay... So you were thinking, Eva has something against you, and that turns out equal to you both? Isn''t that also favorable? That is why the divorce must happen as both of you have an affair with someone else."


    "Maybe your suggestion is good or correct. But right now, I have another thing to take care of firstly... Remember about the Dream City I told you before? I finally got a project from them!"


    "Oh, wow! Congrats, bro! But what will happen then? You will remain married to Eva, and the woman you love remains to have the title of a Mistress? In which case, if only you find her before the marriage..."


    "I know..." Vince cut Jake''s words. "But things had happened already. I''m just trying to locate Eva to sign the divorce papers. To make things easier for us, I am willing to give herpensation."


    "What? No! She doesn''t deserve it! Before and after your marriage, she is already living with another man, and you? You were alone all these years... until recently! We are not looking at the picture where it is unfair to you. But Eva should stand on her words to divorce you after two years." He pitied Vince and this guy deserves to be happy. He gave in too much already. Not to mention because he obediently followed his mother''s will. Damn!


    If it happens to him, his parents would not have a chance to force him. It was Jake''s thoughts.


    On the other hand, Vince sighed helplessly. Jake is right. And it was his fault why he''s the one who suffers now. "It was stupid of me, I did not make her sign an agreement."


    And the person he tricks instead to sign an agreement with him is someone he wanted to keep forever.


    Vince nced over in Hailey''s direction. She was still talking to the guests. And the way she spoke with them, she looks elegant and carried herself perfectly.


    Watching Vince how tender he looks at Hailey, Jake thinks that he should do something about his life. "Just tell me if you need help to locate Eva once you decide to bring court your divorce. I''ll gather evidence for you."


    Vince turned his head toward Jake. He pursed a smile and uttered, "Thanks, man. I will if I could not force Zenaida to confess, then it''s time to do it legally."


    "Great! You should do that in the beginning. So then, it''s a real wedding I have to attend. And that time, I''m a real best man."


    Vince chuckled. Well, he wishes that to happen as well. To hold his real wedding and that time, it would be the woman he loved.


    He nces at Hailey but she wasn''t there anymore. He found her with Hazel at the Bar Area. "Hazel was still here?"


    "Yeah, she stayed. I promised Lloyd to take her home by eleven o''clock," Jake replied innocently. But then, he frowned when Vince shot him a suspicious re. "Hey,e on! Do you think I''lly a hand to a teenager?"


    "Hazel is Hailey''s close friend. I''m just kinda reminding you," Vince told Jake. He and Lloyd are his childhood friends. Somehow, he is familiar with their behavior.


    "Jeez... So, I can''t date a girl if way younger than me?" Jake rolled his eyes, mumbling.


    "That depends. If it has parental consent."


    Jake mouthed, "Ouch. I forget our country was still this semi-conservative."


    "I object. If I have a younger sister the same age as Hazel, I would not allow her to date even if it says my best friend."


    "What''s wrong with that?" Jake pouted. He is frustrated with the way Vince treats him.


    Anyway, he understood why Vince set his mind this way. He has two younger sisters. May both are now married, but the Shen''s had a bad experience with the youngest daughter.


    Vienna Shen is an extremely beautiful and intelligent rising fashion icon. However, she got pregnant at the age of eighteen years old. It happens when the teenage girl joins an ind-hopping with their trusted family friend.


    In the end, the guy runs away because he is afraid of the responsibility, and he wants to remain single forever and pick up a new girl after another. It was a huge scandal for the Shen family, the reason Vienna flew to Paris six years ago, and she never came back to P Country.


    A perfect family doesn''t often end up perfectly. He mused. Thinking about it, Jake dropped the topic and joined their ssmates, conversing about their college days.

 Chapter 64 - THE KISS

    <h4>Chapter 64 - THE KISS</h4>


    "Hey, guys! Let''s do something fun before I go back to New York," Jake suggested. "How about let''s have a party in your yacht, CEO Shen?"


    Vincent shook his head as he refused. "Nah. I have a lot of things to do."


    "Hey! We should celebrate the project you won from Dream City, big boss!"


    "Shut up! I haven''t known yet how big the project they are assigning me."


    "But it was the Dream City!" Jake tries it out again; maybe this time, he could convince the guy. "Do you know how much the Davies Group budget for this project? TRILLION US Dors, bro!"


    "Whoa!" The men at their table are all looking at Vince.


    "Imagine a BILLION DOLLAR project in US Dors? That''s a lot already, bro!" Echoed by their other ssmates.


    "Okay! And that the reason I have to work hard and have fewer drinking parties," Vince reasons out. It was true, but his main reason, he just wanted to stay home with Hailey.


    "Man, since we are in High School, you''ve rarelye with us."


    "I know... Mom is too strict with me. It''s only a few memories I have that I had fun in my teenage life. But I didn''t hate them. Mom''s nagging bes my path to achieve what I wanted. And that to win over to manage ourpany and win international projects."


    "I think you are a mama''s boy." Confessed by one of their friends. "But damn! When the news explodes that you have a girlfriend and are living together... My impression about Vincent Shen has changed!"


    "And what''s more? The Great Madame Shen can do nothing about it!" The other men chimed in.


    "Love conquers all!"


    Vincent chuckled, shaking his head. He could not correct his friends'' judgment. Besides, nothing wrong with their assumption. ''Love conquers all, huh?''


    Well... He never denied it to his friends or other people, the reason no one suspects that his rtionship with Hailey is just an act. Or it is what Hailey believes.


    Thinking about this, a yful smirk curved his lips, and they saw it. Because of it, Vince was teased further.


    "You know, guys... Vincent Shen is not mama''s boy. He is only an obedient son."


    "Yeah!" They cheer to that, followed by sses clinking and cracks out.


    He was already used to calling him mama''s boy. At first, he got angry. Butter on, he chooses to ignore those who bully him when he is young. But when he was in High School, he crossed many fights because of it.


    Probably, it was the reason his name was known in Metro City; after he beat up those who bugged him, but then his mother would still nag him because of it.


    The more he stays away from any fight and obediently follows his parents, the more he was teased and bullied.


    ''The life rules are sometimes a great joke to others.'' Vince thought to himself.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hailey and Hazel sat at the bar and ordered cocktail drinks.


    "Hail, slow down! Wow! You emptied the ss in one go!" Hazel is not an expert with liquor, but she knows that most cocktails are hard drinks.


    "It tastes great!" Haileyplimented. She also praises the bartender and orders one more time. While waiting for her drinks, she queried the bartender.


    The reason she headed to the bar is to try the famous cocktails she saw that posted on social media a month ago. She learns that the bartenders to serve tonight are from the known Academy that experts in mixing drinks and their students are usually sent abroad and work in famous hotels and cruise ships.


    And Hailey is interested in employing their best-trained bartenders soon. And so, shees over to interview the three bartenders: two male and one female, serving drinks.


    "Hail, that was your third ss!" Hazel began worrying about her. Before, she avoids drinking too much. But tonight, Hailey won''t stop ordering more cocktails.


    "It''s just my third ss, and I want to try the other recipe!" Hailey ignored Hazel. She read the Cocktail menu and pointed to another cocktail mixed.


    Hazel read the recipes of the cocktails Hailey ordered. She freaks out after reading the names of rum, tequ, and whiskey. "You should stop now, Hail!" Hazel begged. When Hailey didn''t listen, she left her to inform Vincent what happened. She whispered at Vince. "Boss, your girlfriend won''t stop drinking cocktails! She''s ordering the hard ones!"


    Vincent turned his head toward the bar area. He excused himself and joined Hailey, seated next to her.


    Seeing him, Hailey widens her smile. "Hey! Try this one! I asked them to teach me new recipes I want to try out!"


    Vince stared at the ss. The straw on it was already stained with Hailey''s lipstick. If he sips on it, it means that''s an indirect kiss from Hailey.


    He lifted his gaze at the girl''s flushing face. She had a beautiful smile he could not refuse. He sipped on the straw and emptied the ss.


    "Hey! You should drink up just a little!" Haileyins while she giggles. It amused Vince to watch her behaving like this. She is a bit drunk, and now she''s acting cutely. "One more ss! No, make it two... For us!"


    Vince grows worried when Hailey orders another ss. "Hail, I think that''s enough. I should not drink a lot. I have to drive us home."


    "Okay! Then, just this one!" She told Vince with excitement in her voice. However, the one de bes another one and another more.


    Hailey got drunk, and he drunk plenty as well. Vince decides to stay overnight at M Resort. He brought Hailey into his suite. Gently, he ced her on the bed.


    "Hey! I want to drink more!" Hailey attempts to get up, but her head is spinning around.


    "No. You have to sleep now." Vince pushes her back to the bed.


    "It''s okay! Dad wouldn''t know. Besides, I trust you!" she giggled, pointing her finger toward Vince''s chest.


    Vince dropped his mouth open. Herst words struck his heart. At the same time, it brought delight to his chest. And it''s the first time Hailey mentioned someone in her family. ''So, she still has a dad.''


    "Okay. I won''t tell your dad you drink a lot tonight. But in one condition, you have to sleep now."


    "Promise?" Hailey looked up at Vince with droopy eyes. She kept giggling and then held Vince on the face.


    "Yes. I promised." Vince swears to prevent Hailey from getting off the bed. He heaves a silent sigh. This girl is cute. She didn''t know this is torture for him. Vince thought inwardly.


    "Great! And because of that! I will reward you with a kiss!" Upon saying it, Hailey reaches for Vince''s lips that caught him off guard.


    It was only a quick kiss. She parted her lips from him and murmured, "You taste like strawberries. No, it must be a lemon, Apple and..."


    She giggled again and kissed Vince one more time. At this time, Vince let his mouth work. He returned the kiss and deepened it as he slowly pushes Hailey on the bed.


    Haileymented that he tasted like the fruits mixed with their drinks. But she also tasted the same.


    After the long kiss, Vince parted his lips from Hailey and peered at her beautiful face. Her cheeks are gleaming red, her eyes staring tenderly back at him.


    He extends his arm and rubs her cheeks. Lowering his head, Vince covered Hailey''s mouth and kissed her one more time.


    *


    Vince was currently taking a long cold shower. He heaves a long sigh, letting the water calms his body.


    What happened a while ago is the toughest battle in his entire life. And dly, he sessfully ovees it. Honestly, it was way moreplicated than facing his mother''s anger.


    Recalling what happened, he had to stop. Hailey just told him she trusted him, and he could not break that trust.


    Great that Hailey fell asleep before anything else would happen. However, he faces another problem.


    He''s debating within himself whether to ask help to change Hailey''s dress. Her friends were still at the venue, as more guests stayed to drink all night since they were also checking in at the resort.


    However, if he does that, it is suspicious why he could not do it himself when in the eyes of everyone, they were living like husband and wife in one roof.


    At the moment, Hailey is bathing in sweat cold. She was moaning as she felt ufortable. It must be the drinks. So Vince decided to help Hailey clean up asap.


    Taking off his coat, Vince rolled up his long sleeves and got a small basin and hand towel. He gently cleans Hailey, wiping her face and neck.


    Vince takes a long breath before he continues to clean Hailey''s body...


    It took him almost half an hour. And because he could not find any pajamas for Hailey, dly, he has another clean white long-sleeve stored in the closet.


    *


    Vince hurls another sigh. He shook his head to stop recalling those scenes. It won''t help him to calm down.


    He stepped out of the bathroom and dried his body, then wore a bathrobe.


    Hailey was still sleeping soundly. She has never woken up again, even after he undressed her and put on a clean cloth.


    Vince walked toward the closet and grabbed clean underwear and jeans. Still half-naked, he heard Hailey moans. He sat on the bed and tried to wake her up.


    "Hail..."


    "Water..."


    Vince helps Hailey to sit up on the bed. He picks up the ss of water on the bedside table and draws it close into Hailey''s mouth. She drank half of it before she pushed the ss away.


    "Who are you? Don''t touch me!" Hailey growled.


    "Hey, it''s me!" Vince calmed her down. He pushed back the strands of hair that cover her cheeks. "Go ahead, sleep back. You need to sober up."


    With tired eyes, Hailey blinks several times. She smiled and giggled. "Ah... It''s you! Vincent Shen!"


    "Yes, it''s me."


    "Vincent Shen..."


    "Yeah..." Vince stared at her with amusement. She behaves childishly again, calling his name repeatedly using her sweetest voice.


    "Vincent Shen..."


    "I''m here." Vincebs Hailey''s hair. She was leaning on him, resting her head on his chest, her arms wrapped around his waist. Another minute passed, Hailey didn''t say a word anymore. He guesses she falls asleep again.


    Vince carefully ces Hailey''s head on the pillow when she mumbled in her sleep.


    "Don''t leave me..."


    He froze for a moment. Then hey down next to her and pulled the quilt to cover half of their bodies.


    Hey on his side so that he could watch Hailey''s sleeping face. But his eyelids are dropping close.


    Before Vince closed his eyes, he traced Hailey''s nose, nted a kiss on her forehead, and uttered...


    "Silly... I should be the one saying that."

 Chapter 65 - What It Tastes Like?

    <h4>Chapter 65 - What It Tastes Like?</h4>


    The following day, Hailey attempted to move on her other side. However, she could feel two muscr arms wrapped around her: one hand holding her head and one arm holding her waist.


    ''What is this? Am I still dreaming?'' Hailey thought to herself. She slowly opens her eyes. And dramatically, her eyes widened. ''What the heck!?''


    It surprised her to wake up in this kind of position. She is pillowing Vince''s shoulder while her hand rests on his chest. It looked more like she was hugging him as well.


    No. She and Vince were embracing each other!


    ''What happenedst night?!'' She freaked out.


    She asked herself if anything happensst night when now, she is only wearing Vince''s white long sleeves polo.


    ''Did something happen to us?'' But she didn''t have any unusual feeling in her entire body.


    But who changes her dress? ''Oh, my god!'' She freaks out once again because her evening gownst night didn''t require a brassiere, and so she is naked inside but only wearing T-back underwear.


    ''Please, god... Not Vince!'' Hailey prayed in silence. She''s biting her lip as it made her anxious.


    And the worst part is, she remembers nothing after they continue boozing up cocktails in the bar.


    She let herself get drunk around a stranger.


    Now, she''s unsure whether they go home to the penthouse because the room seems different. It is not hers or Vince, and it''s not the guest room either.


    Hailey stared at the handsome man next to her, which she''s still wrapped tightly. She wanted to go to the bathroom and take a shower. But how can she move that Vince would not wake up?


    ''Gosh! I think I still breathed alcohol! I wonder what I did when I was drunk?''


    She could not stop pondering that Hailey is racking her head. It worries her that maybe she acted inappropriately around Vince.


    Having extreme concerns, she slowly takes Vince''s hand from her waist. However, what she feared happened. Vince opened his eyes, and now he''s peering at her.


    "Good morning," he greeted Hailey with his sweet voice.


    But she is embarrassed to open her mouth; might Vince smell her awful morning breath! And she blushes upon staring at Vince''s enticing lips as his face is too close to her!


    Hailey gets up abruptly and gives her back to Vince. "Good morning!" she replied when she took a distance from him.


    Vince chuckled to see that Hailey is avoiding him. It is evident when she averted to meet his eyes and even left him in the room.


    "Looks like the sun up above high already! Ah! My phone! I think I put my bag outside!" Hailey is more likely talking to herself as she rushed outside.


    Vince shook his head. He stepped out of bed and followed Hailey into the living room.


    Meanwhile, Hailey bent down on the coffee table to look for her phone inside her bag. Vince raised a brow. He was staring at Hailey''s fair long legs, and his gaze is climbing up to her bottom, which is barely covered by his long sleeves polo.


    Hailey turns around, and she catches Vince staring at her ass. ''What is he doing? Is he a pervert now?''


    She tries to think of an excuse, but Vince keeps walking close toward her, and her body is moving on her own, stepping backward until her back feels the floor-ceiling window. ''Why is heing closer to me!?''


    "How are you? Do you feel any headaches?" Vince asked Hailey when he is a foot away.


    "Um... A little, yes. I... I..." Shot! She stuttered her words as she was nervous. "What exactly happenedst night?" She asked in a low voice.


    Hailey lowered her gaze to avoid Vince''s eyes. However, her eyes settled on Vince''s t stomach. Her cheeks are burning red.


    All her life, she has been seeing half-naked men a million times. So why is she shy to look at Vince''s shirtless body?


    "Ahem." Vince clears his truth before he begins. "I decided to stay in the resort after you didn''t stop drinking, and I drank a lot as well."


    "Oh, okay..." It made her anxious¡ªVince then shared most of what happenedst night.


    "And then, you rewarded me after I swear I won''t tell your dad that you got drunk."


    Hailey lifted her head, surprised written on her face. She asked Vince, "Huh? A reward? What kind of that be?"


    A silly smile ying in Vince''s mouth; he ces his right arm on the ss window and leans over at Hailey.


    "This..."


    Her eyes widened. Vince is kissing her!


    No. What he is doing is the reward she gives him!


    ''I kissed himst night? No way! That was embarrassing!'' Hailey pushes Vince away.


    "I need to go to the washroom!" Her excuse, then she runs to the bathroom.


    Inside the bathroom, Hailey screamed inwardly. She didn''t worry about the kiss. She is more worried that her mouth tastes disgusting!


    ''Oh, my gosh. My first kiss is when I got drunk! How unfortunate of me! I don''t remember what it tastes like!


    "Ugh! It surely tastes whiskey!" she mumbled.


    When she calms down a bit, Hailey examines her reflection in the mirror. She found out that her makeup almost disappears on her face.


    She asked herself, ''Did Vince wipe them off? Ah! I forgot to ask him if he who changed my dress! Does it mean Vince sees my almost bare body? How am I going to face him now?''


    Hailey is pacing back and forth inside the bathroom. Then her stomach growls. ''Ah, I''m getting hungry!''


    Instead of worrying about anything yet, Hailey brushed her teeth and took a long shower.


    Wrapped with a bath towel around her body, one more time, she was staring at her reflection in the mirror. Again, she asked herself how she would face Vince after what happenedst night and the morning kiss a while ago.


    ''Ugh! I would assume it''s just a kiss practice!'' Hailey consoles herself because the more she would think of it, the more trouble she feels.


    Carefully, Hailey pulls the door open. She sticks her head out of the bathroom door and looks around, searching for Vince.


    She found him speaking to someone on his phone on the terrace, facing his back to her. Hailey had the privilege to travel her eyes from Vince''s broad shoulders down to his fine back and waist.


    ''What are you doing, Hailey Hillson Davies? You are a pervert now?'' And her head replied, ''Of course! Food was served in front of me!'' She shook her head and erased the crazy thoughts ying on top of her head.


    Hailey made a brisk walk of the distance from the bathroom and bedroom. But this did not hide from Vince. He caught her sneakily walking toward the room.


    "Who''s sneaky now?" A smile curved on his lips. It amused him watching Hailey from the corner of his eye.


    Meanwhile, Hailey inhales and breathes out, then mumbling to herself. "Why am I sneaking around?"


    She strides towards the walk-in closet and gets a dress. Afterward, she blow-dries her hair, and after she is done, she starts putting some skincare on her face.


    Hailey immersed herself in looking presentable. Once she was with Vince in the High Society ces like the M Resort Country Club, she had to appear extra dressed up and look pretty.


    "Can Ie in?"


    Vince is knocking on the walk-in closet sliding door,


    she was beginning to panic.


    ''Why does he want to join me in the closet?''

 Chapter 66 - His Not Secret Affair

    <h4>Chapter 66 - His Not Secret Affair</h4>


    Hailey walks toward the sliding door and unlocks it. Her mouth dropped open, and her eyes widened, seeing Vince wrapped only with a bath towel around his waist and water is dripping from his wet hair traveling to his broad chest and down to his...


    ''What am I doing?'' Hailey shook her head and lowered her gaze to the floor. She is about to get out of the closet; Vince ced his hand on her shoulder to stop her.


    "Just stay inside."


    "I''m done already! You can have the closet for yourself!" Sheughs nervously; Hailey resumes her steps to pass Vince. However, Vince blocked her way. She asked him, "Do you need anything?"


    "I have something to talk to you about," Vince answered with his serious tone.


    This time, she looks at Vince''s eyes. She began wondering if there is something that happens that he is now wearing a poker face.


    "Sure! We can talk in the living room!" Hailey smiles awkwardly; she attempts to pass him again.


    "Are you avoiding me?" Vince asked Hailey, as her actions are apparent to him.


    "Why do I do that?" Hailey denied it, concealing the sudden embarrassment she felt at the moment. But Vince''s assumption is urate. The truth was that she wants to avoid being in the same room with him because she was still in a daze with the kiss they shared this morning!


    With what she said, Vince pushes a smile in the corner of his mouth. The way Hailey rolled her eyes everywhere is to dodge his gaze that only made her too obvious.


    "Is this about the kiss you gave me?" he uttered afterward.


    Hailey looks at Vince with amazement. ''Wow! He''s cocky now?''


    "What are you saying? I don''t remember anything!" Another denial from her.


    "I did show you what you didst night. Should I remind you once again?" Upon saying it, Vince contorted a smirk on his face as he stepped inside the walk-in closet.


    "No! That''s not needed..." Hailey held her breath when Vince closed the sliding door behind him; wild thoughts began running on top of her head.


    It doesn''t feel necessary to lock themselves inside the closet when the suites are enormously spacious for the two of them for a talk. And so, Hailey was confused.


    She turned around and walked toward the dresser. "So, what do you want to talk about with me?"


    To avoid looking at Vince, Hailey picked up a mauve lipstick and painted her lips. Honestly, her chest was pounding crazily. And one thing she prayed?


    It is for Vince to put on some clothes and leave the closet! In that way, she won''t have a hard time moving her gaze around, not to drool on his muscr body.


    ''Wait, a minute...'' Hailey recalled how t and perfect body Vince has until now, and there is no trace of extra fat in every inch of his eight packs. ''He was only teasing me the other night, is it?''


    She could not believe that Vince got her good and she didn''t realize it until now! ''This guy!''


    Hailey takes a peek at the mirror. She blushes as she could see Vince''s almost naked body putting on his pants at the moment.


    ''Behaves, Hailey Hillson Davies!'' She inhaled and breathed out in silence. She mused, ''Is he torturing me?''


    On the contrary, it also intrigued her about one thing. What did Vince feel upon seeing her almost nude body?


    Indeed, she is curious if Vince finds her sexually attractive.


    ''Oh, my god! What am I thinking!?'' These thoughts are not helpful at all!


    Hailey gasped when Vince stood behind her. Suddenly, her neck stiffens, staring at him through their reflection in the mirror. ''What is he doing?''


    Vince picks up the brush andbs her hair. Heplimented, "I like your hair."


    Hailey suppresses herself to raise a brow when Vince was peering at her green-hazel eyes.


    ''Is he has a hair fetish? And why hasn''t he worn any shirt yet!?'' She wants toin. But of course, she has no courage at all.


    "What do you want to talk about with me?" she asked Vince when he still had not begun opening up the stuff he wanted to discuss with her.


    Vince was about to open his mouth, but the suite doorbell rings.


    "That must be our breakfast," Vince guessed; he grabs a in white t-shirt before he steps out from the closet.


    Hailey listens to faint voices from the living room. She listens and hears when Vince is thanking the room steward, and a door shuts. Just then, she gets out of the bedroom.


    "Let''s talk over breakfast, though it''s kind ofte already."


    "Okay." She''s also hungry and the time is past ten o''clock. Hailey sat at the dinner chair Vince pulled for her. "Thank you."


    Vince nodded. He walked around the table and sat at the opposite chair from Hailey.


    Facing each other, they move in unison. Hailey poured coffee on Vince''s mug, and Vince ced food on her te, and both thanked each other.


    Realizing what is happening, both Vince and Haileyughed. And because of it, the mood suddenly changes.


    They were in the middle of their meal; Vince opens up the matter he wanted to discuss with Hailey.


    He reaches for his phone from his pants pocket. After a few browses, he ces the gadget in front of Hailey.


    She put down her fork, picked up the phone, and began reading the article. The photos inserted were aboutst night, and just over an hour ago took thest image.


    "Wow. These paparazzi are so fast," shemented sarcastically. Hailey lifted her head. She is trying to read what is on Vince''s mind.


    "I called my PR to negotiate the site. But they are asking a million for each photo," he told Hailey.


    "That absurd!" It shocked her. She fumed, "They should pay you for releasing photos without your approval!"


    It pissed her that these people don''t give other people some privacy. If she and Vince are a real couple, she believes that the media should not have posted their photo kissing inside their resort suite.


    However, this entertainment website is not only trying tosh out at Vince but also to milk money. They are more likely ckmailing Vince because they knew that he would protect his not-secret-affair.


    "They are bolder now, yes. That is why I want to ask your decision."


    She keenly stared Vince in the eyes. She sees that he was a little bothered, at the same time, a bit of spark in his eyes. In means, Vince hasplex feelings about the article.


    He wanted to keep the pictures, but it concerns him on the one hand.


    Hailey takes a long moment of silence as she ponders the matter. She lowered her head and looked at the images once again.


    The first photo is the time when she and Vince were dancing. And the second photo is when they were at the table chatting with the others, while the next photo is of her and Vince drinking at the bar area.


    Hailey remained her eyes on the third photo. She could not remember the scene. But it looks like she''s already drunk in the picture.


    ''Gosh! I won''t drink this much again!''


    In the picture, she clings to Vince, and his arm is around her waist, and their faces are too close. They were almost kissing while talking!


    Also, she had a big smile on her face. But what captivated her from the photo is the way Vince looked at her. It was tender and sweet, like a man who is in love.


    ''But that''s impossible! She witnesses how Vince is a natural actor.'' Hailey convinces herself to believe it. ''Remember, Hailey. Vince is in love with someone. Stop dreaming!''


    "So?"


    She was back in reality upon hearing Vince''s query. She gives back his phone and stares him in the eyes.


    "You don''t need to settle with them with money. What those media must receive is something fatal. How about suing them?" she suggested.


    "I am ready to pay them to take down those pictures. However, they will be even bolder next time. I called my PR andwyers for a discussion after a quick meeting with the executives regarding our projects outside Metro City. Would you not mind if we drop by the office before we headed home?"


    "Sure! No problem!" Hailey nodded. Vince is too busy in thepany and what she didst night is not proper! She should stop drinking when Vince said that they have to go home. She bet that Vince moves the time of his meetings today because of her. "I''m sorry."


    Vince curled his forehead, staring at her with confusion. "About what? I should be the one to apologize. I didn''t watch the media closely."


    "That''s not it. It''s about your work. It''s my fault that you got drunk and woke upte today."


    Hearing her exnation, Vince tore a giant smile across his face. "Do you want to know what''s on my mind?"


    Hailey nodded. She anticipates what Vince will say to her. But then, Vince says nothing but remains to stare at her for a moment.


    She froze when Vince sat up from his chair and strides toward her, cing one arm on the headrest of her chair and one hand on her chin.


    "Last night? Is the best night of my life," Vince stated as he lowered his head to im her mouth.


    Once again, they kissed!


    And she would be honest now. She avoids being kissed by Vince earlier today because she was reek with alcohol, and she hasn''t brushed her teeth yet.


    But at this moment, Hailey warmly wees Vince''s mouth, who is kissing her affectionately. After the long kiss, both are gasping for air when their mouths parted.


    Vince strokes Hailey''s jawline; he uttered this, "What happensst night... I would never trade it with any wealth in this world."


    One more time, Vince kisses Hailey passionately. And his speech melted her heart; delights crept toward her chest.


    After they finished their breakfast, they immediately prepared to leave. Vince and Hailey, hand in hand walking the hallway.


    And this time, there is a difference... they acted more like a real couple; their eyes have more sparks, and the smile never disappears from their faces.


    The moment Vince and Hailey appeared in the lobby, every pair of eyes lounging in that ce was curiously staring at them. Everyone saw the article from this morning, and their presence in the resort is why they all gathered here.


    And despite that bad-mouthing article, they saw how lovey-dovey and happy the couple were, passing at them with Holding-Hands-While-Walking.


    But then, everyone held their breath. A more exciting scene is about to begin.


    Watching the older couple arrive at the Entrance Door, Vince and Hailey halted. Before he greeted the couple, he nced at Hailey to convey a meaningful look, like telling her ''everything is alright'', and then he fixed his gaze on his parents.


    "Dad, mom..."

 Chapter 67 - Her Hearts Desire

    <h4>Chapter 67 - Her Heart''s Desire</h4>


    Vincent politely greeted his parents. He is curious about what makes theme to the resort. He thinks about the news, but he is also confident that his parents won''t disy their anger in public but deal with it in silence.


    His parents, Fred and Hilda Shen, regrlye to the Country Club to meet their wealthy friends and business partners. However, it became rare after he had an affair with Hailey.


    Vince smiled at his parents. He is waiting for them to return the greetings or say a word.


    "Son, I''m d you are still here." It was Fred who first spoke. He nced at his wife, who remained silent, and not greeting their son. Hilda only snubs them.


    "Yes, dad. We stayedtest night, and I''m not capable of driving us home," he exined to his parents.


    However, listening to her son, Hilda could not help scoff and twitching her mouth. Fred is giving her warning stares.


    And because of that, something infuriated inside her. ''I was the viin once again!''


    Vince nced at Hailey apologetically. He also presses her hand and tightens his hold.


    "Vincent, can we talk to you?" Hilda asked her son in a in voice.


    "Mom..."


    "It''s a quick talk," Hilda assures her son. She shes a re at Hailey to scan the girl.


    Hailey is wearing a halter dress that doesn''t require a brassiere. She only wore a slipper, but she looks elegant and gorgeous. And her naturally wavy Chestnut Brown hair color beautifully rested on her back.


    Hilda withdraws her gaze at Hailey; she looks up at her son, waiting for his response.


    Hilda doesn''t want her to be present in that talk. It is obvious to Hailey, and she won''t make itplicated and unpleasant for all of them when the lobby is filled with guests watching a drama y.


    Hailey slightly pulled Vince''s hand, and she uttered, "Hey! Give me the car keys, and I will start up the car while you are talking to your parents."


    Vince didn''t move and stand still on his feet. He shifted his gaze between his parents.


    "I will visit you guys tomorrow. Hailey and I have to go to the office as soon as possible. I scheduled a meeting today," Vince informed his parents. He knew it would annoy his mother. But he doesn''t want anyone to humiliate Hailey in public, even if it is his very own mother.


    It didn''t please Hilda; however, she could not throw a fret in front of everyone. She smiled inly, and good thing that before she could open her mouth, her husband stole her awkward moment.


    "All right, son! See you tomorrow, then! Your mom needs to prepare for the wedding. Her stylist is already waiting in our suite," said Fred. He is patting his wife''s back to walk.


    Before they could take five steps, Fred turned around and said in a loud voice, "Please, ry my apologies to the Board."


    "I will, dad. Have a great time, mom!"


    Hilda turned her head sideways; she nodded at her son before she resumed walking. Great timing, she spotted the Vice President of the P Country. She hurried her steps and greeted her friend.


    She had a big smile on her face. So everyone''s a little confused about what happens and curious about what they spoke about just now.


    They were waiting for a big drama. However, it disappoints them that it didn''t happen today. Everyone in Metro City knew Hilda despises Vincent''s girlfriend, as she won''t tolerate her son''s affair.


    And they witness that Hilda only ignores her son''s girlfriend. Still, there are no changes. She was still not in favor of the affair.


    Meanwhile, Vince and Hailey resume walking and head to the parking lot.


    She looked up at Vince and stared at his handsome face. Honestly, her heart didn''t stop fluttering inside her chest.


    "Is something dirt on my handsome face?" asked Vince.


    Hailey dropped her mouth open. Vince''s reaction to her stares shocks her. Ever since the kiss this morning, Vince is bing overly shameless in front of her!


    Vince turned his head and lowered his gaze, winking at her. With this, Hailey burst outughing.


    It didn''te to her mind that Vincent would be this shameless around her. Well, Vince is incredible that time they''ve talked on the stairs and have coffee!


    But after that encounter, Vince was serious, and the following day she met him again. He is formally treating her. And she has noint because Vince was also polite to her.


    And when they live together, she got to know him better. Now, he is showing his cool side.


    "Um... Thank you, by the way, for standing up for me," she told Vince. The truth is, she thought that Vince would give in to his mother. But he didn''t. Instead, he shows his parents that he is choosing her.


    "Why, thank you? You can kiss me to show your gratitude," said Vince. He leaned over and brought his face closer to Hailey.


    Dumbfounded, Hailey dropped her jaw on the ground. ''He has done it again! He is too shameless now!''


    But she decides to y along if it''s still about the agreement they signed on. At the moment, she wanted to forget anything else but listen to her heart''s desire.


    Hailey lifted her chin. Although she is tall, it needs her to tiptoe to reach Vince''s forehead. She nted a kiss and then walked ahead of Vince.


    "Wait! That''s not a kiss!" Vinceins, following behind Hailey.


    "That was a kiss!" she replied without turning around to face Vince. Well, she''s hiding her yful smile; that is why she doesn''t want to look at him.


    "That''s a grandma kiss! And you are not my grandma!"


    Hailey could not hold it anymore. She burst outughing, and it hurts her stomach. Vince is acting cutely now, and it amuses her. She likes this kind of side of him.


    Later, Vince catches her up. And instantly, his arms fetched her waist, and shended on his broad chest. He smelled nice. Hailey mused between her dazing head.


    She had no chance to speak up or raise a protest when Vince imed her lips and kissed her once again.


    Hailey sighs inwardly. She opened her mouth and responded to the kiss.

 Chapter 68 - His Moon

    <h4>Chapter 68 - His Moon</h4>


    SHEN GROUP HQ


    Vince opens the car door and helps Hailey get out of the vehicle.


    "Thank you."


    Vince took her hand and led her toward the elevator.


    It was Saturday, but several of his employees, mostly his architects and engineers, are in thepany to finish designing their projects or making reports and strategic ns of their assigned tasks. And since Vince scheduled a meeting today, the executives are also present in thepany.


    Not long, the elevator stops at the top floor office. Vince supported Hailey by stepping out of the lift.


    And she thinks Vince is overdoing it when there are no other people on the lift and the top floor is quiet. It means they don''t need to act. But Vince doesn''t want to let go of her hand.


    "Good noon, boss! Hello, Miss Hailey!" Bowing at them, Tim greeted them full of enthusiasm. Seated behind his desk, working on something, he instantly sat up the moment he saw them.


    "Hi, Tim! It''s noon! Have you had lunch?"


    "Yes, Miss Hailey, I am done eating," Tim replied. ''Thanks to you and the boss'' has to reschedule the meeting to the afternoon. Aspensation, he bought us a delicious meal!'' However, he didn''t share his thoughts. "And so, I am on my break. While I am on my vacation, I was working on my extra task, Miss!"


    Tim is proud to say this in front of his boss. Indeed, he wants him to be impressed by him. ''It''s for my bonus this month!''


    "You are so hardworking, Tim! Well, the boss should reward you." Hailey said it loudly, even if Vince was standing next to her.


    "Yes, Miss! I look forward to my bonus this month!"


    Hailey giggled. It amuses her to see how determined Tim is to impress his boss. She nced at Vince, who frowned at his assistant.


    "He will receive his bonus if his presentation is impressive," Vince stated tly.


    "Oh..." Hailey still wanted to chat with Tim, but Vince resumed walking, pulling her hand. She had no choice but to follow him inside his office.


    Tim left, stunned. He still wanted to continue joking around with his boss. ''He is such a killjoy!''


    But he figures out that his assignment is a secret, and the boss doesn''t want to discuss it in front of his girlfriend. ''Well, that''s valid!''


    But he noticed one thing. When he saw their arrival, the ''holding hands'' instantly got his attention. And his boss has this smile on his face. Something is going on for real, is what Tim concluded.


    "Heh! Fake girlfriend, huh? But he is holding Miss Hailey''s hand when there are no other people here but me!" Tim snaps his finger and an evil smirk tears across his lips.


    Inside the office, Hailey sweeps her gaze and appreciates the interior design. She need not guess that this room was Vince''s idea.


    Hailey walked toward the floor-ceiling window and looked at the entire city that was caught by her sight.


    "Your office is exquisite!" Hailey praises; she turned around, but she mmed on Vince''s chest. He is standing behind her, and his face is serious. ''Is he mad? What happened to him now?''


    Hailey takes a step backward. But again, it trapped her by the window. But it confused her why Vince''s mood suddenly changed.


    She closed her eyes when Vince leaned over. However, he only whispered in her ear and did not kiss her.


    "You have forgotten something."


    "Huh? About what?" She opens her eyes and looks at him. Honestly, she doesn''t know why Vince is mad now.


    "I told you I get jealous every time you smiled enormously in front of other men."


    Hailey''s jaw dropped on the floor. She processed her head for a moment as if what she heard is correct. ''What he says? It''s a joke, right?''


    She recalled thest time in the fish market. She thought Vince was only joking at that time. It turns out he''s serious.


    "I... I am only talking with Tim." Does he think I am flirting with his assistant?


    Hailey hides her shock at the same time as a disappointment. She may be warm in conversing with other men, but it only means she trusts them, and she sees a good man.


    Living in Metro City, she only has a few friends, and most are female. But back in Australia, she had an army of men everyone called The Queen''s Knight.


    And in Tim''s case, he knew their secret about the agreement. So, she isfortable joking around with him. But then, Vince doesn''t like it because he is jealous.


    Why would he feel that way? He doesn''t care about Eva having another man. But for her, Vince is vocal about his jealousy.


    Do they have a mutual feeling? Is Vince like her?


    Hailey had these thoughts while Vince remained leaning on her; their bodies are too close to each other!


    "I think I have to warn my assistant not to act familiar around you."


    ''What is his problem?'' She could not believe that Vince is actually a jealous man!


    "Vince, Tim is your assistant. He knew our secrets. That is why I am friendly toward him. I don''t know anyone here, so I need to trust Tim aside from you. I am no closer to any of your trusted friends either than Tim," she exined.


    Hailey is fine without a lot of friends here in Metro City. But if she didn''t assert an exnation. She is worried about what punishment Vince will give to Tim.


    Vince, on the other hand, contemted what Hailey said to him. It is reasonable. And like what she told himst night, she trusted him, and that''s more than enough to melt his heart.


    Besides, why would he get jealous of his assistant? He is one thousand times better and handsomer than Tim. With this thought, a smile curved on Vince''s lips, which made Hailey feel relieved.


    It seems like she has to say sweet stuff for Vince to calm down and stop acting childish.


    "Come with me."


    Vince took Hailey''s hand and pulled her away from the window. It confused her where they are going.


    Vince halted in front of a wall. He did something, and the wall opens.


    "Come in," said Vince with a smile.


    Hailey looked at Vince, and she could see the delight in them, at the same time proud in his eyes. The room was more likely a secret room where he kept his precious creation inside.


    "Wow! This room is incredible!" Hailey praised. Her gaze swept at the entire room.


    When you enter the door, facing it is a coffee table and a long chaise. Then, it filled the entire room with tables of different sizes.


    Hailey checked out every table and studied the Floor ns Vince designed. And one of these floor ns is the Metro City Garden.


    "Oh, the mall is expanding?" she queried Vince.


    "Yeah. The Board of Investors has a vision of it."


    "Great! Any targeted year?" Hailey asked further. Her eyes remain on the table.


    "They demanded me to make the floor ns sooner, but I might pass it to one of my best architects."


    "I see." Hailey chooses not to ask further. She moved to other tables, and she halted at one of them, the Crescent Penthouse, the one they live at. "By the way, I am very curious up to now. How do youe up with the name?"


    Vince chuckled before he replied. He approached Hailey and joined her side. "Is the name sounding female?"


    "Kind of, but it was intriguing." Hailey looks at Vince with curious eyes. And she anticipates hearing the answer from his mouth, although she already read it in the article. But she felt it emphasized little and mostly left off that part.


    "Hm?" Vince remains to stare at Hailey as he ponders. How to exin it to her? Would she believe it? "Well, the moon always inspires me and probably affects my mood."


    "Hah! It sounds valid." Haileyughs for a moment. She then turned around and faced Vince. "I love it."


    A loving smile curled up in his mouth as he extended his arms and held Hailey inside.


    "She is giving me light in my darkest hours," Vince whispered.


    "Hmm..." Hailey found the word sweet. "I like how you rte things in your creativity."


    "I''ll take that as apliment from you." And you have no idea. He mumbled to himself inwardly as he tightened his embrace.


    Who is his moon? Of course, there is only one woman who inspires him all these years. And finally, he got a hold of her now.


    Vince lowered his head and about to kiss Hailey when someone knocked on his secret room. And since there''s only one person on this floor other than them, they did not need to guess who it is.


    "I''ll open the door," he told Hailey. Irritation has written on his face.


    Blushing, she nodded and smiled. "Okay!"

 Chapter 69 - Tallest Tower In The World

    <h4>Chapter 69 - Tallest Tower In The World</h4>


    Hailey remained inside the secret room, strolling around, and checked out more of Vince''s floor ns. It impressed her.


    Vince is incredibly skilled and creative at the same time, and he also gives importance to nature. He didn''t forget that. All of his designs include a beautiful garden and trees.


    In her research, Vince promotes Electronic vehicles that would be friendly to the ecosystem. It was what she envisions as well for her city.


    Meeting Vince is a blessing to her life. Finally, soon, all that she dreams of will take ce.


    She is thrilled that Vince soon works for her. And she could not wait to see all of his ideas for her city.


    As Hailey continues roaming around the room, one table caught her attention. She didn''t see it yet anywhere in the world. So it means this floor n has not to build eventually.


    "Do you like it?"


    Hailey didn''t notice that Vince is back already. She straightened her body and nced in his direction, leaning at the door.


    "Yeah! It''s amazing! But I didn''t notice this in P Country. Is it your uing big project?"


    Sadness shes in Vince''s eyes; he pursed his lips and expressed, "I wished¡­"


    He smiled timidly, then strides toward Hailey. The moment he got closer to her, he wrapped his arms around her waist.


    "Indeed, my dream project. However, it needs an enormous amount of money to build this tower and bet the world''s tallest building that holds the record at the moment. I haven''t found investors who would share my dream. For now, it''s impossible to build it here in Metro City. So..."


    "Oh. Are you saying that you are open to handing it to a client if ever anyone is interested? I mean, if another country nning for this kind of project?"


    Vince shrugs a shoulder, "Why not? As long as the SHEN GROUP who will build it, I''m okay with it."


    "Sounds great!" Hailey didn''t notice that she jumped and kissed Vince. And this time, it was on his lips.


    For what she did, Vince is ying a gorgeous smile across his handsome face. Hailey didn''t notice, but it bes natural for them to be this intimate without an audience.


    It made him happy that Hailey didn''t question him about their agreement because he could not make up his mind yet; if he will confess the truth that he created a rumor so that Hailey would force to sign an agreement with him to act as his mistress.


    He has no other exnation to keep her by his side but made up a half-lie.


    Vince heaves a deep sigh. He had forgotten that Hailey was just in front of him. It waste when he realized this. Now Hailey is giving him a questioning stare.


    "What''s wrong?" she asked.


    Vince shook his head. He raises his hand and rubs her cheeks. "Nothing. I''m just thinking about many things."


    He made ame excuse. It was true, but he could not share what was truly bothering him.


    "Is this about your dream project?" Hailey asked curiously. She could see the frustration in Vince''s eyes. She knew as she could rte to what Vince is feeling. She could often not stop feeling frustrated that her dream city hasn''t finished yet, which she always wish for a miracle to happen. "Don''t worry. I know you can build your dream project one day. It wille!"


    A warm feeling crept toward his heart. It made him happy to hear that Hailey believes it. It is all that he needed, and not to lose hope.


    He sps his palm on Hailey''s face, and slowly, he lowered his mouth to im her lips.


    It was sweet, and he became addicted to it now. Every time she was close to him, all he wanted to do is to kiss her enticing lips.


    Hailey, on the other hand, noticed that Vince is constantly kissing her. Not only that, he is bing touchy, like hugging her, holding her hand, or his arms wrap around her waist.


    He is bing intimate with her both in public and private, like now. So it made her wonder if this is still about their agreement.


    However, she has no courage to ask Vince because she is afraid to hear that all the kisses they shared today are only part of their act for a future show.


    Just thinking about it, a pinch of pain began filling her heart. And she knew this would be an extreme sadness than the one she felt when Bryan broke her heart.


    After the long kiss... Vince parted their lips to breathe some air. Their eyes remained locked on each other, and no one ns to withdraw.


    If it weren''t for the voice behind the door, they wouldn''te back to their senses yet. It was Vince who first reacted. He coughed and replied to his assistant.


    "We''reing out!"


    When Tim left, Vince invited Hailey outside. She found out that Tim was setting the coffee table with the food Vince ordered for them.


    She was still full with the breakfast they ate before they came to thepany. But she could not say no to the food waiting on the table.


    Hailey picks up a cinnamon donut and takes pleasure in the heavenly taste of it.


    It fascinates him to watch her having big bites of the donuts. "Here, have some coffee." Vince handed her the mug.


    "Hmm..." Her mouth is still full, but she would like to thank Vince. She swallowed thest piece of donut inside her mouth and sipped the coffee; it was a very satisfying feeling. "Um... Thank you."


    "You''re wee," Vince smiled. He ced a slice of berries pie on a te and gave it to Hailey. Instantly, her eyes spark with delight.


    "So, do you already name the tower?" Hailey asks Vince as they continue munching snacks.


    "Ah, about that. I haven''t named it yet since I am unsure I could build it here in Metro City. Well, if I found a client, then I''m open for them to name it," Vince responded. He went on, "In my experiences, clients name them something that regards their nativity and history."


    "That''s a great thought!" Hailey happily concurred. "So, what is your whole concept regarding the tower? Will it be penthouses? Offices?"


    "If what the client wanted."


    "If it will be you... How did you visualize this tower?" Hailey asked Vince casually. No. It is an interview. Vince didn''t know that this was between a Client and Contractor project meeting.


    Of course, this time, she is the one who will make Vince sign a contract with her. It''s the other way around.


    Pondering for a moment, Vince answered, "I was nning for several restaurants on the top of the tower."


    "Restaurants, pubs, conventional halls, wedding receptions in the middle of the tower?" Hailey suggested.


    Vince concurred, "That is a brilliant idea."


    "I was thinking of something that would attract tourists from all over the world. The tallest tower in the world... Not bad!"


    Listening to Hailey, Vince chuckled. "I didn''t know you were interested in architecture."


    Hailey emptied her mug and put it down on the table. She meets Vince''s eyes and smiles at him. "I am always fascinated with unique structures and stunning designs. I love all of your projects here in P Country, particrly here in Metro City."


    "I''m d it impresses you," Vince expressed with a big smile. He looks proud, and he should be.


    Hailey would love topliment Vince further. But of course, she need not be obvious in front of him. He didn''t know that the reason she came here to P Country is because of him. Not that Eva is his wife but his talent.


    "You are great." The words Hailey chooses to praise Vince.


    "Coming from you, it tters me. Thank you." And it''s the truth.


    In the past, every time he received any recognition, he felt nothing but only payment for his hard work. But being praised by Hailey, it is all he needed to feel prouder of his achievements. And every achievement he will receive from here on. He wanted to share with her.


    Vince reached Hailey''s chin to kiss her, but another knocked on the door, and once again, he was interrupted!


    ''Timothy Cheng! You have no bonus this month!'' Vince opens his office door. He blurted out, "What?"


    Tim immediately froze to see his boss''s fuming face. ''What''s with him? Did I interrupt with something? Aha!''


    A light bulb pops out on his head. Now he is convinced; something is going on for real between his boss and his fake girlfriend.


    Raising a brow, Vince taunted his assistant. "Are we going to stare at each other, Tim?"


    "Ah! I''m here to inform you, boss, that the meeting is about to begin." Tim informed his boss, concealing a smile. ''Don''t tell me you forgot again, boss? Your sry should cut down half!'' However, he is the boss. It''s his approval, by the way. Tim realized soon.


    Now that Tim mentioned it, he remembers the reason why they drop by in thepany.


    Vince lowered his gaze to his wristwatch. And it''s 1:30 in the afternoon. He told Tim, "Okay. I''ll be there in a minute."


    Vince mmed the door close, and it almost got Tim''s face. He frowned. ''Boss, why are you so cruel to me?!''

 Chapter 70 - Her Project For The Shen Group

    <h4>Chapter 70 - Her Project For The Shen Group</h4>


    Before Vince headed to his meeting, he showed Hailey his entire office.


    "If you need to use the washroom, you can enter this door. The toilet is on the corner, right side."


    Walking down the tiny aisle, an exclusion room before the washroom stands as a lounge where Vince used it as a sleeping room if he stayed overnight in the office.


    The room also has a closet. And at the moment, Vince is taking off his t-shirt in front of Hailey.


    Poor girl, surprised by his behavior, Hailey turned around not to peek at his shirtless body. ''He should remember that I was around!'' she mumbled inwardly.


    After putting on his business suit, he opens a drawer, takes out a nket, and hands it to Hailey.


    "Here, take this. You might feel coldter." Upon saying it, Vince studied Hailey''s dress. Her back is open, and the fabric was thin. He has brought no jacket to give it to Hailey, and his closet only had a few of his business suits.


    And the reason he wants to embrace her often is to keep her warm.


    "Thank you."


    "Your wee. If you need anything or a problem urs, ring me immediately."


    She nodded and smiled. "Okay. Don''t worry about me."


    "There is another fridge outside, left corner when you go out the door if you need more drinks and food store in the cupboards."


    "Okay! It''s on my right if I am going to enter your office." She wanted to make sure not to get lost in Vince''s office.


    Vince indeed wanted some space and a quiet ce when working on his projects, so this floor had no other offices but his Meeting Hall, at the left of the corridor when you stepped out from the elevator. She has to remember that.


    "I''m going now," Vince ced a quick kiss on Hailey''s lips before he got out of his office.


    Now that she is alone, Hailey dropped her bottom on the sofa. ''Wow. I''m still in a trance.'' Indeed, she could still not believe that kissing has be a natural gesture between her and Vince. Alright! She has a few things to do while Vince is in his meeting.


    Her eyes swept to the entire office once again. And again, it impresses her how Vince chooses the color of his office.


    Unlike the typical men she knew, who decorated their office with dark tones. However, in Vince''s case, he chooses luminous ones, and this gives a pleasant atmosphere. It looks neat and clean. A good taste, she thought.


    Hailey takes out her phone from her bag and strides toward the floor-ceiling window while searching for a particr person in her contact.


    "Hey, Princess!" Finally, the person in the other line answered after five rings. "I couldn''t reach youst night. I got worried!"


    "I''m fine, Geoffrey. I had a few things I had to work on these days."


    "I''m d you are alright. You know we are always worrying about you. So please,e home soon, okay?"


    "I''ll be home soon, yes."


    "d to hear that, Hail. I missed you already. I want us to hang out together. How about a dinner out? It''s been a long time since we have done that."


    After the proposal, Hailey only went out with Bryan, and she always turned down his invitation. They used to go out altogether, but it''s rare for him to have Hailey alone.


    "Yeah! It''s a great n! Let''s do that!" Hailey bites her lower lip. It was just a lie. But she didn''t want to exin things to Geoffrey. At least for now.


    "I''m d to hear that!" Geoffrey expressed happily.


    And she could sense the joy in his voice. Hailey rested her head on the window as a bit of guilt struck her chest. She shook her head to set aside this feeling.


    "Okay, so¡­ The thing is, I called you to let you know about the project I want to give for the Shen Group."


    "Great! I''m all ears, Hail."


    "Ahem!" Hailey clears her throat before she begins. "Geoffrey. I want to give the entire development in the East Sector to the Shen Group."


    "Hold up! East Sector like the entire East of Dream City? The Grand Mall and the Dream City University, including the football field, several gymnasiums of its sports clubs? And we are also talking about residential skyscrapers here, Hail?" Geoffrey queried.


    "That''s right! The entire East of Dream City," she confirmed. And indeed, it was what she decided.


    Then Geoffrey ponders, "So, how much do you n to grant them?"


    "I will hand Shen Group with a hundred billion US dors."


    It shocked Geoffrey. "What? That huge amount? Are you certain about this, Hail?"


    He could not recover from a shock yet. But it''s Hailey. He knew she wouldn''t joke around regarding constructing her city.


    Hailey answered, "Of course, I am! I was never sure in my entire life, but this one, Geoffrey. I want to work with the Shen Group above anyone else."


    "Are you telling me that this one is clearer than your idea of marrying Bryan?"


    "Geoffrey..." Hailey heaves a long sigh.


    Geoffrey once confronted her about why she epts Bryan''s proposal when he is not even her boyfriend.


    Besides, everyone knew about his girlfriend Eva since before. But the boys only met her a few times. That is why everyone thinks they should not hurry the wedding.


    And they are right!


    She and Bryan should slow down. It doesn''t mean that she knew him all her life; is he the perfect husband for her.


    "Hail, I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to mention it. As your Financial Advisor, I want to make sure that we are investing in the right people."


    "Yes, we are! I understand your concerns. That''s why I am happy you are here for me."


    "I will always be there for you, through thick and thin. I want you to remember that always."


    Hailey giggled, and it didn''t hide from Geoffrey. It made him happy to hear Haileyugh.


    "Okay. Thank you. You are always a great brother to me."


    Ouch. All of a sudden, once again, Geoffrey''s heart was crushed. Shrugs the sadness crept into his chest, he makes sure to speak with enthusiasm.


    "So, a hundred billion US dors for the Shen Group? You are offering them a long-term contract, Hail. Do you want it in the way of a Contractual project or a one-time contract m?"


    "A one-time, long-term contract, Geoffrey."


    "Then it settled. I will draft the deal, so then, you can verify it soon."


    "Yes. Soon..." Nothing she wants now is Vince to sign her deal.


    "One more thing, Hail. Why is this much?"


    "I want the tallest skyscraper in the world standing in my city."


    Geoffrey was surprised once again. "Wait, what?"


    "You hear me correct, Geoffrey. A twenty billion dors skyscraper."


    "Wow. And it will be the tallest building in the world, huh? Alright! And you are confident that the Shen Group is the best firm to build this? Why not the Anderson Group or KS Group? They are in the top 5 of the best firm in the world."


    "I already know you will ask regarding this. But trust me, Geoffrey. You won''t disappoint working with them."


    "Of course, I trust you. Then, I assumed that you already investigated thispany?"


    "Yes, I did!" In fact, I''m living with their CEO! I''m not only running an investigation about them. I was also getting close to the architect I am looking for, Geoffrey.


    And there''s no way she could tell Geoffrey about this! She will just think of it; she already perceived what will happen then. The boys, especially her dad, would surely scrape Vince''s skin. But before that, they would beat him until he turns into a pulp.


    "All right! That''s for now, Geoffrey. We will discuss furthermore when I''m back."


    "Okay, Princess. See you soon..."


    "Yup! See you soon, Geoffrey." Hailey presses the end call button.


    ''I''m sorry, guys. I have been lying to all of you. But things will take ce soon. And I hope you''ll understand me.''


    "But for now, I have another thing to take care of as well," Hailey mumbled in a low voice.


    Hailey rang another phone; another man answered the call.


    "Yes, Princess!"


    "Sandy, I have a usual job for you," Hailey informed the guy from the other line.


    "Cool! So which website I must wipeout in the world of the Inte?"


    "I will email it to you."


    "Alright! Let me see!"


    "Thanks, Sandy. I''ll wire the money in a minute."


    "No, problem, Princess! I''m just a call away."


    "Good! Bye."


    Hailey ends the call; she immediately emailed Sandy the website''s links she wanted to shut up forever.


    ''Now that Vince will start to work for me. I don''t want anyone to bother him. He needs to focus on our projects.''


    When ites to her project, she will be infuriated if it will dy further. Gossips and ndering news about Vince? She would love to put their end.


    After half an hour, Hailey received a message from Sandy.


    "It''s all done, Princess. I hacked their server and downloaded all the stuff that could be evidence against them. Ring me if you need this information."


    "Good job, Sandy. You keep it. If I need them one day, I will let you know." By now, she has no time for the garbage so-called Social Media.

 Chapter 71 - Who Is This Angel?

    <h4>Chapter 71 - Who Is This Angel?</h4>


    A few hours ago at M Resort...


    She throws her bag on the couch. It angered Hilda that her son turned her down because of that woman.


    "Your son seems forgotten who we are!" Hilda blurted out at Fred. "We are his parents! His own blood!"


    Scrutinizing at Hilda, he shook his head and then ignored his wife, who was pacing back and forth in front of him.


    But Hilda continues mumbling, and it irritates him. "Why don''t you take a seat?" Fred suggested to his wife, gesturing the empty sofa across him.


    Hilda dropped her body on the cushion. But she resumes ranting out. She recalled how daring the dress Hailey wore. ''Why do young women these days not wear any brassiere!? Tch!''


    "That woman is a vixen! She bewitches our son to go against us!"


    "Enough, Hilda. Stop saying nonsense things!" Fred blurted out. He felt ridiculous listening to his wife.


    Hilda is used to getting what she wants, and one of that is to make their son obediently follow whatever she says. But it is too much already.


    "Fred Shen! Why do I have a feeling you are gradually washing off your hands and now in favor of your son''s affair?"


    "My goodness, Hilda! Are we going to argue this all over again? We came here to breathe some air! If I were the one to decide? I''m not interested ining to your friend''s renewal vows."


    Hilda pursed her mouth with disappointment. She already knew that her husband has no interest in this kind of stuff.


    However, she''s still hoping that Fred shows a little care for her feelings. "You are so not romantic! You don''t even think for us to celebrate a grand wedding anniversary!"


    Fred''s face frowned. He rolled his eyes and heaved a long sigh. "Come on, Hilda. We are not celebrating our Golden wedding anniversary yet."


    "So, what? We should not make our wedding anniversary grand unless it''s our Golden wedding anniversary?"


    "Why are you throwing a fret now over our wedding anniversary? Why don''t you realize our son has no heir yet? Can''t you see that he still seemed like a single man without a love life in his thirties after getting married to Eva Lan because his wife chooses not toe back to P Country to live together? Can''t you look at the bigger picture here, Hilda? Your son is turning 32 years old! He is supposed to live happily with a wife and children years ago!"


    "And what are you implying now, huh, Fred?"


    "You wanted to know my point?" Fred res at his wife. Hilda nodded and waited for him to continue. "Your son is living like a robot each day, doing the same routine every single day to run ourpany in these passing years. Why do you question our son every time there is gossip about him and his girlfriend? Can''t you think over for once why Eva Lan cannot act as an actual wife to our son?"


    Hilda remains to stare at Fred. Her husband is right. Why didn''t she realize it sooner?


    Eva is hesitant to live with their son for what reason?


    What is wrong with Vincent? He could produce children!


    She knew that because Vince was once involved in a massive ident five years ago. Vince cannot walk for several months.


    And the media spreading lies that the ident made him impotent. To prove the false news, she encouraged Vince to undergo a sperm cell count. And the medical result confirms the gossips were wrong; Vince is healthy.


    After that, she works on her son''s marriage by arranging him with her friend''s daughters. But Vince is not interested in dating because he already married his career! He engaged himself day and night in designing.


    And one reason she arranged his marriage and hurried the wedding so that Eva to conceive children.


    However, the marriage could not be normal when both are not seeing each other!


    Do they even sleep together after the wedding? Then how will Vincent impregnate his wife if they didn''t?


    She should ask her son about it!


    But how if Eva cannot bear any children? That is why Vince is not interested in Eva, but he is living with a mistress instead?


    "Fred, are you telling me I will allow our son to have a bastard child? Would you let this happen to our family? Would you condone this? Because I would not! It will be a huge scandal in our family, Fred!"


    Fred is getting more upset listening to his wife. Although Hilda is correct, however, there''s nothing that happens in their son''s married life.


    "Hilda, I won''t tolerate our son''s affair. But to believe that his girlfriend is persuading him to go against us seems not right that we use that girl."


    "And why can you say that?" Hilda is ring suspiciously at Fred. Her husband seems to treat Vince''s girlfriend nicely now. His opinion seemed to side with their son''s affair! What she better do now? "I need to do something, Fred."


    Fred is looking at Hilda with warning stares. However, he could not share his thoughts with her because he is familiar with his wife''s attitude.


    Fred was contemting. As time passed, he could see some changes in his son''s life. One of that, Vince looks happy now.


    "Hilda, I''m warning you. Be careful whatever is running inside your head. If you haven''t noticed yet, our son is too old to decide in his life. You need to give up and let him."


    "What do you mean, Fred? I am a mother! I have to make sure that Vince is leading the right path! And what are you? You are his father! You should talk to him to stop his foolishness!"


    "I didn''t question you being a mother, Hilda. Your son is a giant 31 years old! He is not like two years old anymore for you to help him walk!"


    "And what do you want me to do? To keep my silence and tolerate your son''s craziness?"


    "That''s not my point! But it would not help if you won''t talk to our son calmly! Choose the questions you want to throw at him! Great timing, our son is visiting us tomorrow. Instead of confronting him harshly? Why don''t you ask why he has a mistress instead of fixing his marriage?"


    Upon listening to her husband, Hilda ponders. Fred has a point. She should not bark at Vince the moment she saw him entering their mansion. That always happens if she discovers Vince is in trouble, fighting with someone in the school, or while he hangs out with his friends and encounters some bullies.


    It was the reason she was stricter with him in college because everyone knew their family in Metro City and the entire country because of her bloodline''s political history.


    And everyone wanted Vince to run for office as a mayor of Metro City and then run for Senatorial until Presidential candidacy.


    And to have a positive image, Vince must avoid any nefarious activities such as having mistresses! But what is happening now?


    Moreover, Vince has no interest in politics. And instead of Political Science and Law, Vince studied BA and Architecture to help his father.


    Well, it doesn''t matter because Vince could still help regarding the infrastructure of the country.


    However, he has a scandal one after another because of that woman! How could she clean up their family name?


    "How are we going to counter the usations against our son?" Hilda asked Fred''s opinion afterward.


    "I know your son is taking care of it."


    "Because he cares more of his Mistress," Hilda expressed out nonchntly.


    "Do we have to discuss it again, Hilda? Wait until tomorrow! I just wanted to attend your friend''s renewal vows and go home after."


    Hilda didn''t argue anymore. She knew Fred meant it. If she didn''t stop now, the argument would be about them.


    "I will take a nap. Woke me up when you are done preparing for the wedding," said Fred to his wife. He sat up from the couch and headed to the bedroom of that suite.


    Left behind, Hilda nodded and didn''t say another word.


    *


    Meanwhile, at Shen Group Headquarter. It''s been an hour since Vince starts the meeting.


    In the middle of the Finance Department reports, Tim''s phone doesn''t stop ringing.


    "Boss, I need to answer this call," he excused.


    Vince nodded and gestured his hand for Tim to get out of the Meeting Room. After a few minutes, Tim came back and approached him.


    He whispered, "Boss, the press is contacting me if they could interview you."


    "We are in the middle of the meeting, Tim." Vince reminded his assistant.


    "But boss, every media wanted to confirm if you are the one who deleted the M Entertainment website."


    "What? Why would I do that?" said Vince, creasing his forehead as one brow rose upward.


    "Because that website just released the gossip about you this morning."


    "And they use me?"


    Tim nodded as a confirmation of a new gossip.


    "What the heck!?" Vince blurts out.


    "Ahem! President Shen? Is any problem, boss?"


    Everyone is looking in his direction. He waved his hand and said, "No, nothing. Go on. You can finish your report."


    After one and a half hours, the meeting ended. Vince requests the PR Department to stay for another discussion.


    "So, what happens with the M Entertainment website?" As to begin, Vince asked the Head of the PR Department.


    "It''s true, boss, the website disappeared, and they could not recover their server."


    "I ordered nothing. So, who did it?" He pondered; his parents can''t do this without his knowledge. So, they would not take care of it themselves.


    "Maybe someone else who wants to take revenge on them, boss," Tim''s viewpoint.


    "Maybe, yes..." Vince concurred. However, on the one hand, he still has to do something. "But I must prove I did nothing."


    "In my opinion, President Shen. Let them assume." Advised by Vince''swyer.


    "I seconded, boss. In this way, everyone would think that they should not mess up with you!" The PR Head Department concurred.


    "Hm... Then, we won''t release any statement," Vince conceded the matter.


    "That what we should do, President Shen."


    "And if whoever it is, that person is such an angel, boss!" Tim cheered.


    Vince nces at his employees one after another. Nodding, he concurred to this.


    "Yeah. Maybe it''s a miracle."

 Chapter 72 - Favorite Thing To Do

    <h4>Chapter 72 - Favorite Thing To Do</h4>


    Headed back to his office, Vince sighed with relief. Finally, all of his meetings today are over, and he could take Hailey home.


    He pushed the door open and entered his office. Looking around, he found Hailey lying down on the long sofa, closed eyes and a headphone in her ears.


    It seemed that Hailey fell asleep waiting for him.


    Vince slowly sat down on the sofa. He extends his arm and caresses Hailey''s beautiful face.


    It tempted him to kiss Hailey, but he doesn''t want to wake her up yet.


    Vince got up from the sofa and went to his desk, and sat on his swivel chair. He picked up a folder and began reviewing the text written in the document.


    After an hour, he heard Hailey moans. Later, she gets up and sits on the cushion.


    Across his office, Vince greeted Hailey. "Hi!"


    He got up from his chair and headed to the sofa. Hailey rubs her eyes, and he thinks it was cute. She looked up at him and smiled.


    "Hey... How long have I been sleeping?" she asked afterward.


    ncing at his wristwatch, Vince replied to Hailey. "I finished all of my meetings an hour ago, and you were already asleep when I came back."


    "Oh. I see. I have been sleeping for over an hour."


    "I''m d you can rest in my office."


    "Yeah!" And I feltfortable sleeping in your office when your scent is lingering around. Hailey thought. Actually, it surprised her how rxing it was.


    She leaned on Vince, rested her head on his shoulder. And she was right; Vince''s scent feels like home. It made her fear that she might get used to it from now on.


    Vince, on the other hand, his arms immediately wrapped around Hailey''s body. He adjusted his sitting position so that both of them werefortable on the sofa.


    Hailey remained to feel lethargic after the nap. And cuddled inside Vince''s arms is her favorite to do now.


    "So, it''s getting dark outside?" she asked Vincezily.


    "Yeah. And if you still wanted to take a nap, go ahead." Vince encouraged Hailey. But the truth is, he just wanted to stay in this position for a longer time.


    Hailey didn''t know that same as her; this is Vince''s favorite thing to do from now on.


    And he is praying that no annoying employees of his, particrly his assistant, would knock on his office door and interrupt their lovey-dovey time.


    "I will be fully awake soon," Hailey said after a long moment. No one wanted to break the silence. But it will be dinner soon. And so, she asked Vince, "How about your work? I''m sorry if I bothered with your work."


    "Not at all! They are my work for Monday. But I was hoping you could keep on napping, so I take a look at them." He lied. The truth is, it needed his attention as soon as possible.


    He will go to Australia next week, and those documents required his approval. However, he won''t miss these chances to spend as much time with Hailey.


    "Okay. Then, we can go home soon so that I can prepare our dinner."


    "Why don''t we order some food and deliver it to the penthouseter when we arrive home?"


    She ponders what Vince is suggesting. It''s a good idea since she feelszy, and it won''t be bad to ck off once in a while.


    "Okay. I will ck off today," Hailey told Vince. Instantly, he chuckled at her statement.


    "No problem! You were doing a great job yesterday, and I wanted you to know I was proud of you."


    Hailey opens her eyes. She looked up at Vince and rested her chin on his chest. "I''m d. Thank you," she said with a smile.


    And Vince could not hold himself not to im those sweet lips of hers. He lowered his face and kissed Hailey.


    This time, it was passionately longer.


    Hailey, hold on to Vince''s suit. She could feel his burning palm stroking her bareback upward.


    Vince rested his hand on her nape, pressing his body into her as the kiss deepens.


    The moment Vince parted their lips, she gasps for air. She was breathing deep.


    Slowly, her senses returned from the trance of the kiss she shared with Vince. Hailey then realized she was lying back on the sofa, and Vince is leaning on top of her.


    ''Oh, my god!'' Suddenly, she freaked out. The kiss made her be lost in it, and she didn''t notice what had happened.


    Vince was about to kiss Hailey one more time when his office door had soft knocks.


    Behind the door outside, Tim is bathing in a cold sweat. Honestly, he doesn''t want to meet his end yet. But his report is important.


    Helplessly, Tim hurls a deep breath and releases them before he spoke. "Boss, I have important things to report!"


    And so don''t kill me! Tim added in his head. Later, the door opens, and he is correct. It was a grim face that showed up in the door and sharp res shooting straight at him.


    "How important was it?" Like a thunderous growl, Vince''s voice startled his assistant.


    Tim swallowed the lump forming in his throat. He stammers his words upon reporting. "Boss... If you n to... to go home, please use another car."


    Creasing his forehead, Vince takes another step out of the door and closes it behind him. He leaned on it and asked Tim, "What''s the matter?"


    "Boss, the media figured out that you were in the office with Miss Hailey. And so, they were in front of thepany, requesting to interview you."


    Upon hearing it, Vince''s face soured. After a moment contemting over something, he gives Tim an order.


    "Alright. Drove my car toward the West Bay Penthouse. Let us swap cars."


    "Okay, boss!" Tim immediately gets his car key and hands it to his boss. He didn''t wait for more instruction. He leaves the office with his boss''s Lambo.


    Meanwhile, Vince ordered his men to check every parking lot level to suspect that paparazzi made their way and hid inside a car somewhere.


    Once everything was clear out in the parking lot, Vince and Hailey are taking the lift.


    "Can I drive the car?" Hailey asked Vince''s permission.


    And for a moment, he ponders if it was a good idea. In the end, he agreed.


    Hailey made a smooth drive out of the parking lot. When they join the traffic, she slowly speeds up.


    Not long after, she confirms that one car is following them. Vince is only silent, seated in the passenger seat. He is also frequently ncing at the side-view mirror and the rearview, watching the cars behind them.


    He started suspecting when Hailey took a left turn in an alley, and one car was still following them.


    Hailey took the car back onto the main road. One hand on the steering wheel and one hand on the shift knob.


    Vince felt they were speeding up. But looking at Hailey, he didn''t see any trace of concern in her face. Instead, she drives the car calmly.


    Honestly, Hailey is more likely ying with the car behind them. And he could say how focused she was.


    It feels like they were in a car race. And Hailey made it an easy conquest.


    Vince studied her movement. She was too focused. She was also sharp in watching every direction to make sure they won''t crash into another car, and they stop in the traffic lights.


    He wants to think now that Hailey is a professional car race driver because she acts like one.


    They were now a mile away from the Crescent Penthouse. From their location, they could have a clear view of the building.


    There is another traffic light they have to pass first. And before they reach the post, Hailey studies the countdown of which direction has to stop and which one says go.


    "Perfect timing..." she mumbled. She overtakes several cars and speeds up to bet the time.


    Vince is blinking several times. After his ident five years ago. He chooses to drive carefully and be more cautious of his surroundings when he is on the road since then.


    He valued his life, and he has many dreams he wanted to achieve.


    What Hailey did just now took his breath away. But gaping at her, she stays calm, and it seems like just a piece of cake to her.


    And because of what she did, they lost the car that is following them. He could see no car behind them as it caught by the Stop sign.


    Vince is more impressed. At the same time, it made him wonder what other things she is excellent at.


    It intrigued him to know more about her.

 Chapter 73 - I Am Home

    <h4>Chapter 73 - I Am Home</h4>


    That evening, Vince ordered Hailey''s favorite stir-fry noodle andmb steak, including other dishes, to have more choices. And when their food arrived, they had dinner in the pool area.


    As the night came to be colder, Vince set a bonfire and wrapped Hailey inside his arms, cuddling to warm each other.


    Tonight, they only had sparkling red wine not to get drunk again. Hailey wanted to avoid that from happening ever again.


    "Do you want another ss?" Vince asked Hailey. When she nodded, he grabbed the bottle and poured her ss.


    "It will be myst ss for tonight. I need to review my lessons starting tomorrow for the exams next week."


    "Hm... You have an uing exam. Great! I mean..." Vince takes a deep breath.


    He is looking for a perfect moment to share with Hailey about the new project he will work on starting next week.


    "So, by next week, I''ll be going to Australia for a new contract. The Shen Group will work with a new client. This time, it was a giant client!" Excitement could sense in his voice.


    "Wow! That''s great! Congrattions!" Hailey tried her best to react with cheer. Of course, it is not a surprise anymore because she is the one who offered Vince the contract!


    ''Oh, gosh! I hope I sound sincere!'' Hailey mumbled to her head.


    Vince smiled. He expressed, "Thank you. I can''t believe I would get a project from Davies Group. It feels incredible! I mean, the Shen Group has beenpeting against countless giant firms in the world. And so, I would not waste this opportunity given to me to work one of my dreams."


    "Oh. You dream of working in constructing the Dream City?"


    "Honestly? Yes, I am! It is one thing that inspires me to work hard. I need to get their attention. And my weapon is creativity, patience, and working hard to rise from the level ground to climb the stairs of sess in this career I choose. No. I love it."


    "Great! I''m happy to hear that!"


    "Hm?" Vince lowered his gaze at Hailey. He was staring at her with a bit of confusion. He wondered which one she was praising.


    Hailey realized that her response made her obvious. "Oh. I mean, I''m happy for you! There is nothing best in the world but to do what you are passionate about!"


    "You are right. And I love building things." Vince concurred. And can see how proud he is.


    Phew! Hailey sighs with relief. She is bathing with a cold sweat right now. From here on, she has to be careful. Otherwise, Vince will get confused with the things thate out of her mouth.


    "So, when is your flight?" she asked Vince casually. "I would love to help you pack up."


    Wow, girl. Like you didn''t know his schedules! Hailey patted herself and gave a thumbs up.


    Vince, who does not know what is ying in Hailey''s mind, responded, "I''ll be leaving Metro City by Thursday midnight to arrive in Australia in the morning to meet the executives and have a meeting with them to hand over my projects."


    "Okay!" Hailey didn''t attempt to say more words; it might be her tongue would slip out with unnecessary information.


    "Hmm¡­ Are you going to be okay here?" He will often be out of the country, and so he began worrying about Hailey''s safety.


    She retorted, "I am! You have nothing to worry about."


    "The media attacks are getting unpleasant. And now that I have a huge project abroad, I would not be here often."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be fine," she assured Vince. And if those media would try to bug them once again, then she''ll be forced to do something one more time.


    Vince fell silent for a moment as he pondered. "Okay. Tim wille with me, so then, no one can look out for you. Can I call you every day?"


    Hailey put down her ss. She turned around to face Vince and look at him in the eyes. She could see the sincerity in them.


    She smiled. Vince sounds cute while he asks if he could call her.


    In the past, Vince would only text her every time he is out of the city or country. But from here on, it seems things had changed.


    She and Vince are casually kissing and snuggling, even in private. And it actually leads her to think over many things.


    She had a lot of questions popping out in her head. However, she is afraid to ask Vince and hear his answers.


    "Sure. I would love that." Now it would be more like they are an actual couple. "What time are you going home tomorrow?"


    "Hm? From my parent''s house?"


    "No. Going home to the mansion to meet your parents." She shook her head and then rified it.


    Vince studied Hailey''s face. Her question made him remember he only contracted her to be his mistress. In her mind, everything they were doing was still part of the agreement.


    ''Fuck it!'' It was his foolishness, though. Now, Hailey still believes that she had to act in front of him.


    Vince extends his arms. He pushes back the strands of hair that are dancing around her face. With his other hand, he traces the bridge of Hailey''s nose.


    "I am home," Vince whispered.


    Hailey didn''t leave her eyes on Vince. His phrasing warms her heart.


    Vince lowered his head and ced his mouth on top of Hailey''s sweet lips.


    The kisssted long, but droplets of water tickled their faces. Suddenly, it rains.


    They look up and watch the dark sky above their head.


    "Oh, my gosh!" Haileyughed. She closed her eyes and allowed the rain to drench her.


    Vince is alsoughing. Butter, he invited Hailey to go inside their house.


    "Let''s go inside. It was the first rain of the month. It won''t be good if you catch a cold."


    "Oh. But the table is still a mess." She pointed at the dishes.


    "Let''s clean them tomorrow morning," Vince said.


    "But you will see your parents tomorrow," Hailey reminded Vince.


    "I will visit mom and dad in the afternoon, so I have more free time."


    "Hmm¡­ Okay!"


    Hailey and Vince took a shower separately. Hailey was drying her hair when Vince entered her bedroom.


    She nced at the door and asked him, "Do you need something?"


    Vince smiled. He shook his head and replied, "No. I''m going to bed."


    "You, what?" From the reflection of the mirror, Hailey watches Vince walk toward her bed. ''What is he doing?''


    It shocked her when Vince slid inside her quilt andfortably tucked in on the bed.


    ''Are we going to sleep in the same bed again?'' It freaks her out, of course.


    Last night, she was drunk and knew nothing of what''s going on in her surroundings. But now? She was wide awake and sober!


    ''Is this really happening? Are we really going to sleep in the same room from now on?'' The questions that she didn''t know what answer to give herself. ''How if...?''


    Hailey had a scenario inside her mind that caused her cheeks to burn and dried her throat. ''We are not doing that, right?''


    Inside her head, she is pacing back and forth; and talking to herself. ''How if Vince does that?''


    Ahhh! She''s still in shock. Of course! Being around handsome men with totally hot bodies is not new to her.


    However, to her, Vince is sexually attracted. That is why she had the red lights ring on top of her head.


    Hailey inhaled and released the air from her lungs. She had no other choice but to sleep next to Vince.


    She sat up from the stool in the dresser and walked toward the light switch. Once it is turned off, the light that is left is from themp above the bed.


    Hailey made a careful movement on the floor. And since her bedroom is too quiet, she could hear her light footsteps and the loud thumping in her chest. She is praying that Vince would not hear her heartbeats.


    Hailey pulled the hem of her quilt and slipped inside. She tried to befortable on her very own bed, next to a man.


    In the following seconds, she listens to Vince''s breathing. She wondered if he was still awake. It''s not that long yet since he invaded her bedroom.


    Hailey is lying down on her right side, giving her back to Vince. She remains awake to anticipate what he will do.


    But there''s no other movement she could feel but her heartbeat.


    Hailey wanted to stay awake. But the wine rxes her nerves. Slowly, it dragged her into a sweet slumber.


    She wondered how long she''d been sleeping.


    The arms around her waist and back give sce as shey down in a hard pillow.


    No. It''s not a pillow. It was Vince''s broad chest.


    So how does she end up inside Vince''s arms?


    Did she move around? That''s impossible! She is the person who remains on the same spot, whichever side of the bed she was lying down.


    But since ites into this, then let it be. Hailey buried her face into Vince''s chest.


    Later, she felt fingers brushing her hair and a kiss on her forehead.


    Vince is awake!


    Not only that, someone is excited and is poking in her leg!


    What should she do? Can she pretend she felt nothing?

 Chapter 74 - He Deserves Her Hug

    <h4>Chapter 74 - He Deserves Her Hug</h4>


    Hailey didn''t move. She controlled her breathing, pretended she was asleep, and didn''t notice Vince''s hard-on poking on her leg.


    A long moment had passed; Hailey felt Vince''s palms holding her head and ce it down on the pillow, then Vince gets off the bed, leaving her bedroom.


    Now she is left alone; Hailey opened her eyes and stared at the ceiling with confusion. Where is Vince going, and if he even ns toe back?


    It was like half an hour had passed, but Vince didn''te back yet.


    "Maybe he realizes that it''s safer to sleep in a separate room." Hailey convinced herself that it was the case.


    Shrugging her thoughts, she fixed her sleeping position and turned to her left side, dragged herself to sleep back.


    She was dozing off when she felt the bed move a little, and her nose caught the fragrance of Vince''s shampoo.


    ''He took a shower? In the middle of the night?''


    ''No. That''s not it! He had a cold shower because of that¡­ and probably¡­''


    ''Ahhhhhhhh! What am I imagining? Men normally do that!''


    And she guesses the reason he had to do that. It aroused him lying next to her; then to him, she''s physically attractive.


    Hell, no!


    Being physically attractive to a man is thest thing she wanted to hear.


    She hopes for a man to see her worth and to love her unconditionally; it''s not because she is wealthy and pretty, but thinking of her as the woman he wanted to grow old with.


    But knowing Vince didn''t take advantage of her but control his desires, that is a million points she would give to him, and HE DESERVES HER HUG.


    Hailey extends one arm and ces it around Vince''s waist, burying her face to his shoulder.


    Vince tore his lips with a pleasing smile. He could not restrain himself not to hold her this way.


    Aware of the fact that he just relieved himself, Vince is praying that his body would stay calm throughout the night next to this wonderful girl inside his arms.


    The next time she opens her eyes, the light from the window is blinding her. She tried to recall what happenedst night.


    In her recollection, Vince sleeps in her bedroom. But the other side of her bed is empty. And what''s left is Vince''s scent.


    Hailey inhaled the fragranting from the pillow Vince was lying on all night. She grabs it and hugs it. She wanted to stay a little longer, but she wondered what time it is now.


    Hailey turned on her other side to check her digital clock on top of the bedside table. It is almost nine in the morning.


    "Oh! I haven''t made our breakfast!"


    Hailey sat up and jumped off the bed. She rushed toward the washroom, brushed her teeth, and wash her face.


    She changes her pajama with an oversized t-shirt and denim shorts underneath.


    Hailey sweeps her eyes to the entire living room while she descended on the staircase. Her eyes were looking for Vince, but it was empty.


    "Where is he?"


    Not long, Hailey noticed a shirtless man cleaning the pool area. This man is tending thendscape near the pool.


    She leaned on the door and watched the busy man pick up a big pot and moved it to the other side. His arms disy the muscles in it, and it looks divine when beads of sweat glistening as the sunlight kisses on his skin.


    "This is breakfast." Her head yfully mumbled itself while her eyes feasted at the view in front of her.


    Senses the burning stare toward his direction, Vince nced over his shoulder and caught the beautiful woman ogling at him.


    "Hi!" He greeted with a broad smile across his face. His teeth disy how beautiful they are.


    Her face instantly flushes pink when Vince sees her ogling at him.? "Hey! Good morning!" She greeted Vince. That was awkward! Vince caught her red-handed! And she could not think of any excuse why she remained silent and didn''t greet him first. To hide the awkwardness of this moment, she asked, "Have you had breakfast?"


    "Ah. Not yet. I''m waiting for you to wake up," Vince said. He was walking toward Hailey and halted in front of her. He quickly leaned over and filled her lips for a morning kiss.


    "I see¡­" The kiss dazed Hailey, which she had to knock on her head to get back to her senses. "Then, I will make breakfast for us!"


    She made a quick turn to avoid staring at Vince''s t stomach. She already said it a thousand times how she grows up seeing shirtless men all her life.


    Like Andre has a perfect body, and for example, the boys she knows¡­ They have the body every girl drooled on. But she never thinks of them as tasty as Vince.


    Yup, that''s right! She never imagined that a man could look as delicious as Vince is.


    ''Gosh! I should stop having this thought! And early in the morning? Your insane, Hailey!'' She scolded herself.


    "I will take a shower then," Vince said, who follows Hailey to the kitchen to get some cold water in the dispenser.


    Hailey upied herself, checking the fridge to see what she could make for breakfast. Well, it''s just her excuse not to look at Vince''s shirtless body.


    In the next fifteen minutes, Hailey cook two scrambled eggs, she added a lot of spices and then toasted some bread, and some of it added butter on them. Not only that, she fried some bacon and arranged everything on two separate tes.


    Vince rushes to the kitchen after taking a shower. Perfect timing. Hailey is almost done preparing their breakfast.


    "Can I help?" Vince asked Hailey. He ced his arms on the counter, leaning over.


    "Umm¡­ We need a mug for coffee," Hailey replied.


    "Okay! I''m on it!"? Vince gets down from the dining stool.


    He strode toward the cupboard and took two mugs, then ces them beside their tes. Hailey took the coffee pot and poured the ck liquid.


    "Let''s eat!" she dered after she ces two sses of water.


    Seated across from Hailey, Vince emptied his te. It ddens her that Vince ate everything she prepared for him.


    After breakfast, Hailey took the opportunity to talk with him. She was washing the dishes and handed them to Vince to dry them.


    "Ahem! How many days do you have to stay in Australia?" Hailey began by asking Vince a question.


    Vince thought for a moment before he replied to Hailey. "I must stay for one week or two to have a series of meetings with the clients to know what they want me to build. After that, I wille back to have a quick check of thepany and then go back to Australia to work on my new projects."


    "I see. That''s really great!"


    "Are you certain to be okay here?" Vince once again brings up his fear of leaving Hailey in Metro City. It worries him that something might happen in his absence.


    Hailey almost lets out augh listening to Vince''s question, but she holds herself up not to. She doesn''t want him to misinterpret something.


    "Don''t worry about me. I will ring you immediately," Hailey promised. Now she realized it takes more assurance to make Vince stop acting like an overprotective boyfriend.


    And now mentioning the word "boyfriend". So, what will happen to their agreement? Does she even have a right to question it now?


    Immersed with her thoughts, she didn''t notice Vince is now leaning at her. His face is too close to her, like it was just an inch away, and he would kiss her.


    "That''s a promise, okay?" said Vince. Indeed, he kissed Hailey. He pulled his head to say something more. "And let me call you in the morning and during the night if it is fine for you?"


    ''Huh? What did he ask me now?'' Hailey was in a trance after the kiss. She could not fully process what Vince was asking her, and she had no spare time to think about it when Vince kissed her one more time.


    And this time, he ced one arm on her back and pulled her closer to his body to kiss her deeper.


    ''Ah, whatever...'' Hailey sighs between the kisses. She had forgotten to mention her ns of meeting Kelly and Pit.


    *


    In the afternoon, Vince drove his car headed to the Shen Mansion. He parked his ck Lamborghini in front of the grand patio.


    The Shen butler is currently walking out the dogs. He rushed toward Vince to greet the young master.


    "Good afternoon, Mr. Shen." The butler greeted politely. "Should I park your car in the garage?"


    "Good afternoon, Roberto. And there''s no need. I won''t stay that long." Vince told the butler. He turned around and climbed the stairs.


    Roberto was left astounded. His young master stayed in the mansion most of his time¡ªdesigns about anything, whether not a project, and less care about going out.


    But now, staying in the mansion is thest thing his young master wanted to do.


    Oh, well... His young master deserves a normal life without his mother nagging at him around.

 Chapter 75 - He Wanted To Build His Own Family

    <h4>Chapter 75 - He Wanted To Build His Own Family</h4>


    Vincent pushed the mansion''s giant door to open. Carl Johnson is lounging in front of the mansion''s entrance, and the guy immediately stood on his feet to greet him.


    "Hey, cousin! Your mom has been waiting for you since this morning." Carl reported as he throws a knuckle on Vince.


    He frowned. "I told mom I woulde over in the afternoon." Vince raised his knuckle to meet Carl''s and sat down on the single couch on Carl''s right side.


    Carl shrugs his shoulder and sits back on the sofa, crossing his legs. "Well, you know your mom better than me. Aunt Hilda is very persistent. She''s hoping your mind would change and join us in having lunch out."


    In the past, Vince would obey anything his mother would tell him, like amand. Hilda Shen is a very demanding person to her family. Buttely, Hilda is always throwing a fuss because Vincent is not listening to her anymore.


    He witnesses what kind of family this is.


    In the eyes of people outside would think of how wonderful it is to be in this family.


    However, like in a typical family, it is not perfect.


    And Vince probably realizes that wealth and recognition are not what could make a person truly happy. Carl thought further that even to himself, he also ponders, leading him to this perception...


    He hasn''t found the woman he could say; SHE IS HIS WORLD.


    So, Carl assumed that Vincent must feel this way, as he doesn''t care anymore and is willing to go against his beloved mother.


    And as for Hilda Shen, she must think that her dictatorship in her son''s life is in threat to end. And it seemed it was what appears.


    "Why are you looking at me like that, huh, Carl?" asked Vince. Carl is only staring at him without blinking, even after he responded to his cousin.


    Lost in his thoughts, Carl came back to his senses. He coughed. "Ahem! It''s nothing. I remember something, but now I forget what it is. Anyway, let me pour you a drink! I heard from your dad. You got a new project, and this time it''s a huge one!" said Carl.


    Sitting in the living room is not coincident. Carl is waiting for Vince. While waiting for him, he already prepared a Brandy, three clean crystal sses, and ice cubes.


    Carl poured Vince a drink; he gave it to him, and they clinked their sses for cheers.


    "I will only have this ss," Vince said after he swallows the liquor.


    "Whoa! Aren''t you staying a little longer after you talk to your parents?"


    "I can''t. I have to pack up, and I have more work to do." That was true, but he just wanted to go home sooner to his own house, where Hailey is waiting.


    Indeed, this mansion is his home for half of his life. But a day woulde, and he wanted to build his own home with the woman he loves and starts a family with her.


    Carl was about to ask one more thing, but it interrupted him when Fred hurried to descend the grand staircase and join his son and nephew.


    "I''m d to see you, son!" Fred hugs Vincent and pats him on the back. The feeling he has at the moment is being a proud father. Not only for that reason, but it''s also because he could see how bright his son''s face wastely.


    It has only proven how his life is a lot better now. Or the right words to it, Vince is leading a happy life recently. But as a father, of course, he knew what was wrong in Vince''s current situation.


    "Hello, dad. It ddens me to see you well," said Vince.


    "Yeah. But I felt a lot boredtely." Fred cannot tell the truth. He is tired of listening to his wife''s grievances every single day. However, he would not me Vincent for it.


    Vince studied his father''s face. He has the idea, but he could not bring it up. "Hmm. Aren''t your friends and business partners often ying golf in M Resort?"


    "Yes. But you know your mom is also throwing a fret if I go out without a valid reason." Fred indeed avoided having another fight with Hilda. Lately, he only meets his friends asionally, and in the past, he only did it for the sake of business deals and partnership.


    Hilda is actually right in some cases. Half of his friends and business partners have affairs with younger women either from the Entertainment Industry or simply any women they like for a specific time. When they''re tired of old ones, they will look for a new one.


    His wife knew this very well; that is why she is watching him closely. When he was still the CEO, Hilda allowed him to spend time with those men, but... Hilda would tail him everywhere. And if she could not be around, she always encourages their son to apany him because she feared that they would influence him to do such a thing in their married life.


    Now, Hilda sometimes brought up about his friends that be a bad influencer to Vince, which made Fred buried his jaw on the ground. His wife is really something!


    "Dad, why don''t you and mom have a vacation instead? You can visit my sisters in Europe or mom''s sisters in the US?" Vince cast a nce at Carl, who raises a brow, not understanding his secret message.


    Fred sighs with frustration. "The truth, son, I also wanted to go on vacation, but your mom... She doesn''t want to go anywhere."


    "It was because mom is watching me," Vince chuckled with disappointment. But he already epts the fact that his mother would not let him go yet. And he has no n to turn back on his family. Instead, his mom must acknowledge who he wanted to spend his entire life with. "Where''s mom, by the way, dad?"


    "She was having a video chat with your sister, Sheena," Fred answered.


    "I see. My nieces and nephew must grow up a lot bigger now."


    "Yes, they are! I missed them, and I want to visit them. And you too... When is thest time you visit your sister in Paris? Is it four years ago?"


    "Not uncle! Vince flew to Hungary three years ago. Right, cousin?" Carl chimed in. He''s itchy not to join these father and son conversations. However, Vincent is throwing a warning re at him. ''What?'' He gestured at Vince.


    Fred curled up his forehead. He shifted his gaze between Vincent and Carl. He asked, "Hungary? What did you do there? Isn''t Paris you went to before your marriage to Eva?" asked Fred. Confusion was written all over his face.


    Vince pursed his mouth. He could not shoot a knife-like-look at Carl when his father is fixing his gaze on him.


    ''Carl, it seems like you need a beating!'' Vince is screaming inwardly.

 Chapter 76 - Its Time To Reward Himself

    <h4>Chapter 76 - It''s Time To Reward Himself</h4>


    It was both Fred and Carl who waited for Vincent''s answer. And as of this moment, Vincent would love to drown his nosy cousin.


    "Son?" Fred is anxious to hear about his mysterious trip three years ago that Carl brought up. He has a feeling that it was something important for Vincent.


    Fred has just seen it clear. A lot of facts he didn''t know about his son. He was confident not to check on him before, as Vincent was always on his side since he is a teenager to understand how to manage theirpany. And he didn''t see that Vincent acted strangely. All he showed was his enthusiasm to learn and his creativity in designing since young.


    Also, Vincent is a good son; he worries less, as he shows how responsible a person he is. But he was wrong. All of Vincent''s life, he didn''t ask what he feels about everything that happens in their family.


    It was something he failed as a father. He thought that teaching Vincent all knowledge he knew about running theirpany is enough legacy he could pass on.


    But he is wrong again. There is one thing he should teach Vince. And that to marry the woman he loves who will love him back.


    Fred looks at his son. Maybe it''s not toote, and he could talk to Vincent about his true feelings in the marriage they force him to be in.


    Vincent lifted his gaze and nced at Carl before he fixed his eyes toward his father. He shook his head and chuckled. He knew he must rify it to stop their assumption.


    "Dad, four years ago is the time Sheena gave birth to her son. She needs her family, but mom could still not ept Sheena''s husband. And regarding my visit to Hungary, yes, I have to do something before I fly to New York."


    After exining, Vince grabbed the bottle of brandy and poured his ss. He adds more ice before he gulps the liquor.


    Carl is looking at Vincent with a perplexed expression on his face. Vince already refuses to drink another round, but there he is! Poured his ss for the third round!


    "So? What did you do in Hungary?" Carl curiously asked Vincent. His mouth is contorting a smirk in the corner of his mouth, while his eyes are gleaming with foolery. "Have you broken up with your secret girlfriend, or did you give your virginity away to someone first?"


    It choked Vincent with the liquor he swallowed. He was coughing to clear his throat. Vincent nced at Carl with sharp res and thought inwardly, ''Carl! I''m going to beat you up now!''


    However, Carl only grins at Vincent. He didn''t feel threatened at all. The way his cousin is throwing a scary look at him confirms he is hiding a fascinating secret.


    Meanwhile, Fred, who listens to Carl''s jokes, could not decide whether tough or cry. What he is sure of at the moment is the guilt struck in his chest.


    Instead of taking care of their youngest daughter, they were in New York to force Vincent to marry Eva Lan.


    He and Hilda are waiting for Vincent to show up at his wedding. He admitted that in the past, they made several mistakes regarding how to treat their children.


    He only focuses on theirpany, letting Hilda take care of how to discipline their children. He only contributed a little as often as what he would say is YES and give everything that his children wanted¡ªyes, spoiling them with their wealth.


    But then, he didn''t notice, but only recently. Among his children, the one that suffers and has been lonely all those years is his only son.


    Fred came back to his senses after he heard Vince yell at Carl.


    "Shut up, Carl!" He picks up a pillow and throws it at the guy.


    "Why are you defensive?"


    "Because it''s the truth! There is nothing special happening in Hungary." That''s half-truth and half lie. But he doesn''te to the mansion to be teased by Carl, and he doesn''t feel obliged to exin himself further. He ignored Carl and looked at his father. "Dad, can I talk to you in private?"


    "Sure! Let''s go to study." Fred sat up and led the way toward the office on the first floor. There is another study upstairs, but it belongs to him and Hilda.


    "Hey, what about me? Why could I not listen to your conversation?"


    Vince is twitching his mouth. His cousin would only bother and be noisy. "And what will it do with you? You hate running apany. But if you are really that interested? Well, it''s not toote, my dear cousin. You can join us discussing some business matters!" Vince said with a scornful tone.


    "Ahhhh, in that case¡­ I will wait for Aunt Hilda here. I will be your Messenger! I will let her know that you guys had an important discussion first," said Carl. It was true he had no interest in running theirpany. Thank God, and he is not the oldest son. He is free from everything. He could do all he wanted to do, like cking off on Sundays.


    Moreover, he doesn''t need to study and review his lecture. He already memorized his books and the formtion and different graphs of his lessons, etc.


    And so he has no interest in listening about business furthermore in his free time. Well, he''s thiszy.


    Vince followed his father. The study was on the right-wing of the mansion. Fred opened the door, and he headed straight to the inclusion kitchen to brew a pot of coffee.


    "You want some water, son?" Fred asked Vincent.


    "Yes, dad. Let me join you there." Vince answered upon walking to the kitchen.


    The study is not only for private meetings and important conversations behind closed doors. It is more likely the ce where Vincent and Fred locked themselves from Hilda. Work has be their valid excuse not to hear any of Hilda''sints on weekends or any chance they are all in the mansion for a day.


    Well, each of them is busy with their agendas individually every single day. And so it was rare for them all to be in one ce unless an important gathering and celebration.


    This office had be Vincent''s private ce when he started attending college. Fred renovated the two rooms and turned them into a single room to build an extension room as a kitchen.


    And it was the greatest thing Fred did to his son. He didn''t seem aware of the fact, but Vincent admires his dad for doing it for him.


    He isn''t the best dad he knew in this world, but he looked up to him. Fred is a hard-working man, and that is what makes Vincent proud of his dad.


    Since then, Vincent used the room to do his school projects until he took Architecture and started designing until he left the mansion to live with Hailey.


    Vincent misses those times he could spend more time with his dad. He did his best to be well soon. He did everything to understand everything his dad taught him because he wanted to get close to him.


    And learning to manage theirpany at a young age can be his excuse to stay by his father''s side. For him, it is more likely their bonding time. It is unusual, indeed. It is supposed to be a bonding time, like doing sports activities. But he didn''t want to be demanding.


    Besides, what he learns from such a young age has be his advantage topete and seed.


    All along, it is a lonely journey as he hides his true feelings. But he looks at the bright side instead. And now, he became a CEO at twenty-nine years old.


    He did everything to make his parents proud of him. But now it is time to please himself with the Reward he ever dreamed of...

 Chapter 77 - Bonding Time With His Dad

    <h4>Chapter 77 - Bonding Time With His Dad</h4>


    Vincent was missing those moments before that he spent time with his dad, which made him guilty to admit it, that now, he is happier to spend time with Hailey than his parents.


    Vince smiled upon having these thoughts. He is certain that his mom would dig a pit for him once she learned what he was thinking at the moment. Sometimes, he would like to assume that his mom is a jealous person. Well, she is. But she never expressed her affection but anger.


    However, the time hase for things to change. And this is what he wanted his mom toprehend.


    "Dad, I mean it about you and mom, have a vacation to the ces you would like to visit. You both are not getting younger."


    "I would love that, son. But I could not convince your mom, even to visit her family in the province. I love to breathe some fresh air on the ind."


    Indeed, the Lopez family was from one of many inds in P Country. They owned several hotels and Resorts, and itbeled them as world-ss ces for a tour and vacation getaway.


    "You and mom need that, dad."


    "I will try to persuade your mom again. Hoping this time, she''ll not reject me. You know how strong-willed your mom is."


    "Of course, dad." Vince concurred. He opens the fridge and takes out one bottled water. He emptied the content then put away the bottle.


    Vincent stretches his arm to get two cups from the cupboard, then sets them down on the cemat on the table.


    The coffee has been made brewing. Fred drew the pot out of the coffee maker, and Vincent watched the ck liquid pouring on his mug.


    "Thanks, dad." He said, then bring the cup close to his mouth to blow on it. He remembers his first cup of coffee with his dad. It makes him happy because his mother only wanted to feed him with protein such as milk even when he was in his pre-teens stage.


    "Son, tell me. You didn''t speak with me in private to talk about this, right?"


    "Well, partly, dad. It will involve mom soon because you will bring her with you."


    Fred stared at his son. He had many questions inside his head, but he had to be patient and let Vincent continue to discuss the important things he wished to talk about.


    "I''m listening, son," Fred said.


    "Dad, the Davies Group emailed me my first project for them."


    "Wow. They are surely working even on Sunday, huh? Wait..." Fred halted to process Vincent''s entire phrases. He queried his son, "First project? Are you telling me they are going to give you multiple projects, son?"


    Fred watches Vincent nod. Now an excitement crept toward his chest. It''s good news, of course!


    It only means that they are offering them a long-term contract. It will be more work for Shen''s employees, particrly their engineers and their Construction Labor Team. They have to bring a hundred of their workers to Australia soon!


    "You heard right, dad. It''s urgent, so they are working even on Sundays. They demanded to finish at least sixty percent of the entire city. That is why I need your help."


    "Anything, son! As long as beyond my capabilities, I would love to lean a hand."


    "Thanks, dad! It''s not that biggie, dad. I just wanted you to check on thepany once in a while if I have to stay in Australia for a longer time in the next months. Actually, it will be for several years, dad."


    "Is that all?"


    "No. I also need you to attend my overseas meetings with our International Investors."


    "Of course, son! No, problem!" Nodding, Fred epted his son''s request. It made him happy to work again. In this way, he could stay away from Hilda once in a while. It was what was running inside Fred''s head. But then, he realizes one thing. "Son, this is the vacation you are talking about that I need to bring your mom around?"


    Vincent casually sips on his cup. He didn''t meet his dad''s eyes, and so Fred finally understood.


    ''This son of mine is truly cunning, as his mother in some way!''


    Fred put down his cup on the table. He leans back in his chair. His eyes didn''t leave gaping at his son but studied his expressionless face.


    ''He is ying hard to read now.'' Fred mumbled to his head. ''However, he has forgotten that I am his father.''


    "Hmm... You are giving me this task, and so your mom and I will be out of the country frequently. Am I right?"


    Vincent could not deny it anymore. It is his purpose, but that is only partly to the bigger task he assigns his dad.


    "Dad, going out of the country for a business trip is not the big deal I want from you, but your supervision of our ongoing projects. The email I received today is something I never imagined... Well, I dream big, dad. But I neverprehended that it is bigger than I sought for."


    "You are making me insanely curious, Vincent. Can you tell me everything straightway?" This son of mine wants me to have a heart attack from excitement!


    "Dad, they want me to beat the tower that holds the record for the tallest skyscraper in the world," Vincent stated.


    "Vincent, you are saying... You will build the tallest building in the entire world?" Surprised written all over Fred''s face. He breathed in to calm down.


    Suddenly, his heart rate is rising. It was because of the excitement he is feeling right now. Fred stood on his feet and strides closer toward Vincent.


    "I''m so proud of you, son! Congrattions!"


    "Thank you, dad. But you didn''t hear yet how much they fund for this project." Vincent ns to stay


    "Right, it overwhelmed me with your news, that''s why." Fred chuckled awkwardly, at the same time now very intrigued. He went back to his chair and waited for Vincent to continue.


    "Dad..." Vincent stops to deliver his speech with a thrill. He is hiding the yful smirk on the corner of his mouth, not to make fun of his dad.


    Fred held his breath. And the numbers Vincent mentioned almost give him a heart attack. The sum is only for his son''s first project. This amount is only part of what the SHEN GROUP would receive!


    "Son, a twenty-billion-dor skyscraper? And we are talking about US dor here!" Fred blurts out. He just imagined how many zeros that was. He couldn''t stop getting excited.


    "Yes, dad. That is why I want you to watch the production of the materials we needed."


    "Of course, son! Instantly, I have to tell your mom to pack up our luggage to visit LSI without dy! We need to hire more workers, son."


    "Yes, dad. I am thinking about that too. Next week, I need to prepare for my presentation. So, can you attend a few of my dinner meetings, dad?"


    "Sure, son! No problem! Starting tomorrow, I will show up at the office. Let me handle all of your meetings with our business partners."


    "Thanks, dad!" Vincent smiled. If he were to ask what is his favorite bonding time with his dad?


    His answer would be boring for many. But discussing theirpany and his dreams has what be his favorite bonding time.


    Besides, he could not only manage theirpany but also work on his passion, and that was designing, and construction.

 Chapter 78 - I LOVE HER

    <h4>Chapter 78 - I LOVE HER</h4>


    Fred waited for the perfect time to bring up another discussion. Honestly, he didn''t know how to begin. But he yearned to convey his feelings toward his son that he cares for him.


    "So, do you really mean it to divorce Eva?" Fred asked. He aimed to throw this question casually; however, Fred found it a little awkward to discuss with Vincent probably because he and Vincent didn''t talk about his love life, as all they''ve discussed instead is business.


    "Yes, dad," Vincent replied without blinking. He met his dad''s gaze to show how he takes this matter seriously.


    "Is it because of her?" It was a straightforward question, which Fred could not control his mouth sometimes as it was his personality. Fred studied his son''s expression and reaction regarding his query. He expects highly, but Vincent didn''t show any emotion.


    In Vincent''s mind, he isn''t sure how to answer his dad. He could not decide yet, moreover how to spill it out correctly that he could understand him.


    He is indeed divorcing Eva so that he could pursue the woman he loves. Besides, it is his and Eva''s agreement from the very beginning.


    "Dad, to tell you the truth? I have nned to divorce Eva even though I didn''t meet her." Once again¡­ Vince added into his head, but he didn''t utter it out. At that moment, his facial expression changed, and it didn''t hide from his father.


    Fred simply nodded. He picked up the coffee pot and refilled his cup.


    "Honestly, son. I don''t know what to preach to you when I am guilty that the marriage I have with your mom has no love in the beginning. It was a marriage of convenience. But what have I learned throughout our marriage? I open my heart and give myself a chance to lead my life on a better path. And that to work my marriage with your mom and build a family I dream of to call as my own. I mean,ter on, I choose to care for your mom. At first, I could not give my love to her because, you know. But believe me. Your mom is amazing in some things, and I choose to be a good husband¡­ The least I could do to have a peaceful marriage."


    Fred paused. He sipped on his cup and let out a satisfying breath. He lifted his gaze and met Vincent''s curious eyes, who are peering at him earnestly.


    Honestly, it was the first time his dad opens up about marriage. And so he is eager to know more.


    "Do not think that I amparing my situation to yours. My point here is, your mom is not a bad person, and if there is someone who works hard to keep this marriage is her. And I admitted that I am guilty that I have so many shorings. She may also have ws and wrong priorities, not to mention how she is too loud, but that''s her personality." Fred added which he and Vincent chuckled as they both agree that Hilda is too loud almost every single day.


    "As you can see, I''m still here because I attempt tomunicate with her if sheins to me about something. That is one thing I learned as a married man. And what she is fretting abouttely was your marriage and now your affair." Fred pointed out.


    "Son, I''m not encouraging you to have a mistress if you are not happy with your marriage. But I could see that your situation isn''t normal at all. What your mom needs are enlightenment. Instead of working with your marriage, she doesn''t understand why you are not doing it, but you are getting a divorce without trying out to live with Eva."


    Vincent hurls a long breath at the deepest part of his lungs and releases it violently. It was easy to think of his reasons, but it was hard to share them with his father or mother.


    All his life, he aimed to seed in every aspect of his life. However, he needs to disappoint his parents about his marriage because he doesn''t love the woman his mother chose for him.


    And today, he is determined to rify and express himself to his parents.


    "Dad, I love her."


    Finally, Vincent confessed to his father.


    Meanwhile, listening outside, standing at the shelves'' corner near the pantry door, Hilda held her breath and tightly pressing her eyelids.


    What she feared is literally what her son felt for that girl. She is afraid that Vincent does not just need a girl for his needs, but loves her as well, the reason he is keeping her.


    And Carl was right. Now it''s the case, and it will be difficult for her to separate them.


    Hilda cannot eavesdrop further. She wanted to breathe some fresh air to calm down. He takes silent steps out of the study. She slowly closed the door and made an abrupt turn just to be startled. "Carl Johnson, you son of¡­"


    Hilda was gasping furiously from surprise. Carl is standing in the middle of the aisle, and this really startles her.


    "Aha! Mine your mouth, Auntie!" Carl prevents his aunt from cursing. He winked at the middle-ageddy, who frowned at him.


    As usual, Carl sounded like he''s threatening Hilda to expose her eavesdropping to her husband and son.


    Carl sees how she sneakily got out of the study. She scowled at him and threw a stern look. "Next time, I meant it to kick you out, Carl!"


    "No problem with me, Auntie!" Carl grinned. He didn''t feel threatened at all. He has confidence that Vincent will not abandon him, and he could get a reward instead! He could always have him backing him up.


    Hilda ignored Carl. She resumes walking, headed back to the living room. She dropped her body to the sofa, in which it''s written the displeasure all over her face.


    Carl would love to tease his aunt further, but he sees how it annoyed his aunt because of him. He thought she barged in the study to talk to Vincent. But he also guesses that she will eavesdrop on the father and son conversation.


    Hilda''s expression denies it. She was curious about what they were talking about, so she went to the study to speak to both men.


    "Don''t you dare to tell them, Carl?" Hilda''s tone was terrifying, but Carl knew how to y along.


    "Yes, ma''am! Don''t worry, Auntie! Your secret is safe with me!"


    However, Hilda was more anxious. Carl''s loyalty belongs to Vincent. And knowing her nephew very well, his mouth is not to trust.


    Hilda would like to point out something, but she could already hear footstepsing to the living room, and the voices belonged to Fred and Vincent.


    "Hi, mom." Vincent greeted Hilda. He ced a kiss on her left cheek before he sat across from her, which his dad joined his mother on the sofa.


    Fred nced at Vincent with a meaningful stare. His father was encouraging him to bring up the matter about his n of divorcing Eva.


    Meanwhile, Hilda nodded at her son. She mulled over how to start tossing her countless questions that ran on top of her head. She has been practicing how to say them. But now that Vincent was seated in front of her, her tongue retreated.


    Ever sincest night, she ponders what Fred said to her. All these years, she only overlooked the fact that Vincent''s married life is leading to nowhere. She should already evaluate why Eva could not choose to give up her career to work on her marriage with Vincent.


    And her son did nothing about it either. Instead, he seeks a divorce. So, even she will convince Vincent to fix his marriage, but what marriage can they call it if from the beginning the couple was already living in an unusual setting?


    "So¡­ I heard about the Entertainment website that suddenly disappears a few hours after they release an article about you." Hilda asked. She fixes her gaze at Vincent as her eyes say that she didn''t totally believe that Vincent did it. Unless for the sake of his mistress, her son no doubt to do it. She has seen it before. And so she doesn''t want to hear it, actually.


    "Mom, I didn''t do it," Vince replied. And it was the truth. He added, "Probably it was the work of other people they offended."


    ''But they indeed offend me by ckmailing me to pay arge amount for them to take down the gossip they published.'' Vince mused inwardly. He chooses not to mention it to his parents.


    Somehow, it made Hilda sighed with relief. However, they still need to exin it to the media. She already foresees they will storm with a question, and this will be a controversy. And so, she has to prepare a statement if ites to that.


    "Vincent, I doubt the media would let you off not questioning you about it," said Hilda.


    "I know, mom. But I have no spare time to waste my energy on them. I have a lot of work I need to finish before I fly to Australia. And so, I asked dad to oversee thepany in my absence. I need him to attend my international meetings, as well."


    "What? Fred?" Hilda turned her head to her right to look at her husband.


    Fred coughs. "You heard it right, Hilda. And I epted it. It is temporary, though. Until hepleted his projects in Australia."


    "And how long is it?" She red at Fred. The way her husband says it, she senses the excitement in his voice. She has the feeling that his husband wanted this to get rid of her. When Fred has to go to the office every day, he has an excuse to stay away from her.


    "I don''t know. Your son and I would not guess it since the Davies Group hasn''t given Vincent''s the full details about his projects."


    "It sounded like a huge one," Hilda mumbled to herself. She asked, "So, it will take years?"


    "It will be a long-term contract, Hilda! Your son is skilled in his profession. Davies Group would not be disappointed!" Fred is bragging about, which is the truth anyway. "We will know all the details of his project once he''s back."


    Hilda asked with a solemn facial expression on her face. "What about her?"

 Chapter 79 - Shes The Only Girl

    <h4>Chapter 79 - She''s The Only Girl</h4>


    "Who are you talking about?" Fred asked his wife. He doesn''t want to assume that he knew who Hilda implies because there are two women in Vincent''s life at present. However, one can''t call as his woman when they never live as a couple.


    Hilda twitches her mouth as she scowls at her husband. She could not admit it, but she doesn''t want to say that other girl''s name.


    Fred tilted his head to the side and looked at his wife downward. Hilda understood what Fred was trying to convey to her, but she only returned a re.


    "I''m talking about those two women!" Hilda snapped at her husband.


    Vincent witnessed how his parents are tossing tant stares at each other even they tried not to be obvious. But it didn''t hide their silent conversation through their eyes in front of him, who was keenly watching them.


    "Mom, if you are talking about Hailey, whether I would take her to Australia? Yes, I will. But she wanted toplete her lessons for this school year." Honestly, it was only his guess because he hasn''t discussed it with Hailey yet, nor she knew he needed her to apany him to Australia. If Hailey joins him in Australia, then he would be so d. "¡ªbesides, mom. Hailey is from Australia. Her family was there."


    Hilda was like stumbling on the floor upon listening to Vincent mentioning that girl''s family. It was like Vincent seemed nning to meet them!


    Hilda clenches her fists. Afterward, she heaves a long sigh to calm herself down. She realized she should not let herself have these crazy thoughts. Otherwise, it would stress herpletely.


    She may only overthink what isn''t happening yet or, perhaps, would never happen.


    That girl is only a mistress. Can she dare tell her family? Unless that girl''s family is tolerating her ugly behavior of having a rtionship with a married man because they can milk money from Vincent.


    Some people are like that. They would not discipline their children and care less to teach them what is right and wrong. Having an affair and a liar human being are the two things she hated most in this life. She condemns all these kinds of people, along with their family, who allow this kind of shameful behavior.


    "Okay. Which city is it?" Hilda asks casually. There is no emotion exhibited in her eyes but a somber expression on her face. She ascertains that Vincent would not notice the roughness in her tone.


    "Sydney, mom," Vince replied.


    "And you will work at?" Hilda queried furthermore.


    "It will be in Northeast Australia, mom." Vince had a sense that his mom has something to tell him, but she seems taken aback.


    "I see." Hilda sipped on her tea. Now she is out of questions to ask Vincent further. No. She still has a hundred questions running inside her head, but she could not gather the courage to voice them out all.


    Moreover, if she stresses out her words, Vincent would thoroughly think of her as a viin. But how could she encourage Vincent to stop his foolishness if she wouldn''t speak out? Ah! She felt like her head is throbbing.


    She is certain that the girl hid something. She had a strong intuition, and she is never wrong about it. How if that woman is not a decent person but only fooled him?


    Hilda, we''re nning to search for evidence that that girl is truly an Escort working at an international agency. And the worst truth she could ever think of is that girl working with someone to sabotage Shen''s projects.


    The more Vincent rise to the top, the more people envied him.


    Hilda is contemting while she was staring at her tea. She has been thinking.


    She doesn''t want her son''s downfall because of that girl. She did all her best to lead Vincent''s life on the right path. She is strict with her son. But she doesn''t want Vincent to be like other kids who are unsessful because they are easy-go-lucky during their younger years that only care for the nightlife and women.


    Now, she is very proud of the sess that Vincent is achieving. But she didn''t know which part she was wrong, and Vincent''s marriage was not sessful.


    "Mom, can you apany dad on his trips?" Vincent requests a long silence.


    Hilda, who was lost in her thoughts, came back to her senses. She lifted her gaze and looked at her son.


    She didn''t answer immediately. Honestly, she could sense that Vincent just wanted her to stay away from his girlfriend.


    ''My son is getting rid of me because he cares more about his girlfriend? Ridiculous!'' Now it frustrates her to think it over, which she could also recall the words that came from Vincent''s mouth.


    He loves that woman.


    And she doesn''t know if she could ept this fact. Of course, she was never happy that Vincent had an affair. It was an embarrassing situation to her that she didn''t raise Vincent properly.


    What wrong did she do? Hilda could not stop herself pondering over this matter. It infuriates her to concede how failure she is.


    "Vincent, when could you end this?" she asked afterward. Hilda admitted that her question is not directly to her point, but she is confident that Vincent understands it. He is a genius. He never disappoints them except for his affair that brought shame to their family and name.


    "Mom, you must understand that I would never leave her."


    "You can find a better woman," Hilda asserted.


    "I don''t need anyone else, mom. Even if that other woman you were talking about is the perfect one. But mom, honestly, that better woman is already with me." Vince says it with his whole heart.


    Hilda would love to throw a fret listening to her son. It only means that she could not change his mind whatever she did to separate them apart.


    "So, are you divorcing Eva, huh?" Hilda blurt out this question with bitterness. Of course, she is against it. So there''s nothing for her to be happy.


    Vincent nced at his father. Today, he heard this question from both of his parents. He felt ironic at the moment he could not help chuckling and shook his head.


    Meanwhile, Hilda didn''t know what was on her son''s mind. She only assumed that Vincent is mocking her now.


    Hilda frowned. It infuriates her to see how Vincent only ridicules her question. Her son has be disrespectful toward her, and that is because of that girl!


    "Vincent, have you forgotten who I am? You don''t respect me now!" Hilda''s voice rose. She only tried to stay calm in front of her son. But now, she wouldn''t hold herself any longer. Vincent has changed so much since he met that woman!


    On the other hand, Vincent was confused why his mom suddenly raised her voice. Not only that, her face is riled all of a sudden.


    "Mom, what''s wrong? What did I do?" Is he misinterpreting something? His mother''s personality always baffled him.


    Fred is also feeling conflicted. He already warned Hilda to speak calmly toward Vincent. Instead, what she acted at the moment would lead to an argument. dly, he has confidence in his son. He knew that Vincent wouldn''t argue with his mom. He never will.


    However, Fred immediately realized that he was wrong. Vincent''s expression has be solemn. His jaw tightens and darkens his face, and his lips were tightly closed in a thin line. He avoided meeting his mother''s eyes, but it didn''t hide how his eyes glowered with irritation.


    "Vincent Shen! Ever since that girl came into our life, you''ve be impolite to me!" Hilda''s face was like bitten red from anger. She never imagines that Vincent would be impudent.


    "Mom, I don''t understand why you are so angry at me. I get it. You are against my affair. But mom, you never heard mein but followed whatever you want me to do." This time, Vincent confronts his mom. He looked at her straight in the eyes as he went on, "I work so hard to meet your expectation. I exceed my capability so that I can make you proud. Moreover, you heard noint from me when you arranged my marriage and chose a wife on my behalf."


    Vincent paused as emotion flooded his head. He breathed in and released the air furiously. "I never wanted this marriage from the very beginning, but I don''t want toplicate things for you. So, I still did it for your sake, mom. But mom¡­ for the first time, I want to do one thing for myself. No. It was what I wanted even before you arranged my marriage to someone else. And now that she''s here... "


    Hilda held her breath. It''s the first time Vincent raises his voice toward her. Not only that, his words are like thunder in her ears. What is Vincent saying now?


    It confused her when Vincent stood on his feet. Now she freaks out that Vincent is leaving. However, her lips are tightly closed, and her tongue could not form any words.


    "Vincent¡­"


    "Mom, my mind would not change. And so, in the future, if you want to continue to disagree with my decisions, my answer is the same. I will divorce Eva, and there''s no way I will let Hailey go," Vincent started and walked away after.


    But Vincent halted halfway. He made a sidelong nce and said, "If you want to understand why Eva and I didn''t live as a couple, she is the only one who could exin it and tell you the truth."


    He added, "I will say it only once, mom. There''s no other girl I want to spend the rest of my life with but Hailey."


    After uttering these words, Vincent walked toward the main door without waiting for his mother to counter his speech. He left without saying goodbye to his dad and Carl, who remains quiet in his chair.


    Hilda was about to open her mouth, but Fred sent a warning stare like telling her, ''think about it first.''


    Hilda presses her mouth with fury. Everyone indeed thinks she is the Viin here! And what was Vincent meant about asking Eva? Maybe she needs to visit the Lan family.

 Chapter 80 - Meeting Her (One)

    <h4>Chapter 80 - Meeting Her (One)</h4>


    Vincent stood in front of his car for a moment. He lifted his chin and looked up at the sky as he breathed out furiously.


    He didn''t mean to be disrespectful toward his mom. But he would not allow her to take away the only thing that makes him happy.


    Vincent slid into the vehicle and sat in front of the steering wheels. He pulled out his phone and typed a message he sent to his dad.


    "I''m sorry, dad. I better leave now. Can we talk again tomorrow in the office?"


    Vincent throws his phone on the passenger seat. He turned on the engine of his car and drove out of the mansion. He speeds up the moment he exited at the main gate of the Metro Real Estate.


    Since it was Sunday, the main road has only minor traffic today. It didn''t take long for Vincent to arrive in the penthouse.


    Vincent pushes the door open of his unit. He takes off his shoes, ces them inside the shoe closet, and wears his house slipper.


    The house is too quiet. He saw Hailey was in the kitchen preparing something. She supposes to review her lessons, but there she is, making their dinner.


    She didn''t hear his arrival, and so he guesses she wore the earbuds.


    Vincent crossed his arms across his chest and rested his back on the wall. He remained in the entryway to watch Hailey in silence.


    And as he was looking at her lovingly, memories flooded his head as he recalls where he meets her.


    *


    BUDAPEST, HUNGARY


    Vince ordered a cup of brewed coffee and a croissant. He took his coffee and bread outside the coffee shop, seated in front of a sidewalk market near a riverbank. His eyes sweep in the whole ce. Today seemed like a busy day, with several tourist groups passing by his table.


    Near here is an old church where everyone loves to visit. He loves that church too, and admired its architectural design. It is one of a few reasons he was here in Budapest.


    "Sorry to make you wait!"


    Vince lifted his head from typing on his phone. His lips tear a smile upon seeing the girl seated across him. "Hey, want some coffee?"


    "Yup! I need more of it. Lena stayed awaketest night, and so, she''s still sleeping thiste morning."


    "Okay. Kids change their sleeping hour cycle, so you must bear it for a while," Vincent''s advice.


    "Oh. And when does my dear brother know this stuff?" Sheena teases Vincent. She is wearing that yful smile across her beautiful face that her big brother missed already.


    But then, Vincent rolled his eyes. True that he has no experiences with many things such as rtionships and never went on dates but only became his sister''s chaperone asionally. And they''ve witnessed how he has only avoided those girls who wanted to get close to him.


    His sisters knew how a bookworm guy he is, who instead dated his books in the library rather than to go out, spending his youth in nightclubs and women.


    "Of course, I know about it, at least. My passion for reading books would be a waste if I didn''t know this simple information about having kids."


    "Oh, yeah? And how about women?"


    "And what about women?"


    Sheenaughed out when her dear brother only repeated her question. It only means he wanted to drop this topic. Of course, she knew him very well.


    "Don''t tell me you didn''t hook up any beautiful Hungarian womenst night?"


    Vincent dropped his jaw. His naughty sister never spares him from taunting about this kind of stuff. He warns her, "Watch your question, youngdy."


    "Come on! You should enjoy your vacation at least!"


    "And do you think I could do that? I have sisters whom I am overprotected from scumbag men. But then you are encouraging me to do such a thing?"


    "It''s not like that, brother! But I''m sure there are women out there who are willing." Sheena winked at her brother, who has never changed. But she was happy to see this side of Vincent. He is undoubtedly a boyfriend material for every girl who prefers a gentleman and respectful guy. He isn''t a possessive and scum person who sleeps around with every girl he meets.


    Vincent stared at his little sister with awe. "How could you encourage your brother to make out and have a one-night stand?"


    Sheena sees how cute her brother is mouthing these words. She couldn''t stopughing that the passersby could not help looking at their table. Thank god, and they were speaking in theirnguage, and these people would not understand their conversation because if it happens, Vincent will die in shame because of his silly little sister.


    "Just spare me, would you?" Vincent frowned. Sheena continuedughing, and he started feeling embarrassed to beughed at by his very own sister.


    "I''m sorry, brother." Sheena stopsughing and apologizes after. She may always tease Vincent, but she doesn''t want to go overboard. But one thing she has been noticing all this time while she was talking with him. asionally, he was looking in the same direction.


    Sheena was very curious to find out; she turned her head and swept her gaze across the street. Her eyes gleam with fascination. She returned her gaze to her brother and looked at him with excitement.


    "What?" The way his little sister grinning at him now, Vincent was suspicious that her head had silly ideas at the moment.


    "So¡­ you were looking at a particr girl this whole time we are talking about dating!" Sheena burst out excitedly.


    "Jeez. I''m just looking around." Vincent defended himself. Even if he were to be caught red-handed, he would not admit it. Otherwise, Sheena would not stop teasing him once again!


    "She''s pretty! Excellent choice, brother!" Sheena patted her brother''s shoulder. "So, go ahead and get her name and number!"


    Sheena says this with an enormous smile across her face. Vincent raises a brow. How ironic that his little sister taught him to be like a Casanova.


    "Wait¡­ What are you doing with my phone?" Vincent attempts to snatch back his phone when Sheena grabs it from the table.


    Sheena focused the camera across the street and took several photos. After that, she returned the phone to her brother.


    "Here, my beloved brother. Now be a Romeo!"


    Vincent twitches the corner of his mouth. "Romeo dies at the end of the story," he mouthed.


    "Okay, fine! But at least Romeo got his Juliet?" Sheena reasons out, winking at her brother, who was still a coward, to approach a girl. "You are such a coward, you know."


    "I''m not! I am just not interested." Vincent''s excuse, but it made him obvious. He sipped on his cup and averted his gaze, looking in a different direction.


    Sheena rose a brow and shook her head. It amazed her always that every time her dear brother only denies to the bones! "Okay. If you weren''t a coward, now ask her name." She challenged him.


    Vincent could only stare with astonishment at his silly sister. He knew she would not stop bugging him about it if he didn''t do something.


    He lowered his gaze to his phone and swiped the screen to look at the photos. He lifted his head and nced across the street to looked at the beautiful girl greeting her customers with delight.

 Chapter 81 - Meeting Her (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 81 - Meeting Her (Two)</h4>


    "My goodness, brother!" Sheena blurted out hopelessly. Her dear brother won''t be afraid to join a Debate at his school, but such a chicken when approaching a girl! "Seriously? Are you not going to introduce yourself?"


    "Why would I?" Vincent red at his little sister, who didn''t stop nagging him. The usual, though. And he won''t take her challenge.


    "Come on!" Sheena has no n to quit. In fact, it will only make her determined to encourage her brother.


    "I''ll tell you. I don''t want to be soaked with lemonade." Vincent pointed his mouth toward the girl selling fresh lemonade across the street. "That''s the third guy for this morning. I wonder how many men will be soaked with lemonade the entire day?"


    Sheena nced at the lemonade booth across the street. She dropped her mouth open with amazement. The girl sshes one guy with a ss of lemonade. Now that guy who wore an Armani suit was soaked with the juice. He is cursing the girl even he''s already drove his Porsche leaving the ce. But the girl just raised her finger with a fu...k you sign.


    They didn''t understand what they were talking about, as they didn''t know how to speak Hungarian; however, the people who understand itughs. Whatever that girl said amuse them.


    Sheena could not help tough with her stomach. Not because she understood them, but it amuses her to witness how badass that girl is.


    "You know what, brother? That kind of girl is worth pursuing. A badass girl and ying hard to get? That''s the one!"


    Vincent chuckled. His little sister is ying cupid with him. "I missed you, sis."


    Sheena pouted, "You just wanted to change the topic."


    "I didn''t! I just missed you around teasing me like this." He reasons out, and it''s the truth. If his mom is nagging him over again, his sisters love to make fun of him. Andtely, it''s kind of lonely when Sheena settles in Paris, and Deena lives in Ennd.


    Sheena smiled. She knew that her brother meant it. She only loves to poke fun at him. "I missed you too, brother."


    Vincent held his little sister''s hands. He is too strict with Sheena. He is actually against her being an Inte sensation like vlogging. But there are things he cannot prevent when he wasn''t there during those times.


    "How are you?" He asked sincerely afterward.


    "I''m good! Don''t worry about me. Stephen is a great guy. He loves Lena like his own daughter."


    "I''m d to hear that. But I will always be worried about you. I hope you coulde home together with Lena..." Vincent didn''t continue his statement. And Sheena understood what her brother wanted to tell her.


    "Only me and Sheena, right?" Because her mom was more shocked that she found a boyfriend and Stephen is not from a wealthy family. Stephen is only a chef in a restaurant. "I know mom is still angry at me. I disappointed her. Moreover, I gave shame to this family."


    As emotion flooded on her chest, her voice cracks a bit.


    "Don''t say that! You may have the wrong choices. But you can''t forever punish yourself. However, it doesn''t mean you have to make the same mistake. Hm?"


    Sheena smiled. It was Vincent who would alwaysfort her. And although her brother was never in a rtionship, he is the best brother she could ask for more.


    When she faces those gossips and their mom''s anger, it was Vincent who helps her get away and hide in Paris. And Vincent, who helped her start a new life and get through hardships as Lena growing inside her belly, and now she is getting bigger.


    It was her brother who is always there and never abandons them. And so she is sure that Vincent would be a wonderful father and husband.


    "When would you n to get married? You are never getting younger, you know, my dear brother," Sheena says it like a joke, but she meant it.


    "I haven''t met the one yet." He joked.


    "And you would never find her if you never go on dates!" Sheena nces over her shoulder and teases her brother by pointing her lips toward the girl across the street. "Start with her."


    "Seriously, sister? You''re teaching your brother, and who''s older than you, to hook a girl?"


    "Wrong, brother. I''m encouraging you! Hm?"


    "Jeez. You just wanted to make fun of me."


    "Not really! I''m serious! It would be best if you had fun once in a while, you know?"


    Vince pushes his lips into a smile. He messed up Sheena''s hair, which sheins aboutter on.


    "Hey, brother, stop!" Sheena tried to lean backward to avoid her head from her brother''s reach. She wasughing hard when an idea popped into her head. "Wait, here!"


    "Huh? Where are you going?" Vincent asked, confused about where his sister is going. He watched Sheena cross the streets. "What the heck?"


    Vincent grabs a newspaper.


    *


    Meanwhile, Sheena halted in front of the stool. "Hello?"


    She greeted and waited for the girl to answer if she understood English. She''s nervous because her French isn''t that good yet. She doesn''t have that leisure time to attend French ss after she gives birth to Lena. She isn''t a pampered princess anymore. But she is trying to live up her life to the fullest with her very own princess.


    And if it weren''t for her brother helping her, life would be harder for her, the reason she wanted to help him chill out once in a while when their mom was out of sight.


    His life is too dull, added their mom''s nags.


    "Hi! What''s your order?"


    Sheena sighs with relief that she speaks English. "Two lemonades, please."


    "Size?"


    "Large!"


    "Got it! Would you like to try our lemon pies?"


    "Oh." Sheena looks at the te in front of her.


    "Go on. It''s free to taste!"


    "Cool! Looks tasty!" Sheena picks one portion and puts it in her mouth. "Hmm... Wow! That was... Um... Delicious! I''ll have one box!"


    "Great! I''ll pack it right after your lemonade."


    "Thanks!" Sheena observes the girl filled tworge cups with her drinks. And she could not wait anymore for her to finish to ask a few questions. "So, are you, locals, here?"


    "Oh. Me?" The girl nced at Sheena, and then she returned her gaze at the drinks. She is cing the lid on the cups. "Something like that!"


    "I see! So, um..." She didn''t feel able to continue talking when the girl ced the two cups in front of her. Sheena bites her lower lip.


    "Here you go! Two cups ofrge lemonade and a box of lemon pie... That''s..." The girl gives the total cost.


    Sheena pats her back pocket, but her wallet isn''t there. "Oh. I''m sorry. I left my purse on the table. You know, we just sat across from here. There!" Sheena pointed to the coffee shop. "I was with my brother..."


    She was excited to point out her brother, but her eyes popped out after discovering that Vincent hid his face with a newspaper.


    "I''m really, sorry. My brother isn''t looking this way. I''ll get my purse. I''ll be right back!"


    "Sure. You can bring them already. Juste back with your payment."


    "Oh. Can I do that?"


    "Yeah!"


    "Are you not afraid that I would just disappear?"


    "Well, I don''t worry about myself. But the olddy needed it for her grandson''s treatment." The girl points the olddy at the back, doing an inventory of how many boxes they got today.


    "However, you still trusted me even if the possibilities lie on the table?"


    The girl smiled at Sheena, and she thinks she is not only pretty but she is also very charming.


    "I like you!" Sheena could not help to blurt out.


    "I could see you are not that kind of person." The girl stated, that please, Sheena. "So I trusted you." The girl added that made Sheena more impressed by her.


    "Sheena, by the way." She extended her arm toward the girl as she introduced herself.


    "Hailey." The girl epts her hand and then gives her name.


    "Nice to meet you, Hailey."


    "Pleasure to meet you, Sheena." Hailey smiled back.


    Sheena was still in a daze when she went back to the table. Vincent peeped out from reading the newspaper. Well, he is just pretending to read the morning news in this city.


    "What''s gotten into you?" he asked Sheena when his sister remained silent. Unusual from her personality, and so he knew that something happened.


    Sheena fixes her gaze to her brother. She just recalled her purpose why she approached Hailey. She scowled at her brother. "You are unbelievable! I left my purse so that you can bring it over, and then, you can introduce yourself!"


    "Oh. So that''s your n, huh, sister?"


    "Yeah! It was your glorious moment!"


    "My what?" Vincent chuckled. Later, he wiped the smile on his face, then said, "At least, you are sharing your n! How am I supposed to know?"


    Sheena stared at her brother with a helpless expression on her face. "You are impossible, brother. Thank god, I got her name."


    "Oh¡­"


    "I won''t give it to you if you won''t ask her out."


    "Really? And that''s a threat now? You were threatening me using her name?"


    "Yup, I am!" Sheena sipped on the lemonade while saying this. She opens the box and takes out one slice of lemon pie, and stuffs her mouth. The pie is already delicious, but she put more acts into it so that her brother put down the newspaper.


    "Hey, give me some," Vincent begged his sister.


    "Go and buy yours. This is all mine."


    "Wait¡­ You haven''t paid it yet!"


    Sheena put out her tongue and winked. "You can pay it yourself, brother. Then, it was your chance to ask Hailey out! Oopsie..."


    Vincentughed. He shook his head and then made a casual nce across the street.


    "Hailey, huh? It''s a beautiful name," he mumbled. His lips tore into a smile, but he hid it quickly. Not for Sheena to see.


    However, Sheena already caught him and was ready to tease him further.

 Chapter 82 - Meeting Her (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 82 - Meeting Her (Three)</h4>


    Later on, Vincent apanied Sheena, visiting Stephen''s family living in Budapest''s countryside. Stephen''s family is very hospitable, and he could see how they treated her niece like their very own granddaughter.


    He was here to meet them and make sure that Sheena and Lena would be in good hands as his sister epted Stephen''s marriage proposal.


    But Vincent had another n for why he is here. He didn''t share it with Sheena yet but waited for a perfect moment so that he could talk to her aler.


    After a merry dinner, Vincent was waiting until Sheena could send Lena to bed.


    At the moment, he is seated on the porch alone.


    He took out his phone and checked his Gallery looking at the particr photos.


    "She''s pretty."


    Sheena showed up behind. Vincent looked up and made ame excuse, even though he was caught red-handed. "I... I was checking my Gallery to delete unnecessary photos."


    "Really? And you were saying you n to delete her photos?" Sheena pursed a yful smile across her face. Her dear brother was already caught but still denying he truly likes the girl on his phone.


    "She''s not my girlfriend. Why should I keep her photos? It''s more like stalking. Do you understand that, my little sister?"


    "You know what, brother? There is one solution to your dilemma. Ask her out when you go back to the city tomorrow."


    "You''ve started again." Vincent frowned but in a yful way. His little sister is always a naughty girl, and this is what he misses about her.


    "I''m serious, brother. I don''t remember you looking at a girl the way you stare at her. That is why I could tell that you like Hailey."


    Vince chuckled. "You are serious, huh?"


    "I am! Do you know how those socialites crawled their way to get too close to Deena and me? It was because they wanted to hook up with you! And you can guess the following history. To corner you by having a one-night stand."


    "Alright, fine. I know you are this smart." Vincent pokes Sheena''s nose.


    She added to her statement, "And the rest of those women are not good enough for you, so¡­"


    "And so, you have your very own way for them not to get close to me."


    "Yup! I wanted the best for you." Sheena smiled. "I meant it, brother."


    "And do you think she is the best for me?" he queried.


    "We can''t say a final word unless you try it out?" And she meant it to encourage her brother to do something with his love life.


    "Okay, but I came here not to look for a date. I want to know if your mind''s made up already. I mean, all I wish is for you to be happy. I won''t stop you, but I want to make sure this is what your heart really wanted."


    "I do, brother. Stephen makes me like a queen despite the simple things he could only offer me. But I''m content with our life. I don''t live in a mansion anymore, with nannies and bodyguards following me around. I''m not the princess who can get all she wanted anymore. But I have never been happy like when I was with Stephen."


    "I''m d. That''s all I wanted to know." Vincent stretched his arm to reach Sheena''s head and patted her. "I have something for you."


    Vincent pulled out an envelope inside his jacket and handed it to his sister. Sheena opens the envelope and reads what is written on the documents. Her eyes widened.


    "What is this, brother?"


    "When you go back to Paris. I want you to take any courses you like."


    Tears welled up in Sheena''s eyes. It surprised her to see the documents in her hand. She dreams of it but didn''t expect to receive it tonight. Of course, she wished to get to college. "You don''t need to do this!"


    "Don''t worry. It was dad. I only help a little." Vincent exined. Their father is too busy at theirpany, and Vincent did everything to remind his dad about helping Sheena with something. And their mom did not know of it because she wanted to punish Sheena.


    "Oh!" Sheena jumped with happiness after learning about it. "Tell dad, thank you, and I''m so sorry I have been a worthless daughter."


    "Don''t say that. He misses you so much, and he wanted to meet his granddaughter."


    "Oh. I miss dad badly! Lena would be happy to meet his granddad. I wish he were here tomorrow." Tears began forming in her eyes once again.


    Sheena wipes her face and smiles. She is notpletely alone, though. Vincent came all the way here to Hungary to attend her wedding tomorrow. Deena wished toe, but it was her due this week with her first daughter, and she will see her soon! Deena and her husband Wace sent them tickets for a trip to Ennd as their honeymoon present.


    "Thank you very much foring to my wedding." Emotion made her voice crack. It does touch her how Vincent never stopped standing up as a family.


    "Hey, you have to stay pretty for your wedding tomorrow. Your eyes start swollen." Vincent jokes, and it causes Sheena to giggle. Later, he pulled out another white envelope and ced it into Sheena''s hand. "Now, let me give you my wedding gift for you and Stephen."


    Sheena opens the second envelope with a confusing look on her face. After she sees what''s inside, she lifts her head and gives Vincent a questioning gaze. "Brother? What is this?"


    "I heard Stephen wanted to run his own kitchen. So, maybe it will help for a great start."


    Sheena jumped and hugged Vincent tight. "I don''t know what to say, but thank you, brother! Really... Stephen wanted to start his own restaurant, and I want to help him manage it. His parents would love to help as well, but Stephen wants us to get married first. And so, his parents make everything possible for tomorrow''s unforgettable moment of my life. I mean, it is one of countless best moments of my life."


    "It made me d to see you happy."


    "It won''t beplete without you." She said with honesty. "I wish dad and mom ept Stephen, and we would not keep it a secret."


    That is true. Their mom already expressed herself that she is against Sheena marrying a guy who is only a chef. Now she keeps her wedding a secret, but her siblings only knew about it.


    "Our parents want the best for us. But they didn''t see one thing, and that is who you love. I think Stephen is a great chef. The food he prepared at supper is wonderful."


    Sheena felt delighted to hear this from Vincent. It made her happy that Vincent didn''t make things hard for Stephen. "Thank you for trusting him, brother."


    "You choose him, and if he can make you happy. I must support that," Vincent stated wholeheartedly.

 Chapter 83 - Meeting Her (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 83 - Meeting Her (Four)</h4>


    "You are the best brother I could ask for. Thank you!" Sheena threw her arms around Vincent for another hug.


    "Enough with all these, thank you, okay? I''ll often be visiting, so I expect my full meal three times a day during my stay."


    Sheenaughs. But then, tears flood her eyes once again, and it is the moment Stephenes out from the door carrying a tray in his hands with three mugs of coffee on it.


    "Oh. It looks like I came in at the wrong timing," Stephen uttered. It didn''t hide to him how Sheena''s family is against him because he is only a peasantpared to her, a princess to someone''s kingdom.


    Sheena parted from Vincent. She turned around and walked toward her soon-to-be-husband. "No! You just came in at the perfect time!" Sheena showed Vincent''s gift. "Look at what brother''s wedding gift to us!"


    "Oh¡­" Stephen widened his eyes to read the numbers in the check. It seems like he is dreaming in the middle of the night. "Is this real?"


    "It is! I told you he is the best brother in the world!" Sheena would never tire of shouting out to every person in this world how proud she is to have a brother like Vincent.


    "I¡­ I don''t know what to say. I¡­ I felt like thank you is not enough to show my gratitude." Stephen stammers his words because of his excitement. The amount written in the check is more than enough to start the restaurant he dreams of having.


    Vince nodded and said to Stephen, "No need to thank me. What I expect from you is to love my sister and her daughter unconditionally. Promise me to take care of them like a real man."


    "I promised!" said Stephen, but then he corrected it. "No. I offer my heart and soul to this beautiful woman. Through good times and bad times, I am the first man to be there on her side."


    After quoting his sweet promises, Stephen leans over and kisses Sheena in front of Vincent.


    The guy rolled his eyes and mumbled. "Show off¡­"


    Later, the coupleughs out loud and could not help teasing him to hook up with someone soon and then marry her if she is the one.


    "The one, huh?" Stephen looked at Sheena with a questioning stare. Sheena then excitedly shared about the girl selling lemonade. "Brother-inw, you should ask this girl on a date. When I firstid my eyes on your sister, my heart told me she is the one. And I will say this... I am fortunate that Lena''s father ran away because now I have a chance to marry a wonderful woman that the guy failed to see how beautiful and amazing she is. Moreover, I am honored to be Lena''s new father."


    Sheena chokes from the sweet words; Stephen confesses in front of her brother and to her as well. "Thank you, baby."


    Stephen and Sheena hold hands and once again kissed in front of Vincent, who he again rolled his eyes. "Please, spare the single people out here."


    "That''s why you should ask her out and invited her as your date to tomorrow''s wedding of ours," Sheena mouthed.


    "Have you forgotten that she just pours a lemonade to whoever asks her out?" Vincent''s cowardly excuse.


    "That''s the point, brother! A man who wore Armani suits and drove a sports car doesn''t impress her." Sheena pointed it out. Actually, she is giving her brother some advice.


    "I agreed with my wife, brother-inw. How if you drive my old Chevy?" Stephen suggested.


    Sheena added, "And wear not ssy clothes. Look at your expensive jeans and silk long sleeves."


    "And that leather shoes!" Stephen echoed.


    Vincent shifted his gaze between Sheena and Stephen. Now he could see the incredible bond and team they are building. Both had the same ideas and agreed with the same things. Now he understood how her sister fell in love with Stephen.


    "So, I should show up as a beggar for her not to ssh me a lemonade?"


    Sheena and Stephen shared a nce. They nodded in agreement. "Yeah."


    "That''s made two of you who''s making fun of me now. My sister found her partner, huh?"


    "I guess that''s aplimenting from my brother-inw." Stephen was delighted.


    Then the porch filled withughter. Stephen''s parents join themter after they send Lena to bed. The older couple was very fond of the young girl. And Stephen shared the good news with his parents.


    Vincent enjoyed his stay with the Keller family, and he could see how they love his sister. Now he will be at peace once he goes back to P Country.


    And that night, Vincent gave thought to what they''d discussed what kind of impression he should have in front of Hailey. However, all he has in his suitcase are brand-name clothes.


    "Well, that''s why the word shopping wase up with," He mumbled to himself. Anyway, he could buy a in white T-shirt and cheaper jeans on his way back to the city tomorrow. Now that''s a n of his.


    The following day, the wedding was beautiful. There are only a few guests attending, but most of Stephen''s rtives and closest friends.


    Sheena still wishes for her parents'' attendance, but it was better they weren''t here when her mom only opposed her marriage with the man she truly loves.


    Besides, Vincent was there to escort her walking in the aisle.


    The wedding was held in the garden of Keller''s house and the reception.


    At the moment, Vincent is dancing Sheena.


    "Congrattions, Sheena."


    "Thank you, brother. I''m going to miss you." Sheena rested her head on Vincent''s shoulder, blinking her eyes to push back the tears that started forming in her eyes once again. She already cried during the wedding ceremony as her husband cried upon saying their vows.


    "I''m still here. I''m not hurrying to leave. Or are you actually giving me a hint that you are getting rid of me now?"


    "Silly!" She and Vincent bothugh. Sheena parted slightly from her brother and looked straight at his eyes. "I''m serious, Romeo. Go, get your Juliet."


    Vincent thinks his sister is the only joking. But seeing how earnestly she was staring at him, he could not argue with her.


    "But it''s still your wedding."


    "You can visit us during Christmas?"


    Vincent contemtes for a moment. And then, he decided...

 Chapter 84 - Meeting Her (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 84 - Meeting Her (Five)</h4>


    "Have a safe drive, brother." Sheena reminded Vincent. They were standing on the front porch to send him off. She kissed his cheek and gave him a tight hug.


    "I will." Vincent patted Sheena''s back. "Take care of yourself and Lena. I''m going to miss you both."


    "You can call us anytime! But I bet you are just going to do are work and work like your usual routine. You need a girlfriend, bro!" For thest time, Sheena cheers his brother.


    Vince chuckled, then replied. "The reason I have none is that because I don''t have time with her."


    "Jeez. That is why persuade the woman who had your eyes on her." Sheena winked, then brought up about Hailey. "Don''t forget to ask her out!"


    "You are at it, again." Vincent raises his arm to mess up his sister''s hair. But he forgets Sheena styled her hair into a bun and decorated it with beautiful flowers for her wedding. "Okay. I''m going now."


    "Thank you foring all the way here, brother-inw," Stephen said to Vincent. He wants to give him a big hug as well. However, Lena was sleeping on his shoulder. "And many thanks for your wedding gift to us!"


    "You are wee, Stephen." Vince smiled. He nced at his niece, who isfortably sleeping in Stephen''s arms. She is now very close to her stepdad, and this scene is what he wanted to see for him to stop worrying about Sheena. Besides, his sister deserves to be happy, and he sees how the newlyweds are in love with each other.


    Sheena and Stephen wave at the leaving vehicle. Like what Stephen suggestedst night, Vincent drove the old Chevy, and tomorrow, the new Keller family will bring back the Ferrari that Vincent rented in Budapest.


    "Baby, I could not believe that I''m going to drive a red Ferrari for the first time in my life."


    Sheena smiled. She chooses not to share with her husband that she owns a sports car she got for her 18th birthday.


    But that sort of life is not what she dreams from here on.


    The life that lies in front of her is the one she looks forward to walk along with the man she loves, and she finally married him!


    "Sports cars are best. But it''s not what we need once our family is growing," she told Stephen.


    Stephen peered at his wife lovingly. He agreed to her judgment. "You are right, baby. That is not what I need, soon when we open our restaurant."


    "Yup!" What they needed is a vehicle to carry all the spices and ingredients they were going to shop in the market once they started their restaurant. "I''m thinking, baby. That''s what we need to save up next."


    Stephen concurred. Again, his wife is right. "You are correct. Ah! I know we are a great team. With you by my side, I have nothing to worry about! I''ll make the best dish in Paris, and you''ll be one to handle our earnings."


    Sheena fell into her thoughts. By then, she will be in charge of the cashier''s desk and watch the restaurant''s profit.


    "Do you trust me with this?" She asked her husband.


    "I do! Who is best in numbers? You do."


    That touched her. In the past, she didn''t worry or care how much money she spent every day because she isn''t who works hard to earn it, and she never concerns about this matter.


    But now, every cent that will go to their family will be valuable to pay all their expenses every day. And it will be a challenging journey for her from here on. But as long as Stephen keeps his promises, she is happy to walk the road along with him.


    Sheena tiptoed to kiss the guy that now is her husband.


    *


    Meanwhile, Vincent was on a stop to gas up. He looks around at this small town Stephen''s family is living in since his ancestors.


    Vincent''s eyes caught a shop across from the gas station. He drove the car near it and parked outside.


    Vincent scans his reflection from the window ss. His clothes are not suitable for the old car. He is only driving an old Chevy, but he was wearing Armani leather shoes and a branded coat.


    Vincent entered the store and searched for some clothes in the Men''s Section. He was looking for his sizes. Once he found all he needed, he paid for it and changed in the Fitting Room.


    He is ready. Vincent is now wearing a in white t-shirt, denim jeans, and he bought cheaper shoes.


    Vincent drove for a few hours, and he reached the city by the afternoon.


    Since it was a long drive, he was starving and needed something to eat, and lemonade is the perfect thirst quencher.


    Vincent brought the car to the hotel where he was checking in. It surprised the waiting boy to see the old car. They did not recognize him at first until he got out of the car and introduced himself.


    It happens because he drove a red Ferrari but came back with an old Chevy. It probably raises a suspicious presumption toward him. What did he do in the countryside? That''s funny.


    He asked the waiting boy to bring his stuff back to his suite and give him some bills as a tip. After that, Vincent left and trailing the street toward the next avenue where he usually has his breakfast, which across it is the booth where Hailey is selling lemonade.


    Vincent stops when a traffic light turns red. He breathed in and let it out of his chest. After the traffic light turns green, he crosses the road and turns left.


    He is near to the booth, but then he suddenly feels chicken. He halted to check his appearance at the shop window ss, and then an idea came to his mind.


    Vincent purchased ck sunsses to cover his eyes.


    *


    Hailey was squeezing some lemons. She lifted her head when someone halted in front of the booth.


    She smiled and greeted her customer. "Szia!"


    "Hello. Can I have a cup of lemonade?" Thank god, and Stephen taught himst night a fewmon words like Hi in Hungary.


    But honestly, it takes for him to maintain his casual voice, not to stutter. Sheena is right. He is a chicken to approach a girl. Oh, not really. He has just no interest before, but not this time.


    Honestly, it will be the first time he approaches a girl to make friends with her or to know her better.


    "So? What size?"


    "Huh?" Vincent froze on his feet. The question dumbfounded him.


    For a moment, he tried to process what Hailey was asking him about. He is sure that this has nothing to do with his manhood.


    Actually, it made him blink several times. He was in a trance about what to answer when it seems the question is vague.


    "I..."


    "Do you prefer a small cup or arge one?" Hailey asked one more time, waving the cup in her hand.


    "Oh, the cup size! Gimme therge one," Vincent replied with a relief sh on his face. He chuckled awkwardly as his cheek slightly blushed.


    ''That was embarrassing, Vincent Shen!'' His head was suddenly running wild! And if ever that Hailey has the power to read what he is thinking? He was now drenched with lemonade which he wanted to avoid happening.


    Shaking his head slightly, Vincent observed Hailey, who is now making him a fresh lemonade. His eyes then caught the poster on the corner of the table.


    Vincent read the information, which was written in four differentnguages.


    Like what it says, every cup of lemonade and box of lemon pie, half of it goes to the person''s treatment whose name is mentioned in the poster.


    "Is he your rtive?" Vince was curious not to ask.


    Hailey nced over her shoulder, and then her eyes fell on the poster. She replied, "Ah, that... No. It''s the olddy''s grandson."


    The older woman, seated outside selling the fruit per pound, is also the owner of that booth. She heard their conversation.


    The old woman sat up from her seat and strode toward Vincent. She whispered, "I didn''t know her. But it surprised me when one day, she showed up and helped me sell more lemonade for my grandson''s treatment. She''s helping me sell lemonade and lemon pies for a week now."


    "Oh. Is she only volunteering?" Vincent asked. Hearing that only made him even impressed by Hailey. She didn''t know thisdy, but she was working for free.


    She is truly unique and beautiful, not only on the outside, but she had a heart of gold.


    Now his heart is beating crazily. He doesn''t understand, but it was like it assumes he is proud of her even though they didn''t know each other.


    She is a stranger, but she seems to take a huge ce in the deepest part of his heart.


    And he will be honest; he doesn''t understand what he is feeling right now.


    It feels like she stole his heart.


    What is this? He could not settle the beating of his chest.


    Vincent was lost at the moment. All he did was standing in front of the booth like an idiot while his eyes never left, staring at Hailey''s angelic face.


    She seems sweet and innocent. But her heart is pure.


    "Can I treat you..." Vincent found his moment to open his mouth to ask Hailey out. However, his phone inside his pocket didn''t stop ringing.


    Helplessly, he pulled out his phone and checked the Caller ID. His shoulders dropped on his side to see the caller.


    It was his mom.

 Chapter 85 - His Treasure

    <h4>Chapter 85 - His Treasure</h4>


    He doesn''t want to answer the call. But knowing his mom, she would not stop storming him with many questions and nag him to death.


    Vincent swiped the green button and drew close the phone into his ear. "Hello, mom?"


    "Vincent, you muste to London as soon as possible." In the other line, none other than Hilda Shen demanding her son.


    It surprised him. "What did you say, mom? Are you in London as of this very moment?"


    "Yes, I am. Your sister will give birth soon. Why? Can''t I''ll be here?" Hilda philosophically questions Vincent.


    And he pursed his lips with a bitter smile. "Of course, you can, mom. I''m just happy to know."


    ''But you didn''t care when your other daughter needed a family.'' However, Vincent didn''t voice it out. He already knew what would happen if he expressed his honest thoughts.


    "That''s why hurry toe here," said the other line.


    Vincent replied, "Okay, mom. Did dad came too?"


    "No. He had a lot of business engagements." Hilda sighed. And Vincent noticed the indifferent tone of his mom.


    "Then I should go back to P Country as soon as possible," he stated. However, at the back of his head wanted to prolong his stay in Budapest. But now that his mom was in Ennd, he needs to warn Sheena.


    Hilda is still angry at her youngest daughter. Now she is even madder because Sheena prefers to marry an ordinary guy.


    Vincent grows worried. Sheena and Stephen, along with Lena, will fly to London to meet Deena and have their honeymoon.


    If anything, he must protect Sheena once their mom is throwing a tantrum after meeting Stephen for the first time, and she mistreats him. Their mom never likes him.


    Vincent heaves a helpless sighed. He nced at Hailey, who was entertaining other customers.


    Ah, he forgot about his lemonades, which he didn''t pay for it yet! And now he cannot ask her out! Even if he could make her say yes, he needs to take care of something, a family matter.


    "Vincent, are you still there?" Hilda asked her son when a long silence had passed, and Vincent didn''t speak anymore.


    "Yes, mom. I was only thinking about something, mom. I need to check if what avable flight tomorrow." Vincent finds an excuse for his mom to end the call soon.


    "Okay. The sooner, the better," said Hilda.


    "Alright, mom." Sadness shed in his eyes. dly he wore sunsses, and he could hide the loneliness that exhibits behind them.


    It saddens him he could not ask Hailey to go out. It seems like his life hasn''t permitted him to enjoy for a moment.


    After the call, Vincent slipped his phone back into his pocket. Great timing and Hailey was now avable.


    "How much therge lemonade and one box of lemon pie?" He asked Hailey, and the girl gave him the total of his order. "Here, I only have these bills. Please, take it. I hope it can help a little."


    Hailey counted a total of seven hundred US dors. She burst out, "This is too much!"


    "I hope I had more cash here." Vince smiled at Hailey, who returned a warm smile at him.


    Tearing her mouth with that kind of smile made his heart skip a beat and sighing, ''She looks even beautiful.''


    Vincent noticed Hailey scanned him from the head down to his shoes. It seems that Hailey we''re not convinced he is only an ordinary guy to give that kind of amount. But he hopes that his impression is that he is generous enough to share his only cash inside his wallet. And that was true. All left in his purse now is credit cards, but he had nothing to worry about if he ran out of cash.


    Hailey would like to give a few bills back to him, but he insisted on giving them.


    "I cannot ept it, but if you insist. Then how about this¡­ I''ll give free lemonade to those kids." Hailey suggested, looking in a particr direction.


    Vincent followed Hailey''s gaze toward the group of teenagers hanging out in the park with their bikes and skateboards. Others are on rollerdes.


    "That was a brilliant idea!" Vincent agreed, and he was even more impressed. Hailey is a very charming person.


    "Well, how about if I give you another two boxes of lemon pie?"


    "Hmm... Okay, I''ll ept it."


    Hailey wrapped two boxes, and she handed them to Vincent.


    "Thank you." He said.


    "Nah. I should be the one to thank you. So, thank you very much for your generosity."


    "You are very wee," Vincent replied with a massive smile on his face. "So¡­"


    Vincent is hesitant to leave, but he needs to purchase his ne ticket fo London and contact Sheena. He also needed to pack his things. "Goodbye."


    "Bye!"


    Vincent left the booth with heavy footsteps and a heavy chest. Across the street, he takes one more glimpse at Hailey. At the moment, she was giving lemonades to the kids. And that big smile across her beautiful face is priceless. He wanted to im it as HIS TREASURE.


    "I wish to meet you again someday." His heart''s prayer.


    *


    PRESENT TIME


    Vincent shakes his head aftering back to his senses. He badly wanted to introduce himself to Hailey during that encounter. However, because of a family matter, he has to leave Budapest as soon as possible.


    And what happened in London, Hilda has no other choice but epted Stephen. She still doesn''t approve, but her heart melted upon meeting Lena.


    However, when they go back to Metro City, his mom constantly expresses her disappointment toward his two sisters. Sheena was only married to a chef, and Deena married to a football yer. Wace is a famous International Football yer, but their mom wanted a businessman as her son-inw who in the future could help them salvage theirpany if ever a timees that they would go bankrupt.


    But of course, he would not let that happen. He even works harder and meets his mom''s expectations. That is why when his mom arranged his marriage to someone he didn''t love, he has no strength to refuse because his mom felt that the world is against her after his two sisters left home and didn''te back.


    As the eldest, he has a sense of duty in fulfilling what their mom wanted. But when he met Hailey once again, that''s another story.


    It was the time he had to move the mountain and even defied heaven and earth to have her on his side and never let her disappear from his life ever likewise.


    "Hey, you''re back!" Hailey could feel burning stares at her back. She then realized that Vince had already arrived, but he remains at the entryway, staring at her. Upon knowing this, her cheeks immediately blush pink. Sometimes, it made her ufortable of how he was looking at her intensely, especially that she could not read his perplexed expression. It seems like Vince had something to say to her, but he was taken aback.


    Having these thoughts, Hailey watched Vincent striding toward her. And the moment he halted in front of her, Vincent opened his arms and locked her inside. He was embracing her tight that made it hard to breathe.


    Vincent buried his face between her neck and corbone. He knew that his action confused her. But he really needed a warm hug at this moment.


    "What''s wrong? Is your talk with your parents didn''t go well?" asked Hailey. She need not guess. There is only one reason that Vincent''s mom would be displeased and furious at him is because of her.


    "Everything is fine. I''m just missing you so bad."


    ''Seriously?'' But it filled her chest with joy. She isn''t sure if it is right to feel like that. She''s still confused about their contract''s real status and the rtionship they have now, but she could not control her heart from desiring. When Vincent pulled his head and covered her mouth with a kiss, she didn''t avoid it but responded to his kisses.


    "Hailey¡­"


    Vincent parted his lips and let his lungs fill with air. He peered at Hailey lovingly, who was also gasping for breath. He raises his right arm and brushes her cheeks. Their eyes lock, and no one wants to end this moment.


    "Did I already tell you how beautiful you are?"


    Hailey shook her head. She was gaping at Vince with astonishment. ''What''s gotten to him?''


    She could not avoid being curious if what was going on inside Vincent''s head. His sweet words and sweet treatment to hertely still left a big question not only in her head but moreover in her heart.


    Vincent raises his thumb and rubs Hailey''s lips. It enticed him to kiss them again, but he has important stuff to confess to her.


    "Would you believe if I would say that you are the most beautiful woman that I ever met?"


    Hailey felt strange that Vincent wasplimenting her suddenly. But she pushed a yful smile instead and willing to y along, "How about if I won''t?"


    Vince chuckled. "You should be because what makes you even wonderful is here..." Vincent''s finger pointed to her heart. "They are made of gold."


    She''s still feeling strange the way Vince acted after he visited his parents. "Then, in that case, I am honored of your praises."


    But she didn''t see iting that this evening, she would be in more shock.


    Vincent is gripping her face with both of his palms. His gaze is tender. And it was like it would melt her heart.


    "I love you."


    Hailey widened her eyes and stared at Vincent with wonder. She asked herself over again if what she heard is correct.


    Vincent confesses to her!?

 Chapter 86 - Car Accident

    <h4>Chapter 86 - Car ident</h4>


    The first odor that greets his nostril is the strong scent from disinfectant that immediately made him ufortable. He tried to move his head to the left side, but he could feel a pain struck on his skull and his left shoulder.


    What happened to him? He remembered he arrived at the penthouse and even confessed to Hailey.


    "Son? How do you feel?"


    Vincent moves his head, and he saw his parents at the bedside.


    "Dad? What am I doing here?" He asked, and he could hear how weak his voice was. "Mom? Why are you crying?"


    "Vincent..." Hilda continued sobbing beside Fred. She tried to remain calm, but after seeing how bad Vincent was, she could not stop her tears from flooding her eyes. She was alwaysining rted to her son and nagged him endlessly. Even so, she was his mother, and she worries.


    "Hilda, why don''t you sit on the sofa or try to calm yourself down in the living room?" Fred told his wife, who obediently followed his advice. He is used to Hilda''s strong-willed attitude; that is why it surprised him she didn''t raise a fight but remain silent.


    It also confused Vincent, seeing his mom in a helpless state. She always staysposed whatever situation she is in, as that is how it determines her willpower. She rarely shows any emotion aside from her anger or facial expression when she is satisfied every time her family achieves something.


    "Dad, what is going on? Why am I here?"


    "Don''t you remember anything? You got into an ident, son." Fred replied to Vincent''s queries.


    Vincent was shocked to hear this. "I don''t remember but a loud bang from behind my car."


    "ording to the initial investigation, you were already on halt when the red light turned on. But the car behind you says, it loses its brake, so you are pushed forward, and a truck in great speed got your vehicle."


    Vincent tried to recall what happened to him earlier. "I think I was flung away. How long have I lost consciousness, dad?"


    "You are lucky that you woke up after seven hours losing consciousness."


    Seven hours... Then Hailey already knew what happened to him. His eyes swept to the entire room, but he could not find her. "Where is she, dad?"


    Fred does not need to ask. He already guesses who Vincent is looking for. However, because of the dispute between Hilda and their son, Fred has to make a careful decision.


    "She called Carl to ask about your situation. I sent your cousin to exin to her what happened to you and your current state."


    "I want to see her dad. I need to go home." Vincent attempts to get up, but Fred stops him.


    Fred nced at Hilda, who understood what he tried to convey. Vincent didn''t think anymore that their mansion is his home, but it''s the ce where his girlfriend is waiting for him.


    "Son, you still need a check-up. The doctor had requested a CT-Scan and x-ray before they decided to let you go home." Fred exined afterward.


    However, Vincent insisted on leaving the hospital, even though he was just awake. "I want to see her, dad."


    "Vincent! Why don''t you..." Hilda could not stay listening anymore. She attempted to scold Vincent, but she shut her mouth close when Fred red at her. She protested inwardly, but the only thing she could do at this moment kept her silent. Fred has constantly interrupted her, which frustrates her that she could not raise her voice.


    After he warned his wife, Fred returned his attention to Vincent. "I''ll call Carl to bring her over. It would help if you had those tests to make sure you are fine, okay?"


    "Okay, dad. Thanks." He was relieved to think that Hailey wasing. It''s been a long time since thest time they confined him to a hospital. And it feels strange for him to be there again.


    Fred walks toward the door. He gestured at Hilda toe with him outside. Hilda followed him in the private ward''s living room.


    This room has a patient room and a guest room where family members can stay overnight if the patient''s case didn''t need istion.


    Their son designed this hospital. Vincent had just graduated from his Architecture course, and he invested his time building this modern hospital here in P Country. It was now known as one of the best hospitals in Asia, with itstest technology and advanced medical equipment. Although the hospital was expensive, it offered the best medication in the country.


    "What are you doing, Fred?" Hilda instantly confronted her husband. She disagreed with letting that girle to the hospital.


    "Lower your voice, Hilda," Fred warned his wife, who didn''t take a break from throwing a fret around. "Whether you won''t agree, I''m going to let here. Your son needs her!"


    "But we are here! We are his real family!"


    "It doesn''t matter if it''s his family he needs or the one who makes your son happy!" Fred snapped.


    "What do you mean, Fred? Why am I sensing that your words meant something?" And she is not stupid not to understand a thing.


    "Can''t you see, Hilda? What happened before your son got into an ident?"


    "Are you ming me? It was my fault why our son got into the ident?" She and Vincent had a minor argument, yes. But it upset her that Fred is ming her.


    "I am not ming you, Hilda. But if you won''t control yourself, maybe one day it will be toote for you to realize that you are losing your son as well!" After Fred stated this, he turned around, headed to the main door, and got out of the ward to phone Carl.


    Hilda was left furious. Fred ignores her but threatens her instead! However, she must calm down and not show any grievances. Even if they were on the private wards'' floor, reporters would try to get updates regarding her son''s ident.


    Hilda pulled out her phone and made a call to a particr person. She requested several city police to guard the hospital to block any media who tried to enter and gathered some news.


    *


    Meanwhile, Vincent grows impatiently. He could not wait to see Hailey. He wanted to talk to her about something.


    And while waiting, he could slowly remember what happened before he lost consciousness. He felt the impact of something crashing his bumper, then a more loud crash from his left side.


    And the entire time that he lost consciousness, he recalled what happened four years ago. And it''s a wonder of the scene that popped out of nowhere.


    He thought everything was real. But it was only a dream that he confessed to Hailey. It was bizarre, but maybe it was a sign that Romeo must pursue his Juliet.


    He has to be honest about his feelings for her before everything is toote, like what happens today. How if the ident is serious, and he died this time?


    Vincent hears the door open. He thought Hailey finally arrived, but it was his dad who entered his room. "Where''s mom, dad?"


    Fred caught the sh of disappointment in Vincent''s eyes. He understood that he was waiting for his girlfriend. "I told your mom to get some rest now that she insisted on staying."


    "I see." He understood his dad tried to do something on his behalf. His mom is ufortable being in the same room with Hailey, and he is sure that Hailey felt the same way. Thanks to his dad for looking for some solution to this matter.


    "Your wee, son. Carl told me they are close."


    "Okay, dad. Thanks."


    "If you need anything, I was in the living room having coffee."


    Vince nodded. He remains to stare at the door even after his dad disappears. And when it opens again, he sees the angel he desires to see when he opens his eyes.


    He tried to get up, but he has no strength yet. Hailey rushed to his side to help him sit up. Her beautiful eyes welled up with tears sooner.


    "Hey..." Using his right arm, he pulled Hailey to cry on his shoulder.


    "I was too worried after I heard what happened."


    "I''m feeling fine. You have nothing to worry about, okay?" Vincent was happy to see that Hailey was worried about him.


    "Are you sure? How about your tests?" Her eyes exhibit how worried she was. She was waiting for Vince''s arrival until she falls asleep on the sofa, had a weird dream, and then when she woke up, news about Vince what she learned.


    Vincebs Hailey''s hair. He whispered, "Dad says, I need a CT scan and x-ray to make sure no broken bones."


    "Don''t say it like a joke." She pouted, which made Vincent chuckled. However, his mouth twitched when pain strikes from his left ribs, and it didn''t hide from Hailey. "You''re not okay. You have to lie down and get rest."


    "Okay. Tomorrow morning I was scheduled to get further tests. Stay with me, okay?"


    Hailey nodded. She dried her eyes and pursed her lips with a smile. She should remain calm and stop panicking.


    When she saw the news and saw how bad the car look was, she felt like a part of her died that very moment, and to think it over made her realize that there is no doubt about what she felt for Vincent.


    She loves him, and she doesn''t want to lose him.


    Vince rubs her cheek before he slowly pulls her head for a kiss. They were in the middle of an intimate mood when someone knocked on the door and barge in.


    "Hey, cousin! The doctor is here!"


    He wishes that he could already use his left hand to throw an orange at Carl. The guy was grinning as he caught them in such an intimate moment.


    However, he could not disy how frustrated he was when his dad and his private doctor entered the room.


    ''Carl, I''m going to beat you once I recover!''

 Chapter 87 - Not An Accident

    <h4>Chapter 87 - Not An ident</h4>


    Hailey got off the bed and stood to the side to give way to the doctor to examine Vince.


    He asked several questions. After writing on the chart and instructing a few things, the doctor left the room.


    "Are you hungry, son?" Fred asked afterward.


    Vincent nodded, reaching for his stomach. "I''m starving, dad."


    "Perfect! We brought food Miss Hillson prepared for dinner, cousin! I heard from Jake that she prepared a few dishes for the ss Reunion. I wished I was at the gathering." Carl said with regret. ''You are a lucky bastard.''


    "And where were you that night, anyway?" Vince asked Carl. When his cousin only grins at him, he shifts his attention back to his father. "Am I allowed to eat heavy meals, dad?" he craved for meat at this moment.


    "Soft meals are what your doctor advises. Porridge and chicken soup will be best." Fred answered.


    "Yes!" Carl eximed excitedly. Everyone is looking in his direction, wondering what is happening to him all of a sudden.


    "What?" Vince is looking at him suspiciously.


    With a huge grin across his face, he exined. "Miss Hillson made beef bone broth, cousin! You can have only the soup, and I''ll have the beef bone! Don''t worry! Miss Hillson made porridge for you."


    Vincent couldn''t help but re at Carl. He could already guess what crime his cousinmitted. "Why are you talking about eating when you already ate my dinner?"


    "Hey! Don''t use me! I''m starving! We forgot to eat after we learned about your ident! I am dying in hunger, but I still drove toward your house. I make sure your girlfriend knew your situation, so then she would stop worrying about you! Can''t I at least eat some wonderful food she cooked?"


    Vincent nced at Hailey, who suppressed not tough. He then returned his attention to Carl, looking at him with sharp stares. He uttered, "I didn''t point out that you have a meal at my home, but you already expose yourself."


    Carl dropped his mouth open. His cousin is only trying to catch him red-handed, and he seeded! He should know better!


    "You bastard! You are already in that state, but you are still cunning! How could you treat me like this!" he stressed out.


    Vince didn''t reply but rose a brow with a smirk on his lips. Carl frowned and liked to throw a tantrum further. But what only upsets him is Vincent''s scolding in front of his girlfriend!


    On the other hand, Hailey finds it amusing. It''s rare for her to witness Vincent teasing other people like his closest friends. She walked toward Vince and whispered, "I''ll get you some food."


    He nodded. Hailey then excused herself and left the patient''s room.


    Now that Hailey was gone, Carl rushed toward Vincent''s bed. He growled like a cow. "Cousin, can''t you embarrass me in front of your girlfriend? I''m losing face every time we encounter!" He pleaded.


    "You are the one who put yourself into an embarrassing situation because you have a thick face."


    "But cousin? Can''t you see? I am nice to her! You can even trust me!"


    Hearing Carl mentioning the word trust, Vince twitching his mouth with disgust. "Says, by whom?"


    "You''re insulting me, cousin!"


    "You are never trusted."


    "You''re hurting my feelings!" said Carl.


    Fred shook his head, watching the two men taunting each other. Vincent has no brother, but in Carl''s presence, it can consider him as his siblings. Although Carl has bad habits, he''s happy he did not influence Vincent, and he remains a good son.


    Later, Hailey came back with a tray in her hand. Fred and Carl excuse themselves from giving them a private moment. It''s also veryte, and they need some rest now that they are assured Vincent was safe from the ident.


    Vincent could still use his right hand. However, he sits still and waits for Hailey to feed her, and she is aware of how cutely he was acting. He was like an obedient child waiting to give his favorite dish. His eyes were solemn. You canpare them to an innocent child.


    Hailey suppresses not tough. She holds the spoon and scopes a porridge. She drew it close to Vincent''s mouth and began feeding him. Sometimes, she will take the soup bowl toward his mouth to sip on the soup.


    When Professor Carl showed up in the penthouse and exined the doctors'' initial tests to Vincent, she could not avoid worrying about him. So then, before Professor Carl left, she asked him to stay a little longer.


    Hailey prepared porridge for Vincent. She added tiny chicken slices and chicken liver, and a lot of ginger and spring onions. And it made her so happy that Vince''s father invited her toe to see Vincent. She is worried about Madame Hilda Shen, but she wishes to be by Vince''s side and take care of him.


    She''s even grateful that it was only minor scrapes Vince got from the ident. He could speak finely and move his hands and legs, except for his left shoulder that probably was sprained from the impact.


    And honestly, he could feed himself. But he was enjoying the opportunity to be fed by her.


    After Vincent emptied the porridge bowl, Hailey fed him with the fruit sd she prepared for dinner. He had no appetite when he woke up but having the meals prepared by Hailey and food is never this tasty.


    "I''ll get you some water." Said Hailey. Carrying the tray in one hand, she opened the door and exited the room.


    She found that Professor Carl and Vince''s dad were still awake. They are discussing something important as the moment she steps out of the room; they stop talking.


    Hailey took a bottle of water and a clean ss. She bowed at Fred before she entered the patient''s bedroom, pretending that she heard nothing.


    Instantly, she pursed a warm smile in front of Vince. She hid the anticipation she felt at the moment. Vince does not need to notice anything yet but focus on his recovery.


    Suppose she hadn''t mistaken what Fred Shen and Professor Carl discussing about Vincent''s ident.


    The ident was an attempted murder. It means someone desires to kill Vincent, and she needs to know who is behind Vincent''s ident as soon as possible.


    Hailey clenches both of her fists and tightens her jaw. ''Who dares to hurt Vince?''

 Chapter 88 - Taking Advantage

    <h4>Chapter 88 - Taking Advantage</h4>


    Hailey excuses to use the washroom. As she entered the room, she couldn''t avoid to appreciates how spacious it was. Not only that, it wasplete with conveniences such as a toothbrush, liquid soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, and even bath towel, hand towel, and bathrobe.


    She likes how Vince designs this hospital. If only she met Vince earlier, he would be the one she chose to design the Dream City Medical Center. But it''s not toote. She could expand it soon or built another hospital across the city.


    Ah! That''s not what is important at the moment. She has to know what really happens regarding Vince''s ident.


    Hailey washed her face and brushed her teeth. When she was done, she dialed someone''s Instagram.


    She waited patiently for the other line to answer her call. And with a low voice, she spoke immediately. "Hello, Sandy?"


    [Princess! How can I serve you this time?]


    "Sandy, I need your friend''s service once again."


    [Sure, Princess! So, what information do you want to know this time?]


    "I will email you the details. I want a fast result."


    [Aye, Princess!]


    Hailey ended the call to email Sandy with the information she needed. She wanted to investigate the ident that involved Vince. At first look, it could easily determine that possibly it was an attempted murder. And soon, she will know the culprit.


    But she wonders who has the intention to kill Vince? Can it be possible that it is rted to theirpany? Could it be someone from his rtives?


    But the Lopez family is wealthier than the Shen''s, and then it could be someone?


    Hailey took a deep breath to calm down. She stared at her reflection to make sure that she look inauspicious.


    She is about to make Vince sign a contract with her. She finally got Vince to work with her. But then now?


    She won''t let anyone harm him. And so she needed to know who has an interest in killing Vince.


    And for the meantime, Vince must notice nothing yet.


    Hailey steps out of the washroom; she asks Vince if he needed to use thevatory. Vince nodded. She helps him walk when he is still a little unsteady in walking on his own. Once Vince settled inside, she got out of the washroom and waited outside to let Vince do his thing.


    *


    "Thank you," Vince said to her when they are now both lying on the bed.


    Vince insisted on sharing the bed with her. She refused as she worries that Vincent would be in difort, or might she hit the part of his body still aching.


    But Vince persuaded her. Now she was lying on the pillow, and Vincent was resting on her shoulder.


    If Vincent hadn''t had an ident, she would think that he is a pervert trying to take advantage of her. It happens, Vincent is burying his face between her neck and corbone. So his chin was resting above her soft chest.


    Hailey sighs inwardly. Since Vince was in a pitiful state, she''ll allow him to take advantage of her.


    She ces her hand on top of Vince''s head. If she and Vince hadn''t slept in the same bed twice in recent nights, this situation would be extremely awkward on her part.


    dly, they were more than acting like a real couple. Kissing, embracing, and sleeping on the same bed have be a natural thing for them now. Otherwise, she''ll be blushing red to death next to Vince tonight.


    The following morning, a soft knock on the door. Vincent is already awake, but he pretends to be still sleeping. When no one is responding, the door is pushed open since it was unlocked.


    Fred peeps inside. He saw such a scene. Vincent and Hailey were still sleeping, and his son is pillowing on his girlfriend''s chest.


    It seems that his son is enjoying his stay in the hospital like the ident is only his way to disy such intimacy.


    "What a lucky bastard."


    Fred heard someone murmuring behind him. It was none other than his nosy nephew Carl, who was also peeking at the door.


    "What the..." Fred closes the door and turns around to face Carl. "What are you doing, Carl? Keep quiet! They were still sleeping!"


    "Heh. Isn''t that I who is supposed to ask you, uncle?" Carl winks at Fred.


    "What are you talking about?" Fred is sensing that Carl is threatening him now that he is caught peeping at his son.


    "Heh. You wanted to check on them, isn''t it, uncle?" That was only a joke question, and Carl knew he would scold him.


    "You, bastard! Shut up! I just wanted to know if Vincent is already awake. He has early tests today!" Fred reasons out. He walks past Carl, who remains grinning at him. ''This bastard is too nosy!'' "Come on, Carl! We need to buy some breakfast before they wake up!"


    "Hehe¡­" Carl remained grinning, even though they were outside. He discovered how fun to tease this family and watch their family drama; that is why he chooses to stick around them even how a nagger his aunt Hilda was.


    Meanwhile, Vince slowly raises his head and nces at the door. He heard the distinct conversation that now disappeared.


    Vincent stared at Hailey. She was still sleeping peacefully. He slowly gets up and ces a kiss on her forehead. Not long, Hailey moans and turns to her other side. After she realized she was not in the penthouse, she sat up abruptly and looked around.


    "Oh, you''re awake!" she burst out sleepily.


    Vince chuckled to see her so cute waking up like that. She rubs her eyes to clean them. Her fingers run on her hair andb them.


    "Are you hungry?" she asked afterward.


    "I think I must stay fasting for a few hours."


    "Oh, right? How about warm water?"


    "Yes, please. But before that, I want to get my morning kiss."


    Hailey sits still on the bed when Vince is slowly leaning to kiss her. She''s praying that none of his family suddenly appeared in the door and caught them kissing.


    She won''t mind being this intimate in front of other people. But now that she is with Vince''s family. It feels a little strange.


    "I''ll get you warm water." She parted from Vince sooner and hurried outside. She froze on the floor when Hilda was also getting out of the guest room exactly. She steps out of the patient''s room. Hailey was lost with words for a moment. She pursed her lips with a smile and greeted Vince''s mom. "Good morning, Mrs. Shen."


    Hilda has no n to reply. But she remembered what Fred saidst night. She nodded at Hailey, then walked toward the door and got out of the ward.


    Hailey sighs with relief. Vince''s mom still doesn''t like her, and she understood why. All she believes, she is a vixen who bewitched his son.


    But now that she realized what she really feels for Vince. Maybe it is time to show Hilda Shen that she isn''t a vicious woman but someone who loves her son.

 Chapter 89 - The Dream

    <h4>Chapter 89 - The Dream</h4>


    That morning, Vincent underwent all the tests he needed to ensure he was okay from the ident. The results are all negative. It was a miracle that he only got a minor scratch the way it threw his car on the roadside.


    Since Vincent didn''t have any injuries from the ident but his left shoulder, Fred encouraged Hilda to go home and have a proper rest tonight.


    She insisted on staying, but Fred has to go to thepany the next day to take care of Vincent''s meetings. He has no time to worry that Hilda would shut her mouth around Vince and his girlfriend.


    "I am Vincent''s mother; why do I have to be the one to leave!?" she expressed furiously inside the car. Fred pretends deaf the entire trip back to their mansion. "I want to take care of my son as well!"


    "Just ept the fact that your son only wanted his girlfriend to take care of him!" Fred said that made Hilda gritted her teeth. They have now arrived at the mansion. Fred gets out of the car, leaving Hilda to continue babbling.


    "Then that was his wife''s job! Not someone else!" Hilda blurts out, following her husband climbing the patio.


    Fred halted in the main door and turned around to face Hilda. "Then where is his damn wife!? Why can''t Eva do her duty as a wife to our son and not someone else!?" Fred''s voice echoed the entire entrance hall of the mansion.


    Hilda remained silent. She could not refute. Even though she will argue with her husband, she has no answer to what Fred is pointing out. He is right. Why does Eva didn''te home to Metro City?


    This thought made Hilda infuriated because there is no way for her to win this argument. She walks past Fred. She turned around to look at him, but there are now words form in her tongue. She stomps her right foot before she rushes to the grand staircase.


    "I hate you, Frederick Shen!"


    Hilda halted halfway to yell at her husband. Fred''s veins were visible on his forehead. Hilda, acting this way, made him dumbfounded.


    "We are not newlyweds Hilda Shen!" He yelled back at his wife. "We already had grandkids!" ''Damn it! Why does she never change!?''


    Fred sighs furiously. It upset him that Hilda acted childishly. He closed his eyes and pressed his eyelids, massaging his forehead. He has no time to spare time with Hilda''s tantrum. They have other things to worry about, and his wife has no sense of understanding of the current situation!


    What matters most to her? She''s only bing unreasonable and selfish!


    Fred headed to Vincent''s study and called Timothy Cheng to bring the documents he needed to review for tomorrow''s meetings.


    Work is his bestpanion at this moment.


    *


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Hailey peeled an orange, sliced an apple, and washed some seedless grapes. She ces it all together on a te and feeds them to Vince. He is such a baby even though he had no serious wounds. Well, he just took advantage of this chance to be pampered. Hailey thought.


    They just finished having an early dinner, and his parents went home. Carl remains in the hospital, so Vince makes sure to lock the door.


    "Would you believe if I tell you that I dreamed I arrived at the penthouse and watched you preparing dinner in the kitchen?" He told Hailey afterward.


    Hailey lifted her head with surprise on her face. A chill came down her spine, hearing Vince''s story. It''s all because she also had a dream about Vince arriving in the penthouse, which probably by that time around, he was already sent to the hospital and given first aid and taking initialboratory tests.


    That evening, after she cooked dinner and waited for him toe back, she sat on the long sofa and read her lesson, but then she fell asleep.


    And in her dreams, Vince confessed to her.


    She thought it was all true. But the loud rings of her phone woke her up. It was Hazel calling her to watch the news.


    For the first time in a very long time, she feared for someone to disappear from her life. First, her mom died, and then next is her grandma.


    And seeing the news that Vince got into an ident made her world suddenly stop. She called Vince''s phone, hoping someone would answer it. It was dead.


    But she was grateful that Professor Carl came to the penthouse and exined Vince''s situation. Just then, she felt relieved, most especially when Fred Shen permitted her to see Vince and take care of him.


    She felt helpless that she have to wait until Vincent came out from the hospital because she knew that Madam Hilda Shen would not allow her to see Vince. Gratefully, his dad invited her toe to see Vince.


    And now that Vince mentioned him dreaming he arrived in the penthouse, a superstitious belief suddenly struck her head.


    She didn''t believe it. But her visits to different countries able her to learn about foreign cultures and their beliefs. And one of those is these superstitious events.


    Vince said that he dreams of arriving in the penthouse, and she also dreamed of him being home. It was like Vince''s soul suddenly wandered for a limited time. And dly, he found the way back to his body and woke up.


    Of course, she didn''t believe that, but who knows? Her dreams seem so real. Or is it because her feelings for Vince are that strong? That her heart is wishing for him to appear right in front of her.


    "So, is that what you only dream?" She queried after a long moment of her silence.


    "Hm... It feels so real that I hug you and kiss you. But then I had drifted away to distant memories four years ago," said Vince.


    Four years ago? What happened? Questions rose in her head. She is curious to know about it.


    "My dream was too clear because it is what happened four years ago. I was sitting at this coffee shop. It was my second day in that city. And in two days, I''ve always seen this girl across my table. No. I am watching her." Vince began.


    Hailey''s forehead crease as anticipation overwhelms her. ''Is she the girl Vince''s friends and Zenaida are talking about? It was Vince''s first love!?''

 Chapter 90 - His Confession

    <h4>Chapter 90 - His Confession</h4>


    She wanted to deny it to herself. But a pinch of pain crept toward her heart, listening to Vince talking about another girl.


    "I was meeting my youngest sister, Sheena, to attend her secret wedding somewhere outside Budapest City. And so, I was waiting for her."


    ''Budapest City?'' The beating of her heart quickens suddenly.


    "Sheena, challenge me to introduce myself to this girl across from us. But I am such a coward to take her challenge because this girl began sshing lemonade at the men who attempted to ask her out. Well, these men are not just poor or ordinary. They were all clothed in Armani suits and drove fast cars."


    Hailey dropped her mouth open. Now that Vince told the story, these scenes be so clear in her recollection. Was that girl her?


    "I was the biggest stupid, you know?" Vince went on. "I hid my face and didn''t dare to introduce myself even though Sheena did a big favor on my behalf. The next day, after my sister''s wedding, and I am going back to the city¡­ finally, I gather my courage to approach her. Wearing a cheap white T-shirt and a ragged jacket and faded denim pants, and cheap shoes. Not only that, but I also drove an old Chevy to look believable that I am just an ordinary guy."


    "It was my moment to talk to her. However, mom suddenly phoned me, and her call brought bad news to my little sister. So, I missed my chance to ask this girl out, but I have to rush and solve a family matter."


    "Did you pay seven hundred US dors for arge cup of lemonade and a box of lemon pies?" Hailey asked Vince. She didn''t notice, but tears had already flooded her eyes. Her vision has be foggy because of the liquid gushing out from her eyes down her cheeks.


    And even after Vince drying them with his right palm, she could only keep sobbing.


    Vince pulled her into his chest and let her cry for the next moment. It messed up her mind. So, five years ago was not their first meeting.


    It was just a brief encounter, but who knows? It''s not their first encounter. Besides, that time, she was all dressed up as Princess Hailey Davies. She instead prefers Vince''s version of their first meeting.


    The Hailey Hillson he met four years ago and the same Hailey Hillson he met again four yearster... She loves this story more.


    Hailey pulled her head over and looked up at Vince. Their eyes locked, and their lips met. It was a tender at first that became a fervor kiss.


    No one wanted to end this moment, but they needed to breathe. Hailey remains her eyes closed as she was chasing for air while her head tried to recall everything that happened four years ago.


    She was in Budapest to meet her cousins to visit their aunt in her Chateau, and as usual, she came to the ce ahead of time to roam around, and one day, she passed this struggling older woman, gathering her lemons as authorities chased her out.


    They drove the olddy out because they prohibited it from putting up a stall around that area but on the other street, which had fewer people to pass by.


    And her heart squeezes with pity. For the first time, she uses her power as a long line rtive of a European Royal Blood to get whatever she wanted and help that poor older woman.


    She requested the authorities to allow thedy to raise money for her grandson''s surgery within one week. And that''s the purpose of selling lemonade and lemon pies.


    And the sshing moments? Idiot men show up in the booth, start showing off their sports car and designer clothes, then offer her a lot of money for escorting them to a party or a trip somewhere in the Caribbean or Asia.


    Of course, that''s not only about dating. It means to bed her. Those sorts of men she hated most in this life.


    It pisses her off to meet such proud men.


    "Do you know why I ssh those men with lemonade?"


    Vince shakes his head. His eyes were hopeful for her to exin, as he was very intrigued.


    "Those men offered me to buy all the lemons and lemon pie in exchange for mypany."


    Hearing this, Vince darkened his face. He gritted his teeth as his jaw tightened. ''Those bastards! I wished to chase them and beat them up!''


    Hailey could see Vince pursed his lips in anger. She raises her hand, gripping Vince''s face, and smiles.


    She kissed him lovingly.


    Who would have thought? That her kindness to that olddy creates a beautiful love story. Until now, she could still not believe it! It feels like she was dreaming.


    "I love you, Hailey Hillson."


    His confession choked her. This joy filling her heart overwhelms her; she cannot respond but staring back at Vince lovingly. And Vince did not need her answer but took all this opportunity to express his true feelings all this time.


    "I have been in love with you for four long years," Vince added.


    Hailey wipes the tears from her eyes. She clears her throat to ask one question. "Then, the photos of the girl that they are all talking about is your first love?"


    She anticipated Vince''s reply impatiently. It feels like every second pass has be a long minute until Vince pursed his lips into a smile.


    Vincent took his new phone. He saves all his important documents to save to drive storage online.


    He browses his Gallery and shows Hailey the pictures Sheena took four years ago.


    "It was Sheena who took them. But since then, I never deleted them."


    Hailey looked at Vince Gallery. There are different albums with the name Sheena, Deena and names that she knew Vince''s nieces and nephews.


    Then another Album that has a lock under the name MY MOON. Hailey looks up, her eyes asking Vince for a password.


    "04-09-2022"


    Hailey widened her eyes. Today is April 09, 2026. It means it was the anniversary of their meeting in Budapest!


    Is it a coincidence? Or fate?

 Chapter 91 - In My Heart, You Are My Wife

    <h4>Chapter 91 - In My Heart, You Are My Wife</h4>


    Hailey sessfully opened the album and saw the photos he has been keeping on his phone for four years. At this rate, doubts and fear suddenly disappear inside her chest.


    Vince has loved her for a long time already. Then how about their agreement? What purpose does it serve?


    Hailey looked at Vince and queried him in a yful tone, "Tell me. Why did you offer me an agreement? Is the contract just an excuse? Or is it your way to get closer to me?"


    Vince cannot deny anything since he could not suppress his sexyughs escaping from his mouth.


    That smile is evident of his tricky moves! "Seriously, Mr. Vincent Shen?"


    Vince''s lips parted with a huge smile. "I am, and I am guilty about it," he admitted his crime.


    He went on, "I was racking my head to how I could approach you and get close to you. And I am hopeless because of my status. Although I didn''t live with my nominal wife, I am still married. And if I courted you, people wouldbel you as my mistress even though I have loved you before my marriage with another woman."


    Vince''s eyes were full of sincerity, gazing at her lovingly. His voice is too gentle as well, and Hailey couldn''t find any doubt in her heart.


    However, she''s scared. It''s not because someone she trusted once betrayed her, like what Bryan did to her.


    She was afraid because, for the first time, she fell in love with someone. It was love that differed from what she felt toward others.


    She ponders if she is ready to put down the wall she put up between her and Vince as she couldn''t fully describe how she felt about Vince. The only thing she was sure of was that she wanted to remain wrapped by this warm feeling lingering inside her heart.


    Then maybe it is not harmful to trust someone once again. Maybe things will work better between them. However, she still has a problem. One is Vince''s mom, and two, the woman who destroyed her rtionship with Bryan.


    How if Eva won''t give up Vince? How if his mom persuaded Vince not to divorce Eva?


    Hailey sighs with sadness, and Vince notices the loneliness shes in her eyes. It worries him that Hailey didn''t believe him. Now his heart filled with worry. He''s trying to work his brain to think of more ways to make Hailey believe in him.


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t want to put you in a situation such as this. So I want you to trust me. I never loved someone before but you. Hailey, how could I prove it to you?"


    Hailey blinked to push back the tears that were forming in the corner of her eyes. Vince thought she doubted his love.


    But it''s not him; it was she who has uncertainties.


    Vince didn''t know who she was, and she could not make up her mind if it were the perfect time to reveal who she is because Vince hasn''t signed the contract yet. Maybe after then, it is the right time to tell him the truth.


    Hailey shook her head as a response to Vince. She widened her smile and set aside the concerns within her heart. She leans on him and hooks her arms around his waist. She didn''t put on weight since Vince was still undergoing subtle body pain from the ident.


    "You don''t need to prove anything. I believe you, and I trusted you."


    And this moment, it should be just for her and Vince, no other things to involve such us as thinking about the projects and Vince''s divorce. What she wanted was to enjoy this moment.


    A thorn pulled out in Vince''s chest, hearing Hailey''s response. However, he won''t stay at ease. He is determined to show and prove to Hailey that his intention is pure.


    "So, those meetings are not coincidences, huh?" Hailey jokes afterward. And the way Vince''s eyes glowered proves again that it was true. "I can''t imagine CEO Vincent Shen is stalking someone!"


    Vince blushed; he noddedter. Suddenly, he felt ridiculous for acting like a teenage boy meeting his crush for the first time.


    Hailey looked at Vince in disbelief. But her mind was thinking about something else regarding that.


    ''Girl, you need some pat on the back! As a CEO yourself, you are stalking someone too! And that person has just confessed to you!'' Hailey could hear her conscience yelling this over at the back of her head. And this will remain a secret for the time being.


    One day, she will share it with Vince that she was also stalking a CEO to get close to him to offer a contract, not to be her man, and that''s another story.


    And once again, Vince won! ''His tricks are better than mine!'' The thought of Vince stalking her, which she stalked him too, made herugh with her stomach.


    Vince wondered what got into Hailey. He thought maybe he said something funny.


    Hailey stopsughing when she notices the perplexed expression written on Vince''s face. She apologized. "I''m sorry. I remember something so cute as you!"


    "Really? I am cute?" There is a massive grin ying in his mouth.


    "Yup! You are so cute and sneaky! I should have known!" said Hailey.


    Vincentughed when she pulled both of his cheeks like he was some chubby little boy, even though his jaws are tight and muscled. But he enjoyed the attention Hailey was giving him.


    "I don''t know what life I would have without you," Vince expressed with his whole heart.


    Hailey can see it, Vince is dering his love endlessly, and she must respond.


    "Can you promise not to leave me but ept me, whoever I am or whatever happens?" Hailey asked Vince. Somehow, she needs assurance.


    Vince pokes her nose. He took her hand and kissed the back of her palm. "Silly. I should be the one saying that. I messed up. I got married to someone I don''t love. I can''t get a divorce yet, and so; you are still a mistress in the eyes of others even if, IN MY HEART, YOU ARE MY WIFE."


    Hailey forgot. She hit his shoulder that was sprained, and now his mouth is twitching from the pain. "Ouch!"


    "Oh. I''m sorry! I was¡­" Tears welled up in her eyes. Sobs reced the words she wished to utter as warmth exploded throughout her chest.


    Vince addressed her as his wife is the sweetest thing she ever heard in her entire life. It was even sweeter than her dad calling her My Princess.


    Hailey wiped her cheeks. She ced her arms around Vince''s neck and whispered, "My hubby¡­"

 Chapter 92 - Evas Boyfriend

    <h4>Chapter 92 - Eva''s Boyfriend</h4>


    The following day, at Shen Mansion. Fred woke up early to go to thepany. Hilda followed him into the kitchen and had breakfast together in the pool area.


    "I want to visit your son in the afternoon."


    Fred replied, "Okay. Could you wait for me? I will pick you up. Let''s go together."


    Hilda was about to stuff her mouth with bacon. She stopped halfway to raise her head and look at Fred. Soon, she blurts out at her husband, "Do you think I''m going crazy and hit that girl?"


    "I never think you would do that. But your mouth that I didn''t trust would stay shut off."


    "Fred Shen!"


    "Our son is resting. It will help if you do not bother him so much."


    "And why am I bothering him? I am his mom! Why am I the one who has restrictions here and not that girl!? She''s not part of the family!" Hilda snapped.


    "That''s the point here, Hilda! Your hatred toward Vincent''s girlfriend!"


    "And whose mom would only watch his son having an affair? She''s a home-wrecker!"


    "Here we go again. I''m tired of exining my point of view to you!"


    "And it will never help, but you are tolerating your son''s behavior!"


    "I am not! But who do you expect to call on to take care of our son? Where is his wife? What home if the couple didn''t live together nor havemunication! They don''t even love each other!" After stating this, Fred hurls a long sigh from the deepest part of his lungs and releases them furiously. "I''m sure your son would not have an affair if he has a dutiful wife!"


    Hilda couldn''t counter her husband''s argument. It upset her she could not get a hold of Eva to talk to her. ''What a useless woman!''


    She chooses Eva because she is intelligent and bes sessful on her own. But she only married Shen''s name but didn''t do her duty!


    She could have great use of her! She''s pretty. Indeed, she can handle somepany affairs. Besides, she can help the Shen Group with her talent in interior design. Eva graduated with flying colors in the US and worked at the most prominent firm in New York.


    However, one year ago. She heard Eva resigned from thepany and disappeared. From then on, no one ever could tell them where she was. And it pisses her off. Eva has be a headache!


    Her patience is getting thin. She considers Eva to be her daughter-inw because she knew the Lan family. But Vincent''s girlfriend?


    Who knows if where that girl came from and what her family does for a living. They have already run a background check, but there is no information about her. That more smell fishy to her.


    Who is she? The question keeps echoing on top of her head.


    "I''m going to the US to talk with Eva," Hilda dered after her long silence.


    Fred, who continues eating, chokes with his food. He stared at Hilda for a long time. Later on, he shook his head and replied, "Whatever makes you happy."


    It disappointed Hilda to see that Fred has no interest in her n. "You are just happy that I would not be around!"


    "Then don''t waste your energy looking for her like how your son just let her be!"


    "Humph!" Hilda made an abrupt stand from her dining chair. She marched the corridor and went back to their bedroom.


    Fred sighs hopelessly. He yelled; even Hilda had already disappeared in the door. "Sometimes, I wished for our son to get his divorce so that this house would be at peace!"


    ''Dammit! She has been out of the menopausal period, but she''s still acted like one!''


    *


    Meanwhile, Vince is patiently waiting for Hailey toe back since she goes home early morning to change and bring some clothes for him.


    While waiting, Jake visited Vince.


    "Hey, bro! Wow! Look at you! There are no injuries but still handsome!"


    Vince chuckled at Jake''s jest. He asked him, "And you wish for my handsome face to disfigure?"


    "Eww! And when you are concerned about your face?" Jake returned the joke. He and Vince threw knuckles at each other.


    "What are you doing here? Aren''t you having a farewell party for the boys?" asked Vince once Jake settled on a single couch.


    "Yeah. But it''s no fun without you." Jake softened his gaze like he was about to cry.


    "Dammit, Jake! Stop it! All the hair in my body rose from fright! That''s creepy!"


    "TSH! Killjoy as ever!" Jake muttered. And then, he looks at Vince suspiciously. "Anyway, you are the only person I know that had a car ident but even getting handsome when hospitalized."


    "What kind of critic is that?" Vince mouthed.


    "Aha! Your eyes! They are all sparkly! Dude, you''re madly in love!"


    Vincent could onlyugh at Jake''s guess. He could not refute it because it was true.


    "Damn it, man! I want a real wedding to attend!"


    Vincent is about to counter Jake''s statement when Carl enters the room and then drops his body on the sofa, next to Vince. Both Vincent and Jake shared a nce, then fixed their attention on him.


    It was Jake who queried. "What happened to the proud Professor Carl? You look so worn out and dark circles around your eyes. It was like, you are the one who needs to be in that bed, bro!"


    "Nah." Carl waves his hand. He shrunk his body to the sofa and stretched his legs. He is tired. "The exams gave me a headache."


    "Don''t mind him, Jake. The truth is, he''s upte to flirt with the night shift nurses here." Vince jest that made Jake burst outughing.


    Carl frowned at Vincent. "TSH! You, lover boy, were so proud because someone is taking care of you!"


    "It looks like someone wanted to end his single life." Jake cut in. "Bachelor Carl Johnson is getting married!"


    Jake jokes to Carl, causing his jaw to drop on the floor. "No way! I still prefer my single life!"


    "Then why be jealous of Vincent?" Jake couldn''t stop teasing him.


    Carl remains silent. He is indeed jealous, but he was only jealous that Vincent met a wonderful girl he could keep by his side.


    "Alright! I visited because I have important news for Vincent!" Jake stopped joking at Carl. He just knew that Carl couldn''t still forget his fianc¨¦e, and it must still be painful for him.


    "So, what news did you bring for me? No wonder you didn''t bring me flowers?" Vincent was in a good mood to joke around.


    Jake wasughing on his stomach while Carl was staring unbelievably at his cousin. He knew Vincent is rare to joke around. Buttely, he''s smiling a lot.


    ''It seems like the reason for that smile is his girlfriend.'' Carl thought.


    "So, what important news did you bring for Vincent?" Carl only repeated what Vincent asked earlier. It worries him because he promised to his uncle that he would not mention anything to Vincent that someone attempted to kill him.


    Now he was looking keenly at Jake. He''s praying that his news has nothing to do about the ident. "Come on, Jake!"


    "Alright! Why are you interested more than Vincent?" Jake asked Carl when he showed eagerness to hear his report. He nced at Vincent to ask permission to speak in front of Carl.


    "Go ahead," said Vincent.


    "Okay. Like I promised you at the ss Reunion, I asked my friends to find out Eva''s whereabouts..."


    "Eva?" Carl is a little confused, but it relieved him it was not about the ident.


    "Yes. I saw Eva in Florida when I visited my sister. But she wasn''t there anymore. I learned she was staying with her friend named Ruth. But when my friends are investigating Ruth''s neighborhood, they learn Eva wasn''t there any longer, but she left the US."


    "Where did she go?" Vincent and Carl asked at once.


    Jake shifted his gaze at them. He chuckled, then continued. "My friends attempted to hack all the information they could gather about Eva, such as which flight and which destination she was in. However, Homnd Security almost arrested them. Good thing they knew some trick, and they didn''t trace them."


    "Tell your friends to stop, Jake. I don''t want any of you to go to jail just because of my damn divorce."


    "We tried, bro! But yeah. I love my job in the US." Said Jake in agreement.


    Vincent tried to locate Eva, but she knew a way to hide from him. Maybe he should begin searching for her boyfriend instead.


    He knows the fact that she has a boyfriend, but he has never met him yet.

 Chapter 93 - Keep An Eye On Them

    <h4>Chapter 93 - Keep An Eye On Them</h4>


    CRESCENT PENTHOUSE


    Hailey took a shower after she packed some clothes for Vince. She was scanning her reflection in the mirror, recalling everything that happened just in one day.


    Last night, she and Vince were finally a couple. Not officially, as he''s still married to Eva, but she epted his confession of love.


    Even though Eva was with someone else since the beginning of their marriage, Hailey was still ufortable, so she asked herself if what she''s doing was right.


    She didn''t mind before because it was just a fake act. But not anymore. She was now Vince''s real girlfriend.


    Hailey heaves a sigh and puts a smile on her lips. She should stop worrying about these things and trust Vince. Besides, what matters most to her now is Vince finally would start working on her dream city, and that is soon.


    Honestly, she never thought that the person she was looking for was Eva''s husband. She has no other intention but to offer him a job, so she hopes that Vincent would believe in her once he finds out the truth.


    Thinking over it was never in her wildest dream that she would fall in love with him.


    No. That''s not it. She never thinks that Vince already had a crush on her four years ago. And through time, his feelings develop into love, and he never forgets her.


    If she didn''t investigate Vince, she wouldn''t recognize him from five years ago.


    Five years ago, she visited Maind City on her 20th birthday to give a huge amount as a donation to the Medical Research facility, wishing to help a little to those struggling to fund their treatment with rare cases of illness.


    While walking alone in the hallways, she saw a struggling man trying his best to walk again. And if Vince ever remembers that, still, he would not recognize her as Hailey Hillson in Hailey Davies'' clothing. It was enough that Vince only remembers her as Hailey Hillson.


    And maybe things will be fine once Eva stops hiding and signs the divorce papers, then everyone stops thinking of her as only the mistress. But she also hopes that Bryan would not marry Eva. She still hopes for Bryan to find someone else. He deserves someone better.


    Hailey''s thought was interrupted when her phone rings. It was Vince.


    Instantly, her lips parted into a smile. She picks up her phone and answers the call.


    "Hi!"


    ["When will youe back?"]


    Hailey almost burst outughing hearing Vince''s anxious voice. He sounded impatient, wanting to see her very soon. "I already packed your things. I am preparing to go back. But I''m thinking of making your lunch. However, I''m worried that you are alone there."


    ["Ah. Jake and Carl, we''re here."]


    "Oh. I''m d. Do you want me to cook?"


    The other line fell in silence for a moment. Later, Vince replied.


    ["Okay. I missed your food already. I''m looking forward to it."]


    Hailey chuckled. Vince had the food she made the other night; not even two days have passed. Now he''s saying he is already missing eating the food she prepared. She wondered what would happen if he was mainly in Australia, and she stayed in P Country?


    "Alright. I''ll make lunch for us," she told Vince afterward.


    "I love you."


    "I love you, too, Vince." Still, she blushes every time she replies to Vince.


    ["Please, be careful driving, okay?"] Vince reminds her before he ends the call.


    It touched Hailey how it concerned him about her, but because of that, now it came back to her mind about the fact that someone wants Vince dead. And she''s hoping that the man she hired has gathered information as soon as possible. It was the same man she hired before to investigate who is the CEO of SHEN GROUP.


    Honestly, she could not wait to find out the truth. Whoever nned Vince''s ident, she wanted that person to pay.


    Hailey steps out of the bathroom. She headed to the walk-in closet and scanned her dress.


    Now that she was Vince''s real girlfriend, she wanted to look presentable in front of his parents. Before, she was wearing daring clothes as part of her act of being a beautiful mistress.


    But from here on, she has to look proper as Vince''s girlfriend. And she would be honest; she wanted Madame Shen not to be misunderstood and stop casting a stern look at her because of her slutty way of clothing in the past.


    Well, not always. But the photos the media love to post about her are when she is wearing that types of clothes. She is trying to please them by giving them the image they wanted to picture her. A slut.


    "Okay. Time to dress up." Hailey tried a few dresses, but she didn''t feel it was pleasing enough. She tried on other clothes until she gave up.


    Why does she have to dress so much? What she needs is a casual dress she will befortable with. But first, she needs to make lunch.


    Hailey set aside dressing up and began making lunch. She cooked spicy chicken wings and sweet and sour fish fillet. She also prepared a vegetable dish mixed with broli, sweet peas, carrots. She added chicken liver and green peas.


    She only ns to prepare three dishes, but she makes chicken soup and stirs fry noodles. Now she has to rush back to the hospital.


    Hailey ran toward her bedroom and changed her house clothes into a proper dress. She grabbed a long skirt and high-neck knitted blouse. She applied light makeup and only used lip gloss instead of lipstick.


    A long time ago, Vince fell in love with her messy look. A girl sells lemon juice on the sidewalk, wearing a in t-shirt and denim pants paired to converse shoes.


    Her trying to please Hilda Shen is a way for her not to make things hard for Vince. He didn''t tell, but she could sense that his mom nagged him constantly because of the affair.


    And so she wanted to show that she is not a terrible person. And if ever, she would not embarrass Vince.


    Hailey was following the traffic flow when her phone received an important email. It was an initial report regarding the investigation of Vince''s ident.


    She read the statement. Now her face darkened while her hands were tightening on the steering wheel.


    Hailey phone Sandy.


    [Hello, Princess?]


    "I received your report. Please tell your friend to keep an eye on them."


    [Copy, Princess.]


    "DM me the bank ount number of your friend to wire half of my payment."


    [One a sec, Princess!]


    "Good job. Tell your friend this."


    [Aye, princess!]


    "Keep me posted." Hailey ends the call.


    She texted Vince that she was halfway to the hospital.

 Chapter 94 - Showing-Off

    <h4>Chapter 94 - Showing-Off</h4>


    At the hospital, Vince was continued chatting with Jake and Carl. He instantly checks his phone when it vibrates, notifying a new message arrives.


    Jake and Carl knew that Vincent was only this attentive to check his phone because of his mom. Now it was because of his girlfriend. Love could really make someone into something...


    Vince did not know what the two men were thinking about him. But he doesn''t care. What was important to him is to have his own world while reading Hailey''s text.


    Later, he lifted his head and nced at Carl. He said, "Hailey is on her way back. She needed a hand to carry the lunch she made."


    Hearing the word lunch, Carl sat up abruptly and didn''t wait for Vince to finish. "I''m on it, cousin! Ah! I''m starving!"


    Since the penthouse is not that far from Metro City Institute of Medicine, Hailey would arrive in less than fifteen minutes unless there''s a traffic jam, which would take half an hour. Carl went down to the parking lot.


    Not long, Hailey arrived. She parked her car on the space reserve for the Shen family.


    They built this hospital to teach advanced Medicine that a Lopez family project helps the country train more skilled doctors and nurses. So it means Hilda''s family owns arge percentage of this hospital.


    Hailey was about to step out of the car when she spotted Professor Carl walking toward her car.


    "Hi!" Carl greeted Hailey when she got out of the vehicle.


    "Good morning, Professor Carl." Hailey greeted the guy. She walks toward the trunk, and Carl follows her.


    "Please, we''re not at the university. Just call me Carl."


    Hailey felt awkward all of a sudden. But since she had noment, she just nodded and smiled at Carl. Nevertheless, she could not open her mouth to say his name.


    "Let me carry them. I don''t want to receive a ck eye from my cousin." Carl jokes that he actually means it.


    "Oh. But..."


    He smiled. "Please, Vincent, sent me here to help you. Don''t worry." Carl exined.


    He doesn''t want Hailey to misunderstand him. He is aware that she is taking a distance from him, even though Vince''s cousin. One thing he admires about her. She only sticks to his cousin''s side and no other men she is close to.


    "I see. Thank you, Pro... I mean, thank you, Carl." Finally, she managed to say that casually.


    "Sounds great!" Carl meant he likes how Hailey is calling him by his name from now on. And it sounds sweet to the ears.


    Hailey and Carl headed to the elevator. The lift arrived at the top floor, and they stepped out once the door opened. They were trailing the hallway when the elevator from another hallway opened.


    "Uncle Fred, Aunt Hilda!" Carl immediately calls out to the couple once he spotted them getting out of the lift.


    Hailey paused from walking since Carl halted and waited for Vince''s parents to catch up with them.


    "What are you carrying, Carl?" asked Fred, looking down at the packages he was carrying both of his hands.


    "It was food that Hailey cooked for lunch, Uncle Fred!" Carl answered excitedly.


    "Oh. Perfect timing! We haven''t had lunch yet," said Fred, looking at Hailey.


    Hailey smiled timidly. She suddenly felt nervous to see Vince''s parents. Hilda Shen was scanning her from the head down to her strap sandals.


    "Good noon, Mr. Shen." Hailey partly bowed to Fred before she turned to Hilda and greeted the woman. "Hello, Madame Shen."


    "Good noon, Miss Hillson." Fred returned the greetings. He nced at Hilda to give her a warning stare. ''Remember what we just talk about, Hilda.''


    They were arguing in the elevator about Hilda''s cold treatment of their son''s girlfriend.


    "Even you will throw a fret every day; you already heard our son. If you didn''t understand the meaning of his statement, I would tell you now. That girl is the only one he wanted to be his wife."


    And what a coincidence. They just spoke about her. Now they see her in the hallway.


    However, Hilda still acted stubbornly. She red at Fred. "Let''s go. I want to see Vince''s condition."


    After Hilda says it, she resumes walking, leaving them in the middle of the aisle. Carl and Fred shook their heads.


    Fred felt embarrassed about the way Hilda acted. He looked at Hailey and smiled awkwardly. "Probably Vincent is hungry now."


    It was ame excuse. But Fred has no other defense he coulde up with. Honestly, it upset him that Hilda continues digging a pit for all of them.


    The day Vincent got into an ident, he dered he would never break up with his girlfriend. Now he could not help but pity his son. He pondered about that matter, and he decided to support Vincent''s divorce since nothing happens in his three years of marriage with Eva but a waste.


    Carl, who is silently watching on the sideline, whispers at Hailey once the couple walks ahead.


    "Don''t mind Aunt Hilda. Even she will continue treating you coldly; she could never change Vincent''s mind. He fights his love for you and is willing to go against his mom."


    She was supposed to be happy hearing this, but it saddens her that Vincent''s rtionship with his mom hurt because of her. And she doesn''t want that to happen. It will never make her happy.


    Hailey silently followed behind. She was thest person to enter the private ward, and everyone gathered in the living room, including Vincent, sat on the sofa. What Vince did in front of everyone caused her cheeks to blush red.


    Vince pulled her close to him, using his right arm to hug her and kiss her in front of his parents, cousin, best friend, and assistant.


    Hailey wishes for the floor to open and swallow her. Vince, kissing her in front of everyone, melted her from embarrassment. Now she could not look at everyone straight into their eyes. It just feels different ever since her rtionship with Vince became real and not just an act.


    On the other hand, Carl and Jake wanted to beat Vince for being a show-off. They growled in envy. "Please spare the single men out here, bro!"


    Tim coughs to remind them he is also loveless. On the other hand, Hilda popped out her eyes from her face. She didn''t expect that her son would be this bolder in front of her. And what she could only do is avert her gaze and ignore the scene in front of her.


    Meanwhile, Fred was only surprised a little. What to hide? Their photos kissing even inside their private suite were caught by paparazzi and posted online. However, that site suddenly disappears into thin air.


    He clears his throat and says, "Carl, get the tes and utensils."


    "I will help to get them, Mr. Shen! I''m also starving." Tim volunteered.


    "Hey, who says you can have food? Buy your lunch, Timothy Cheng!" Vince yelled at Tim, but his assistant only ignored him.


    Hailey could not suppress to giggle, watching Vince acting childishly over food. She knew it was only a joke, but Vince looks cute.


    "Don''t worry. Here, I packed separate lunch boxes for you. You need more vegetables and remember? You have to avoid fatty foods."


    Everyone heard what Hailey said to Vince. They all now witness how Vince was taking care by his girlfriend, which a real wife should do.


    Jake and Carl are more than willing to beat Vince for?showing off so much affection toward each other in front of them.

 Chapter 95 - His In-Laws

    <h4>Chapter 95 - His In-Laws</h4>


    They ced the food on the long coffee table, and they all gathered around to savor the dishes Hailey prepared.


    Fred and Hilda sat on the sofa while Carl and Jake both upied the two couches. Hailey and Vince took the love seat, and Tim sat on the dining table, which he preferred rather than sat across from Madame Shen.


    Vincent was now eating on his own, but as he is only using his right hand, Hailey is attentive to put food on his te.


    "Ah. This is top-ss cooking! Bro, you are so lucky! Five-star restaurants will feel ashamed if they get to taste these!" Jakepliments Hailey.


    "These are indeed 10-stars dishes!" Carl echoed. "The faculty never stop praising the dishes you make for the ss Reunion, Miss Hailey," Carl added. Hailey looked at her with a bit confused on her face, and Carl understood that. He asked Hailey to call each other by name if they are not in the school. But knowing Vince, who immediately made a protest, Carl is ying safe.


    Hailey smiled. She replied, "I''m happy to help, Professor Carl."


    She hides her amusement. Carl changed his mind to call her by the first name in front of Vince. He is cautious not to mess up with his cousin.


    "Bro, we should date a chef next time," Jake whispered at Carl.


    Carl muttered with a full mouth, "Not all chefs are beautiful." Jake burst outughing thatter he was coughing after choking on his food. "That''s a sign that your idea is ridiculous."


    Carl mocked Jake. Tim, who eats in silence, scoffs. Both Carl and Jake nced in his direction and said, "Look at someone who''s loveless as well."


    Tim frowned. "Even though I wanted to date someone, my hands are full of errands left and right, not to mention in my back and front."


    Hearing this, Carl and Jake burst outughing, and then they grinned at Vincent. He felt those burning stares, but he pretended that he heard nothing.


    "Damn! I pitied you, Tim. Your boss is heartless!" Jakeughed.


    Vincent got annoyed listening to them. He raised his head and roared at them. "At least make sure you gossip when I am not around!"


    Fred smiled, listening to these boys. He was already used to them joking around like this. That is why it ddens him if these boys hang out in the mansion instead of going somewhere anding home with brushes and ck eyes.


    Jake and Vincent are childhood friends while Carl was born and live in the US, only visiting P Country during Christmas and Summers.


    When Jake''s family migrated to the US, he and Carl set a time to meet regrly. And in Tim''s case, he is a few years older than Vince, and they have known him since high school. His father is one of his engineers. Tim has been Vince''s good friend before they started working in thepany.


    Meanwhile, Hilda chooses to focus on eating her food. She could not deny that this girl can cook very well. And ording to her friends and the Metro City News Headline, this girl is an international chef. She studied at a top culinary school and was mentored by a famous world-ss French chef.


    But why was this girl in P Country? If she ns to build her restaurant, surely she could take Hotel and Restaurant Management courses in Paris or Australia.


    Why does she have toe to P Country?


    Hilda was upied with her thoughts, and she didn''t notice that Fred often nces at her. Fred could tell that she was enjoying the food. But knowing her attitude, she would never admit it.


    On the other hand, Hailey is eating quietly. Constantly she was smiling at the four men who didn''t stop ridiculing each other over the meal.


    In the middle of this merry lunch, Vincent had a visitor arrive outside his ward. The couple knocks on the door, waiting for someone to open it. Every pair of eyes inside that ward fell on the door. It was Tim who rushed and opened it.


    Tim was surprised to see who they are. However, he didn''t feel like greeting them. But it would be a bad image to his boss if he was rude to them.


    "Good afternoon, Mr. Ricky and Mrs. Lan." Tim politely greeted the couple. He bowed before he widened the door to let his boss''s parents-inw enter the ward. He assures that his voice was loud enough to inform his boss.


    Everyone in that ward, except Vince and Hailey, the rest had a shock on their faces. Of course, Vincent''s inw''s sudden visits without notice turn out awkward because his girlfriend was in the same room.


    Ricky Lan and Julia Lan frowned upon seeing Vincent''s mistress. They didn''t know that Hilda wees this girl. They knew how she scolded her son for having an affair but what''s going on now?


    It displeased them, and it was written all over their faces. Their gaze fell to Vincent''s girlfriend, casting stern looks at her.


    Fred, who was a little shocked, sat up and weed their visitors. He didn''t permit any visitors but close friends like Jake. Even their rtives must ask permission first. It disappoints him, but he could not make a remark but entertain Vincent''s inws.


    "Ricky! Julia! Thank you foring and visiting Vincent," Fred said.


    "Of course, we are his inws." Ricky Lan replied.


    "Legal inws..." Julia Lan chimed in and made sure to emphasize thest three words.


    Carl and Jake nced at Vince, who acts like he didn''t notice the couple who just arrived. On the other hand, Hilda was annoyed by how her son treated the Lan couple; he''s parents-inw.


    Although Vincent ignored them, it will not stop Ricky Lan from talking. "I''m d to see you well, Vincent. Forgive our daughter if she wasn''t here to take care of you. We are trying to contact her and inform her about your ident."


    Vincent is twitching the corner of his mouth upon hearing howme excuses Ricky Lan has been babbling. He lifted his head and looked straight at Ricky Lan''s eyes. He responded, "Don''t feel obliged to exin anything as you owe me, Mr. Lan. That''s not the reason why your daughter married me anyway."


    Ricky Lan and Julia Lan felt humiliated by Vincent''s words. Fred, especially Hilda, dumbfounded the way their son talks to his inws.


    However, there''s no other emotion they could see in Vincent''s face. Instead of feeling irritated, the corner of his mouth contorting a smirk.


    Julia Lan couldn''t control her annoyance that their son-inw is rude toward them. "I hope you are not saying that to cover your infidelity, Vincent."


    "Mrs. Lan, I am sure that your daughter knew the meaning of this word."


    Julia Lan widened her eyes as she felt horror at the moment. It shocked her how dare Vincent treat them this bad. She red at the girl that was seated next to Vincent. She could not stop herself infuriating to see this mistress.


    "Vincent, you must be careful of the people that you are with every day. You should not trust some stranger. Who knows what harm they bring to you," said Ricky Lan''s advice.


    Everyone''s eyes looked at Hailey when a lowugh came out from her lips. They got intrigued why she scoffs after Ricky made that speech.


    "It seems like the cause of your terrible behavior is from your Mistress, Vincent! How disrespectful!" Ricky Lan darkened his face looking at Hailey. This girl has just appeared, but Vincent has his eyes on her ever since! He is determined to gather some proof that she brought some wicked n to the Shen family!


    Vincent sharpened his gaze toward Ricky Lan. He put down his chopsticks and leaned backward on the love seat, crossing his long legs. He spoke up, "Mr. Lan, leave my girlfriend alone. And don''t worry. I know whom I should trust. Besides, my divorce from your daughter has been nned since the beginning. I hope your daughter remembered her conditions."


    Julia and Ricky exploded from anger. They didn''t expect that their visit would turn out like this. They were here to show their concern for Vincent, but what happened instead, their son-inw showed how badly he wanted to divorce their daughter for using Eva of such things.


    "Hilda, Fred, I never imagine that you will tolerate your son like this! He has no respect toward his inws!" Julia would give a shot of seeking Hilda''s sympathy toward them. It''s always like that. So they were hopeful that Hilda would do something.


    But before Hilda could open her mouth, Hailey suddenly spoke up.


    "Mr. and Mrs. Lan. With due respect, I am curious about your visit today."


    Hilda and Fred shared a nce while Jake and Carl stared at Hailey like idiots. Their mouth open, and amazement shes to their eyes.


    "You bitch! You are not permitted to speak!" Julia Lan felt ridiculous. Hysterically, she shouted at Hailey. "Who are you, by the way? You are just a mistress!"


    *


    NEXT on HCM:


    "You are right, Mrs. Lan. I am only a mistress. If Vincent died, I would get nothing from the Shen. But your daughter Eva... Ah, no. The Lan family will somehow be rewarded andpensated as your daughter bes a widow by a Shen at such a young age. Am I correct?"

 Chapter 96 - Fearless

    <h4>Chapter 96 - Fearless</h4>


    They all remained silent, curious how Hailey would respond to Julia Lan.


    In these passing months, they have witnessed how she did not back down but responding to any issues thrown at her. She always had an exploding answer to theirshing, for example, when Zenaida posted a suspicious post that pretended to be anonymous.


    However, she quickly figures out that Zenaida, who is behind that post, turns the gossip toward her.


    And now, watching her cast a question to the Lan is superior. Or at least what Jake, Carl, and Tim thought that Fearless.


    The couple has known as vicious to shame many people. But in front of the Shen, especially toward Hilda Lopez, they were careful not to offend them.


    But today they didn''t like what they saw. Hilda and Fred allowed their son''s mistress and didn''t respect their daughter as the legal wife.


    On the other hand, Vincent had known how Hailey would open her mouth if she senses that something is wrong. She could tell what truth and lies are. And he gives her every right to defend herself when ites to the issues that someone is calling her the mistress.


    He doesn''t want anyone to bully her or judge her, nor step down on her. He would seek revenge even if those people are his inws, which only in the paper and not in his heart.


    Besides, it''s not Hailey''s fault in the first ce, and people didn''t know the real reason for his marriage to Eva.


    "Mrs. Lan, please refrain yourself fromshing out at my girlfriend, or you would regret opening your mouth. You probably would not like what I would do."


    Julia Lan scoffs. She said, "Look at your son, Hilda. Is this how he was brought up? How dare he threaten me! I am his mother-inw!"


    Hilda blinks timidly. Her head was throbbing, listening to all thismotion, and now she lost her appetite. She didn''t make an effort to lift her head, which can be noticed in her expression how she was irritated.


    She wanted to scold Vince''s girlfriend, but Julia Lan also annoyed her.


    How dare she question how she raises her son? God knows how opposed she is to the affair. And clearly, Eva is also to me that things have turned out this way.


    The Lan daughter never bes a wife to her son. And now she felt tired to deal with any of it.


    Meanwhile, Julia Lan was enraged to see Hilda remain silent and seemed to ignore her instead.


    When they came into the hospital unannounced, Julia was highly confident. But now, seeing Hilda didn''t say a word, it grows concerned in her heart.


    ''Is the end of the Lan family?'' she thought. But she would not allow it!


    It takes a lot of work, effort, blood, and sweat to arrange for Eva, her daughter, to marry Shen''s only son.


    But it will be over soon because of this mistress who has a thick face!


    Meanwhile, Ricky Lan could not find intimidating words to counter Vincent''s threat toward them. Somehow, because of Vincent, they were saved from bankruptcy. Thoroughly provoking him would be the end of them. Eva didn''t secure any assets yet as Vincent''s wife.


    Even he, as Eva''s father, was upset about how irresponsible she was. Eva only thinks of herself. And if she says she could hide forever from Shen, then his daughter is wrong.


    They are grateful that Vincent didn''t take seriously about finding Eva to get a divorce. His daughter is not using her head. Eva should make a special request before signing the divorce agreement; Shen''s can afford to give her that much.


    Ricky Lan made up his mind not to fight with Vincent. He smiled enormously and said, "Vincent, you don''t need to be harsh to us. We only express our disappointment because we are your second parents. We are worried about you."


    Ricky put in an effort that his voice was sincere enough. He isn''t used to yielding and kneeling in front of others, only to Shen and Hilda as a member of the country''s most powerful family.


    However, today is not a lucky day for the Lan couple. Vincent is casting a stern gaze at them, and his mouth curves into a mocking smile.


    Listening to Ricky Lan venturing hard to convey a fake concern, Hailey could not control her exasperation. Unintentionally she dropped her spoon, and it creates a loud ng into her te.


    Not only that, she chuckled with amusement. Once again, every pair of eyes inside that ward were looking in her direction.


    "Vincent, your mistress went overboard in insulting us!" Julia sneered. It means her words to Vincent, but her eyes flitted to Hailey.


    Hailey lifted her head. She met Julia Lan''s gaze and smiled. "I''m sorry, Mrs. Lan. I just remembered a hrious movie. I did not mean myughs to insult you and your husband."


    Julia Lan clenches both of her fists. It was apparent that Vincent''s mistress'' words are full of sarcasm, which Vincent even chimed in!


    "Sounds interesting." Vince clicked his tongue. He turned his head toward Hailey and said, "How about sharing with us, darling?"


    His voice is so gentle that it almost made Jake, Carl, and Tim puke at how sweet it was. This is not the Vince they knew!


    Hailey partly turned her head toward Vince. She smiled at him sweetly before she fixed her gaze on the Lan couple.


    "Nah. It will be a boring story for others. The story was more like a mystery."


    "Hmm... Then that was more intriguing." Vincemented.


    "Well, let me narrate the climax of the story to make it short. One day, the male protagonist got into an ident. The family didn''t release a statement regarding the male protagonist''s condition; not even his inws heard any news, so they have visited him in the hospital without notice." Hailey paused to put the pineapple chunk in her mouth. After she swallowed it, she went on.


    "And they were disappointed because the attempted murder failed. The son-inw was safe, super healthy, and almost no injuries. So their n is a big failure. The end."


    Fred and Hilda, including Carl, Jake, and Tim, listening to Hailey''s story with their mouths dropped open. None of them can grab the moment either tough.


    The story made them speechless. And it was Vincent who broke the silence.


    "That is indeed hrious! What a dumb plot!"


    Among them all, there are only two people who didn''t like the story. It can view on their faces how aggravated they were.


    Julia Lan could not hold herself not to throw a question. She sneered, "And what is the point of your made-up story, Miss Hillson?"


    "Do I, Mrs. Lan? I was used of insulting you because Iughed. Now that I share the story that made meugh, you overthink about it."


    "It was clear that your story is pointing at us!" Ricky Lan joins the argument.


    "Did I mention any names, Mr. Lan?"


    "You didn''t mention any names, but you were referring us to being responsible for our son-inw''s ident! You were also using us!"


    "And why do you feel the story refers to you if it is not true, Mr. Lan?"


    Ricky Lan opens and closes his mouth as he is attempting to answer Hailey''s query. However, no words formed in his tongue. He looked straight into the girl''s eyes, but her eyes were intimidating.


    Until now, he could not believe that this mistress is too sharp!


    Ricky Lan remained to faze while Julia Lan would not keep her mouth shut.


    "How dare you question and use us! You are just a mistress! The only one who would have a motive to plot Vincent''s death is you! Nobody knew who you are or where you came from! It was you who''s stranger and suspicious here than us!"


    However, Hailey only snorted, and that made Julia explode in anger. She''s astounded by how bold Vincent''s mistress adds to her rage, that Hilda didn''t do something to stop this girl!


    Of course, Hilda was feelingzy today. She only wished for tea and a quiet ce. That is why, even though her appetite disappears, she keeps stuffing her mouth so that it upies her with something.


    Anyway, it also came to her mind the question of who attempts to kill Vincent. It was what troubles her since the other night that she doesn''t want to leave Vince alone.


    The Crime Operatives, who are investigating all possibilities regarding the ident, only reporting to Fred and her husband, only shared little.


    Of course, she wanted to know the truth as soon as possible. Vincent is advancing more stairs to his sess. So then she could not help ponder if it is envy or interest in their wealth? Well, every possibility matters.


    Hailey pursed her lips into a sly smile. Her eyes were shing red gs.


    "Mrs. Lan, did you understand what you were saying to me? I am just a mistress, true. You are..."


    "But in my heart, you are my wife," said Vince. He took her hand and kissed the back of her palm.


    Hailey blinks her eyes. It surprised her that Vincent would be this bolder in front of everyone. He cut her speech just to show he is a passionate lover!


    ''This is not the time to act, lovey-dovey in front of everyone! We are discussing the culprit of your ident!'' she helplessly groaned inwardly.

 Chapter 97 - Her Net Worth And His Last Will

    <h4>Chapter 97 - Her Net Worth And His Last Will</h4>


    Hailey smiled at Vince, then her attention returned to the Lan couple and went on.


    "Mrs. Lan, you are correct that I am only a mistress. So, if Vincent dies, I will get nothing from Shen. That was very clear to you. However, your daughter, Eva... Ah, no. The Lan family will somehow receivepensation as your daughter bes a Shen widow at such a young age."


    Hailey added, "How much Eva would get as Vincent''s legal wife? Vincent has shares in Shen Group, not to mention the residential skyscrapers and restaurants he owns. Plus his other investments, not to say his worth.


    Julia Lan and Ricky Lan press their mouths. Of course, they know how much Vincent owns! He is the heir of all Shen''s properties, not including Hilda''s assets in the Lopez family!


    They just imagine the numbers; it made them daze already, But the Lan couple didn''t anticipate that their delusion would soon shatter.


    "Ah, I forgot!" Vince ps his forehead. "I already made my Last Will... All of my assets will go to various foundations once I die without children."


    Hailey turned her head to Vince and smiled enormously, saying, "Smart-ass!"


    She and Vince chuckled like they minded nothing at all!


    Of course, Vincent''s worth, including Hilda''s properties, is only half of Hailey''s worth. And no one knew it, and she didn''t feel obligated to tell the world!


    Meanwhile, Hilda is one of those who dropped their jaw wide open upon hearing Vincent''s statement. She felt like her body suddenly numbing. She nced at Fred, whose expression didn''t change. It means he knew about this!


    ''Frederick Shen! You''ll be dead tonight!''


    Meanwhile, Ricky and Julia Lan couldn''t recover yet from the shock of the news they have heard just now.


    ''What a waste!'' They sighed regretfully in secret.


    All the wealth Vincent owned would only go to stupid people! Thought by the Lan couple.


    At this moment, they have nothing to refute. The couple bes a muffler even after Vincent conveys his gratitude that they give time to visit them.


    The couple tried their best to deny Hailey''s suspicion. But what''s written on their faces was a total defeat.


    "Don''t worry, Mr. Lan, Mrs. Lan... I willpensate your daughter ording to her worth."


    The couple wanted to protest. How much would that be? They knew it wouldn''t be that much!


    After Ricky and Julia Lan left the ward, Fred peered at his son''s girlfriend. For days that he spends more time with Hailey, he discovered more interesting temperaments about her.


    And there''s one thing that amused him. The way Hailey pointed something out, he could see the young Hilda that he had known for his entire life!


    How ironic it was! However, even though they have a bit of simrity, he knew that Vincent''s girlfriend was far nicer than his wife. Hilda is too loud.


    *


    SHEN MANSION


    In the evening, Fred found Carl in Vincent''s study making test questionnaires.


    "Uncle, your home!"


    "Yeah. I saw your car in the garage, so I''m guessing that you were here in the study."


    "What''s the matter, Uncle Fred?" asked Carl. He put away hisptop and poured Fred a ss of wine.


    "Nothing¡­ Thank you, Carl." Fred took the wine ss Carl gave to him and sipped the liquor; the taste brought him to heaven. Later, he brought up the question he wanted to ask Carl. "I just wanted to ask if you might have mentioned something to Vincent."


    "Is this about his ident that it''s not just an ident?" Carl means to assure.


    Fred nodded. "Yes."


    "Honestly, Uncle Fred, Vincent is brilliant. He already figures it out, and pursuing me to confess is just a tiny thing to confirm that his presumption was true," said Carl. While Hailey went home to the penthouse, Vincent brought the possibilities of his ident, and he could hide nothing from his cousin''s keenness.


    "So, you mentioned the ongoing investigation?"


    Carl nodded. "Yes, uncle. He has his way to make me confessed. You had known your son already!"


    Fred is nodding andughing. He patted Carl''s back. "Alright. I need to rest now. I have to go back to thepany early tomorrow."


    "Good night, Uncle Fred."


    "Night, Carl."


    Fred got out of the study and headed to the stair, trailing down the mansion''s left-wing aisle. Fred entered the master''s bedroom, where he found Hilda was already changing into a nightgown, sitting on the bed. In her right hand holding a telephone closer to her ear while looking at herptop.


    Fred took a shower. He put on his pajamas and then dried his hair. Before he climbs onto the bed, he grabs a few folders to read before he sleeps.


    He could feel that the person next to him couldn''t sleep but was restless. Hilda is turning to both her sides. When she could not keep it from whatever troubles her at the moment, she sat up.


    "Fred..."


    "Hum..." Fred didn''t spare a look in his wife''s direction. His eyes remained reading the reports. "Why don''t you ask the head maidservant to bring you tea?"


    "I have been drinking tea twice already!" Hilda answered.


    Fred asked, "Then what is your problem?"


    Hilda bites her lip. She could not decide whether to share it with Fred. She doesn''t want to beughed at by her husband. But at this moment, she had be desperate. Every time it urs to her mind, it worries her more.


    "Fred, our son should have children as soon as possible."


    Fred pretends he did not hear Hilda as his attention was to the documents in his hand. He also held not to part his lips into a grin.


    "Fred, did you hear what I am saying?" Hilda grew impatient.


    "Huh? Can you repeat what you said?" Fred ys dumb to make fun of his wife.


    Hilda pursed her lips before she snapped. "I said Vincent needs children!"


    "Ah. Right? Otherwise, all of our wealth will only be divided into charities," said Fred; he remained to look at the documents, even though he already stopped reading.


    Hilda''s heart grew frustrated. She could not allow that all of her money would only go to charities! It''s not that she doesn''t want to help. The Lopez and Shen Foundation has been assisting ill children, and they are also supporting schrships in college.


    But the realization really hits her hard. The Shen has no heir who will continue the Legacy.


    Both Deena and Sheena''s husbands are not good enough to run thepany. What, a chef and a ser yer knew to manage an International Construction Firm?


    ''Unless Vincent would have heirs!'' thought Hilda. "Fred, you have to talk to your son."


    "Why should I? How about you visit Vincent at the hospital tomorrow and talk to him?"


    Hilda frowned. She is prideful. Of course, she doesn''t want to admit that she is now willing to tolerate Vincent.


    "You are his father! You talk to him!" Hilda blurted out all of a sudden. And after stating this, Hilda tucked in under the quilt. Shey to her right side, giving her back to Fred.


    He nced at his wife with a massive smile on his lips. Now the wind is changing its direction. Before, Hilda has been fretting about Vincent''s affair.


    Still, she keeps fretting. But this time, it was about Vincent having children.


    And what is ironic, Hilda didn''t bring up Eva. Could it mean that any woman is fine to her now?


    ''This woman is like a hurricane!''

 Chapter 98 - When His Boss Worries

    <h4>Chapter 98 - When His Boss Worries</h4>


    The following day, Vincent has already given a clearance to discharge since his injuries are only minor. However, this is still a secret, and only a few people knew.


    He could already go home the other day, but since they told the media that he needed more days to recover, Vincent stayed in the hospital.


    Hailey finished packing their things, and now they were waiting for Vince''s parents toy the n to lure the media that no one noticed he''s going home today.


    News has been circting that his ident probably an attempt of murder. But Shen confirmed nothing, the reason the media was persistent to dig for more information.


    At the moment, the doctor put a new bandage around Vince''s shoulder. Aside from it, he also used a sling arm to assure he would not move his left shoulder until it wouldpletely heal.


    Honestly, he felt a lot better today, like he didn''t need it. It would be only slight pain if he moved his left arm. But the felon who plotted his death is still out there, and they are still gathering solid evidence to arrests them.


    Meanwhile, the car driver that crashed into him causes his Lamborghini to push forward, has been silent, and denies that it was an intention. Instead, he reasons out that he was depressed and lost while driving. That is why he didn''t notice that the traffic light had already changed its color to red.


    Well, it was the smartest excuse for a personmitting the crime to pretend to have a mental health problem.


    So then, Vince has to continue pretending that he''s severely injured, and he needs to stay in the hospital in a few more days.


    "Visit me tomorrow evening before your flight."


    "I will, Doctor Jing. Thank you."


    The doctor nodded, then left. Immediately, Vince pulled Hailey into his arms and kissed her. After they parted to breathe some air, Hailey spoke.


    "You should postpone your trip to Australia," she suggested to Vince. She''s still worried.


    Vincent fell into his thoughts. He lifted his gaze to give Hailey an assuring smile. "I feel a lot better today. Thanks to your love and care for me."


    She isn''t convinced at all. But she couldn''t suppress her smile at how Vince sounds corny. She pouted. "You''re going to have so many things to do in Australia. How can I assure you will take care of yourself?"


    Vince chuckled at how cute Hailey before his eyes. He couldn''t resist nting a kiss on the tip of her nose.


    "Thank you for worrying about me, but I promised to eat on time and get enough rest," said Vince. Later, he sighed. "My flight has been scheduled already. I don''t want them to think how unprofessional I am and showed a bad impression of me."


    Hailey frowned upon hearing Vince''s reasons. She mouthed, "That ridiculous of them not to give you any consideration. If you allow me, I will negotiate with them to give you another day of rest. I will exin what happened."


    Vince''s eyes flickered as he peered at Hailey. From his perspective, Hailey wanted to do this, as she was too worried about him. With this thought, his heart fluttered in delight.


    "Thank you. But you don''t need to worry. Let me handle it, okay? If they agreed, I would arrive in Australia on Friday instead of Thursday. How''s that?"


    Hailey pondered for a moment. Today is Wednesday, and Vince''s scheduled visit to Dream City is tomorrow.


    "How about Monday?" Hailey suggested. As the boss, Vince never knew that she was; all she wanted was his full recovery.


    Vince needed both of his arms and hands to design a building. Now that she realized this, Hailey understood why Vince never used his fists to beat someone. His hands are precious. And he makes sure to take care of them.


    If not because of that damn ident, he won''t have a shoulder sprained.


    On the other hand, concern instantly written on Vince''s face. He is keen to maintain a good impression of his client, so he always arrives at the ce one day ahead.


    What only holds him back from flying to Australia earlier than the schedule is because of Hailey. He wanted to spend more time with her.


    Vince sighed. He is having trouble deciding. Hailey reaches for his face; he raises his arm to hold her palm and buries his face into it.


    "Okay. I will try to talk to Mr. Wilson," said Vince to Hailey, for her to stop worrying. After stating this, she widened her smile and nted a kiss on his lips like his reward for being obedient.


    Their rtionship has improved. Hailey is even more caring. She''s charming and makes sure he didn''t get hungry.


    Hailey discovered more good traits Vince had. He had a sense of humor and a lot of things that they are alike.


    Later, Fred and Carl arrived in the hospital, along with Tim.


    "Hi, dad. Where''s mom?" Vince asked after he noticed no sign of his mom.


    Fred exined, "Ah. I told her she better stay home for a while to avoid the media. Besides, for what we are doing, the media should notice nothing."


    "Okay, dad. That''s better." Vince was nodding his head. He wanted to talk further, but it isn''t the best ce to discuss his ident.


    At the back door of this hospital, two ck cars are waiting for them. Vincent and Hailey took the second car and sat in the backseat while Tim position in front of the steering wheel. The first car will escort them.


    Ten minutester, Fred and Carl move on. They exited the parking lot and drove toward the gate ¡ª where the reporters waited outside.


    Someone recognized Carl''s car. They tried to block it, but the police held them up. They were helpless to watch the vehicle trotted away.


    None of them know that Vincent''s car already passed them ten minutes ago. But the car they used was owned by a doctor in that hospital, so they suspected nothing.


    Instead of heading toward the Crescent Tower, the convoy was driving toward West Bay. In the meantime, Vince will stay at his Penthouse in West Bay to avoid any media.


    In this port, they can control the guests and vehicles to enter the vicinity. Only the residents in the penthouse tower and yacht owners may enter West Bay Port.


    They made this nst night before Fred and Hilda left the hospital. Before the sun rises today, Hailey went to the Penthouse to get their clothes for a few days'' stay in the West Bay.


    Hailey breathed the warm breezeing from the ocean. Suddenly she misses Australia, where she spends her time on the beach during the weekend and in the country.


    She was at the balcony garden, gazing out into the blue sea just a mile away. Later, an arm hooks her waist, and her back pressed into a t chest. Hailey lifted her chin and looked up at Vince. He lowered his mouth to cover her lips.


    It was a long and fervor kiss. They could only share long kisses at night as people like the doctor, his cousin, and parents annoyinglye and go during the day.


    However, Vince forgot Tim was there with them in the Penthouse who feels awkward and uncertain about what he should do, either sit on the couch or get out of the Penthouse to give them privacy for making out.


    Tim sighed inwardly and rolled his eyes. He took a seat in one of the ent chairs in the entryway.


    "Jeez." He better wait for the food to arrive.


    Since it waste noon when they arrived in the Penthouse, his boss asked him to call the neighboring building restaurants to prepare them a lunch.


    Not long, the doorbell rang. Tim sat up and opened the door. He took the food packs and thanked the two bodyguards, who picked up the food.


    He nced at the garden. He sighs with relief that the lovers are now done kissing. Instead, his boss was now on the phone conversing with someone.


    Tim ced the food packs on the table. Hailey noticed the food bags; she rushes to the kitchen.


    She told Tim, "Let me set the table!"


    Tim nodded and stepped aside. "What should I do, Miss Hailey?"


    "Ah..." Hailey averted her gaze to the side to think. "Oh! Why don''t you get the pineapple juice in the fridge and then transfer them to a ss."


    "Right! I''m on it, Miss Hailey." Tim walked toward the refrigerator, took out three cans of pineapple juice, and transferred the content into the sses.


    When they finished setting the table, it was also the time Vince spent talking on his cellphone.


    "Ah, finally! I''m starving," said Vince. He pulled a chair and offered it to Hailey.


    After having lunch, Tim made his goodbye. He still needs to go back to thepany to assist Fred Shen. "I''m leaving now, boss. I have to apany your father to a dinner meetingter."


    "Okay. I will call you if we need anything."


    Tim nodded. He held back not to grin. He is not dumb, not understand why his boss emphasizes his words, saying ''I WILL CALL YOU'' ¡ªit means he doesn''t want to be disturbed.


    Vincent sends Tim in the door. His reason is to lock it after Tim gets out.


    ''Finally.'' Vince muttered, his lips contorting a yful smile while he took off the sling arm.

 Chapter 99 - Flash Drive

    <h4>Chapter 99 - sh Drive</h4>


    In a couple of days, they stayed at West Bay Port; Hailey spoils Vince with kinds of seafood at lunch, then barbecues in the evening.


    Vince has never been happy being pampered this way, even though he grows up with luxury and good food, always on the table with the care of nannies and bodyguards to make sure he is healthy.


    But it felt different from being taken care of by the person he loves.


    One morning, Hailey wore boots paired with faded jeans, a in white t-shirt, and a ck jacket with a pink cap on her head.


    Vince had a puzzled expression on his face, staring at Hailey with this kind of get-up. His forehead curled in frustration.


    "Why do you have to go by yourself when I can ask the bodyguards or Tim to go to the fish market?"


    Hailey holds back, notughing out loud. Vince was too cute, pouting in front of her. He was like a kid who a mom told that he could not apany her and the ce she will go to is not suitable for kids.


    "I''ll be fine! I''m driving a different car so that no one can recognize or notice me. Besides, Tim was very busy." And she knew it. She need not guess about that.


    However, Vince grumbling inwardly. He frowned as he mused, ''No one can notice?''


    He looked at Hailey from the head down to her boots. She was 5 feet and nine inches tall. He is six foot and two inches; their height is not that short of a difference. And the jeans she wore only emphasize her curves, especially her buttocks.


    Who would not take five nces at her?


    She did not wear any makeup today, which makes her more attractive, and only painted her lips with lip gloss.


    Vince sighed in frustration. He disapproves, but he could not stop Hailey.


    "I''ll be right back!" Hailey ced a kiss on Vince''s left cheek, then rushed to the door.


    Honestly, she could not reveal to Vince that she has another objective to go out with herself this morning.


    Hailey drove an old Chevy truck toward the public market. There is no traffic around here but on the other side of the City Public Market. It''s because Vince requested the police to control the vehicles that would enter West Bay Port for the time being.


    It took only fifteen minutes, and she arrived at the ce. She parked her car and entered the market with a bit of vignce to her surroundings.


    But she didn''t know what Vince had thought before he left the penthouse. Like Vince suspected, everyone couldn''t help to nce in her direction, both men and women checking out her body.


    However, Hailey noticed these curious eyes looking at her, but she ignored them; instead, she hurried to buy all she needed for lunch.


    Hailey didn''t take long; she finished her shopping immediately. As usual, Mr. Bill helps her carry her shopping bags.


    "Thank you, Mr. Bill."


    "You are wee, Miss Hailey." Said the guy. He bowed and left after he ced the icebox at the back of the truck.


    Hailey is tapping her fingers on the steering wheel. She didn''t move out yet from the parking lot but studied her surroundings.


    Outside, people are in and out of the market. One vehicle arrives, but others leave after they finished shopping, giving another space to park for the next shoppers.


    "Hello, sir, ma''am! Tomorrow is the opening of our Car Shop, close to the market! Please visit us when you have free time today! We offer a free check-up for the first ten cars who will arrive at exactly eight o''clock in the morning, and we are also offering a car wash service! Free for the first thirty cars! We also offered aplete restoration of your car! Inner and outerplete cleaning!" Said of a man in histe thirties, giving flyers to everyone in the market.


    He continues bbing about his promotion. Later, he puts flyers on the car windshield. As the guy continued distributing the pamphlets, he reached where Hailey had parked. He knocks on Hailey''s driver''s window.


    "Hi, ma''am. You can drop by at our shop; we''re giving a free car wash tomorrow! You can show the flyer as a ticket, ma''am!"


    Hailey nodded. She also smiled at the guy. Seeing her nods, the guy ces a flyer on the windshield.


    When he was away, Hailey rolled down the window and reached for the flyer. Her eyes scanned the flyer in a sh and then flipped it to see the back.


    Hailey pulled out her phone from her sling bag and dialed someone''s contact.


    "Sandy, I received the evidence. I want your friend to understand my terms now that he meets me."


    "Don''t worry, Princess. Bruce knows the consequences if he exposes you. He is loyal to you. In fact, he is ready to throw his body to catch a bullet for you, Princess. And so, if you needed him, he is just a call away."


    ''Catch a bullet, huh?'' Hailey chuckled. Hmm... She had a new knight.


    "Alright, tell him to continue monitoring those involved in Mr. Shen''s car ident."


    "Aye, Princess. I will DM Bruce''s phone number in case you need him, or you have a new order for him."


    "Okay. Looks like a good idea." Anyway, it would be no different. Now that the secret agent she has been hiring this whole time she was in P Country finally met her, and so it''s no use keeping her identity from here on.


    Hailey took the small envelope that glued to the back of the flyer. She took out the sh drive and stared at it for a few seconds before she put it back in the envelope and ced it into her sling bag.


    Finally, the evidence was in her hands. It''s just a matter of time to hand it over to the right person.


    She turned on the engine and drove the car toward the exit gate of the parking area.


    Meanwhile, at the penthouse, after Hailey left. Vince immediately phoned Tim to inquire about the project he assigned to him.


    "What happened to the project I am assigning you?"


    "Boss, I''m sorry. I haven''t had time to check the IT department regarding the app you are requesting." Tim was sweating while exining. He could not reason out to his boss that his work became triple since the car ident, and he has no time to check the presentation.


    The IT team he picked out was only waiting for his approval before finalizing their presentation to the boss.


    Anyway, Vince understands Tim has taken care more of his meetings and projects, plus he also apanied his dad to meet their major clients for the progress of their projects. They are not just a Construction Firm or Architectural Firm. They are both, and they are also producing all the materials that are going to use for the building. It is what makes them an advantage over the other firm.


    They don''t need to cooperate with an outsidepany, but with his cousins''panies. They are all helping until the SHEN GROUP bes a giant corporation.


    After a brief pause, Vince ended the call. "Alright. It''s justing to my mind, so I wonder if it is finished. Anyway, bring over the documents I needed to sign after you get off work."


    "Copy, boss." Tim sighs with relief. He thought the boss would scold him. Well, it looks like this is still the effect of being in love. It made him a little surprised when suddenly his boss dered his affection to his fake mistress in front of his face.


    When his boss was muttering those sweet words in front of his parents and parents-inw, he still wanted to believe it was an act. But when he drove them into the West Bay penthouse and saw them kissing on the balcony, he confirmed that their rtionship was officially real because they need not act in his presence when he knew their secret agreement.

 Chapter 100 - HIS PRESENTATION TO THE BOSS

    <h4>Chapter 100 - HIS PRESENTATION TO THE BOSS</h4>


    Vince put down his phone. He sat up from the sofa and headed to the kitchen to get some drinks. The fridge has a different can of juices; he picks out an orange one.


    Having trouble opening the can, he uses his left arm, and surprisingly, it didn''t hurt anymore. But of course, he would tell no one about it, neither Hailey.


    Instead, a yful smile contorting his lips.


    Vince went back to the sofa and reviewed the presentation he prepared over these passing days.


    He was a little bored in the hospital, not going to thepany. On the contrary, it gives him more time to polish his presentation to Davies Group.


    He was still a little nervous. He is worried if it would impress his client with his presentation about the Tallest Skyscraper in the World.


    Being unsatisfied, Vince reviewed his presentation one more time and studied it if he mentions everything that would regard the tower''s safety.


    Not long after, Hailey came back with the shopping bags in her hands.


    Vince quickly sat up to meet her at the door and took the icebox in her other hand.


    "Thanks! Mmm..." She didn''t finish her sentence when Vince ced his lips on top of hers. It made her blush for a moment. Their kisses still flutter her heart.


    "What you got for lunch?" asked Vince while cing the icebox in the sink.


    "Squids! You like to grill it, or I fry them?"


    "Hmm... anything sounds tasty!"


    Vince watches Hailey preparing their lunch. There are times he insisted on helping her, so then Hailey made him the errand guy for her to get a pot, handed her the salt, or reached out for vinegar from the cupboards.


    Anything he did to be helpful, and he''ll be honest; he enjoyed it a lot.


    After Hailey made soup and a seaweed sd, they brought the food into the garden and set the electric grilled pan in the middle of the table to grilled the squids and mps.


    And since he could not have any alcohol, they settled on the sparkling wine. There is no alcohol in it, so he is allowed to drink.


    On top of a delicious lunch, Hailey could notice that there are times Vince fell into thoughts. It seemed like something was bothering him.


    "What is wrong? You seem distracted," she asked Vince.


    He stared at Hailey for a long moment. She is indeed sharp. She could easily notice he was worried about something.


    "I could not set aside thinking about my presentation."


    "Hm? Is that for the Davies Group project?"


    Vince nodded.


    Hailey smiled. It amused her to see the other side of Vince. In the passing months that she first lived with him, he mostly showed a poker face or avoided looking in her direction or, to say, he is only taking a secret glimpse of her.


    And then, sometimes, she feels he is avoiding her for some reason. But now, he is transparent in front of her that CEO Vincent Shen could also be nervous. Of course, he is just a human with anticipation.


    "I want to ask you this. Why are you a snob to me those first weeks that we live together?"


    Vince is a little surprised by her question. But then a silly smile ying on his lips.


    "What would you do if I suddenly pinned you to the wall and kisses you?" He asked Hailey.


    Her mouth dropped open. So he is only controlling himself not to do such a thing! But this made her love him more.


    Hailey pushes a yful smile as she replied Vince. "I surely thrust my knee between your thighs and p your right and left cheeks."


    "Wow. As what I imagined." Vince speaks under his breath. He and Haileyugh. "I truly feared for my buddy."


    Hailey could feel that her cheeks are burning from his honesty. Vince mentioning her manhood made her blushed. Suddenly, that night he was aroused lying next to her, shed in her mind.


    Hailey coughs to hide her embarrassment. She racks her head toe up with something to change the topic. But then Vince asks her this...


    "So, how about now?"


    "Huh?" Hailey was puzzled for a moment;ter, she understands what he means.


    "Is my buddy is safe now?"


    ''Why is he asking me this!?'' Hailey coughs one more time. "If you behave. I assure it safety."


    Vince isughing sexily; she could not hold back feeling marvel. He was so handsome,ughing like this. But at some point, he''s silly!


    Hailey reaches for Vince''s waist and pinches him. "I can''t believe you are this shameless!"


    Instead of responding, Vince kissed her.


    "You are cute, by the way." He said after he parted from her lips.


    Hailey put out her tongue. Vince''s smile never disappears now. She''s d that the tension he felt a while ago seems to disappear now.


    "Do you mind if I listen to your presentation? Wanna practice it with me?"


    Vince fell in thoughts for a moment. Hailey''s idea is actually great.


    After lunch, they move to the living room. Vince brings down the blinds in the whole penthouse to have a dimmer light while he presents.


    He took a deep breath before he began. He treats Hailey as his clients, so he wears his serious expression every time he delivers his presentation.


    But he could feel that there is a minor difference at this time. His face is brighter than usual. Of course, it made him happy to present in front of Hailey.


    Somehow, his nervousness subsided as his presentation went on. It took him over an hour before he ended it.


    At the moment, he waited anxiously if Hailey would praise him or what is her critics about the presentation he just delivered. On the other hand, it impresses him how attentive she was in listening to his almost two-hour boring presentation. He saw how eager she is to hear the details of the tower.


    As he patiently waited, Hailey finally parted her lips into a wide smile. She raises her pointed finger and gestures at him to lean over.


    Vince did it. He moves closer to Hailey and slightly leans on her. Now, as he was only a few inches away, Hailey reached for his lips and gave him a sweet kiss.


    After then, she parted from him and muttered, "I love it!"


    Vince sighed with relief. Exactly what he prayed to hear from her: as the first person he wanted to impress is none other than is her.


    "Can I give a few opinions?" Hailey asked Vince for permission afterward.


    "Sure! That''s what I needed. I''m d we did this!"


    Hailey''s eyes gleam. She was d too! The boys didn''t need to send her the video recorded for the presentation. Or she will watch the live video inside her office while Vince is presenting in the Conference Room.


    That is their first n. The boys will wait for her arrival; then, they will schedule Vince''s presentation for her to join the meeting.


    Then, after the presentation, they will have a meeting in her office to discuss it. And, of course, she will root for Vince and convince everyone that it was what exactly she wanted.


    Hailey suppressed the wicked smile contorting her lips. She doesn''t want Vince to notice it.


    "Okay, here it is. Overall, I love your ideas and even the design of the tower. But I''m thinking since the n is putting hotels, restaurants, and offices¡­ How about we put multiple Entrances? For example, it will be for the hotels and restaurants at the South Entrance, especially when the tourists visit the tower. And the north is for thepanies who will take office in the tower?"


    "Hmm¡­ Honestly, it also came to my mind. And I would like to bring it up during my presentation."


    "Great! You should do that!"


    Vince peered at Hailey earnestly. This time, he initiates the kiss. It was long and tender. "I love you, Hailey Hillson. You are wonderful."


    "Hmm¡­ am I?" she asked, still dazed from the fervor kiss they''ve shared. Suddenly, she felt like she got drunk from Vince''s kisses. Later, after she calmed down her chest, she asked Vince yfully. "How did I be wonderful in your eyes?"


    Vince brushed her cheek and answered, "It was because you made me happy."


    Tears are forming at the corner of her eyes. ''This guy has be a sweet talker!''


    But she wasn''t able to mutter a response when Vince kissed her again. It was long. As Vince deepened the kiss, she could feel his burning palm caressing her back.


    Soon after, she felt she was floating. ''Is Vince lifted me? But how? His left arm has sprained!''


    She was about to open her eyes when her back felt the soft cushion. Vince moved to the sofa bed.


    ''Wait!!! He could use his left shoulder without a problem!''


    It stunned Hailey when Vince moved on top of her and pressed his body against her. A warning shes at the back of her head but disappears as his kisses have be demanding. He thrust his tongue into her mouth and began searching for hers.


    Later, she realized Vince''s hand entered her blouse and traveled upward until it reached its aim destination.


    It''s her chest!

 Chapter 101 - Scratches On The Back Of His Neck

    <h4>Chapter 101 - Scratches On The Back Of His Neck</h4>


    A faint moan escaped from Hailey''s lips when Vince fondle her right chest with his left palm. His warm hand was creating a tickling sensation when it touched her skin.


    Vince left her lips; it was her opportunity to chased some air and breathe out. As she thinks she''s calming down, Vince''s mouth is moving down her neck, corbone, nts tiny kisses on her shoulders,


    Later, he got off from her, but then he pulled her up to sit upon the sofa. It made her confused, as she couldn''t think properly yet.


    She was in a trance; her eyesnded on Vince''s shoulder. Bewilder, she asked, "Your left shoulder... Is it?"


    Hailey was dumbfounded, staring at Vince while he is pulling the shirt above his head. He could use his arm without a problem!


    Soon, she confirmed further after Vince took off the bandages that wrapped around his shoulder.


    "You..." She wasn''t able to finish her words when Vince covered her mouth with his lips, holding her head with his right hand, pulled her closer to him.


    She could feel his other hand rubbing her back ¡ª up to her neck and down to her waist. She didn''t notice that Vince already unhooked her bra. She jolted after realizing he is caressing her skin so smoothly as his burning palm is massaging one of her breasts.


    ''He unhooked my bra already!?'' She screamed.


    She wanted to part from Vince, to confront him, but suddenly, he pulled up her t-shirt, took it off her body, and threw it on the floor.


    She gasped with anticipation. Hailey opens her mouth only to invade soon. She had no chance to utter any words; as Vince pushed her down to the sofa, putting his weight into her. With this, she could not move buty still underneath him.


    Their hands intertwine, pinning them beside her head while kissing her like no tomorrow.


    "Vince..." She sighed...


    He pulled his head away to looked at her lovingly. She could feel his arousal.


    As their eyes locked for the next moment, Vince exhibit the overwhelming love in his soul. His gape was full of tenderness; she could not feel any anger at him for being aggressive so suddenly.


    That is why the next time Vince lowered his head to kiss her again, she ced her arms around his neck and let him explore every inch of her body.


    She helps him push down her jeans from her waist down to her knee. Vince pulled her jeans and freed her legs. Then next, he got off the sofa.


    She watched him push down his pants and kick them off to the floor. She blushed upon gazing at the sight in front of her.


    Hailey bites her lower lip, averting her eyes to avoid drooling at the beautiful man in front of her.


    She need not look at Vince; she could already sensing his burning stares traveling throughout her entire body. But she knew that Vince only appreciates how beautiful she was.


    She closes her eyes; sighs and huffs areing out from her mouth as Vince caressing her entire body with his burning desire.


    There''s no turning back. She mused as she made up her mind.


    Vince''s mouth travels from her breasts down to her belly while his hand strokes the core between her thighs.


    "Hah..." A long sigh escapes from her mouth as Vince parted her legs wider, pushing them upward to have a better view of her soul.


    She''s embarrassed a bit, as it was the first time she let a man touch her and devour her.


    Her body shivered as fiery sensations building up inside her belly, and she''s not happy with it because her body is getting weird.


    It''s begging...


    "Vince..." She quickly bites her lip to prevent me from uttering a word she''s embarrassed to spill out.


    Hailey clenched her teeth as her body continued shuddering from the sensuality Vince made her feel.


    Vince raised his head. He knelt and positioned himself in front of her to satisfy the one who was begging him to grant its wish for a long time already.


    "I''m going in¡­" he whispered huskily.


    Vince''s breath tickled her ears, causing her to nod dazedly. She huffs upon feeling his hardness prating her insides. Vince made a gradual thrust, studying her body. And she needed something to hold on to.


    Noticing how her face twitched, Vince froze and didn''t dare to move. He asked worriedly, "Are you okay?"


    Hailey nodded. "I¡­ I am fine. I feel ufortable¡­" she stammered her words, and her cheeks turned scarlet as she could not say it. She added, to stop him from worrying, "I''ll be fine once I get used to your..."


    Vince understood what Hailey meant to tell him. He resumed moving on top of her. This time he''s even gentle; he couldn''t believe he still has control of his agonizing desire.


    He grabbed Hailey''s arms and brought them to his shoulder for her to hold on to him. Her breath is getting rougher as she keeps whimpering with delight. It was then the sign that he can speeds up his pace.


    Hailey, who was feeling ufortable not too long ago, is now reced with excitement. Not only that, but she could also feel Vince tightening inside her as he thrusts deeper into her.


    She guessed Vince had built up for his release. She could hear him faintly growling and puffing heavily.


    Later, as the pleasure growing inside them both, she wrapped her legs around Vince''s waist and met his thrusts.


    In what she did, Vince was only aroused more. He lowered his hip and continued mming his lower body into her until they both reached the peak of their sensuality.


    Vince rested his head on Hailey''s chest. He remained inside her, not nning to pull out yet.


    But Vince remembered something.


    He got up and grabbed Hailey by the arm, brought her on hisp to crouch on his legs. She opened her eyes and stared at him.


    He brushes his mouth into hers as he uttered, "I asked Tim toe after work hours."


    Hailey widened her eyes and parted from Vince. She looked around. Their clothes were scattered on the floor, and they just made a mess on the sofa bed!


    "We have to clean," she told Vince.


    "Let me handle it," Vince answered.


    Hailey was confused. But she can''t insist. At the moment, she was still in a trance from the activity they just did.


    "Let''s go upstairs to get a shower," said Vince.


    Hailey nodded.


    "What are you doing?" She asked Vince when he lifts her and carried her by his arms. It worries her that he is already using his left shoulder a lot.


    "Don''t worry. I don''t feel any pain anymore." Vince assures her.


    "Are you sure?" However, she has doubts somehow. But Vince was only smiling at her. He nodded and then kissed her.


    "I know my body¡­" he said, paused for a moment to whisper in her ears. "And it wants you again."


    Upon whispering this to her ear, Hailey blushed at how naughty and shameless Vince had be. No. Vince has just been honest with his longings ever since he confesses to her.


    By then, she could not insist anymore that Vince would put her down, and she will walk on her own, even though she still feels ufortable between her thighs.


    Upstairs, Hailey creased her forehead when Vince ced her on the bed instead of taking her to the bathroom.


    "Aren''t we taking a bath?"


    "Later¡­" Vince answered.


    Hailey blinks her eyes. "Huh? But Tim wouldn''t be here soon?"


    "Let him wait outside the door," said Vince.


    Hailey was rendered speechless. It dumbfounded her how Vince is giving an excuse like this. ''Is he tricking me again? Is he just using it as an excuse to move in the bed? We cane to the bedroom without hisme excuse!''


    Hailey could only grumble inwardly as Vince started pushing his throbbing hardness inside her.


    *


    Later on, someone indeed presses the doorbell. Outside, Tim only dared to ring twice and waited patiently in front of the door.


    He nced impatiently at his wristwatch when ten minutes had already passed, and no one answered the door yet.


    Tim turned around and looked at the bodyguards sitting in the lobby near the elevator. It seems no suspicion happens like the boss left the penthouse.


    He grew impatient, but he has no right to feel so. His job is to hand in the documents and delivered his reports.


    ''But why could he not instruct me to leave them outside the door so that I could go home now!''


    Tim continues grumbling inwardly until the door opens after another five more minutes. Instantly, he parted his lips into an awkward smile.


    ''Hm¡­ He''s in the shower, but why Miss Hailey didn''t open the door instead? Unless¡­'' Tim cut the crazy thoughts that began ying in his head. He must avoid having this kind of thought in front of his voice as he could easily read his mind.


    "Come in." Vince''s invitation. His tone is casual but not warm in it.


    Tim followed his boss inside. It allowed him to scan his boss get up. He is only wearing loose pants and a bathrobe around his body. His hair is still dripping with water. But he could not have a sight of Hailey.


    ''Maybe she left for shopping or something. But it was dark outside, and it''s not safe. Might they see her being out alone?'' Tim mused, then stopped overthinking.


    Vincent sat on a couch, crossing his legs while waiting for Tim to hand in the documents.


    "Is everything alright in thepany?"


    "Yes, boss. Nothing to worry about now that your dad is filling your absence. Mr. Old Shen still has the charism to handle business with his cunningest."


    Vince raises a brow. Tim''s statement has a hidden message. And soon, he will find it out. Vince thought inwardly.


    "Alright. Anyway, make sure our documents for Australia are ready and no travel problem. Have you packed already?"


    Time replied, "Not yet, boss. I nned to do it tonight."


    "Okay. Then leave now."


    "Huh?"


    Vince raised his gaze when his assistant remained standing across from him. "You can go home now and pack all you need to bring to Australia."


    "Ah! Okay, boss! Good night!" Tim partly bowed. He promised not to overthink, but he could not help to nce upstairs. There is a faint sound of musicing from the master''s bedroom. No shadows of Hailey and his boss want him to leave as soon as possible.


    But Tim remembered something. He turned around to give his report but then changed his mind after he saw some interesting evidence.


    If he isn''t mistaken, the red lines in his boss'' nape are scratched, and they look fresh!

 Chapter 102 - Little Did He Know

    <h4>Chapter 102 - Little Did He Know</h4>


    Vincent noticed Tim didn''t leave yet. He nced over his shoulder and asked, "What''s wrong? Did you forget something to report?"


    "Ah. Nothing boss! I''m leaving now!" Afraid to be caught, Tim hurried to say his goodbye.


    Vince nodded. Then ignored his assistant. When Tim was out of sight, he reached his neck and rubbed it. A smile tore his lips upon remembering the intense activity that just finished a while ago.


    He nced at the wall clock. The food would be here soon, and Hailey was in the bathroom to clean herself.


    While waiting for the food, Vince set up the table, cing tes and tableware.


    They had wine for lunch; tonight, he had the mood to open a bottle of champagne. Vince headed to the wine cab and took a bottle of fine champagne.


    Not long, the bodyguards that picked up the food arrived. Vince ordered them to ce the food on the countertop of the kitchen. Once the bodyguards left, he took out the food from the bags and transferred them to a tter.


    Hailey is hiding upstairs to watch Vince. It amuses her to see Vince being romantic. He was so engrossed in what he is doing. Her eyes gleam with delight, seeing another side of Vince.


    The way he set up the table couldpare to a candlelight dinner in a five-star restaurant. She giggles when Vince takes three stems of pink roses from the flower vase in the entryway and ces them in a small transparent vase. Then, he puts the vase in the middle of the table.


    Next, he raided his storage room, and when he got out, he carried three scented candles and a lighter.


    Hailey couldn''t help falling in love with this guy over again. The emotion that fills her chest overwhelms her soul. Vince endlessly impresses her, that even in front of his parents and parents-inw, he boldly shows his affection.


    She went back to the bedroom and grabbed a ck long sleeve shirt for Vince. She made a slow step upon descending the stairs.


    He heard faint steps; he looked up at the stairs. His lips immediately parted into a smile, including his eyes. "Let''s eat! I ordered some steak, Carbonara pasta, macaroni chicken sd, and strawberry cake."


    "Hm. Looks tasty!" Her eyes swept to the table. The food that was prepared is indeed the dishes from top-tier restaurants.


    However, even though having this delicious food, Vince still prefers something. He whispered, "Honestly, I still prefer your cooking."


    Vince ced his arms around Hailey''s waist and lowered his head. Hailey immediately opens her mouth and responds to Vince''s kisses. And before they would lose to their own paradise once again, they parted their lips to start having dinner.


    Hailey handed Vince the shirt she brought with her. Vince was wearing no shirt underneath his bathrobe, and the air conditioner in this penthouse was at low temperature. "Here, wear this. You might have caught a cold."


    Vince''s eyes flickered from Hailey''s statement. A silly thought shes in his mind, and it reflects in his eyes. Hailey caught that glint in his eyes. She casts Vince a suspicious stare. But of course, Vince would not share his naughty thoughts at the moment.


    ''We''ve been naked inside a cold room for hours!'' But Vince chose not to utter it, not to embarrass Hailey.


    Dinner is pleasant. Hailey realized she was too hungry. She blushed when a thought passed through her head of what it caused her hunger. She nces at Vince, whose eyes twinkling, staring at her lovingly.


    "I''m d you like the food." Said Vince with delight.


    "It was delicious. Your chefs are good." She answered with honesty. However, she could not tell Vince the truth about why she was eating a lot tonight. ''It''s your fault I''m this hungry!''


    Vince does not know what she was thinking throughout their dinner. It engrossed him in putting food on her te or slicing her steak into thin strips. She thanked him.


    Hailey realized that Vince has be even more thoughtful and sweet than he is already in the past. Since their rtionship turned real after he confessed to her, he hid no secret anymore about his feelings for her but showed affection in any way, like while eating.


    In the past, he is careful not to show his true feelings. He was concealing his love for her. And so he keeps a distance most of the time.


    After a lovely dinner, Vince and Hailey watched the full moon inside their bedroom while drinking champagne. Vince is leaning on the chaise while Hailey rested her head on his broad chest.


    Vince is stroking her arm with his slender fingers that tickle her skin, sending a warm sensation throughout her body. She ignored the feeling that was gradually building up inside her. She looks up and pokes Vince in the nose.


    "Now that you confessed to me. Why do youe up with such terms and conditions in our contract?"


    Hailey''s voice is soft and sweet, blends with a bit of tease. Vince smiled. He already prepared a few exnations, but he was still nervous if he could deliver them properly. He hoped for Hailey to believe in him.


    Vince tucked in the few strands behind her ears that covered her face. He clicked his tongue before he answered Hailey. "I''m afraid at first that you''ll be angry at me."


    "Huh? You thought I would beat you up?" Hailey teases Vince. She''s grinning, which her eyes are full of silliness.


    Vinceughed, finding her this cute. He sped Hailey''s right cheek and brushed her lips with his before he went on. "I''m confused at that time. I want to give you the assurance that I will do nothing to you, so I said I am not interested in being in a rtionship after my divorce or such excuses, and you heard them already."


    Hailey raises a brow while listening to Vince. But emotion began flooding her head as she recalled how everything began.


    "The truth is, all I wanted to do is wrap you inside my arms and kiss you every time I see you. I''m afraid that I could not control my emotions, and everything will ruin because I could not suppress the longing I am having for you. I don''t want to scare you, but to trust me. I know you hate guys who have no respect for women. And so I have to be very careful and putting terms are my ways that you will feel at ease around me."


    Hailey remained to stare at Vince. She raised her hand to reach for his face. She already thought he was an amazing man. But he is still unpredictable of how much thoughtfulness he hides inside his body. He is truly a gentleman, except for some part. And yes, she just discovered that today!


    Hailey gently tilted her head to set aside the scene that was shing in her head. It only made her cheeks pink.


    She gaped at Vince earnestly. She didn''t know that Vince had already had feelings for her before they signed a contract. And she signed it because she thought he would get his divorce the next month or two.


    Little did she know, Vince is purposely dying his divorce so that she stays by his side. But as months passed, he could not conceal his feelings anymore.


    He wanted to court Hailey and propose to her why he suddenly hurried the divorce, but then Eva began hiding from him and making thingsplicated for him. He had less time to search for Eva to sign the divorce papers personally.


    In his life, there are only two reasons he is chasing someone. First, he only chases a person to work on a project.


    Second, he chases someone to propose to marry him even if it is a contract so that he would not marry another woman whom he doesn''t love. Sadly, he didn''t find her but onlyter years after he was married.


    And then, now is THIRD; he needs to chase another person, and that''s because he wants a divorce.


    At present, he was in this cycle.


    First, he persuaded Eva to get a divorce.


    Second, he wants to persuade Hailey to stay by his side until he is free to marry her.


    And third, while he is pursuing ONE and TWO, he wanted to pursue his Dream Life Project and Davies Group could grant that.


    This is what was ying inside Vince''s mind. Little did he know. He is pursuing the same goal and the same person¡­


    And that is Hailey.

 Chapter 103 - Makes Her Happy

    <h4>Chapter 103 - Makes Her Happy</h4>


    The following day, warm lips woke me up, cing tiny kisses around my cheeks and forehead.


    I moved my head to the left, but I bumped into a muscr chest. I rubbed my cheek against it and buried my nose to inhale his pleasant scent.


    The owner of this warm body chuckled, amused at what I did. And hisugh tickles my ears. It was sexy.


    What I did; instead of opening my eyes, I threw my arms around his waist and buried my entire face into his. Soon, I felt his fingersbing my hair while uttering in a husky voice.


    "Did I wake you up?"


    I shook my head against his chest. I replied, "No. We need to go to the hospital. Doctor Jing will be waiting."


    Vince groaned. But I know why he has this refusal in his voice. Last night, we were supposed to go to the hospital for his follow-up check. Doctor Jing wanted to run the previous x-ray to heal his left shoulder from a sprain fully.


    But because of what happened to us yesterday, Vince rescheduled the check-up this morning. However, Vince is actingzy again.


    "President Shen, we have to move. You have a meeting after your check-up." I reminded him, who didn''t move next to me. Instead, Vince tightens his hold on me.


    He is such a baby! I should have known. But I know he is only thinking of me why he postponed his check-upst night. He''s worried about me, and I admit, I feelzy to get off from the bed. And so, I have to convince Vince today.


    I parted from him to get up. However, he didn''t let me go. Instead, he moves above me and presses his body against me. I scream for his sudden action.


    But then I feel his arousal poking into my thighs. I froze. Now that Vince is on top of me, he is tracing my nose. His thumb brushed my lips as he sped my face with his left palm.


    Vince lowered his head. Gently, he brushes his lips with mine. It was gentle at first, but Vince deepened his kiss until it became demanding.


    He pushes his tongue inside my mouth and dances with mine. I imitated the way he kisses me. I responded eagerly to how passionately he devours my mouth.


    When I felt his palms above my chest and began massaging them, a pleasurable sigh escaped my mouth.


    Vince''s thumb is taunting both of my nipples. He gripped the fullness of my breast, caressing them before he moved his hands down to my t belly.


    Later, his two hands stroked my thighs. I could feel they were burning as my skin left aching with delight.


    I gasp for air the moment Vince left my lips. Now his mouth is moving down my neck, his tongue tracing my corbone until it found my two erect nipples. His teeth bite my are and tease them while his fingers are preparing me for his entryter.


    I moaned, sighing with satisfaction. Vince lowered his head and remained to bend between my thighs for the time being.


    I could not control my body, to shudder from the pleasure he is making me experience at the moment. I arched my back as I whimper. My body began acting weirder; it was craving for more, and the way I cry, Vince understood. I am ready.


    He got up and knelt between my thighs. He grabbed my right leg and tucked it around his waist while my left leg; he ced on his right shoulder.


    I was embarrassed at first. Butter, I care less about what kind of position we have. My hands are holding tightly on the sheets as I focus on how Vince intensely pounds my insides.


    Now, something builds up inside my belly. My body is preparing to reach the climax. I keep moaning and groaning, the deeper Vince shoving his hardness inside me.


    Later, he pushes my left leg to my right. He moves to change his position. He lies next to me. When he settled down, he held my left leg upright, parting my thighs wider. He then made gradual thrusts inside me once again.


    Vince, lying behind me, I could feel his hot breath on my neck. He was puffing heavily and growled asionally. It looks like he also begins building up for a release.


    His pace is steady at first. Now, he is mming his lower body rapidly as he could, not stopping until we reach the peak of our carnality.


    I thought it would end after our release. But Vince pushed my shoulder, and I was kneeling on the bed with my elbows. I bit my lip when Vince started mming his hips behind me.


    I close my eyes, heaving a long sigh. Again, we have to dy his morning check-up and push itter at noon; it includes his meeting to move toter...


    Ah. This guy is so ck off!


    But it was contrary to the activity they were doing at the moment. Vince is eager and tireless.


    *


    In the heat of thete morning, two ck SUVs were speeding toward Metro City Institute of Medicine Medical Center.


    To not get much attention, Vince chooses to ride the SUVs, which were escorted by bodyguards, who drove the car and one seated on the front seat.


    Hailey isfortably resting her head on Vince''s right shoulder while his left-hand holds a document and reads to study it.


    He nced at Hailey, who remained closed her eyes. He ces a kiss on her forehead and then asks. "Where do you like to have lunch after my check-up?"


    Hailey groaned. She replied eyes remained closed. "Let''s just have lunch in your office."


    Vince has been dying his work. They have to hurry to do his check-up then head to thepany after.


    Then, he needs to prepare for his trip to Australia, and she has to pack his clothes.


    "Okay. I will instruct Tim to buy us lunch," said Vince. He pulled out his phone from his coat pocket and then dialed Tim''s cell phone number to give his instructions.


    Later at the hospital, Vince''s x-ray went well, as no broken bones or anything. But Hailey''s face turned crimson because the doctor keeps casting meaningful stares at them. It was like Doctor Jing saying, ''Damn. Can''t you wait until I say you''re cleared to do an intense activity?''


    Doctor Jing saw the scratches on Vince''s back. He didn''t say a word about it, but he stares, saying it out loud, not mentioning how many times they rescheduled Vince''s follow-up check-up.


    When everything has nothing to worry about anymore as Vince has no other injuries, it only takes the check-up for half an hour, including a bit of advice and instructions if Vince feels a headache or anything in the following days. It''s just that even Doctor Jing could not believe that Vincent has no severe injuries or internal bleeding from the ident.


    *


    Now that they are done with the check-up, Vince and Hailey are headed to the secret corridor where no one can notice himing into the hospital.


    Once the bodyguards make sure that no one is around, Vince leads Hailey toward the car. They hastily got inside, and the vehicle trotted once it exited the hospital gate.


    At the moment, Hailey buried her face into her two palms while Vince could not suppress fromughing.


    Hailey lifted her head. She extends her arm to pinch Vince. But the guy only giggled. She frowned. He looked amused at how she was blushing.


    Of course, it embarrassed her that Doctor Jing was giving them that using look. Although they have been doing this kind of activity for everyone''s eyes, no one knows if they really did it until yesterday, and it left evidence in Vince''s back.


    "You''re so cute when embarrassed," Vince said.


    "Heh. And who''s that guy who thinks I got a fever because my cheeks are blushing?"


    Vince widened his eyes. He blushed for a moment before he burst outughing. "So, you''re taking revenge, huh? Now you''re teasing me."


    Hailey put out her tongue. She giggled. Butter, she screamed when Vince lifted her from the seat and put her on hisp. Thankfully, the SUV was personalized-made; it has a window partition. They have some privacy. Even if the bodyguards heard themughing and screaming, they wouldn''t see what was really happening in the back of the car.


    Vince peered at Hailey. When ites to her, he was tooplex if his judgment was correct. But as he was never in a rtionship and his experience in caring for a woman is only with his sisters, mostly he is a failure to read her expressions.


    But now, his priority is to please her to make sure she is happy and to know her moods so then he could tell if something troubled her.


    "I love you, Hailey Hillson," Vince whispered before he covered Hailey''s enticing lips with his.

 Chapter 104 - Her Secret Bodyguard

    <h4>Chapter 104 - Her Secret Bodyguard</h4>


    Hailey was at Vince''s bedroom to check his luggage if he brought enough clothes for Australia.


    Vince will be there for a week or two. After determining his projects, he ns to visit P Country to organize the team he needed to start working on his projects.


    Hailey watches Vince''s two luggage. She wonders what she forgets to pack.


    "Hey, what''s the matter?" asked Vince. He found Hailey in deep thoughts in front of his bed. His arms instantly wrapped around her waist the moment he approached her.


    Hailey ced her palms on top of Vince''s hands; she looked up at him and replied, "I was just wondering what else you needed. It was hotter in Australia. You need more casual shirts. So, don''t forget to change clothes before your sweat dries on your body."


    Vince smiled. He was touched by how Hailey showed concern for him. He lowered his head and brushed her lips with his. He mumbled, "How if youe with me?"


    Hailey blinked. She pushed her lips into an awkward smile. She answered, "In the future¡­"


    She didn''t finish her words but deepened the kiss. Vince scooped her and brought her to the bed. "Hey, you have a flight to catch soon," she reminded Vince.


    "I have a few more hours." His reply while his tongue licks her earlobe.


    Hailey sighed and closed her eyes. ''This guy!''


    *


    Tim picked up his boss at exactly midnight. He took the two luggage and headed to the elevator, leaving his boss behind, who was still saying goodbye to his girlfriend.


    "Please, be careful, okay? If anything happens, please call Carl or Lloyd."


    Hailey lifted her chin to reach Vince''s lips and ce a smacking kiss.


    "I will be fine. The ind is private, so no other guests are around," she assures him.


    dly, that before the ident, she didn''t mention yet to Vince about Kelly and Pitt''s visits. They should have arrivedst Friday evening. If ever, their original n would be a mess. Just yesterday, she able to open up about her friend''s one-week vacation in Palm Ind at P Country''s West Sea.


    Vince showed interest in meeting them, but his meetings with Davies Group executives were more important. He said, "Hoping I can meet them one day."


    "Sure! You will be..."


    Vince knew that Kelly and Pitt were from Australia, so she had to be very careful.


    Hailey looked at Vince. There is no sign of him to leave, and so she reminded him again. "Your ne is waiting."


    Vince groaned. "I''ll be missing you."


    "Same here¡­" she said with her whole heart. Things weren''t the same anymore. They are used to sleeping in the same bed and waking up in each other''s arms the following day.


    After one more kiss, Vince forced his legs to move. He has been feeling how it was heavy in the heart every time he steps out from that door to take care of his out-of-town or out of the country business trips.


    But this time, it was the heaviest partings, as he could feel that his heart was left behind again.


    *


    Now that Vince left. Hailey rushed to her room to pack a few things she needed for the ind. Although she need not bring many clothes, it will be suspicious if she brings no suitcase with her.


    She picked up her ne ticket to C Province, where a small Jet will be waiting for her and bring her to Palm Ind.


    After a few hours since Vince take off, Hailey was already in the airport waiting for her flight. A cup oftte in her hand, she pulled out her phone when it didn''t stop chiming.


    "Hey, Hazel¡­ what''s up!"


    ["Hail, we''ve missed you already! When will you be attending sses again?"]


    "I will be next week. Let''s catch up and hang out in your house. How about that?"


    ["Really?"]


    "Yup! So, see you guys next week!"


    ["Okay! And let''s go shopping again! My birthday is soon. Don''t forget that, hm?"]


    "Ah, thanks for reminding me! It disappeared in my mind after what happened to Vince."


    ["Don''t worry. I understood. See, yah!"]


    Hailey had a long sigh after the call. She''s d that Hazel, Nadia, and Liza asked little about Vince''s ident. It was the reason she liked these girls. They know which and what things they have to be nosy about her being Vince''s girlfriend.


    And one thing that surprised her, they didn''t think wrong at her after the issues began.


    "All passengers that bound C City, please fall in line here," said a flight attendant.


    Hailey followed the crowd and fall in line. Then she saw a familiar face. The guy is wearing a ck cap. He nods at her before he walks away.


    Hailey took out her phone and dialed a particr number. The guy quickly answered her call with just its first ring.


    "What''s the matter, Bruce? Do you have a mission here?"


    ["Yes, ma''am. It was you."]


    "What? Why? Is Sandy asks you?"


    ["No, ma''am. Shen''s is hiring someone to follow you around and make sure that no one can harm you while President Vincent Shen is out of the country."]


    "Wait, Vincent hired you?"


    ["Well¡­ It''s Mr. Fred Shen who approached our agency. He is looking for a trusted agent to follow around. It was his son''s request."]


    "I see. So are you the one who was assigned then?"


    ["No, ma''am. But I squeezed in."]


    Hailey pursed her lips into a wicked smile. "Great job."


    ["Thank you, ma''am."]


    "So, whom will you report to?"


    ["President Vincent Shen called me earlier to report directly to him. But Mr. Fred Shen also wanted me to report to him."]


    "I see." And she understands why. "Okay. So, what are you going to tell them?"


    ["If what you wanted me to tell them, ma''am."]


    Hearing this, her smile widened. It satisfied her with how intelligent Bruce is.


    "I think we will be great friends, Bruce."


    ["It''s my honor, ma''am."]


    "So, from now on, you can stop calling me, ma''am. My knights are calling me Princess."


    ["Do you mean¡­ I¡­"] Bruce stammers his words. He had heard enough information about Hailey Hillson through Sandy. And being permitted to call her Princess is like kneeling one foot in front of her and receiving the title as her knight. ["I''ll work harder¡­ erm, Princess."]


    "d to hear! Anyway, I''m on the ne now."


    ["I''ll be there in a minute, Princess."]


    Hailey hung up on the call. Not long, she saw Bruce enter the door and make his way toward her. Bruce had a friendly smile across his face, greeting the flight attendant and the other passengers.


    Bruce sat behind her seat. Hailey wanted to let out augh. She realized Vince had arranged this on purpose that the agent could monitor her easily.


    Luckily, her agent was working in the agency where Shen hired her secret bodyguard. And indeed lucky that her agent was brilliant. Bruce is worthy of being her New Knight.


    Hailey was preparing to take a nap when her phone rings.


    "Pitt?"


    ["We have just taken off, Princess."]


    "Great! How was Kelly?" she asked. Pitt didn''t reply right away but hurled a long sigh. She could sense that these two had just fought. "Did you two fight again?"


    ["You can''t expect me to be patient with her! Ouch!"]


    Hailey suppressed, notughing. She need not guess, Kelly, kicked Pitt.


    ["Your heel could kill me!"] It is what Hailey heard from the background. Pitt then spoke on the phone. ["Princess, let''s talk when we arrived. This will not work! Take her when you go back to Australia!"]


    Hailey shook her head. "Alright. Let''s talkter. See you guys!"


    After the call, Hailey types on her phone. Next, Bruce''s phone chimed for a new message that arrived.


    ''Would you report this to Shen? If whoever I talk to on the phone?''


    [''Since they told me that you are meeting your friends'' names'' Pitt and Kelly. I don''t have to report it to them.'']


    ''I see¡­ Let me know if Shen asks you for something or anything rted to me.''


    [''Copy, Princess.'']


    Hailey put away her phone and closed her eyes. She contemtes¡­ In a few hours, Vince will meet her other Knights.

 Chapter 105 - Wants Vinces Baby

    <h4>Chapter 105 - Wants Vince''s Baby</h4>


    After a few hours of flight, their nended at C City Domestic Airport. Hailey got up and took her small luggage from the nepartment. She then followed the other passengers, exiting from the ne.


    Hailey was about to step out when one of the flight attendants approached her.


    "Excuse me, ma''am? Are you Miss Hailey Hillson?"


    Creasing her forehead, Haley replied. "Yes, I am."


    "Someone is here to escort you for your flight toward Palm Ind, Miss Hillson." said the male flight attendant.


    "I see. Great!"


    "This way, Miss¡­" the male flight attendant took her luggage and led the way.


    Hailey followed him. She casually nced at Bruce, who stood behind, silently observing her.


    "Miss Hailey Hillson, your jet is waiting now. Please, this way..."


    Hailey silently followed the guy to a cart. She knows that the other passengers were looking in her direction, curious why she was treated special among them.


    "Who''s she? Why they treated her well. Is she some big shot?"


    "Shush! She is President Vincent Shen''s girlfriend!"


    "Really? Is that her? Wow! She''s pretty!"


    "I know. The high society singledies hate her so much."


    "Ah, I get what you are saying."


    Hailey heard the talk, her eyebrow rose, and she held herself not to snort. These people think everything is because of the Shen. But she has her influence to receive this kind of privilege.


    The women were now close to the door; Hailey stepped inside the car that had been waiting for her arrival.


    "Good morning, Miss Hailey. Miss Daisy is waiting." Greeted by the man in front of the steering wheel.


    "Mr. Bart! I''m d to see you. So, what is this picking up just right the moment my nended?"


    "It was arranged by Congressman Vazquez, Miss."


    "I see. Thank him for me, Mr. Bart," said Hailey.


    "I will, Miss Hailey." Mr. Bart drove the car, and minutester, they arrived at the hangar where a private jet was waiting for her. "Have an enjoyable flight, Miss."


    Hailey nodded and thanked the middle-aged -man. She climbed the stairs and sat on the long couch. The ne is immediately taking off once she settles in.


    They are now leaving C City Airport, and the vastness of the ocean weed them. She looked outside the window and took a photo of the view below.


    After that, she sent the photo to someone with a caption, "Wishing you were here."


    The person replied, "I wished I was there."


    Hailey smiled. She could not believe that it''s just these five words from Vince; her heart skipped a beat. No doubt. She is madly in love with him.


    Throughout the flight, she and Vince exchange messages.


    The flight took only a half-hour, and theynded on a private ind. A car is waiting that brought her to the main vi of this resort.


    "Hailey!" A pregnant woman is waving at her at the top of the patio. She was beautiful in a blue maternity dress. Her long hair was tied in a bun and a headband on her forehead. "Ah, I missed you, girl!"


    "Daisy, hi! I missed you too!" The two of them hugged each other. Then Hailey parted and stared at Daisy''s bump. "Wow! Is your due already?"


    "Yes! Time so fast! I couldn''t believe it either!" Daisy answered.


    Hailey can see how blooming Daisy was. It looks like she was happy to be a mom soon.


    Daisy brought her to a courtyard near the blue sea where breakfast is waiting for them.


    Hailey couldn''t contain peering down at the table filled with different delicacies. Rice cake, pancakes, there is also a mango cake, grilled fish, and many fruits and vegetable sds. "Wow. Everything looks delicious!"


    "Dig in!" said Daisy, who pulled a chair and took a seat. She craves these foods, the reason she asks their chefs to prepare this much.


    Hailey and Daisy are merrily chatting over breakfast. They recalled the day they met.


    Daisy Vasquez Cole studied filming in Paris a few years back. Her father is the C Province''s Representative, Congressman Mark Vasquez.


    But Hailey''s friend is Keith Cole. Daisy got jealous with the thought that Hailey is Keith''s girlfriend, but Keith is Geoffrey''s ssmate at Oxford University because Hailey knew Keith and became one of her knights.


    To make the story short, Daisy''s jealousy made Keith realize she likes him. And since they were childhood friends, Keith also had a crush on her for a long time. Once they cleared out the misunderstanding, a beautiful love story began.


    And then Hailey and Daisy be good friends and remain in touch.


    "You look so pretty being a preggy." Hailey praises Daisy, who immediately smiled enormously.


    "Thanks! Well, Keith does spoil me! And I can''t wait to meet this guy." Daisy lowered her gaze to her baby bump and gently caressed her belly.


    Hailey could see how Daisy''s eyes twinkled the way she peered at her belly. Now she couldn''t help to imagine herself being pregnant as well.


    ''Wait, what?'' Is she dreaming now to have a child? But it looks like a wonderful feeling to be a mom.


    She couldn''t understand, but it excites her. Deep down in her heart, a desire began blooming within her. She wishes to get pregnant too.


    And recalling the nights she and Vince make love, her heart fluttered with delight.


    Hailey fell into thoughts. She began realizing that she was bing greedy. Now she also wanted Vince''s baby.


    With this thought, Hailey''s cheeks were blushing pink, and Daisy noticed it.


    "What''s wrong, Hail?"


    "Hm?"


    "Your cheeks are red," said Daisy.


    "Oh! It must be the weather. P Country is officially summering soon, right?" she hides her blushing pink with the mug in her hand. She holds it with both hands, leisurely sipping on her coffee.


    "Ah, yes. It will be. Keith was too busy preparing for the peak season. He renovated and added more vis in the resorts on the neighboring ind."


    "I see. He would be hereter?"


    "Yes. Keith will be home before dinner time. He wanted us to have dinner together, so he came home on time."


    "Oh, wow. That was sweet of Keith." Hailey pursed her lips into a sweet smile. She was happy for her friends. And she can''t be jealous because Vince is the same too. They are having meals together even if that time, they were on the act.


    "So, how was Vince''s divorce?"


    Hailey smiled awkwardly at Daisy. But Daisy knew her story. "Eva is hiding from Vince."


    "Dammit! That girl is sick! But why didn''t Vincent eagerly search for her?"


    "What I know, Vincent trying so¡­ but he is now working for me. I want him to focus on the project," she exined.


    "Not! They must divorce as soon as possible! Eva is never good for Vincent."


    "Hey, rx. Remember, you are pregnant," she reminds Daisy.


    Daisy and Eva were High School ssmates back in Metro City. She knew Eva very well and the rest of the family Lan like Zenaida.


    "I''m pleased when you face-pped, Zenaida!" Daisyughs, to which Hailey giggled.


    Meanwhile, somewhere in Australia¡­ Vince''s private ne had justnded.

 Chapter 106 - She Is Pregnant

    <h4>Chapter 106 - She Is Pregnant</h4>


    DREAM CITY, AUSTRALIA


    Vincent traveled his gaze throughout the DC International Airport, which is not open to the public yet, but exclusive to everyone who works for Dream City.


    Vince puts on ck sunsses and fixes his coat before he descends from the ne. His eyes fixed on the car that is waiting for them.


    It was not just an ordinary car, but a sports car.


    "Wee to Dream City, Mr. Shen!" Greeted by a man in a blue suit. Next, he introduces himself. "James White at your service!"


    "Pleased to meet you, Mr. White." Vince extended his arm and did a handshake with James.


    "James, you don''t need to be so formal since we are going to work together," said James. He gives Vincent a friendly smile.


    "Ah, then call me Vincent. And this is my assistant, Timothy Cheng."


    James and Tim shake hands. After then, James gestures at them to ride the car.


    "Let''s go. I will escort you toward Davies Group to meet everyone. Someone will bring your luggage to the Apartment you are all going to stay here in Dream City."


    "I see. Thank you."


    "Nah. Don''t mention it. Each of us is also living around here, but sometimes we are going home to our houses. So we are neighbors. If anything you need, you can call the HR or directly to us."


    "Ahem! Do you mean, even to your boss?" asked Tim. Now he could feel his boss'' burning re at him. He turned his head sideways and smiled awkwardly at Vincent.


    "Well, except for our boss!" said James.


    It didn''t take long, and they arrived at Davies Group, D.C. Headquarters. James led to the door. He waves at the men talking in the lobby.


    Vincent carefully scanned the four men in a tailored suit. They were all tall, and if a girl asked, she would say, handsome men.


    It''s just that the boss of thispany is a woman. He didn''t expect that her executives are all handsome men, not to mention James White himself.


    "Boss, are we having a fashion show?" Tim whispered to him.


    Vincent held not to let augh, as that would be awkward if he did that. But he didn''t expect that Tim would have this realization as well.


    "Shut up, Tim." he scolded his assistant. This nosy guy is often noisy. Vincent thought.


    "Everyone, this is Vincent Shen from SHEN GROUP." James introduces Vince.


    "Wee to Dream City, Mr. Shen! Trevor Johansson from the Finance Department." (Trevor''s mom dreaming for Hailey to be her daughter-inw.)


    "Pleased to meet you, Mr. Johansson," said Vince, shaking hands with Trevor.


    "Josh Lynch from the Marketing Department."


    Vince nodded at Josh and shook hands. "Nice meeting you, Mr. Lynch."


    "Wee, Mr. Shen! Geoffrey Wilson, nning Department Head at the same time COO of Davies Group." (Geoffrey has a crush on Hailey. His mom keeps nagging him to court Hailey.)


    "Ah, Mr. Wilson. Pleased to meet you, finally." Vince said with delight. It was Geoffrey, who he often talked to over the phone and discussed his projects.


    Andst, Vince''s eyes turn to the fourth man in a tailored suit. He is the less quiet among the men; he noticed it. And he seemed in deep thought.


    The guy lifted his gaze and smiled at him. He said,


    "We are happy to have you here, Mr. Shen... Bryan Anderson. Vice President of Davies Group. I''ll be touring you around the site."


    "Thank you, Mr. Anderson. I''m pleased to meet you," said Vince. And they shook hands.


    Bryan uttered, "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Shen. Let''s go. I will show you the East part of the City."


    Vince nodded at the four men and then followed Bryan. Somehow, he felt a little at ease, like a tension between the five men. Or it''s just his imagination?


    This is probably how Bryan Anderson quickly left after introducing himself, not ncing at the other men.


    Vincent and Tim shared a nce when the sports car had only two seats. Vince was about to tell Tim to wait here when Bryan spoke.


    "Mr. Shen, thepany provides you with that ck car as your transport during your stay here in Australia."


    Tim widened his eyes. It''s not just a sports car; it was a race car! These men sure knew how to live in luxury! Although he is already used to the life of his boss, Tim still was astounded. All he saw parked outside thepany are all fast cars.


    Good-looking men and nice cars; only mean one thing. These men have beautiful girlfriends!


    "Timothy Cheng!"


    "Huh?" Tim came back to his senses after his boss shouted at him.


    "What gotten to you?"


    "Ah! Sorry, boss! Something came to me so suddenly." Timme excuse. He isughing awkwardly. His boss furrowed his brows. It means he was absent-minded for a little longer. "What is it, boss?"


    "Mr. Anderson asked me to join him in his car to exin things while we toured around. Here''s the key to that car. Follow us."


    Time widened his eyes. He took the car keys with full enthusiasm, happily rushing toward the ck car.


    Vincent shook his head, then turned around. He strode toward the waiting silver car and slid in the passenger seat.


    After he settled in the car, Bryan drove the vehicle.


    "Mr. Shen, since our boss wishes to finish the city in a couple of years, I would not dy giving you your project," Bryan began. "As Mr. Wilson informed you, our boss wanted to build the tallest tower in the Eastern part of the city."


    "But it won''t be just that, Mr. Shen. Our boss is assigning the Shen Group to work the whole Eastern part of the City."


    "The whole Eastern part of the City?" Vince could only repeat thest seven words Bryan said to him. He never imagined that his project is bigger than his dream! It still hard to believe it!


    "Yes, Mr. Shen... Geoffrey will exin to youter. Right now, I will show you the site so that you will know the project assigned to you."


    "Okay." WOW! Vince tried to calm down. Dream City is not just a small city. It will be a luxurious city in the world! And among the city projects, he was sure that his project is the most special.


    To bet on the tallest building? That was already a huge project! Then how much is the Davies Group funding the Shen Group?


    Vince was about to ask Bryan something. But his phone keeps ringing. He asked, "Won''t you answer it?"


    Bryan nced in his direction. He smiled timidly, then pulled over the car on the roadside. He took out his phone from the pocket of his pants and swiped the green button.


    "What do you want?" he asked the person on the other line in a haughty tone.


    That person bites her lower lip before she answered, "Please, I didn''t call to fight."


    "Then, what do you want?"


    Eva pursed her lips with rage. Bryan is still cold toward her. Whatever she did in these passing days, Bryan remains mean to her!


    "Please, visits me here in Sydney," Eva pleaded, Bryan.


    "You''re in Sydney? What are you doing here in Australia!?" Bryan was absolutely shocked. He doesn''t want Eva toe to Australia because his mom doesn''t want to meet her. Now he ignores his warning.


    Bryan pursed his lips. It tempted him to curse, but it''s inappropriate to show such behavior in front of their guest.


    He calms himself, breathing in and releasing it carefully. He told Eva, "Okay. Let us talk some other time. I am busy."


    "Bryan, please! I want to talk to you tonight!" Eva insisted. There is no way she would stop.


    "I can''t, Eva," he refused. But he heard Eva begin crying on the other line. Bryan frowned. He is sick hearing her acting like this. However, he could not yell at Eva because of their guest.


    "Please, daddy..." Eva pauses for a brief moment. "Bryan, I''m pregnant."


    "What!?"


    Vince turned his head in Bryan''s direction. He is trying hard not to listen to his conversation with someone on the phone. But the longer they were talking, the more it irritated he be. Now it intrigued him who that person is.

 Chapter 107 - Meeting Her Dad

    <h4>Chapter 107 - Meeting Her Dad</h4>


    It feels like the world falls on him. It is supposed to be good news, but why he wasn''t happy at all?


    And at this moment, he could not stop thinking of someone else.


    Bryan felt like his heart squeezing tighter inside his chest, and it was hard to breathe. He is feeling both pity and regret.


    And the more he suppresses his emotion to waver, the more anger he felt toward himself.


    Yes. He hated himself! And right now, he even put himself in a situation he could not turn around.


    Bryan hurls a long sigh at the deepest part of his lungs and releases the air furiously.


    Eva''s sobs worsen his throbbing head that he wanted to curse. But he has to calm himself down.


    "Alright. I will finish all of my important work I have today to see you soon. So, stop crying. It wouldn''t be good for you." After a long silence, Bryanforted Eva. He gathered all of his patience to sound gentle.


    On the other line, Eva is tuning down her cries. Still, she doesn''t want Bryan to feel annoyed at her if she cries too much. At least, Bryan speaks softer now than the other few days that he almost didn''t talk to her but gave her a cold tone.


    "Do you promise?" Eva put an effort to sound sweet. She badly wanted to see Bryan and talk to him. She would not allow Bryan to throw her awaypletely. If she let go now, she''s afraid that he would go back to Hailey.


    She would bear Bryan''s coldness toward her, as long as Bryan would choose her over his childhood sweetheart!


    So, Eva patiently listened to Bryan and agreed that he would meet her tomorrow after his work. It was better than Bryan''s excuse with an entire week not to meet her.


    After the call, Bryan put his phone inside his coat pocket, revived his car''s engine, and resumed driving.


    He nces in Vince''s direction and apologizes. "I''m sorry about that, Mr. Shen. Let''s head to the site now."


    "No problem. Well, is everything alright? I... erm, sorry for intrusion. I should not ask personal questions."


    "It''s okay, Mr. Shen. It''s not that biggie. Just a minor family problem, which I should not bring my private affairs into my work," said Bryan with a sigh.


    Vincent nodded in agreement. He chooses not to step into anyone''s private affair as well, in which they just meet today, and then he''s nosy. Not to mention, he had his troubles too, and that is his divorce.


    Vincent forget what he heard. Instead, he keenly listens to Bryan exining everything regarding Dream City.


    "Many years ago, our boss came up to liven up this part of Australia. With everyone, we helped her do all the research we needed to analyze whether this area was safe and worthy to build a city. At first, we all nned for a small town only."


    "But then, we found a lot of interested potential investors. Davies Group alone can build it. But as years passed by, our boss had more vision until thetest crazy project she wanted was to build the tallest building in the world, and you were the one she chose to fulfill that dream, Mr. Shen."


    Vince pursed his lips. He retorted, "It was my great honor to work with her, Mr. Anderson. But It would be much greater if I could meet her to discuss the tower."


    "Well, she didn''t personally talk to her business partners or our contractors like you. I hope you would understand if she would not grant your request to meet her."


    "Of course! That''s not a problem with me, Mr. Anderson. As long as she would approve my design, and I could approach someone to ry my messages," Vincent expressed. "Sometimes, everything was well nned. However, mishaps still happen and can''t be avoided along with the construction."


    "Well, I couldn''t agree more." Bryan turns his head sideways to look at Vincent. He studied him for a moment as curiosity lingered inside his heart. Afterward, he asked, "Are you married, Mr. Shen?"


    Although Vincent was prepared to answer this question, sometimes it still caught him off guard. He pursed his lips into a warm smile and replied, "Yes, I am, Mr. Anderson."


    "I see."


    A moment of silence passed by before Bryan spoke again. "A chance you can meet our boss."


    Vincent curled his forehead. That remark confused him, but he didn''t voice out his query.


    He shrugged this thought and remained silent until they reached the Eastern part of the city.


    Bryan pulls over the car in the center of this vast area. Vincent steps out of the vehicle and allows his gaze to wander to the whole ce. It was broad, and its neighbors were mountains.


    But when you look at the west and south part of the city, it is entirely grasnd. And so, you can see much farther than your eyes could travel.


    It was a perfect spot in the city to build the tower.


    "It was perfect," Vincent uttered afterward.


    Bryan turned around and looked at Vincent. He asked, "Do you think so?"


    He nodded. "Yes. If the boss personally chooses this area, then she has a good eye."


    "I think so too. I''m d you could agree with her too." Bryan chuckled. He patted Vincent''s back and said, "I will try to convince the others to pursue our boss to meet you."


    "I want to satisfy her with my job, and so I would like to work with her closely," Vince exined.


    "She doesn''t want to fail this project, so maybe she might agree to see you and monitor it herself."


    "That would be very great, Mr. Anderson," said Vince.


    "Bryan... Just call me by my first name. We don''t need to be so formal to each other since we will work on a long-term contract." Bryan corrected Vincent. Since their age was close, no need for formalities.


    Vincent nodded and smiled. If he works with these friendly men, then he would not feel so much tension from others.


    He was used to working with some clients that sometimes make things hard for him to deal with them. But these executives from Davies Group are all warmly weing him. He''s actually impressed.


    After Bryan toured them around Dream City and showed the ongoing constructions, they finally called it a day.


    Bryan nced at his wristwatch and said, "It''s almost lunchtime. We better headed back to the office to meet the rest."


    At the Dream City Cafeteria, located across the Davies Group DC Headquarter, Bryan led them inside.


    Gathering here is all executives and contractors for a free lunch. It has also be a bonding time that gives the other contractor to mingle with another firm like Shen Group.


    "Vincent Shen! What a lovely day to see you!" a man in his seventies approached Vincent.


    "Architect Lewis! I''m d to see you, sir!" It relieved Vince to see a familiar face. He knew that the Lewis Firm was also working here in Dream City, but he didn''t expect to see the Chairman himself.


    Benjamin Lewis is a brilliant architect, and Vince admired his designs. He looked up to him.


    "Congrattions! Wee to Dream City! I''m d they chose your firm to work on the other projects."


    "It''s my honor to contribute something here in Dream City, sir. Among giant firms fighting for a spot, SHEN GROUP wouldpete to win."


    "Ah, that''s my boy! I''m always proud of you! Well, see you around! This old man must eat on time."


    Vincent smiled and nodded. His eyes followed the old man headed toward the buffet table, and then he turned around and walked toward Bryan, who waited for him.


    "Great, that you and Mr. Lewis knew each other," said Bryan.


    "We''ve been in a project before. I was working on my Internship with International projects, and Mr. Lewis mentored me."


    "That''s wonderful. He''s my teacher too back in the US¡­ I attend his ss to understand Architecture more."


    "What a small world, then!" Vincent was thrilled to hear this.


    "Yeah. The world seems so small after all." Bryan''s meaningful remarks that Vincent could not help but agree. "Come on. I will introduce you to everyone."


    Bryan led Vincent and Tim toward the table the executives were seated at. Each one introduces themselves, and Tim makes sure to remember them.


    Not long, someone arrives, and the boys all hype up.


    "Uncle Jacob!" James waves his hand.


    Jacob Davies turns his head in their direction. He made long strides toward them, which his eyes never left staring Vincent and Tim.


    "Mr. Shen, this is Chairman Jacob Davies, owner of Davies Group." Bryan''s introduction.


    Vincent immediately extends his hand. "I''m pleased to meet you, Chairman Davies. Vincent Shen from Shen Group Firm."


    "Nice to meet you, Mr. Shen. Wee to Dream City!"


    "Thank you, sir! It''s an honor to be here," Vincent expressed with delight.


    "Then, let us make history!" Jacob remarks, patting Vincent''s shoulder. "Well, no more long introduction. Feel at home and treat this city as yours, Mr. Shen."


    "I will, Chairman Davies." Vince pursed his lips into a thin smile. He''s d that the Chairman is hospitable.


    Now it intrigued him to meet his daughter, the FEMALE BOSS of Davies Group.


    "Alright! Why don''t you eat yet? I hope you would like the food here," said Jacob.


    "Don''t worry, sir. We are not picky," Vincent replied politely.


    Tim, who only observes his boss on the sideline, is willing to award him for being too polite in front of Chairman Davies. If he hadn''t known him, he would believe he truly isn''t picky. But the truth is, he has personal preferences, and that is his girlfriend''s cooking.


    ''Heh. I''m going to tell Miss Hailey that you said that, boss!'' Tim was grinning in secret. But then, he coughs when his boss nces over his shoulder to look at him. ''Damn! Could he truly read my mind?''


    "Come on. Stop overthinking with unnecessary things, Timothy Cheng," Vincent firmly told Tim.


    Tim blinks several times. He scratches his temple as he confirms something... His boss surely could be a mind reader!

 Chapter 108 - No Mistress Allowed Here

    <h4>Chapter 108 - No Mistress Allowed Here</h4>


    Vincent and Tim held the tray full of food in their hands.


    They looked around to find an empty table away from the rest, but the room is already packed. dly, James noticed them. He waved his hand and shouted at them, "Vincent,e to our table!"


    They strode through the middle of the dining hall, which most of the heads raised to watch them passed. Ignoring their surrounding, Tim and Vincent immediately ced their tray on the table and sat across James, Leo, and Bryan.


    Since they were new to this ce, Vincent and Tim eat quietly, casually listening to everyone''s conversations. Gratefully, James is chatty while at the long table next to them where the chairman seated with the rest of the executives mainly talks about the city''s ongoing construction. So Vincent pricked his ears up to listen to some helpful information.


    Sometimes, Vincent nces at the chairman. He could not exin, but he had this feeling that he resembled someone he knew but could not figure out whom. He racked up his head where he saw this person, who looked a little like Jacob Davies.


    Meanwhile, Jacob was also looking at the next table, particrly at their new contractor.


    He hadn''t much information about the CEO of Shen Group. But the samples they submitted are impressive. Besides, he trusts her daughter''s judgments for designing.


    Jacob leaned over and asked Geoffrey. "Have you known if Mr. Shen married?"


    Geoffrey lifted his eyes from his food and traveled it toward the next table. He replied, "I have no information in his private life, Uncle Jacob."


    "I see." Jacob nodded while stuffing his mouth, then immediately dropped the subject.


    However, James heard the chairman. With a broad smile across his face, he stared at Vincent with straight eyes.


    "Vincent, are you married?" James asked without blinking.


    All of a sudden, curious eyes are casting toward Vincent. For a few seconds, he felt awkward being scrutinized like this by other men because of this question. In the past, it was women who eagerly listened to his answer.


    Strange, why do these bunch of all-men executives curiously wait for his reply? Not to mention they all look handsome and manly. Vincent mused.


    He nced at Jacob Davies, who was also keenly waiting for his reply. He clears his throat, then smiles.


    "I have a wife," Vincent answered with joy.


    Although his answer is not confirming nor denying he is married. He always answered wholeheartedly to anyone who asks him this question because the person in his mind is no other woman but Hailey.


    He is serious when he asserts in front of his parents- and parents-inw that in his heart, Hailey is his wife. So when Bryan asked him this question a while ago, he admitted he has a wife, and he will answer the same question over again.


    After Vincent answers James''s question, he looks around to see their reaction, and he notices something odd. The men in front of him, including the rest of the executives at the other table, sigh with relief. For him, that was intriguing.


    What is it so crucial for them to know about his private life? Will this affect his work? Or is it because the CEO of thispany is a woman?


    Why were they curious about his private life more than his skills of being an architect and a contractor?


    Vincent has these questions troubling his mind, but he shrugged this thought and resumed eating. However, James is not done chatting with him yet.


    "I salute your wife. She''s smart." James remarked that made others look at Vincent again.


    On the other hand, it confused him why James made thatment. Next, he was ced in a hot seat that caused his ears to red from embarrassment.


    James looked at his neck and said, "She assures to ced a mark on her husband for women to stay away from him."


    Vincent''s eyes flickered at James'' teasing quote. Now he understood what James meant. As everyone tried to look at his neck, he could not avoid feeling embarrassed. Australia is hotter this time around, so wearing a scarf to hide the scratches on his neck would make him look funny.


    "Our female employees are all pretty and have an eye on handsome men. Wives are getting jealous." James added.


    Vincent looked around, and his eyesnded at the table with all females seated at it. They were busy gossiping and whispering at each other.


    When he stared enough, he withdrew his gaze and returned his attention to James. He smiled. "My wife is prettier."


    Jamesughs out loud while Leo raises a thumb. After James settled down, he shifted his gaze to Tim and asked the guy. "Tim, what do you think?"


    Timothy held himself not to giggle upon witnessing how his boss put in a hot seat. He casually raised his head and replied to James with enthusiasm. He understood what James was asking him, and he was prepared to give a deadly answer.


    "She''s a Queen," Tim answered proudly. He made a nce at his boss to convey what he was thinking at the moment. ''Don''t forget to raise my sry, boss!''


    Meanwhile, Vincent ignored his assistant, pretending he overlooks his meaningful stares. Vincent nced at James with a bright smile on his face.


    Now that they had heard enough, everyone resumed eating. But once James began, he was unstoppable. He would continue bbing.


    Vincent is answering James politely. He was relieved that James'' question is just about Shen Group. On his part, he used this as an opportunity to get close to his clients. After all, a good rtionship at the workce is essential since they put billions in his pocket.


    They give a shot to trust him. And so, he must not break that trust. He always works hard to impress his clients to create a forever partnership. So then, his work will share with others that his performance is satisfying.


    Lunch is almost over when James asks another personal question, Vincent. "Do you have a n to bring your wife here?"


    "If it is allowed." Vince curled his lips into a thin smile.


    "Of course! Several other contractors bring their wives here! Except for mistresses! We want to avoid as much family issues here," said James meaningfully, and simply nce at Bryan then quickly returned his gaze to Vincent.


    Meanwhile, Tim was choked with the food he swallowed. He nced at his boss, who only wore a poker face. It made him curious what he was thinking at this moment.


    ''So what now, boss? Poor you!''

 Chapter 109 - Someone Who Could Discipline His Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 109 - Someone Who Could Discipline His Daughter</h4>


    On the one hand, Vincent didn''t flinch from the rules he learned today. He nods at James, then pursed his lips into a smile. "Sure. Thank you for making it clear."


    Vincent was grateful that no one was paying attention to him at the moment, and the rest were busy chatting with one another.


    This time, the table was already cleared out, but no one hurried to leave among the executives except the engineers and architects from another firm that one by one goes back to their assigned site.


    The chairman also stayed and talked closely to Geoffrey. Vincent realized that Bryan is the Vice President of thepany. Still, the chairman seemed working closely with Geoffrey, and the person rying messages toward their female boss is also him.


    Vincent pondered over it. Not only that, he could feel an awkward atmosphere between the executives toward a particr person who stayed silent the entire lunch.


    It was the Davies Group Vice President, Bryan Anderson.


    He wondered if it was just his observation, or it was because of what he witnessed earlier. After the call, he seemed bothered by it but made an effort to act professionally in front of him, suppressing his unpleasant emotion during work.


    Now Bryan appeared lost, and his thoughts were somewhere.


    Vincent was in deep thoughts when his ear caught a chime from someone''s phone. It was the chairman''s phone.


    Jacob quickly answered the call, and everyone fell silent once they had guessed who it was.


    "I''m thrilled to see you soon, Princess. Please, don''t dy another day anymore. We''ve missed you already!" Jacob made a delightful conversation with his daughter.


    She is supposed to be herest weekend, but for some reason, Hailey had to reschedule her flight. His daughter exined nothing, and he avoided asking questions.


    Deep down in his heart. He still mes himself for why his daughter''s heart is broken. If he didn''t meddle, maybe none of that in the past had happened that changed everything.


    Jacob nced at Bryan and then swept his eyes to the rest of the boys in front of him. Among them all, it was Bryan, who Hailey listened to while the rest only spoiled his daughter once she made a request, even if what she wanted was dangerous.


    That is why he decided that Hailey must get married sooner. And the son-inw he preferred is someone who could discipline his daughter instead of spoiling her all the time; there should be a limit to it.


    Jacob''s situation is the opposite among other father''s intentions why they wanted their daughter to get married at an early age. His is different reasons.


    Jacob wanted Hailey to tie in a marriage so that she would stop traveling alone. And if ever she continued to travel the world, someone could apany her, and she would not reason out that she didn''t need a chaperone because she''s already an adult. And so he feared his daughter''s safety by traveling alone, especially when she took her yacht. It was the reason he bought his daughter a private ne.


    Jacob was helpless. He thought that marriage could make her daughter stay in Australia.


    That is why he supported Bryan when he proposed to his daughter. Hailey must have a husband who can handle her behavior. She is impulsive at some point.


    Indeed, his daughter needs a man, who she would listen to, a husband who had the strength to reprimand her.


    But because of his irrational decision, now this happens.


    Jacob sighed inwardly. He constantly pondered if things remained the same if he didn''t encourage Hailey''s early marriage.


    To repent his mistake, he let Hailey mend her broken heart somewhere she didn''t share where. It enticed him to order his men to investigate his daughter''s whereabouts. He believes Hailey went somewhere.


    But he''s afraid that Hailey would hate him this time. Somehow, his daughter has her own way of knowing if he sent someone to follow her.


    It''s been a year, but Jacob still has a heavy heart. He wished for his daughter''s happiness and promised himself not to meddle anymore but give his daughter the freedom to get married, eventually.


    All he could do now is praying that she would fall in love with someone who would love her truly as well and would never hurt her.


    Whoever that man is, either from an excellent family or not, he doesn''t care anymore as long as he could make his daughter happy again.


    "See you soon, Princess. Have a safe flight." Jacob wishes for his daughter.


    He put down his phone after Hailey ended the call. He swept his eyes toward the boys and chatted with them again.


    On the sideline, Vincent carefully studied the chairman. He seems sad. And probably the reason for it is his daughter.


    It seemed challenging to meet his female boss, thought Vincent.


    Alright! Vincent thinks this is the perfect moment to excuse himself. He walked toward an empty table near the ss window and sat down on the chair, then took out his phone and ced the earphones on his ears.


    He waited for the call to connect. After five rings, it connected him to Hailey. His eyes didn''t leave on the screen to appear the beautiful woman he misses already.


    Meanwhile, somewhere in Palm Ind, Hailey stared at her phone for three seconds. Vince is doing a video call! Thank god, and she was still on the ind.


    "Hi!" she finally swiped the green button. She asked, "How was it?"


    "Everything is fine. How are you?" Vince returned a question. He peered at his phone screen lovingly; a desire crept toward his heart. He badly wanted to kiss the beautiful woman that appeared on his phone screen.


    "I''m great!" Hailey responded. She tried to hide her nervousness. It frightened her that anyone from the boys was near Vince and identally saw her. "So, where are you? Have you had lunch?"


    "Ah, yes. I''ve just finished eating. So, I''m still here in the Cafeteria." Vince replied.


    "I see. I''m d." Hailey pursed her lips into a sweet smile, not for Vince to notice she''s anxious.


    "How about you? It will be lunchtime there soon."


    Hailey answered, "Ah, yes. But they served me a delicious breakfast. Honestly, I''m still full! I don''t think I can stuff my stomach yet."


    "Great! I''m d you were enjoying the ind."


    Hailey saw Vince heave a sigh; sadness shed in his eyes. She asked curiously. "What''s wrong? Is there any problem on your first day?"


    ''Are the boys weren''t nice to him?'' Hailey wondered. She''s praying that the boys would not make things hard for Vince. The boys were always hostile to all single men that wanted to get close to her.


    Hailey watched Vince pursing his lips into a smile.


    "Don''t worry. Everyone is nice and wees me with warmth, even Chairman Davies."


    Hailey felt relieved hearing this. It made her happy that everyone is amodating Vince well. But then she remembered one thing. It''s Bryan!


    Vince and Bryan finally met! It made her wonder if what would happen when Vince found out the truth, as well as Bryan.


    Moreover, Eva was in Australia!

 Chapter 110 - Want To Kiss You

    <h4>Chapter 110 - Want To Kiss You</h4>


    Hailey shrugs off the unnecessary thoughts. She should not panic but remain calm and think of better ns in theing future.


    She could not hide from Vince forever. And she could not keep her true identity permanently. Besides, Vince needs that divorce. It''s not for her gain, but Eva is not worthy either for Bryan.


    She is not the right woman for him. If she genuinely loves Bryan, she should have gotten a divorce from Vince. But why didn''t she sign it? Instead, she is hiding from him.


    Eva not only lied to Bryan. She is also using Vince for family Lan''s interests.


    Hailey held herself, not frowned in front of Vince. She tilted her head to the side and fixed her attention toward him.


    They were exchanging sweet words before Vince ended the call.


    "I think everyone is going back to work. I have to prepare my presentation for tomorrow."


    "Good luck! Don''t be so nervous. You are very talented, and I am proud of you."


    Vince''s eyes sparks, listening to Hailey''s cheer. This is what he only needed to disappear all of his worries.


    Of course, he is confident of getting approval. Although he believes in his skills, he still needs someone to be his inspiration. Someone would cheer him and be the source of his strength.


    And Hailey could light his dark moments. Her beautiful smile could lift his spirit.


    "I want to kiss you," said Vince wholeheartedly. His eyes filled with love and sincerity.


    On the phone screen, Hailey softens her gaze. She also wishes to give Vince a good luck kiss.


    "I love you." She could not kiss Vince, but she could say these words.


    And for what Hailey had said, Vince''s eyes gleamed with delight.


    In the past, he could only suit himself looking at the girl in his Gallery. He would look at her pictures to gain some strength.


    And now, he has the real one, who is not only staring and smiling back at him; moreover, she talks and replies with her sweet voice.


    "I love you too," Vince answered lovingly. He wanted to prolong their conversation, but he has few things to do. "I have to hang up now. Enjoy your stay on the ind. I''ll call you back tonight before bed."


    "Hum!" Hailey hummed and nodded. She sighed with relief when it''s over. She wanted to keep talking with Vince, but she''s afraid that any of the boys will notice who Vince is talking to. She isn''t ready to make any exnation yet! And so, she needs to be extra careful from here on.


    *


    Vincent put his phone back in his pocket. He sat up and strode toward Tim and James, talking with something.


    Everyone had already gone. Now only them left in the cafeteria.


    Tim quickly met him halfway and said, "Boss, Mr. White will escort us to our apartment.


    "Okay."


    Following James'' car, Tim drove the Lambo that provided to them while Vincent was seated in silence on the passenger seat.


    Later, Tim asked with curiosity lingering in his heart. "Boss, what is your n now?"


    "What n?" He red at his assistant. He senses his point, but he wanted Tim to spill it out.


    "You''d like to bring Miss Hailey, right?"


    Vince didn''t reply but contemted. After a long silence, he spoke. "Do you know how far the nearest city is from here?"


    "I don''t know, boss. But I can do some research." I already know you woulde up with this idea, boss! Of course. I need a raise! So I came prepared! Tim mused inwardly.


    "Okay. And whichever the nearest city you found, look for a nice condo. Make an appointment and apply for a one-year lease contract."


    "Copy, boss!" Tim is aware that his boss wanted to bring Hailey no matter what. Although he thinks that it will be a controversyter, his boss didn''t care anyway. He is proud to show off his girlfriend.


    It takes only ten minutes for a sports car to arrive at theplex apartment provided for all the workers in Dream City.


    James leads them to Apartment 7 and parked at the space around the building.


    "This whole building will be SHEN GROUP''s exclusive apartment. It can amodate more than a hundred workers," said James.


    Vincent nodded. It made him happy that they need not share apartments with other contractors, and so he starts admiring how the Davies Group runs everything around here.


    "It''s a great setting. I like it. Your management surely made an effort for things to be in ces." Praises by Vincent.


    James smiled. "It was what our Princess wanted¡­ I mean, the boss. It was all her ideas."


    "Hmm. That''s brilliant." Vince furtherpliments.


    "She is! But she told us that her dream city would not be established without a brilliant team. And you are now part of our team." James told Vincent.


    "It''s my honor." Vincent''s desire to meet this female boss is even greater.


    Furthermore, James toured them to all the floors of the building. Every floor had a spacious kitchen to make their meals, except the top floor with its own kitchen in each unit.


    Tim whistled to see the furnished kitchen withplete cooking appliances.


    After James showed them enough, he brought Vincent and Tim to the top floor.


    "The top floor was purposely designed with big rooms. Initially, we built this apartment for the city crews in the future. Managers, assistants, chefs, teachers? Hotel and restaurant servers? We will provide this building for them while working in this city."


    Vincent and Tim nodded in satisfaction. Davies Group indeed has the luxury to provide everything. They spent several trillion dors, of course.


    Vincent checks out the unit that gave to him. It was decent and spacious. Not to mention it was fully furnished.


    "I hope you like the room?" James asked him.


    "I do! It''s perfect. I could work peacefully here." He walked toward a room and said, "I can use this room as my study."


    I need tables where I could build the models of my projects, thought Vince.


    "Sounds great! Anyway, there is a spacious room downstairs. You are free to make that as an office for yourpany."


    "Thank you, James!" Vincent was delighted. This building will be their home and also an office. He thinks that would be perfect.


    "You''re wee. Anyway, we''re looking forward to your presentation," said James. He then turned around, and his eyes searched for Tim, who went to the bedroom to check his boss''s luggage. "Well, Tim! I will show your unit."


    Tim exited the bedroom and rushed to the door, following James. "Thank you, Mr. White."


    Now that he was alone, Vince took the opportunity to get a quick shower. He opens the suitcase where Hailey ces the shampoo, liquid soap, and his aftershave.


    Vince''s lips curled into a smile. Hailey has acted like a real wife. She does know everything he needs and even finely ces them into Ziplock transparent cellophane and then wraps them with a cloth.


    Vince only takes a ten minutes shower. He now changed his suit to a new one.


    He heard a knock on his bedroom door, followed Tim''s voice.


    "What is it?" he asked after he opened the door.


    "Boss, James ryed a message from Director Wilson. He wanted to talk to you regarding your whole project here in Dream City."


    "Is it now?"


    Tim replied, "It will take ce by four in the afternoon, today."


    "I see." Vince nces at his wristwatch. "That will be two hours from now."


    "Yes, boss. And since we have more time. I''ll go and have grocery shopping at the supermarket nearby."


    Vince nodded. Immediately, Tim left with the car keys. He drove the ck Lambo headed to the Dream City Supermarket.


    It was one thing that is ironic. Davies Group makes sure to provide what is essential to its workers. To not make things moreplicated since this ce is isted.


    They have an exclusive supermarket that opens at 2 P.M. until 7:30 in the evening.


    This allows the stay-in workers to shop for what they need, especially fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat.


    Tim is pushing a big cart and begins shopping. He was in the Beverages section when someone called his name.


    "Timothy Cheng?"

 Chapter 111 - He Should Not Lose Hope

    <h4>Chapter 111 - He Should Not Lose Hope</h4>


    Tim nced at his back. His eyes widened to see the beautiful woman smiling at him.


    "It is you, Tim!"


    "Nancy Su!" Tim was surprised to see her. He never imagined that a day woulde, and he will meet Nancy again.


    "What are you doing here?" Nancy asked him.


    "I... Mypany is a contractor here in Dream City." Tim answered. "How about you?


    Even though it was apparent to him what Nancy has been wearing, he has no other question in mind to prolong the conversation. He wanted to know if Nancy was living in one of the apartments here.


    "Well, I am the supervisor of this supermarket. I was doing my rounds when I noticed you. I can''t believe it! What a small world!"


    "Yeah. Indeed, a small world! But your family goes back to Hong Kong. Why are you here?"


    "Well, yeah. Fortunately, my family migrated to Australia, and I finished college here. Then, Dream City was hiring an experienced manager. I tried my luck and had been epted. I resigned from the fast-food I work. Besides, sries are more decent here than my previous jobs."


    "That''s great then! Anyway, we''ve just arrived today, and our apartment was empty. So, I''m doing some shopping. What a fate to meet you here..."


    "I agree! I never thought I would meet you here. Then! Allow me to help you. What else do you need?" asked Nancy, scanning the items in his cart.


    Tim replied, "I need some of this bottled water and then fresh fruits and vegetables."


    "Nice. I''m happy to see that you were taking care of yourself."


    "Ah. It''s for my boss."


    "Oh... What a great assistant you are."


    Tim waves his hand, blushing. "Nah. I was asked to watch his diet, so I''m buying fruits and vegetables."


    "Ah. That must be your boss'' wife?" Nancy guessed. She watches Tim nodded, then she remembered something. "Oh. Don''t tell me that you are working at Shen''s like your father?"


    Tim smiled. "Yes, I am."


    "I knew it! Your father is one of their engineers."


    Tim''s eyes gleamed. It made him happy that Nancy still remembers his family. "I''m d to know that you didn''t forget us."


    Nancy blushed. She bites her lower lip upon realizing that she was transparent to Tim. "I... Of course, I remembered! Why would I forget you? We have been neighbors for so many years."


    Tim could see how Nancy would avert her gaze to avoid his. And the way her cheeks flush, he didn''t need to rack his head to determine her facial expression.


    With the help of Nancy, Tim finished shopping quickly. He followed the girl toward an empty cash register. It surprised him when Nancy sat on the stop, opened theputer, and p his items.


    "So, you are not only a supervisor?"


    "Well, I helped pack during busy hours, and that was mainly in the evening."


    "I see. So... Are you also stating here?"


    "Yup! I was staying at Apartment 3. It was an all-female apartment."


    "Ah. That''s great! Davies Group surely made strict rules to their employees."


    "Yes, they are."


    Tim watched Nancy punch his groceries and then packed. He handed the debit card to Nancy, and the girl handed it back to him after the transaction was approved.


    "Thank you," said Tim to Nancy. "So, see you around then?"


    "Yup! See you around!"


    "Oh. Before I forgot, can I add you on Instagram?" Asked Tim.


    "Sure! Add me @JustNancy."


    Tim searched his Instagram. Honestly, he just wanted to check her ount if Nancy has a boyfriend. For sure, if she had one, she would post their photos on social media.


    "How about WhatsApp? Can I add you, too?"


    "Sure! I''ll DM you after you followed me on Instagram."


    Tim finally found Nancy''s Instagram ount. He browses the photo, and he''s happy that most of her photos were about her family and a group of friends.


    "There, I followed you."


    "Great! I''ll check my phone during my break. I''ll DM you my WhatsApp number."


    "Great! I''m waiting. Well then, I''ll go ahead. My boss has a meeting with Director Wilson."


    "Ah! Sir Geoffrey! He''s nice!"


    Tim curled his forehead. When he mentions the director''s name, Nancy suddenly gets excited, and her eyes flicker.


    He couldn''t exin, but he seems to get jealous. But maybe, Nancy is not the only one who had a crush on the director, like how every female employee of Shen Group had a crush on his boss, even married women whose age is not different from theirs.


    Tim shrugged the jealousy in his heart. If Nancy likes any of the executives, it means he could notpete with those men.


    In his little information, all those men are from prominent families. They weren''t just the higher-ups of Davies Group. They are also business partners of their boss.


    It means they are rich, and he was only an assistant.


    Tim thought that it was his lucky day. But reality quickly ps him with the truth.


    He is driving a Lamborghini because thepany was generous to its contractors.


    When Times back to the apartment, Vince notices that his assistant was gloomy. His face is darkened and silent. Different from his usual attitude that is noisy.


    Vince observes Tim, and he is sure he was somewhat feeling down.


    "What''s the matter with you, Tim?" Vincent couldn''t take it anymore. His assistant''s silent behavior irritates him more than being noisy and nosy.


    Tim only pushed his lips into a faint smile that made Vince dumbfounded. His assistant is acting weird!


    "Are you being rejected?"


    Vince''sments made Tim''s expression worsen. His face was distorted. Vince almost burst outughing, seeing Tim''s reaction.


    On the other hand, Tim wishes a day he could smack his boss. How dare he mock him like this!? Ever since his boss fell in love. He is such a bully toward him!


    Tim could only ignore his boss, whose mouth curved in a mocking smile because he has no right to protest! Besides, his boss is right. He suddenly felt rejected, and now he is sulking, which he has no rights because Nancy is not his girlfriend... Yet.


    "So, who''s this girl?"


    Tim was dumbfounded. His boss suddenly bes a god of love! Now he realized that he was obvious in front of his boss, then no use denying.


    "I just met an old ssmate back in High School."


    "Oh. Then why are you feeling dumped? Is she already married?"


    Tim didn''t reply but pondered. Why is he sulking, by the way? It''s not like they have a rtionship or what. And it''s his fault for being assuming.


    "I don''t know if she''s married already, boss."


    "Have a boyfriend?"


    "I didn''t notice anyone on her Instagram." It was toote already. His boss caught him good! Now he is guilty of stalking Nancy''s social media ount!


    Vince was satisfied to tease his assistant. In these passing months, he knew that Tim is secretly poking fun at him in his mind.


    ''Now, look at this guy.'' Vince mused. Somehow, it made him realize one thing. Does he also act like this asionally?


    There are times that he is upset or mad at something that is rted to Hailey.


    Vince decided to stop teasing his assistant. Instead, he advises him through his own experienced. "Then if she has no husband or boyfriend, yet. Why are you giving up already?"


    Tim was even more surprised. Ever since his boss had a real girlfriend, he''s bing a good love advisor!


    And he could not disagree. He is right. He should not lose hope when he even didn''t start fighting!


    Tim''s confidencees back. He arranged the groceries on the cab with enthusiasm.


    Vince shook his head. He held himself not to joke on Tim because he knew better. He also acted weird since he confessed to Hailey and been transparent about how he''s madly in love with her.


    Besides, love is not a joke. But the greatest gift can give to someone your heart is beating for...

 Chapter 112 - HIS TASKS

    <h4>Chapter 112 - HIS TASKS</h4>


    DAVIES GROUP HQ


    Vincent and Tim were escorted toward the top floor of the building. Helen quickly stood from her chair and greeted the guests.


    "Hello, Mr. Shen. I am Helen Dane. Please take a seat. I will inform Mr. Wilson that you''ve here."


    Vince nodded at the secretary and waited for a minute.


    Not long, the office door opens, and Geoffrey steps out of his office.


    "Alright, Hail. Mr. Shen is here. I''ll show him the Dream City maps and his projects."


    There''s a silence from Geoffrey as he keenly listens to the other line. Vince guesses it was the female boss.


    He is very interested in meeting her, and so maybe, he could ask Geoffrey to set a meeting with her soon.


    After a brief talk, Geoffrey put down his phone and inserted it into his pocket. He looked at Vince and extended his hand.


    "Sorry to make you wait, Mr. Shen." After he shook hands with Vincent and Tim, Geoffrey nced at his secretary and said, "Helen, please make a coffee for Mr. Cheng."


    "Yes, boss," Helen replied enthusiastically. She turned to Tim and offered the couch to take a seat.


    Tim understood that this meeting does not need him, and so he quietly sat down.


    Geoffrey leads Vincent to a room with a warning sign: For Authorized Personnel Only. He takes out a key card and opens the door.


    Inside, Vincent understood what the room was for as they highly secured it with advanced locked.


    In the middle of the room are four sofas and a long rectangr coffee table.


    If you look around, it has four rooms with the name after directions. North, South, East, and West.


    "Mr. Shen, I hope you will keep whatever you see in this room."


    "No worries. I have a room inside my office to keep the models in mypleted and ongoing projects. Including my dream project I wanted to build in the future." he replied, assuring Geoffrey that he could truly trust him, and he has no reason to do anything of what he would see.


    On the one hand, he understood why Davies Group is careful to expose their projects. They just wanted to avoid any sabotages by another firm.


    Geoffrey was satisfied with his answer. "I see. I called it dedication and passion."


    Vince curled his thin lips into a friendly smile. He followed Geoffrey and walked toward a wall screen, and turned it on.


    "This is the map of Dream City. As we could see here, there are streams and creeks, but some are mostly dried. The boss ns this area to put canals around the East Sector."


    "Like in Venice?"


    "Yup! Our boss has been traveling around Europe and Asia. And she was obsessed with riding a boat around. So she wanted to put canals around here in the East Sector. The water that will provide the channels is from the Dam of the North. What do you think, Mr. Shen?" asked Geoffrey after his exnation.


    "Hm. So, it means. I have to build the canals?"


    "That''s right, Mr. Shen. So, tomorrow, we will discuss it further with the chairman."


    Vince nodded. He studied the map and began making ns. But he had more questions, and he wanted to talk to the boss personally.


    "Now, Mr. Shen¡­ as you could see, these are the current progress of Dream City. The western sector built the mansions and vis or more like the Beverly Hills here in Dream City. It means the price is unimaginable. We already have celebrities that purchased thend with us and started constructing their mansions. And I am talking about hectares of properties here, Mr. Shen."


    "I could imagine it."


    "If you could notice the western part of the city. There are more greenish appeared as new nt trees. Once the area began nting trees, it meant someone already bought thend."


    "I see. That''s great preparation. Landscaping is one thing to look into." Vincentmented.


    "Now, Mr. Shen, please follow me." Geoffrey walks toward the room with thebel EAST.


    Inside this small room is a gray couch, and on the side is a long table, but it was empty.


    "This table is reserved for East Projects. So, this table belongs to you, Mr. Shen."


    Vincent blinks his eyes. He lifted his gaze and looked at Geoffrey with a perplexed facial expression.


    Geoffrey smiled and patted Vincent''s shoulder; he reported, "The Eastern City belongs to you, Mr. Shen¡­ SHEN GROUP will build all projects that will be ced in the East."


    Vincent rendered speechlessly. He thought that building the Tallest Building is already the biggest news he ever heard. He is wrong again. There''s other greater news than that.


    Vincent opens his mouth and closes it. He smiled. "Wow. That surprised me and made me speechless. What I hear is correct? The whole East construction is Shen''s project?"


    "Correct, Mr. Shen. Among our contractors, SHEN GROUP is the sole firm that would work on several projects. As you can see, Mr. Shen¡­ East Sector will be the tourist attraction center of the entire Dream City. It means you were given the task to build something that will attract the world and will be forever remembered, the city named Dream City."


    Hearing this, Vince reached out his chin and rubbed it. The words that came out from Geoffrey''s mouth repeatedly ying in his head.


    It was a heavy task. To build a portion of the city that will be the center attraction?


    Wow. Vincent ces both of his palms on the table. "The tallest building in the whole world is a beginning, but¡­" Vincent paused and asked, "What exactly the boss wanted me to build other than the tallest building? If it is a tourist attraction, it should be one of a kind shopping center or Disnend?"


    "Could it be? A shopping center and a long street of food stores."


    "A modern shopping center it is?" Vincent wanted to confirm the initial n.


    "Yes! And our boss wanted trees and nts inside the shopping center."


    "Then, it will be a ss roofing."


    "I''m happy that you could guess what the boss wanted."


    "It''s an honor to work with you, Mr. Wilson. And so I will give everything I have."


    "I saw the samples of what you build in your city. My boss was impressed by it, so you are the one given this task by her," said Geoffrey.


    "It''s a great task, and I have no n to disappoint your boss. However, I am hoping that I have a chance to meet her so that I could personally show her my ns and discuss everything she wanted me to build."


    "I''ll talk to her. She is eager to finish the city as soon as possible. So she wanted to make things urgent with extra care..."


    Vince nodded. He concurred, "I agreed. I promised, things will be smooth."


    "Then, let''s go to my office. My boss instructed me to make you sign the contract ASAP, and?so I want you to look at it."


    "Do you want me to sign the contract even if you haven''t seen my presentation?"


    "Honestly, Mr. Shen. If I were to ask, I want to see your presentation first. But my boss instructed me just now. So, if you agreed with our terms, then you can see me tomorrow morning, and let''s discuss it."


    Vincent had trouble believing it. Most of his clients want assurance. But Davies Group, which is one of the biggestpanies in the world, is being so considerate.


    He could not stop to wonder. But then, he would not miss this opportunity to work on such projects.


    Vincent followed Geoffrey to his office. Geoffrey offered him the couch while he went to his desk to get something.


    Soon after, Helen entered the room and offered him a cup of coffee. He thanked her without looking but remained his eyes on his phone.


    Helen exited the door with a gloomy face. She dropped her bottom on the chair and frowned. When she couldn''t take it anymore, she faces Tim and calls out to his attention.


    "Hey. Is your boss this snob?"


    Tim blinks several times. After a brief moment processing Helen''s quote, he smiled. "Yes. He''s faithful to his wife."


    "Oh. Thanks for the information! I''ll put him on the list of BEWARE OF THE MARRIED MEN!"


    Tim held, not let out augh. He smiled charmingly at Helen and sipped a coffee on his mug.


    "How about you, Tim?"


    Helen smiled sweetly at him. Tim almost choked with his coffee. He replied, "I''m single but not avable to mingle."


    "Oh... But we can be friends, right?"


    ''Good, God! Thank you for showering my luck the day I set foot in Australia! Thank you for these beautiful women who are interested in talking to me!''


    Tim has been jumping inwardly. The women he saw around are all pretty. But of course, his heart is already owned by someone!


    Meanwhile, in the office, Geoffrey handed Vincent a ck folder, and they chatted while having coffee.


    * * *


    Next on:


    Hailey breathes in and fills her lungs with fresh air...


    She badly misses Australia. The feelings she has at the moment are iparable. Her heart filled with unexined happiness. She is home.


    And, of course, it was because Vince was here.

 Chapter 113 - Shes Back!

    <h4>Chapter 113 - She''s Back!</h4>


    It was evening; Vincent is seated on a couch reviewing the contract from Davies Group while Tim is making a simple dinner for them, which the guy checked his phone frequently to reply to a message.


    "Timothy Cheng! I could hear every time your phone vibrates on the table." Vincent''s scold.


    Tim turned his head, and he awkwardly smiled at his boss. But he reasons out, "Boss, I am following Miss Hailey''s instructions to make your favorite beef teriyaki."


    Vince raised his head and watched Tim''s back. He put down the folder on the table and stood from the couch.


    Tim looked at his boss with worry. Beads of sweat form on his forehead, not from cooking but from fearing that his boss would get mad at him. ''What''s wrong with him now!?''


    Tim remained silent, watching his boss picks up his phone and casually browsing his WhatsApp and reads the messages he exchanges with Hailey. Afterward, his boss frowned.


    Vince red at Tim, then withdrew his gaze to read the messages once again. And he admitted. He is jealous that Hailey is busily texting Tim more than him.


    Anyway, he was exchanging messages with Hailey a while ago. But when he told her that he was reviewing the contract, Hailey said they would talk againter. He knew that she is only considerate of him. But still, he''s jealous.


    Vince puts back Tim''s phone on the table and says no words. He went back to the couch, resumed reading the contract.


    Tim sighed with relief. His boss is acting weirder since he falls in love. But why is he behaving like he was jealous of him?


    ''His girlfriends only worried about him!'' thought Tim and continue cooking.


    Meanwhile, Vince was already bothered because of his jealousy. He could not concentrate anymore, and so, he stopped reading.


    He sat up from the couch, then strides toward the veranda to opened the sliding door and breath some fresh air.


    From there, Vince scans the night skyline. It was clear, and he could see more stars above. He was living in the city his whole life, and so he could only see a night sky full of stars when going to the provinces, or he visited his cousins on the ind. And it''s one thing why he loves to sail out to the sea.


    But tonight, he misses Hailey badly. He wishes to watch these stars with her as he knew that Hailey had a great view of the night sky from the ind.


    Vince dialed Hailey''s mobile number. He waited for the call to connect and a sound of waves he heard in the background.


    "Hey! Have you eaten already?" Asked Hailey as she wondered why Vince was calling her when she knew Tim is currently making dinner while he is reading the contract. "What''s the matter?"


    "Nothing. I just missed you so bad." He groaned and heaved a sigh of frustration. "I want to see you soon."


    Hailey presses her eyelids, pushing back the tears that are forming on the corner of her eyes. She misses Vince too, even if it''s just a day had passed.


    "We''ll see each other after your visit there. I''ll be waiting." She said sincerely. Although she is tempted to tell Vince the truth, she had a few things to settle first, including his divorce.


    How could she introduce him to her dad when he is married to someone? Besides, that someone is Bryan''s girlfriend.


    Right now, she wanted everyone to focus on the development of the city rather than be distracted by private and personal issues.


    "Okay. I will go back to P Country as soon as I determine all the projects I have to work on," said Vince on the other line. Soon, his frustrating voice was reced with joy. "This afternoon, Mr. Wilson initially exined to me about my projects. And it shocked me! They give me the East part of the city to develop. It means my work here will take years!"


    "Great! Congrattions! I know you''ll do great!" Even though she''s the one who gives Vince this work, she''s genuinely happy for him.


    "Thank you. I wished you were here during my presentation," said Vince lovingly. His voice is like a mellow song in Hailey''s ear.


    However, guilt struck in her heart. ''I will be there!'' But she could not say this to Vince.


    "Then think of me that I was there." It is the onlyfort she could do at this moment. "Know that I believe in you and am so proud of you."


    And that''s enough for him at this time. He knew that Hailey was cheering for him. Besides, he wanted to give Hailey a good life. And the future he is dreaming of was by her side.


    "I love you, Hailey Hillson."


    "I love you too, Vincent Shen,"Hailey responded wholeheartedly.


    A few more sweet words they''ve exchanged, then Hailey urges Vince to eat some dinner now.


    And the moment Vince hung up the call, Keith approached her.


    "Princess, they are here."


    Hailey turned around and followed Keith to his vi, where Daisy merrily met the couple that had just arrived.


    *


    Vince is now preparing to bed. He sent Hailey a message to let her know. Hailey then replied and shared that her friends had arrived at the ind, and they had a wonderful dinner.


    Hailey shared a photo, and Vince drooled at the lobsters. Ah, he misses Hailey''s cooking!


    His dinner earlier is not bad. But still, it could notpare to all the dishes that Hailey prepared for him. Now thinking about it, his desire to go home sooner is growing inside his heart.


    Vince has just arrived in Australia, but he already wanted to go back to P Country to hold Hailey.


    "Just promised you would take care of yourself, okay?" Hailey reminded him.


    Vince replied and told Hailey the same. He is also worried about her.


    After exchanging messages for another hour, Vince has to sleep while Hailey''s timezone is slightly different.


    Hailey ces the phone and looks outside the window. She watches the nesnding and taking off.


    Hailey raised the wine ss and watched the red liquid.


    "Princess, everything is cleared. We are scheduled to take off half an hour from now." Captain Tom Morris, one of Hailey''s knights, reported regarding their status.


    "Great!" She smiled at Tom, who left to go back to the cockpit after their brief talk.


    She was now in her private jet, on standby in one of the runways in C City International Airport, just next to the domestic airport shended in earlier.


    Hailey leaned on her seat and closed her eyes. Her heart is aching for Vince. However, it''s not the perfect time for everyone to know, especially that Andre was there.


    Besides, Vince hasn''t signed the contract. He isn''t yet bound to work for her. But soon...


    When it is about time, Captain Morris made a gentle announcement that they were preparing for take-off.


    Hailey keenly watched the glimmering lights from a distance. The ne takes off sessfully, and they are now in the sky.


    The city lights dazzling before her eyes. She loves night flight to watch the earth when the rest are sleeping.


    Since they were crossing the ocean for several hours, Hailey went to thepartment of her private jet and changed her clothes into a nightgown, and took a nap.


    Two hours before they willnd in Australia, light knocks woke her up.


    "Princess, it''s about time..." Said a voice behind the door.


    "Alright. I''ll take a shower first," she replied.


    It only takes less than a half-hour; she finished her shower and got out of the room wearing a pink bathrobe.


    She sat down on a couch and picks up the teacup, and sips the coffee. Outside, the sun is gradually rising. Hailey snapped a photo of it before she gestures to her stylist team that is only waiting for hermand.


    One is blow-drying her hair, while two are giving her a pedicure and manicure.


    "Princess, white or ck?" Asked by her costume designer. He was holding a white dress in his right hand and a ck skirt on his left.


    Hailey carefully scanned the dresses and picked out the color after brief thought. She wore it and sat back on the couch. This time her stylist carefully tied her hair, and her dress designer showed her all the kinds of color of wigs.


    "I''ll go with silver purple this time," she said.


    "Contact Lens?"


    "Blue¡­" She picked out.


    Now she is ready, and her ne is about tond. Hailey carefully stared at her reflection in the mirror across her.


    The woman she sees is not Hailey Hillson nor Hailey Davies. It''s just simply a businesswoman who wasn''t revealing her true identity to her business partners and contractors.


    This is the typical her during her work mood.


    Hailey sat up from the couch, and in an instant, her stylist put the coat around her shoulder.


    The stairs have been down. She walks toward the door, and her eyes twinkled from delight.


    Ah, her ck Bugatti Voiture Noire!


    Hailey rushes to the car and walks around it. Ah, she missed this guy!


    Hailey pulled up the door and slid inside. Her eyes wandered, and she sighed with joy.


    She revived the engine and let it make a low noise for a minute.


    Meanwhile, on the rooftop of the Davies Building, where it has a garden, the executives, including Jacob, are already waiting for his daughter.


    "She''s good to go," said James while his eyes remain on his iPad to monitor Hailey''s speed.


    "The roadways are also cleared. Any minute, Hailey is good to go," Trevor added.


    Listening quietly on a single couch, Jacob poured himself another mug of brewed coffee. His facial expression is distorted. He is sulking because, instead of seeing him when her nended, his daughter rather than race her fastest car!


    This is one thing why he wanted his daughter to get married at an early age.


    ''Can someone scold this girl?'' Jacob frowned, constantly mumbling to himself. ''And these men are such brat as well!''


    They spoiled his daughter more than him! Although he is partly to me, he could not say no when his daughter is coaxing him to say yes!


    "Uncle Jacob, you want to watch?" asked Josh, waving a binocr on his left hand.


    Jacob curled his lips and re. He wanted to beat up these men for being a teaser! They never respect this old man!


    Their loyalty is always for his daughter. He should be happy. However, they would only spoil her more! And he feels like he''s going to die too soon, and he''s afraid no one can domain his daughter.


    "It''s about time!" Leo eximed excitedly which Jacob rolled his eyes in anticipation.

 Chapter 114 - La Merveille: OUR LEGACY

    <h4>Chapter 114 - La Merveille: OUR LEGACY</h4>


    Let me introduce myself once again.


    My name is Hailee Hillson Davies or known by the people close to me as Princess.


    When I was a little girl, I heard a story from my grandfather about his great-grandfather''s adventure.


    He is a royal heir of a throne, which country I would not mention. Anyway, his family is from a royal bloodline throughout Europe.


    Of course, Kings and Queens wanted to secure power, and marrying a prince or princess from another kingdom ismon.


    However, my grandfather''s great-grandpa falls in love with amoner. You are familiar with the rest of the story that the Royal family would never support the marriage.


    And so, my grandfather''s great-grandpa elopes with this beautifulmonerdy.


    They were hiding in a ship sailing to the big ind now known as Australia.


    He traveled and settled somewhere in the Northwest. And because he was smart and had a great understanding of Science, particrly in Biology and Anthropology, he studied the massive ind until he found a cave of gold.


    With trusted servants and friends, they mine the cave, and he hides his shares to profit in the future because he has a dream to build his kingdom.


    Then, he bes a great miner, and the family also bes a great jeweler.


    But my grandpa''s great-grandfather dreamed of building a city. But he didn''t fulfill his dream. He died inside the cave during an earthquake, and they were mining at that time.


    Well, the mining business passed to his son. And he''s wise more than his father. He started investing and putting up more business until he passed it on to my grandfather, and he built Davies Company.


    Then, before my grandfather died, he passed all the hidden treasures they found since my forefathers. By epting it, I found my dream. And that to fulfill my forefather''s dream to build a city.


    Dream City was initially named?La Merveille.


    But as I live in modern times now, I officially called it Dream City.


    As the sole heir of Davies Legacy, I offer my life to fulfill my forefather''s dream.


    La Merveille will officially open to the world, and it will be possible with the help of a genius architect I am looking for for several years.


    And today, Vincent finally and will be officially working for me. I am also thrilled to share my family''s legacy with him.


    I hope my forefathers would be proud of me. And I know they won''t mind if I choose Vincent to be part of their legacy. OUR LEGACY.


    Oh, well! Furthermore, I was a spoiled princess. I have countless men I relied on consistently.


    I have an Army of Knights standing behind me.


    Well, they are not carrying any swords, arrows, or spears but an iPad or MacBook in hand. They are working on my project. They run mypany. And just one call away, their sports car hovered toward me, wherever I am.


    Yes, I''m living a luxurious life. Everyone is pampering me, and they all loved me.


    However, life isn''t perfect. I was betrayed by the person I trusted most. I was ready to entrust my life to him. But he broke my heart.


    Anyway, sometimes, heartbreak is a blessing in disguise. I found the man I have been looking for! The architect I need!


    And by the mysterious force named LOVE... I fell in love with him.


    But things have beenplicated, like what I mentioned above. Life isn''t perfect. That is why the wordposed "WE HAVE TO WORK ON IT," and I will lend a hand for Vince to be worthy of me.


    Now, let''s run this city!


    *


    DAVIES GROUP BUILDING


    The boys are keenly observing Hailey in the distance. She is now steering the car from the Southern part of the city and making a left turn toward the West.


    "She''s slowing down," James announced.


    "What? Is she?" Josh queried.


    "Yes. She started too slow earlier," James exined.


    "Is that so?" Geoffrey mumbled; he carefully studied Hailey''s movement. "It looks the same to me."


    "No. She''s doing a hard right turn." Bryanmented.


    Everyone nced in his direction, and a few of them shared a nce at each other.


    Of course. He''s the one who first let Hailey drive a sports car! They thought of it at once.


    They continued to watch Hailey until she arrived in thepany after driving the entire city within fifteen minutes.


    Jacob sighed with relief when he heard the boys pping in the end. Now it''s just a matter of time for his daughter to climb to the rooftop.


    "Alright, prepared Hailey''s breakfast. Tom called me that she didn''t have breakfast yet."


    "I''m on it, uncle Jacob!"


    Josh, Kelvin, and Chester volunteered. The rooftop is not just for them to hang out. But it has room for them to make meals on their own.


    The kitchen hadplete appliances and the cabs filled with groceries, and the tworge refrigerators were a weekly stack with fresh meat, vegetables, and fruits.


    Chester and Kelvin studied culinary out of a hobby like Hailey. And the both of them knew Hailey''s favorite breakfast.


    Meanwhile, Hailey had already entered her office and walked straight to her Restroom.


    This room is not the typical bathroom with a tub. It was more likely her powder room and wardrobe.


    Hailey took off her silver purple wig and contact lens. Since she was on the top floor, she would not worry that the other employees, such as the secretaries, would see her. The top floor was divided in half.


    The east part where the CEO and the Chairman''s office, while on the west part are Bryan, Geoffrey, Leo, and Trevor''s offices.


    And no one could enter at the east offices as a Reception Counter guarded it. Only the executives are authorized to enter inside.


    From there, an elevator could bring them to the rooftop. And Hailey takes the lift and presses the button, Rooftop.


    Everyone anticipated when the elevator chimed, indicating that someone wasing out.


    Jacob sat up from his couch and rushed to the lift. He was standing in front of the door; he almost cried to see his beautiful daughter stepping out of the elevator.


    "Dad!" Hailey ran toward him, and they hugged while pushing the tears that were about to escape from their eyes.


    "Oh, my princess! Dad missed you so much!"


    "I missed you too, dad!"


    Jacob parted from his daughter. He studied Hailey''s face. Except for the teary eyes, his daughter is smiling sweetly like she was never broken-hearted.


    With this, he was relieved. It made him happy that his daughter had finally moved on.


    "Wee back, princess," Jacob said lovingly. There are more words he wanted to say, but the boys were already noisy behind him, and so, he let his daughter mingle with the men.


    "Princess, we''re happy to see you!" James eximed happily.


    "Hey, Hail! Happy to see you again!" Geoffrey opens his arms and wraps Hailey inside. He confessed, "I missed you so much!"


    Hailey smiled, patted Geoffrey''s back. She replied, "I missed everyone! And so I''m happy to see you guys."


    Geoffrey was disappointed with her response. But he could not disy his true feelings in front of everyone.


    Hailey and Geoffrey parted, and she also hugged everyone and exchanged words with them, except for Bryan. She could only nod at him and smiled.


    She stared at Bryan. Furthermore, she could tell that he was in difort. Also, Bryan looked like he hasn''t slept for several days. It must be something troubling him.


    "Princess!" Chester and Kelvin came out from the kitchen, carrying a tray filled with food. "Your favorite is here!"


    "Yum! I missed this!" Hailey excitedly took a seat and waited for the food to ce in front of her.


    Chester put the te of pancakes, toasted bread, blueberry jam, peanut butter, and more breakfast such as bacon, scrambled eggs with spices, while Geoffrey poured her a cup of coffee and Leo squeezed her a fresh orange juice.


    While everyone is merrily chatting with Hailey, seated on the corner, jealousy crept toward Bryan''s chest.


    He is supposed to be the one making Hailey''s breakfast and no one else.


    However, he has no rights anymore. Hailey appeared so distant. And of course, that was his fault why she is cold to him.


    It''s all because of his stupidity. And even he has the desire to convey his feelings toward her, but all of a sudden, he has no courage.


    Bryan could not help stare at Hailey with solemnity, which she is aware of with Bryan''s burning stare. For Bryan, Hailey is even looking lovely as time past.


    She seemed to look matured now but only toe to be more beautiful.


    Mulling over with all of these thoughts, Bryan could only sigh inwardly. He felt too frustrated at the moment.


    Hailey was just a few meters away from him, yet she is so far --for him to hold her and wrapped her inside his arms.

 Chapter 115 - Hes Only A Stranger Now

    <h4>Chapter 115 - He''s Only A Stranger Now</h4>


    Having a wonderful breakfast with everyone for the first time after a year, Hailey raised her head and looked at the boys.


    She honestly missed them badly, and she wanted to spend more time like before. But she can''t stay that long. She has to go back to P Country before Vince does. And she doesn''t know how to exin it to her dad.


    Hailey sighs inwardly. She needs a little more time before she confesses to her dad about the truth.


    Vincent isn''t divorced yet. What will her dad''s reaction once he learned that she had a rtionship with a married man?


    It was inappropriate even to say that Vince''s marriage is an arranged one and no physical nor love is involved in this marriage. Still, it''s bound legally by a paper.


    And she doesn''t want to see the disappointment in her dad''s eyes. She already made him worried. And she''s been a brat for a long time. Her dad isn''t getting younger anymore, so she wanted him to be happy.


    Hailey nced at her dad and mused, "Would dad be okay if I give him a grandkid?"


    Hailey bit her lower lip with this thought, suppressing the smile ying on her lips. She imagines how her dad faints once she suddenly announces the news.


    Bryan is keenly staring at her, and it didn''t hide to him how Hailey''s eyes flickered from joy and the smile on her lips.


    He doesn''t understand, but he had this feeling that that smile belongs to someone else. A sh of sadness passed his eyes, and it was the moment when Hailey lifted her gaze, and their eyes met.


    Hailey smiled faintly at him, then quickly withdrew her gaze. He is right. Her smile doesn''t belong to him anymore.


    Hailey presses her lips. She doesn''t understand, but it made her ufortable the way Bryan was staring at her.


    Why is he looking at her like that? Things are already over with them. He didn''t need to fake it that he is in love with her.


    Hailey tilted her head on the side to shrugged her thoughts regarding Bryan. dly, Geoffrey was talking to her, and her attention shifted toward him.


    Then, James mentions something that made her burst outughing. Everyone, including Bryan, stared at her with marvel.


    Seeing her bright smile made their eyes glimmer with delight. It made them happy that the Hailey they used to know wasughing once again.


    After her heartbreak, she rarely smiles, not see herugh. It seemed that the year she''s hiding from them helps her move on. If it''s true, then it was good news.


    Nothing they wish but to see her angelic innocent smile once again.


    Watching Hailey earnestly, Geoffrey didn''t leave his eyes on her.


    In these passing days, she always told him that she already gets over Bryan. And it looks like it was true.


    Hailey had to move on. Not only that, she deserves to be happy. She shouldn''t have been hurt in the first ce.


    She is kind and sweet to everyone. Until now, he doesn''t understand why Bryan cheats on Hailey.


    Among everyone, it was Bryan who dares!


    And he was always infuriated toward Bryan for the reason that he concealed his feelings for Hailey but gave up pursuing her just to let his two friends be happy.


    But then, Bryan betrayed them! He promised them not to make Hailey cry. But he ate what he said.


    Geoffrey has been shooting a dark re across the table. Bryan lifted his head and met Geoffrey''s sharp stares. They were shing gaze for a brief moment; Bryan was first withdrawn and turned his attention back to his food.


    Meanwhile, Hailey caught their shing gaze. Watching her two friends had this dispute made her sad. Although she could not put Geoffrey at fault, she''s partly to me too.


    Marrying Bryan, she is only half-hearted about it because her love for him is just for a brother, and she''s guilty of it.


    One year ago, she was stupid. After one year, shepletely understands how stupid she is.


    Now, she could not imagine giving herself to Bryan. How if she married Bryan in the end?


    Now she could not imagine herself giving to him. Now she is certain; she could not give herself to him willingly, like how she was to Vince.


    She loves him. And the feelings she has for him are not like others. Only Vince could entice her. She longs for his kisses and embraces.


    And all of these, she never felt from others yet. Not even Bryan, even after they are engaged. It''s only Vince she learns how to desire someone.


    Ah! Thinking about Vince made her cheeks pink. Suddenly, a naked Vince on top of her kissing her shes her mind.


    Shoot! This isn''t the time to lust about Vince!


    "Princess, are you alright?" asked Jacob after noticing his daughter''s cheeks are flushing red.


    Hailey knocks herself toe back to her sanity. She replied, "Yes, dad! I''m fine! I think the temperature is getting high."


    Jacob nodded and didn''t ask further. His daughter was smiling a lot now. That''s a relief for him.


    When Hailey said that she wanted to go somewhere to mend her broken heart, he could not protest and stop her from leaving.


    And in what he sees now, it does help her. His daughter''s eyes are gleaming again.


    "I''m d that you are back, Princess." sincerely Jacob said to his daughter.


    Hailey smiled sweetly. She moves closer to her dad and ces her arms around his waist. "I missed you so much, dad."


    "I do too, Princess."


    After a merry breakfast, they all move to her office, seated on the oval table to deliver a report to Hailey one by one.


    So far, no major problem happens except the ident that urs in the South construction site.


    Bryan sat up from his seat and walked toward Hailey. He ces two folders in front of her.


    "This is my report regarding the ident. If you have questions after you review my report, I will answer them."


    Hailey nodded at Bryan without casting a nce at him. She took one folder and flipped it open. She begins to read the documents when she notices that Bryan remains standing next to her.


    She lifted her head and smiled awkwardly at Bryan. She needs to say something.


    "I''ll summon you after I reviewed your report."


    Bryan blinks twice before he understands what Hailey told him. She is dismissing him, and she didn''t even say his name, which was the opposite in the past.


    Hailey would endlessly shriek his name up to a hundred times a day, either on the phone.


    Bryan pursed his lips into a bitter smile, hiding his emotion clouding his head. The rejection Hailey showing to him made his heart shattered into pieces.


    Right now, he is just a mere employee to her. The warm rtionship they used to share isn''t there anymore but reced with a treatment for strangers.


    This is what he is feeling at the moment. The way Hailey treated him couldpare to a stranger.


    How painful it is. He is only a stranger to her now.


    The scene that everyone witnessed made them speechless.


    They are keenly observing Hailey and Bryan. And the scene they saw made them haveplex feelings.


    They weren''t sure whether to feel pity orugh at Bryan after Hailey only showed a casual treatment of him.


    But what to expect? If we''re them to decide, Bryan shouldn''t be here any longer. Each of them is willing to do more work to help Hailey run herpany.


    Everyone was in their thoughts when a mobile phone chimed in. They strictly made a rule that no one should turn on their mobile phone while having a meeting.


    However, the phone that keeps ringing is from Hailey. Everyone shared a nce with the question on their heads.


    "Who''s that?"

 Chapter 116 - He Would Not Disagree

    <h4>Chapter 116 - He Would Not Disagree</h4>


    The men keenly eyed Hailey with curiosity. Not only that, their forehead curled up with confusion.


    ''Who could be this person?''


    They were intrigued as the song Hailey uses a ringtone to this person is a Love Song, contrary to what she prefers, the rock songs from her favorite band.


    "That''s all for today. I will talk to each one of you regarding your reports," said Hailey. She then picks up her cellphone and excuses herself. "I need to answer this."


    Jacob, who is seated across from his daughter, is observing her intently. And everyone saw that glint in her eyes upon walking away.


    The men rendered speechlessly. They were shocked that Hailey just dismissed them like that.


    It was the first time she did this during their meetings; even Kelly, Candice, or Faith called her. She will return the call after their discussion.


    But this time, she hurried to answer a call.


    The men, including Jacob, curiously nce in Hailey''s direction. She went to her desk but remained standing near her ss window and talking in a low voice to whoever was on the other line.


    "Hey, how was it? Are you ready?"


    It was what they heard. Although they are used to hearing her sweet voice, this time, the warmth in it is like no other.


    Hailey is gazing out at the building across her office. Her lips parted into a broad smile when she recognized the man on the second floor of the cafeteria.


    Although she could not see his handsome face because she was on a higher floor, his silhouette is undeniable that it was him; and her heart is saying it so.


    Meanwhile, the more they eavesdrop, the more Hailey''s voice getting sweeter.


    Jacob swept his eyes to the men in front of him; it is too evident that everyone listened to his daughter''s conversation.


    "Ahem!" Jacob pretended to cough. Once he clears his throat, he utters. "Lunch is served. You boys, go ahead. I will have lunch with Hailey here in the office, so ask the chefs to deliver our food. I''ll see you all during the presentation."


    Jacob sat up from his chair and walked toward the door. The men had no more reason to stay in the President''s office but followed the chairman.


    Hailey was immersed in talking on the other line. She turned her head after hearing the door closing in. She realizes that everyone finally leaves. She sighed with relief and sat in her chair.


    "So, did you have lunch now? It was noon."


    Vince replied, "Yes. Tim volunteered to get our food, so I have a chance to make this call."


    "Ah. Tim''s sry should have a raise soon. He''s doing a great jobtely," she suggested.


    "Hm... I might do that." Vince chuckled, and he also heard Hailey''s sweetugh.


    Listening to her giggles, a desire crept in his chest. He wanted to kiss her and hug her to seek strength.


    "Good luck with your presentation," said Hailey afterward.


    "Thank you. I know you are cheering for me, so I am fine now."


    "You are very talented, Vince. They will surely be impressed by you." Hailey told Vince with sincerity in her voice.


    It was the moment that the door opened. The person who wanted to step inside retreated and listen further. But Hailey''s voice was getting inaudible, soon unable to understand it anymore, and so, this person decided to shut the door.


    A few more exchanging sweet words, Vince has to hang up the call as Tim returns with a tray full of food.


    "I''ll get you a bottled water, boss," said Tim, who quickly left before his boss could answer.


    Vince shook his head. Hailey was right. Tim deserves to raise his sry as he did more things than was supposed to be his job.


    Back in Hailey''s office, she heard soft knocks. She raised her head to see the person entering the door.


    "Princess, our food is here! Let''s eat!"


    "Okay, dad!" Hailey sat up from her chair and strode toward the coffee table where the food was arranged.


    Seated across from each other, Jacob was ecstatic to ask a few questions, and Hailey answered them carefully. She''s d that her dad didn''t ask difficult questions that she has no answer to.


    "I heard that the DV Gems is expanding its shops. Congrattions, Princess."


    "Thank you, dad! Our business partners have been bringing up about it these past months, so I have to leave soon, dad."


    Jacob remains silent. He wanted to protest but maybe letting his daughter working on her otherpany is a big help for her to move onpletely.


    Hailey was smiling, and the glow in her eyes never disappeared. In the end, Jacob nodded as a response. He would not insist anymore for his daughter to remain in Australia.


    Davies-Varghese Jewelry is Hailey''s ornamentspany based in Dubai with the partnership of Kelly Varghese.


    Kelly is the President and the head designer of their jewelry industry. In this passing year, they started to ept personalized designs by their wealthy clients, and their business partners wanted to expand worldwide.


    Aside from Davies Group, his daughter Hailey is a self-made millionaire. If she wanted to focus on her jewelry business, he wouldn''t stop her from leaving again.


    "Don''t forget to call me at least so that I wouldn''t worry a lot. Okay?"


    Hailey smiled at his dad. She replied, "I''ll frequently call you dad, and that''s for sure!"


    She could do that since Vince will often stay in Australia, and so she will be alone in the penthouse most of the time.


    "Dad, I am also working on the hiring process for our hotels, restaurants, and mall service crews. I already found the best workers, so I''m going to visit the country myself to look for a trusted agency to work with."


    "Hmm... Are you going alone?"


    "Tom will be there, and Keith Cole!" she answered.


    Jacob raises his head. He creases his forehead, indicating that he was trying to remember something. "Isn''t President Vincent Shen from the country where Keith lives?"


    "Yeah! What a coincidence! I''m asking his wife''s father to introduce me to a trusted agency. He is a Congressman, so he knew which legal agency we could partner with." Hailey was very careful exining not to mention unnecessary information about P Country.


    "Okay. If you think that we could hire a world-ss crew from there, then up to you, Princess."


    "Yes! I already made an investigation, dad! I assured you their training is world-ss." She sighs with relief. It made her happy that her dad didn''t ask further like the type of him.


    In the past, she needed the boys to help so that her dad would not ask so many questions.


    On the other hand, Jacob keeps nodding while listening to his daughter. He could not make any remark, but joy filled his heart.


    Seeing his daughter was this happy, he could not stop her ns but trust her; as long as she enjoyed whatever she''s working on at the moment, he would not disagree with her ns.


    Even though his daughter was in the process of mending her broken heart, she never stops fulfilling her dreams.


    Jacob stretches his arm to reach Hailey''s hand. He said, "I''m so proud of you, Princess."


    "Thank you, dad." Hailey quickly hid the guilt that shed in her eyes as her heart sighed.


    ''Dad, I''m sorry. I hope you''ll forgive your daughter once you learn the truth.''


    She prayed for things to be okay soon.


    *


    By the afternoon, Hailey was a little uneasy. She was keenly watching down below of her building as cars one by one arrived.


    Finally, it is about time for Vincent''s presentation. At the moment, Vince and Tim were setting up the Conference Room with the help of Helen and Maine.


    Vincent shook his head, watching his assistant cing folders on the tables when the two secretaries are glued around Tim.


    But Vincent was pretty relieved that these women are taking a distance from him. His life is much easier in that way.


    He doesn''t want to deal with any women who attempt to flirt with him while working on his projects here in Dream City. Besides, he doesn''t want Hailey to get jealous or misunderstood anything.


    At the moment, Tim was inside in a cooking pressure instead as he had to treat the two women politely.


    If he didn''t meet his childhood sweetheart yesterday, he wouldn''t be this tense but have the enthusiasts flirting with women mindlessly.


    Everything is ready. It is only a matter of time, and the executives, along with the Board of Investors, had all arrived.


    "Jacob, is it true that Hailey came back already?"


    Vincent raised his head upon hearing the conversation with the chairman and a group of middle-aged men. If he heard correctly, they were talking about the chairman''s daughter.


    ''So the Lady Boss is here?!''


    But one thing intrigued him. Is the Lady Boss'' name is Hailey as well?


    Vince shrugged his curiosity. There are thousands of Hailey in the world. He thought to himself and observed further. He then found out that few of these Board of Investors are the executive''s fathers.


    And so, Vince mumbled to himself...


    ''So, they are not just a bunch of an All-Men Executive or employees of Davies Group. They are also a co-owner of Dream City.''

 Chapter 117 - Introduce Him To My Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 117 - Introduce Him To My Daughter</h4>


    Inside her office, Hailey was a little restless. Vince''s presentation has finallye. It was funny that she was the nervous one for Vince when his presentation was for her.


    It was crazy indeed. Hailey chuckled and shook her head. She calmed down and prayed that the investors wouldn''t look for a fault in his designter after his presentation.


    As she already saw his design, she likes the entire nning and outputs, but even though it was perfect for her, others will throw criticisms at Vincentter.


    Even though she knew that Vincent is used to this concept, still, it made her anxious and the worried one here.


    Anyway, she would understand if the investors will try to find fault in Vince''s ns. They are risking their investments here, and they want a profit, not a disaster.


    Hailey takes a long breath. She was seated on the sofa, facing the wall with a giant t-screen to watch Vince''s presentation.


    She poured herself a coffee and sipped on the mug. Her gaze lifted when her office filled with Vince''s voice. It was husky and full of confidence, not to mention he was too handsome in his silver suit.


    A sweet smile lingering her lips to see a cheerful Vince delivering his presentation.


    He first introduced himself and Tim. Before he moved to his presentation, he yed a short video regarding thetest projects that Shen Group worked on.


    In the video''s opening, two modern towers stood majestically in a bay surrounded by yachts and sailing boats.


    Instantly, Hailey''s face flushed upon recognizing the sight of the penthouse. It is the ce where she and Vince make love.


    She didn''t see iting. Even she was alone in the room, her cheeks burning from shyness, remembering the nights she and Vince shared a bed.


    And it worsens when the Crescent penthouse next appeared in the video. She could say it was her and Vince''s haven where everything began.


    And it didn''t just end there. Her mouth dropped open when Vince included the new building he constructed at M Resort. Not only that, he has to show the reception during their ss Reunion.


    The screen is filled with white and ck roses like there is a wedding at the moment. And it was when she and Vince danced!


    dly, the video focuses on the flower decorations, and the couple dancing in the middle of the dance floor was blurry.


    If it happens, it will reveal her rtionship with Vince!


    "What is he doing?"


    Vince''s opening presentation is more like a recollection of beautiful memories they both shared. Now she understood what Vince said to her earlier.


    "I am fine because you are my smile."


    Hailey dried her eyes. The video was beautiful. And what disys next is the new mall of Metro City, the Metro Garden, followed by the hotel that Vince designed that connected to the mall and several residential skyscrapers in Metro City and several parts of P Country.


    Vince also highlighted the use of E-transport. Vince is likely showing his vision for Dream City.


    He could restore an ancient building or build a modern one.


    Hailey wished to see everyone''s faces. Just watching the video, Vince already received apuse.


    She wipes the beads of tears that formed in the corner of her eyes. Happiness filled her chest as emotion flooded her heart. She was too proud of him.


    The video continues, and it disys the International projects Vince worked on before. And those present in the presentation had already been impressed by what they have seen so far.


    Vince now began his presentation. Hailey glued her eyes on the screen and didn''t blink.


    How many times did her heart skip its beat? She couldn''t count anymore as she was drawn to his charm.


    Vince bes more handsome in her eyes. The way he speaks and exins things, she can''t take her eyes away but is drawn to his charisma.


    She was d that she decided toe and watch his presentation today. She witnessed the other side of Vince.


    Vince received apuse at the end of his presentation. And the look on their faces, everyone seemed satisfied.


    The investors began whispering to each other. Vince patiently waits for their viewpoint and criticism, which he already prepared himself for that.


    Meanwhile, Hailey''s heart filled with anticipation. Her business partners have now begun querying Vince. dly, he answered them with full enthusiasm.


    "Hail, do you have any questions?"


    Hailey heard Geoffrey on the other line. She replied, "Nothing. It was perfect."


    Geoffrey and Josh shared a nce. This is the only presentation that Hailey didn''t ask anything. In the past, she prepared a hundred questions to throw at the contractors.


    But Hailey immediately approved the Shen Group presentation.


    "What''s the matter?" Trevor leaned over and asked Josh.


    Josh shrugged his right shoulder. "The Princess approved it."


    "Oh. That fast? Does she have no questions or anything?"


    Geoffrey shook his head. He took off the earpiece in his ear and spoke. "The presentation was indeed excellent. But she always has questions to shoot."


    "But nothing this time, huh?" Leo chimed in. The men shared a nce and nodded.


    "Mr. Shen!" Kelvin raised a hand and sat up from his chair.


    Hailey, keenly watching what was happening in the conference hall, her eyes widened, and her jaw dropped on the floor.


    "What are they doing!?" Hailey stresses out.


    The men start throwing questions at Vince. Even so, it didn''t make Vince lost cool. He answered calmly with a thin smile ying on his lips.


    He exined further and shared more of his ideas.


    "If anyone has more questions, I actually love to discuss it with your female boss. I wish I could personally share my vision with her regarding Dream City."


    Everyone fell silent. And each of them knew the restrictions. No outsider knew who Hailey was, and so no one permitted them to meet her.


    Among the crowd, Jacob pursed his lips into a grin. He likes Vincent''s attitude.


    No one saw iting. Someone made the boys shut up! It was the first time it happened. Jacob held not to taunt the boys.


    He understood why these men are suddenly throwing obvious questions. As usual, they were overprotective of the princess.


    Once they saw someone as a threat to their territory, they were like lions setting a barrier at the potential enemy or rival.


    Admiringly, Vincent Shen knew how to hold his grounds and that not to feel threatened. He would roar back.


    ''Wait... He said he has a wife. But he didn''t confirm he is married. How if he is single? Maybe I could introduce him to my daughter?'' Jacob thought to himself. But then, he shook his head. ''Ah! I promised I wouldn''t meddle any more with my daughter''s love life and marriage.''

 Chapter 118 - Is She Mad?

    <h4>Chapter 118 - Is She Mad?</h4>


    Since the room suddenly fell into an awkward silence, Jacob coughs and clears his throat.


    "Mr. Shen, so far, I was impressed with all of your designs throughout the world. I have talked to my daughter, and as she describes to me, she loved the transformation you did in Metro City. She is highly optimistic in working with you."


    Jacob added, "You can approach me for further discussion regarding all of your projects here in Dream City. I would love to hear more of your vision."


    Vincent sighs with relief. dly, he was able to impress the chairman and his daughter. It was all that mattered in this meeting.


    "Thank you, Chairman Davies. It''s a pleasure to work with you, sir."


    Jacob pursed his lips, not to broader his smile. But the truth is, he was happy that someone reprimands the men! He is actually in the mood to make fun of them, but he has to act appropriately in front of the Shen Group CEO.


    "Geoffrey, I want everyone in my office. Now!"


    Geoffrey froze. It shocked him to hear Hailey''s firm tone from the other line. Ever since before, he never heard Hailey talk fiercely at any of them. Even those times she confronted Bryan, she didn''t raise her voice but cry helplessly.


    It seems that something has changed with her after all, thought Geoffrey. He nced at the other men, who also heard her request, and now everyone was stunned.


    They excused themselves from the meeting and rushed to the door.


    Tim nced at his boss. They both are confused about what is going on. If not for James to approach Vince and whisper something to him, he would start to worry that his presentation has failed.


    "Don''t worry, man. The boss is calling us. It must be to discuss with something." She never did this before! James added to his head.


    Vince nodded and watched the men''s receding back.


    At the CEO''s office, the men knock on the door before they step inside. They saw Hailey leaned on her desk, her back facing them.


    "Hail... You want to ry a message for Mr. Shen?"


    Hailey turned around; her arms crossed above her chest, which surprised them to see how displeased she is.


    ''Is she mad? But why?'' They thought inwardly at once.


    "What was that?" asked Hailey with a firm tone. She looked disappointed.


    Then men rendered speechlessly¡ªan indescribable emotion flooded their heads staring at her beautiful but annoyed face. For the first time, they received scolding from thedy boss.


    Although it confused them if what wrong they did that causes her anger, no one dared to speak but listen to her chiding.


    "I already give my approval!" Hailey mmed her hand on the table. "And I already said that I am done running an investigation regarding the Shen Group! They meet my expectation of what development I want for Dream City!"


    "Hail, we just wanted to know more of Mr. Shen''s capability." Geoffrey attempts to exin, but he closed his mouth when Hailey frowned.


    She narrowed her gaze as her expression darkened. At that moment, they realized that the Hailey they knew their whole life had changed.


    She stared at the men one by one. Afterward, she opens a drawer and takes out a silver folder from a drawer, then drops it on her desk that creates a loud noise.


    "This is a separate contract I made myself for the Shen Group. I put all of his projects there. Make him sign it and handed him the hundred billion dors I funded for the East District," said Hailey with a sneer.


    No one from the boysmented or disagreed with her decision. Leo walked forward and took the folder to review it. Furthermore, Hailey signed it already, which is rare. She does only if the documents were for those who knew her in person.


    Leo''s mouth opens but closes it again. He has a question, but he could not dare. He was still in a daze, witnessing Hailey''s anger. But she is only acted as their true boss


    Her authority is the voice in thispany. No one could question that.


    The men came back to the Conference Hall with the contract Hailey made herself.


    Jacob gestures at James toe forward. "What happens, James?"


    The guy parted his lips with an awkward smile. He answered, "The boss scolded us all."


    Jacob nodded and waved his hand, dismissing James. He nced at the men who were discussing with low voices in the corner.


    ''Huh! Serves you right!'' It made him happy that his daughter finally became mature! Now she learned how to dominates the men as the real boss of herpany! And not because they spoiled her.


    In his mind, he was poking fun at them.


    Geoffrey approached Vince and invited him to a private room inside the Conference Hall.


    Geoffrey, Leo, and Trevor showed the new contract and discussed it.


    Vincent rendered speechless listening to the three men. It dazes him to look at the part where it mentioned how much the Shen Group got for the East District Construction.


    In the separate contract, it exins what projects he has to design and construct after. And it amazes him to be trusted like this.


    His desire to meet the female boss grew even greater. He wanted to meet her to thank her personally.


    "What do you think, Mr. Shen?" asked Leo.


    Vince blinked then pursed his lips. What can he say? It was absolutely incredible!


    Where could you find an opportunity like this? There''s none in the world!


    100 BILLION U.S. DOLLAR PROJECTS? Wow!


    "Honestly, I was okay with the first contract. And this? It''s even better!"


    "Then, we will finalize the contract, and let us set a perfect day for the signing and..." Geoffrey paused when he heard Hailey spoke from the other line.


    "I want now, Geoffrey," Hailey insisted.


    "Um... Okay. Well, as you can see... Our boss hopes that you could sign this contract today. She already signs it. If you want to review further, we are just outside."


    Vince nodded at the three men. Once they are gone, Tim rushes to his side.


    "Boss! I thought we would have a problem. It was the contrary!"


    Vince concurred, "You are right, Tim. I was even confused why the treatment? I mean? Read this amount they are giving us. Not to mention they wanted me to sign it right now."


    Tim leaned on the table and almost passed out after he saw the numbers.

 Chapter 119 - Signing The Contract

    <h4>Chapter 119 - Signing The Contract</h4>


    Vince carefully read the contract once again. He sees no problem with it. Instead, he is overwhelmed at the moment.


    "There are no suspicious uses in the contract, right boss?" Asked Tim, who is anxious, standing next to him.


    "No. Everything is good." Vince replied. He read further, flipping more pages until he reached thest page.


    His eyes glued on the bottom of the contract, particrly on the CEO''s name and signature.


    "HAILEE H. DAVIES"


    ''So that''s her name.'' Vince mumbled to himself. Indeed, it''s the same name as his Hailey has.


    But there are hundreds of thousand Hailey or Hailee in the world, Vince reasoned out to himself.


    He pulled out his phone and dialed his dad''s number. He shared about the contract, and Fred Shen is shocked.


    "Come again, son? Do I hear it correct?" Fred asked over again. He is getting older, and it concerns him if his ear is still working correctly. "One hundred billion US dors?"


    "Yes, dad. Our project would be the entire East of the city; aside from the tower, it includes Dream City University, DC Stadium, and a Shopping Center with streets of restaurants and cafes. Not only that, but I will also work on the canals around it, dad."


    "Canals? Like the one in Paris and Italy? But where the water came from?" asked Fred with curiosity in his voice. Everything that he heard from his son overwhelmed him but constructing channels in a dessert could be possible?


    "Mr. Wilson exins to me that the water will be from the water dam. They are constructing two dams at the moment and will finish one soon."


    "Then there''s not a problem. Water distribution is essential even to isted towns."


    "Yes, dad. I''m going to drive around here to survey the whole ce myself. I''ve decided to sign the contract, dad." Vince dered.


    "You knew better than me at this time, Vincent. I know you will never disappoint the Shen Group."


    "Of course, dad. I will call you again to discuss further regarding our new projects."


    "Alright, son. Again, congrattions," said Fred from the other line.


    He pondered that Vincent''s life is doing great. His sess has soared ever since he pursued architecture and became the President of Shen Group.


    His son proves that he deserves the seat. And once again, Vincent breakthroughs another victory in his career. Now the only thing he hasn''t had is to own a family.


    He has a wife, but she is nowhere to be found. Now he is even trying to be a wife. What he had instead is a mistress who was more like a real wife. His son needs to take care of that matter, though Fred.


    "Thanks, dad. Anyway, they are waiting for me. I have to hang up now. Bye." Vincent ended the call; he put his phone back into his pocket.


    Once again, he scanned the contract in his hand and fixed his eyes on the name next to his. Vince takes out his pen inside his coat pocket.


    ''Hundred Billion Dors? Let''s do this!'' That is what is on his mind while scribing his pen on the paper and ces his signature above his name.


    Vincent didn''t know that this contract binds him to stay within Hailey''s grip.


    In the hall, Jacob has been curious about what is happening. He approaches Geoffrey and urges the men to exin what is going on.


    "Where is Mr. Shen, Geoffrey?" he asked the men.


    "Uncle Jacob, he was still inside to have time reviewing the contract."


    "Contract? Haven''t you already handed him the contract to review it ahead?"


    "Yes, Uncle Jacob. However, Hailey made a separate contract, and she insists for Mr. Shen to sign it today."


    "Oh. I see." Is my daughter acting impulsively even more? Why is she anxious? Jacob mused. A glint of worry formed in the back of his head, but he knew that his daughter was certain this time. And he noticed the joy in her eyes when they discussed the Shen Group yesterday. She has no doubts.


    While they were waiting for Vincent toe out from the private room, the investors leisurely had tea and snacks. From time to time, they are shifting their conversation to the Shen Group.


    Ever since Vincent showed them his international designs that are famous today, they were thrilled to see the tower soon to be built in the city.


    They were enthralled to be part of the history holding the title, the best city in the world and the tallest building can visit here.


    Meanwhile, there is one particr person who remained silent among these men. Bryan couldn''t forget what happened earlier when Hailey summoned them and then scolded them afterward.


    Today, he saw a different Hailey, which made him proud. However, this fact also made him sad because, finally, that little girl has grown mature.


    Although he always misses the old Hailey, however, he is not part of her life anymore. It always made him sad.


    Every night, it ys on his mind how Hailey doesn''t need him anymore, scaring him. But he messed up and broke her heart and trust.


    Bryan heaves a sad sigh. He lifted his gaze when the door from the private room opened, and Vincent Shen stepped out.


    Vince approached Geoffrey and told the guy, "Mr. Wilson, it was an honor for the Shen Group to work with you. Thank you for trusting me with these overwhelming projects. I won''t disappoint you, as I am bound to work on even the impossible."


    "Then I presumed you already signed the contract?"?Geoffrey''s response, he epts the folder Vince handed back to him.


    He scanned thest page and saw Vincent Shen''s signature. Geoffrey furrowed his brow.


    ''Why am I jealous seeing Hailey''s name was next to some other guy''s name?''


    Geoffrey tilted his head and shrugged his crazy thought. It is just a contract between a client and a contractor. He reasons out to himself.


    Geoffrey curled his lips into a warm smile and extended his hand.


    "Wee to Davies Group, Mr. Shen. Let us make history to the world!"


    The hall was now filled with apuse and congrattions.


    On the other line, Hailey talks to James. "Tell dad that we should throw a weing dinner tomorrow night after the official signing of the whole contract."


    "Copy, Princess." James'' response. He approached the older man and rid Hailey''s message.


    Jacob walked toward Vincent, shook his hand, and patted his shoulder.


    "Wee to Davies Group, Mr. Shen. Officially, you are part of our team! Tomorrow, thepany will have a wee dinner for you. Let us seal our partnership."


    "Thank you, Chairman Davies. I have been dreaming of contributing my ideas to this city. Thank you for the opportunity you have given me. I am keen on my projects, and so I''ll warn you ahead that I won''t be shy to trouble you."


    "No problem! The door in my office is always open," said Jacob, whose voice is full of delight.


    Hailey''s Knights shared a nce. The chairman seemed to grow fond of Vincent Shen.


    They are musing inwardly, ''He isn''t like this toward the other firm, except his old acquaintances, and those men are old geezers!''

 Chapter 120 - Teasing Eva

    <h4>Chapter 120 - Teasing Eva</h4>


    It''s already dark outside when they exited thepany. The moment they arrived at their apartment, Vincent dropped his body to the sofa.


    He thought that his presentation today would fail. But what happens instead is the contrary of his expectations. He got the biggest funds from all of the firms that signed a contract with Davies!


    Until now, he was overwhelmed with all that happened earlier.


    "Boss, here is your water."


    "Thanks." Vincent took the bottled water from Tim. He opened the cap and drank the rest of the content; finally, it quenched his thirst.


    "Boss, I will grill some fish tonight." Tim dered while he scanned the fridge. There is a grilling appliance down below their floor. It excites him to be the first one to use it.


    "Okay," said Vince timidly. He leaned back and picked up his phone from the table. He patiently waited for the call to be picked up, but Hailey wasn''t answering.


    Meanwhile, Hailey was fidgeting in her seat. Vince is calling, but she was driving her car at the moment, and she was connected to a group video call on WhatsApp.


    They were on the road, headed to Derby City, and she is racing with the men to have dinner with Andre.


    ''I''m sorry, Vince. I''ll call you very soon!''


    Vince attempted twice, but his call just ended after a specific time. He wondered why Hailey didn''t pick up her phone.


    But then he answered his own question. He guessed Hailey was with her friends, and they must be on the beach.


    He types on his phone, leaving Hailey a message. She instantly saw it when it disyed on her upper screen.


    Hailey stepped on the elerator and trotted her car in the stillness of the evening. But it''s okay; they were still in the suburban areas.


    She nced at her rearview mirror. The men are following behind, letting her lead them. But of course, she won''t let them think that they only gave her a favor.


    "Hail, you are going too fast." Geoffrey reminded her.


    "Alright. Let''s maintain this speed," she told the men.


    When they were closer to the city, Hailey reduced her speed until they reached the Davies private port where her yacht docked.


    Her eyes gleam upon seeing her baby. She parked her car and got out, waving at the man standing at the boardingdder.


    "Andre!" She runs toward him and throws her arms around his waist. Andre, on the other hand, his arms wide open for a warm embrace.


    "Hey, youngdy! You''re finally here!" Andre gives her a tight hug. He has been so worried about her.


    In these passing months, he couldn''t be able to go home and talk to her and Bryan. But in what he sees, Hailey had been smiling brightly.


    ''Maybe it was true that she is already moving on.'' Andre mused inwardly.


    "Let''s go. Dinner is almost ready," he said afterward.


    "What''s for supper?" Hailey asked Andre, gripping her hands around Andre''s elbow.


    He replied, "Of course, you''re favorite."


    When they all boarded, Chester steered the wheel and brought the yacht to a deeper part of the gulf.


    Hailey climbed to the upper deck, and her eyes traveled to this familiar shore. She breathes the sea breeze, filling her lungs before she releases them.


    Metro City is surrounded by sea and rivers, and she considers it her second home. But Australia is different because she was born and grew up here. She will always miss her homnd.


    "Hey, it''s time to eat," Andre called her from the lower deck.


    She peeped out from the upper deck and replied, "Alright,ing! I''ll need to return a call first," she told Andre, pointing her phone.


    Andre nodded; he strode toward the men who started drinking. Hailey shook her head, but her heart filled with joy.


    It was like the old times; although there are some changes, nothing she wished from here on is to restore the broken friendship, at least.


    Hailey replied to Vince''s message. Soon, he was calling her.


    "Hi!"


    "How was your day?" asked Vince from the other line.


    "It was great!" She answered, then she asked back. "How about you?"


    "It was great as well. I''m so d they were happy with my presentation."


    "I told you, you''ll do great!"


    Vince groaned; he uttered, "But I wished you were here."


    Hailey heaves a sighed. She wishes that too!


    If only she could spend her night with Vince instead of the boys.


    "I wish it too, Vince," Hailey replied. Her heart filled with longing for him. "But we will see each other soon!"


    "Yes. After I finish preparing the n for the groundbreaking, I will go back to Metro City to take care of everything for my projects here."


    "Okay. I''ll wait by then," she replied.


    When their conversation gets sentimental, Hailey changes the topic and makes it a lively one to conceal their longing for each other.


    "I''m so happy that you are now officially a part of Davies''s projects."


    "Yes. I can''t believe it till now. Yesterday was like a dream, but today? Wow! I''m finally here!"


    "I''m d too." That was a whisper.


    "Hm? Did you say anything?" asked Vince.


    "Ah, the sunset is too beautiful." Herme excuse.


    Hailey pushed her lips into a smile. Indeed it was like yesterday, and now, with Vince''s help, she will aplish her dream to fulfill her forefather''s legacy.


    Meanwhile, the men are now merrily chatting at the dining table near the pool. Their voices are getting louder. She''s afraid that Vince would hear them; Haileyes down thedder and heads to a quieter room where the noise cannot hear.


    Then she heard Tim announcing that dinner is ready. She asked, "What''s your dinner?"


    "Tim is grilling a fish for our dinner."


    "Great! I''m d. Don''t forget to eat on time and eat healthier food, okay?"


    "Aye, my dear wife."


    Hailey''s heart skips a beat upon hearing Vince saying this phrase. Her chest filled with joy as she could not suppress the overwhelming emotion that flooded her heart.


    "Okay, hubby. Go and eat now." She muttered lovingly that made Vince smile broader.


    Vince was thinking that if Hailey is standing in front of him, he already kisses her.


    "Alright. Can I message youter?" He is hoping to exchange messages before he goes to bed.


    "Of course!" Hailey chuckled as to how cute Vince sounded. He didn''t need to ask permission, but she understood him. He considers that she was catching up with good old friends.


    "I love you, Vincent Shen."


    "I love you too, my wifey."


    Vince already ends the call, but she remains to stare at her phone with a sweet smile across her face.


    But then, the door opens, and it surprised her to see Bryan. On the other hand, the guy was surprised to see her as well.


    Bryan was holding his phone near his ear, he was talking with someone at the moment, but he froze upon seeing her.


    "Bryan, why are you not answering me?"


    Bryan sighed and replied, "I will call you again tomorrow. I have a dinner meeting."


    "But you said that you would see me tomorrow!"


    "I can''t. There is an important event in thepany tomorrow. I''ll see you when my hands aren''t full."


    "Bullshit! You always reason out that!"


    Bryan was annoyed listening to Eva''s shrieking voice. He tempts to curse but not in Hailey''s presence. "I''ll hang up now."


    "No. You cant!"


    Bryan gapes at Hailey earnestly as she is walking toward him. But she only passed him and got out of the door.


    "I''m hungry. I''ll hang up now," he told Evazily. His voice sounded how tired he is.


    Hailey was just a few steps away. She turned around and looked at Bryan with a smile.


    She said, "Bryan, dinner is ready. Let''s go."


    After saying this, Hailey turned around and resumed walking toward the pool area of her yacht.


    "Whos that girl, Bryan?" Asked Eva on the other line.


    No reply from Bryan; Eva fretted. "That was her! You are with her. So this is the reason why you cannot visit me here in Sydney! You bullshit!"


    Eva exploded in anger when Bryan hang up the call and didn''t answer back to her. She screamed and threw her phone.

 Chapter 121 - Loving Hailey

    <h4>Chapter 121 - Loving Hailey</h4>


    At the table, everyone turned their heads when Hailey showed up in the pool area, and Bryan was walking just behind her.


    A few of the men shared a nce, but Geoffrey darkened his face, gritted his teeth, and shot a re at Bryan.


    ''Did something happen?'' It was what was ying on his head.


    Hailey was unaware of the tension between the men; she rushed to the table with delight, then seated between Andre and Geoffrey.


    "Ah, my favorite lobster!" she eximed.


    "Here, I know you were like in heaven to eat a lobster." Andre ced the tter of lobster with fried potatoes, carrots, broli, and spices around it.


    "Thanks, Andre!" She was ecstatic that she dined with everyone again. Although few of the knights weren''t here, she is happy tonight.


    While Hailey heartily ate her food, Geoffrey, who was silent on her other side, poured her a ss of champagne.


    Hailey raised her head and smiled at him. He opens his mouth to ask her about something, but it''s not the perfect time yet.


    Frowning, he draws his ss close to his mouth and gulps half of the champagne. Geoffrey red at Bryan, who was eating quietly across the table but could notice how bright his face was.


    Geoffrey wondered if Bryan and Hailey had talked. But he knew that they didn''t. It''s just that he is worried that Bryan might try to coax Hailey, and she would give in.


    He witnesses how Hailey relies on Bryan, and he also sees how Bryan would do everything for her. Could there be a second chance in their rtionship?


    Ah. He is torturing his own heart. Geoffrey shook his head and emptied his ss.


    The meal is lovely andsts for hours. Wine, champagne, brandy, vored vodka are all scattered on the table as the men continue drinking.


    Later on, Hailey received a text from Vince. Tonight, Geoffrey and Bryan are not the only men that are paying attention to Hailey. It includes James, Trevor, and Kelvin, who is constantly checking on her.


    Tonight, she was sweetlyughing as she joined the conversation. And so, they notice when her attention focuses on her phone, and there is a glint in her eyes while replying to the text she receives constantly.


    Vince has been texting her, and she casually replied to his messages. She notices the states that are eyeing in her direction. So then, she would ce her phone on the table and pretend to pay attention to their conversation.


    Bryan was drinking alone on the corner. He chooses to separate from everyone so that he could watch Hailey from there. Leaning on the yacht railings, Bryan emptied the vored vodka in his hand.


    When Hailey called him by his name for the first time after a long time, he couldn''t hold his heart to cry from joy. He has been missing to hear her voice saying his name. And the only chances he has are his dreams, which he has woken up empty.


    In this passing year that he attempts to talk to her, she only ignores his call until she changes her contact number, which only a few people know.


    It hurts him. But he has no right to feel it so.


    Bryan hurls a long breath. He looked up and gazed out at the night sky. What a beautiful night. How he wishes it would always be this way, but he knew more than anyone that his Calvary was just worsened.


    He wants to run from it, but if an innocent life involves, how could he? At least, he should be a man.


    Bryan dropped his shoulders upon thinking about it. His head has been throbbing since this morning, and the way it pounded, he''s going crazy.


    "Alright, everyone! You all have work tomorrow! Don''t drink too much tonight, okay?" Andre''s reminders.


    It''s gettingte; Andrea and Hailey will go home to Davies mansion here in Derby City while the men will stay overnight in the yacht.


    "Andre, why don''t you stay? I''ll go home alone."


    "Hail? But..."


    "I''m not that drunk yet. Besides, I will only drive slowly. I promise. James can monitor my speed. How was that?"


    She knew that this night should be only an all-men bonding night. Honestly, it made her happy that the men didn''t raise a protest to include Bryan in tonight''s wee dinner for her. Since it came to this, then it is a perfect time that everyone gets along again.


    "But I won''t be in peace if..." Andre wanted to insist, but Hailey interrupted him.


    "I''ll call you if I arrive home. Dad is waiting for me."


    "Okay." Andre didn''t argue anymore. "Call me when you arrived home or anything, okay?"


    "Yes, I will!" she assured him. Hailey hugged Andre once more before she slid on her car. "Have a good night with the boys, okay?"


    "Yeah. Be careful driving!"


    "Yup!"


    Andre keeps an eye on the leaving car with a worried look on his face. But he should not have forgotten that she is an adult now. He knew that Hailey wanted to stand on her own.


    But sometimes, it misses him that little girl who would tail them around all the time. Since she chooses to travel alone and study abroad, it gives him anxiety. And he still is.


    He thought that if Hailey marries Bryan, he could finally breathe. But what happens instead, Hailey had brokenhearted.


    Bryan is the first person he trusted. He could not believe he is the one who would taint that trust.


    But until now, he doesn''t understand. Bryan loves Hailey. Why did he cheat on her?


    Andre lifted his gaze and looked at Bryan, who watched Hailey depart from the upper deck. He seemed to have feelings for Hailey until now.


    How if Bryan persuades Hailey? Would he support it?


    Andre shook his head. He climbs the boardingdder and goes to his room on this yacht. When he was about to join the men in the pool, he noticed that Bryan was leaving.


    "Hey, Bryan! Where are you going!" dly, he catches him up before he could trot his car from the parking lot.


    Bryan rolled down the window; there was a bitter smile across his face. "I just wanted to make sure she is home safely."


    "This is not going to work, Bryan."


    "I can''t sleep if I don''t make sure she''s home." Bryan reasons out. His eyes are pleading at Andre.


    Andre exhales furiously. "Damn it, Bryan!"


    Andre held himself not to throw a fuss. Among everyone, he knew how Bryan cares for Hailey. And it irritates him that Bryan keeps showing how he cares for her until now, but he didn''t carefully think before he breaks her heart!


    "Why don''t you just get over her as to how she already gets over you!"


    "Am I that transparent?" he asked Andre. Bryan''s gaze is getting somber as his eyes are wearing his heart. "I know I screwed up, Andre. I fucked up my life, and it''s getting even messier than before."


    "I''m d you know how a fool you are." Andre snaps him.


    "I am." Bryan smiled bitterly. "I promised I''ll only follow her in silence. The usual..."


    Andre didn''t reply nor give his permission, but he stepped backward. It was the sign that he let Bryan follow Hailey.


    "Andre! Where is Bryan going?" Geoffrey queried as he was approaching him. He noticed that Bryan disappeared, and so he looked for him and this what he saw.


    "He has something to do. He''lle back." Andre replied, patting Geoffrey''s back, hinting him to go back in the yacht.


    "No. He will follow Hailey!"


    "Geoffrey..."


    "Why did you let him?"


    Andre stared at him. He knew that Geoffrey likes Hailey. But he also knew that Bryan and Hailey have no final closure.


    "Maybe this is the perfect time they will talk to have a closure." Andre voices out his thoughts.


    Geoffrey tightens his jaw, clenching both of his fists on his sides. He dered afterward, "I will follow Hailey as well."


    "Geoffrey, just let them talk."


    "Andre, have you forgotten what Bryan did to Hailey?"


    "I didn''t, but I know they need a talk. Come on. I''m shirtless. It''s cold out here."


    Geoffrey was too frustrated. But he couldn''t go against Andre''s decision.


    Who is he to meddle Hailey''s love life? He is just somebody to her, who is secretly in love with her.


    Meanwhile, Hailey is approaching the mansion''s gate when a car takes over and blocks her way.


    She rolled down her window and asked the guy with a rough tone.


    "What are you doing here?"


    "Hail, can we talk?" Bryan''s eyes were begging at her.


    "If you have something to say, then do it tomorrow. I have a few things to ask you regarding the ident and the wounded workers," she told Bryan tly.


    Bryan''s shoulders dropped on his sides when her voice was too cold this time. It was too different earlier.


    "It cannot wait tomorrow." He is persistent, and he will be. Bryan has decided.


    "I am tired, Bryan. I want to go to bed soon." Hailey''s eyes shifted to her phone. Vince is calling her! But what Bryan said next stunned her.


    "I want you back."

 Chapter 122 - I Was Belonged To Someone Else

    <h4>Chapter 122 - I Was Belonged To Someone Else</h4>


    "I want you back."


    His words still echoing inside her head, but in her heart, she doesn''t love Bryan the way she loves Vince. However, he is someone important to her, the reason she could drive Bryan away.


    Until now, still painful that their friendship has shattered.


    However, friendship would not seed in working a marriage. It should be love between two people whose heart is beating as one.


    Hailey looks outside the window of her bedroom as her head pulls back what happened earlier.


    *


    "You''re kidding me, Bryan," Hailey scoffs after a long silence.


    "I''m serious, Hail."


    Hailey looked up and met Bryan''s eyes. She could see how intense his gaze at her. However, it didn''t move her.


    "Do you think everything is just like that!?" she snaps at him.


    Bryan softens his gaze. He knows it isn''t, but he is determined to ask Hailey''s forgiveness.


    "You have every right to get angry at me. After what I did, it is your right to get furious. But I can''t live like this, Hail. I want you back."


    Hailey red at Bryan after he repeated his quote. At this moment, she felt ludicrous that it rendered her speechless. Bryan seemed to have lost a screw in his head.


    They broke up. And everything about them is already in the past. The only reason she has to keep him around is because of the projects and the decades of friendship they have¡ªnothing else.


    She muttered, "It iste of night, Bryan. There''s no use joking around."


    Hailey''s car moves forward, but Bryan remains gripping his hands on her car window.


    "I''m not joking, Hail. You don''t know how my life bes in hell without you!"


    "And why is it my concern?" she snorted, uninterested in hearing further whatever Bryan has in store.


    Bryan remained silent for a moment. He immersed himself gaping at Hailey''s face longingly. She isn''t looking in his direction, and so, he could only stare at half the side of her beautiful face.


    He lifted his left arm and caressed her face with his cold fingers. But when she felt his touch, a thousand bolts of disgust exploded in every part of her body.


    Hailey quickly ps Bryan''s hand and yells at him. "What are you doing, Bryan!?"


    That startles her. She may get used to hug Bryan mindlessly or sit on hisp without malice in the past. But now she realizes that it was inappropriate. Even though he is her fianc¨¦, she didn''t consider Bryan as a boyfriend but only a future husband.


    What is the difference by then? Honestly, she couldn''t differentiate, and she didn''t think of him as one aside from a marriage of convenience because she knew him all her life. But now, there is something wrong with their rtionship back then.


    Her love for him is brotherly, and so she thought it was okay to do that. But in Vince''s case, she was in love with him. No... She falls for him, which is why they have such intimacy, and she didn''t feel disgusted.


    Mulling over, she isn''t acted as a properdy around Bryan. Could it be that her action leads to something that Bryan couldn''t handle alone?


    They said men are men.


    In the past, she isn''t concerned about it because she isn''t physically attracted to him, and she grew up that he was around, so she isfortable with his presence.


    But since she got close to Vincent, she learned different emotions to the point that it confuses her. Until she felt that she bes attracted to him, and she began having desires for her opposite sex.


    And now Bryan wants her to go back to him? It was a crazy idea.


    There''s no use in going back to him when she had no feelings for him at all.


    "Hail... Give me a chance to fix everything." He begged, and Hailey gets annoyed with his persistence.


    She nced at Bryan. She smiled bitterly and said, "There''s no need Bryan. Instead of fixing something, you should rather wake up. Eva is not the right woman for you. However, I will note back to you."


    "Please, I''m in no hurry! I''ll be waiting until you think about it! If you said yes, but you are not ready to forgive me yet, then I am willing to wait as long as you are giving me another chance."


    Hailey pursed her mouth. After seconds to ponder, she parted her lips into a sneer.


    "You don''t need to wait, Bryan. I''ll answer you now. I was serious when I said I would note back to you. The love I have for you is only a brotherly love. And surely, what you''ve missed is thefort of friendship that we shared in these passing years. I do feel the same way. So it hurts me that our friendship has to end. But maybe it is for the best."


    "But to me, I don''t love you like a sister!"


    "Then why did you cheated on me!?" she shouted back. The back of her head began throbbing, and irritation grew in her heart. "Anyway, Eva is your long-time girlfriend. It is not difficult for her to win you back. But Bryan, she isn''t the one for you."


    "That is why I want you back. And what happens in the past is a misunderstanding."


    "I don''t need to repeat myself, Bryan." Misunderstanding? What the heck! It''s the same excuse he told me before! Hailey stressed out while Bryan spoke up.


    "I don''t love her. Do you understand that?"


    "Then find someone else." Her suggestion.


    "But it has to be you!" Bryan insisted. He would not give up wooing Hailey.


    He knew why she was rejecting him. He broke her heart and trust. That is something not easy to restore.


    He added, "In the very beginning, it is already my fault. I thought the feelings that grow inside my heart would disappear after I try to date different women and fall in love with someone. But I am only fooling myself. I tried to conceal my feelings, but I always go back to you."


    "Eva... I have only been using her since the beginning of our rtionship. I thought I would fall in love with her, or I could forget my feelings for you because of her. But it didn''t happen. Our rtionship never works out even now. She hates you because she could feel that you are in the way in our rtionship, and it was true."


    Hailey doesn''t want to believe Bryan, but why does she still trust his words? But it will not help to change her feelings for him.


    "Do you try to change your heart because you feel that I only love you as a brother?" Hailey asked him afterward. "Then why do you propose to me, Bryan?"


    There is a bitter smile contorted on the corner of his mouth. Bryan heaves a long sigh and releases them with gloominess.


    "I thought that I could make you fall in love with me once we''ve be husband and wife."


    Hailey pursed her lips into a thin smile; she replied, "Then I should thank Eva for stealing you from me."


    Bryan searches something from her face, and she is serious when she says that. His heart sank. "What do you mean by that, Hail?"


    "We might only get a divorce in the end, and worse, Imitted infidelity."


    Bryan still didn''t understand; he asked, "Why do you say that? Is this your way to discourage me and to hurt me? You can punish me. I will ept it as long as you let us have another chance to start over!"


    "I''m sorry, Bryan, but I belonged to someone else. Between you and me is impossible."


    He closes his eyes and presses his eyelids. Hailey''s words are like lightning swords that strike his chest, gradually slicing his heart into parts.


    "Who is he?" He asked with a firm tone.


    "It''s not important for you to know." Hailey snaps.


    "Is he the one you talk to on the phone?"


    Hailey red at Bryan. She tried to rack her head as to how many times she talks to Vince today and where.


    Her heart is beating rapidly upon remembering their conversation at the yacht. She mentioned his full name!


    "I talk to several people on the phone. And why are you eavesdropping on me?" She furrowed her brows and looked at Bryan with a hateful gaze.


    The way Hailey looking at Bryan crushed him, and his heart filled with sadness. ''She does change a lot.''


    He lowered his head and spoke with a low voice, "I didn''t mean to eavesdrop. It just happens that I overheard you this morning when I bring over the medical records of the wounded workers."


    Hailey remains silent. She pondered if Bryan heard the part when she uttered Vince''s name. But there are a hundred of thousands who had a name, Vince.


    Not long, Bryan answered Hailey''s questions to herself.


    "You mentioned the name, Vince. Is that his name? Where did you meet him? Is he trusted?" Now Bryan asked her a series of questions.


    Annoyed at Bryan, she mouthed, "Bryan, you seem forgotten."


    Bryan creased his forehead as his eyes filled with confusion. "Hail..."


    "Let''s make it clear, Bryan. You have no right to question me ever again." It''s not like before that you have every right in me because you are my brother! But Hailey didn''t voice out and kept it to herself instead. Bryan knew this already.


    "Hail..." Bryan wanted to persuade her, but the gate of the mansion opened.


    "Princess! Why aren''t youing in yet?" A worried Jacob appeared behind the giant gate. Then his gaze shifted to Bryan. "It''ste, Bryan. You can go back now."


    He could feel the tension between his daughter and the guy. If ever he didn''t know yet, he would question him.


    But he was used to Bryan''s habit. He is making sure that Hailey is home safely. And tonight is no different.


    And it annoys him that Bryan is still acting as if he cares for his daughter.


    "Let''s go, Princess," said Jacob. He didn''t wait for either his daughter or Bryan could reply to him; he marched toward the gate where his bodyguards were ready to beat up anyone if someone attempted to get inside. But the fence that surrounds here is a few meters high, with tight security and CCTV scattered around.


    On the other hand, Hailey sighs with relief upon seeing her dad walking out of the gate. She is grateful that she was saved from Bryan, interrogating her and pressuring her to answer him who Vince is.


    *


    Hailey came back to her senses. She shrugged the unnecessary emotions lingering on her chest and decided to go to her bed and slid in the quilt and tucked inside.


    She touched the space and mumbled...


    "I missed you, Vince."

 Chapter 123 - Beautiful Memories (One)

    <h4>Chapter 123 - Beautiful Memories (One)</h4>


    He was staring at the giant gate with gloominess. Now that it was tightly close, Bryan strode toward his car and sat at the passenger seat. He closes his eyes and massages the line between his brow.


    Still, his talk with Hailey didn''t be fruitful. Instead, Hailey is pushing him away even further.


    Rather than going back to the yacht, Bryan drove his car headed to Dream City. When he arrives at his apartment, he throws his car keys and cellphone on the sofa and marches straight to his cold bedroom.


    He dropped his body on the bed and ced his arm on top of his eyes.


    Hailey still hated him. She didn''t forgive him till now. And the only thing that she''s trying to be nice to him is their professional rtionship as a boss and employee.


    He can''t question her anger. He causes this all, But he could not ept that Hailey is seeing someone!


    Hailey admitted that she had a boyfriend. And she even considers herself that she''s belonged to him.


    Who is that guy? He wants to know who he is and if that man is serious about Hailey.


    How was he able to make Hailey like him? Is Hailey in love with him? How is Hailey only doing this to take revenge on him?


    Does this guy is serious about her? Does he even know how to make her happy?


    Ah! He''s going crazy having all of these thoughts.


    Bryan drags his body off his bed to get a shower and cool off his head. However, all he could think about is Hailey.


    He wanted to take this opportunity to persuade her while she was in Australia, thought Bryan.


    Under the rushing water, he keeps pondering how he could win Hailey back. As he was racking his head, he was drifting to his beautiful memories.


    *


    His back had just touched the bed, but he immediately fell asleep. Bryan guessed that it had been just one hour since he fell asleep, but now he was woken up by the loud chime of his phone.


    He dragged his body to get up and search for his phone. He forgot that it was inside his jacket he threw on the floor the moment he stepped inside his bedroom.


    Bryan swipes the button and rubs his eyes to see the person on the other line.


    "Happy Birthday, Bryan! Hey, I woke you up so that I''ll be the first person to greet you!"


    Watching his phone''s screen, Bryan couldn''t help a chuckle. He just arrived from the US, and he ns to take a nap before he drives to the Davies mansion the moment the sun rises in the east.


    He ns to surprise this girl even if he has a birthday today. And at the moment, it was now past midnight, and this girl woke him up to greet him.


    "Bryan! I made you a cake and an apple pie! Guess what! Grandma finally allowed me to make an apple pie without her help!"


    "Wait, are you still cooking until now?" He noticed the boys in the background.


    Hailey replied to him, "Yes, I am! Look, I was still in the kitchen!"


    Hailey moved around; he frowned upon what he saw. Heins, "You bake for me but someone who has the first taste."


    "Eh! But I need a few hands! Hehe..." Hailey snicker and then put out a tongue on him. "Why don''t youe over and have a try with the apple pie? It will be done soon!"


    Then, Hailey showed Bryan the apple pie slowly baking inside the oven.


    "Alright! I''ll be there in half-hour!" He dered.


    The video call ended; Bryan rushed to the bathroom and took a quick shower. He was running the stairs when his mom, Tina Anderson, heard the noises.


    "Bryan, where are you going?"


    "I''m going over to the mansion, ma. Hailey made a cake for me, ma!"


    Tina''s eyes twinkled. She widened her smile and uttered, "Alright. Be careful driving."


    "Yes, mom!" Bryan replied, the door now swallowed him.


    Tina shook her head and went downstairs to lock the door. She''s already used to Bryan leaving the house any time, any day, to go to the Davies mansion.


    Not long, he was now driving the quiet road toward the countryside to one of Davies''s mansion.


    Davies has two mansions, and the third one is currently constructed in Perth City. Not only that, Davies had several vis around Australia. And the one he headed to is the main mansion located in the countryside of Sydney.


    After half an hour, Bryan now drove his car inside the mansion. The guards quickly open the gate upon recognizing his vehicle.


    But he wondered why the front mansion and the patio were dark. Or maybe because everyone was in the kitchen, Bryan mused.


    He shrugged the thought as she climbed the stairs. He pushes the door open, then blinding lights meet his eyes.


    "Happy Birthday, Bryan!"


    He was surprised by the loud explosion. He was wee by party decors, and almost all of his close friends are present. Bryan sweeps his eyes to the mansion. The entryway was decorated with ck, red, and gold balloons.


    And the person rushing toward him is a 17 years old youngdy he hadn''t seen for several months.


    "Happy birthday, Bryan!" Hailey threw her arms around Bryan''s neck and nted a kiss on his cheek.


    He immediately ced his hands on her back to catch her body.


    Bryan sighed inwardly, shook his head, and shrugs the wild thoughts in his head. ''This girl wasn''t thinking! She is a youngdy now as her body had developed perfectly. But she is still acting like a little girl. She is turning 18 soon!''


    He stressed out, heaving a sigh inwardly one more time before he pursed his lips into a broad smile.


    "Hey, youngdy! Thank you! What a surprise! Is this your idea, right?" He asked, which he already knew the answer to his question.


    "Yup! But of course, I need the boys to help!" She answered with a massive grin across her face.

 Chapter 124 - Beautiful Memories (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 124 - Beautiful Memories (Two)</h4>


    Bryan gapes at this beautifuldy inside his arms. He is tempted to caress her smooth skin but looking at her eyes twinkled from innocence; there''s a knife stabbing his heart. His guilt and conscience.


    He presses his mouth, tightening his jaw. He let go of Hailey and mess up her hair instead.


    Deep down inside, he is fighting against the monster that grows stronger every time he sees her. Bryan numbed his head from crazy thoughts. The boys greetings him with a happy birthday, which helps to avert his attention to something else.


    It was one in the morning, but the table in the dining hall was filled with different cuisine. After eating the food they prepared, the boys start drinking.


    "Andre, can I have a taste of that?" Hailey asked while her palms sped together and her chin rested above it.


    Andre and Geoffrey look at each other. Hailey was still a minor. Even if it says she''ll be eighteen soon, still she''s a baby for them.


    "No, you can''t," said Andre, then he ponders for a moment. "I''ll go and check the Bar if it has something with very low alcohol or none at all."


    Hearing this, Hailey''s eyes sparks. She smiled broadly, and her face lit up. She looks at Bryan, "Thanks, Bryan!"


    "What are you talking about? I should be the one to thank you for throwing a birthday party for me."


    "And I permitted you to drink." Andre chimed in before he left the dining hall.


    Bryan chuckled while Hailey giggled. He messed up her hair once again.


    "Hey!" Hailey pushes Bryan''s hand.


    But he continued messing up her hair. Hailey got annoyed; she held both of his wrists then pinned his arms behind his back.


    Bryan''s jaw dropped on the floor, but his eyes spark from what she did.


    "You are my prisoner now!" Hailey dered cheerily. She had no idea the effect it would cause Bryan.


    The poor guy is in a daze. But Bryan did his best to knock himself back into his senses and calm himself down.


    ''She''s just a naive spoiled princess.'' Bryan muttered it like a prayer repeatedly.


    Hailey would always give him surprises for his birthday, the reason he took a flight home.


    He wants to surprise this girl. But he didn''t know; he was still the one to be surprised. Once again, this girl made his birthday perfect.


    To distract himself, he keeps chatting with Hailey while his hand is tied to the dining chair.


    "By the way, how did you know I''m home for my birthday?"


    Hailey only smiled sweetly at him. She giggled and said, "It''s a secret!"


    He frowned, "Hey! I want to know!"


    "What happened?" asked Andre. He was shocked to see Bryan tied on his chair.


    Hailey and Bryan looked at each other and then burst outughing. Andre was confused, but he knew how closed these two.


    He raised his hands and waved the two bottles of red wine with only five percent alcohol in his hand.


    "Is that for me!?" Hailey eximed, forgetting to untie Bryan''s hands.


    "I''ll make you a cocktail drink," Andre said. Later, Geoffrey joins them carrying a pitcher with fresh oranges that he squeezes in the kitchen.


    The rest of the boys move to the other side of the long table and join them. They help to mix Hailey''s soft drinks, mixing more fruit fresh juices.


    When it''s done, she''s very excited to try it out. Although it is tasted a lot more fruit juices, she was fascinated with the mixed color on her ss.


    "Umm... I love it!" She eximed happily. Finally, she was allowed to drink!


    Everyone is fascinated to make their cocktail drinks, but they use the liquor with higher alcohol until they didn''t notice that Hailey got drunk.


    Trailing down the hallway, Andre is walking ahead, while Bryan is following behind with Hailey in his arms.


    "She had a low tolerance of alcohol. Don''t forget to watch her when she goes out with her ssmates. Might they sneak in and go to drinking parties," Bryan warned Andre.


    Being told like this, Andre frowned. He is the uncle here and knew better than this bastard who is iming as the best brother in the world.


    Andre scratches the back of his head and nces at Geoffrey, who followed them behind. "Heard that, Geoffrey? I''ll start my training soon. You''ll take in charge to watch Hailey."


    Geoffrey made a salute with a massive grin in his mouth. Andre ignored him as they were now in front of Hailey''s bedroom. He opened the door, and Bryan made a careful step and ced Hailey on the bed.


    "We need to call the maids to change her into pajamas," said Bryan.


    Geoffrey walked toward the telephone and phoned the servant''s quarter, requesting two of Hailey''s attendants.


    Meanwhile, Andre went to the bathroom and got a damped face towel. He gives it to Bryan, and the guy carefully patted the cloth on Hailey''s face.


    "I''m going back to the US tomorrow night. Make sure that you guys are watching her."


    Andre and Geoffrey shared a nce. Andre furrowed his brows while Geoffrey knitted between his eyebrows; both are stressing out inwardly.


    ''Who is he? The father who is going on a business trip and telling everyone to watch his daughter?!''


    Both Andre and Geoffrey rolled their eyes and got out of the room when the two attendants wereing in. Well, they knew he is the most overprotective one.


    "Bryan, don''t go!" Hailey held his hand when he got up from the bed.


    He sat back and told Hailey, "Your attendants are here. They will change your clothes."


    "But you wille back?"


    "You need to sleep after you change into a pajama."


    "Don''t go yet!"


    Bryan peered at her pleading eyes. Using his thumb, he rubbed her cheek and smiled, nodding at Hailey. "Okay. I will be outside. I''lle back after you change clothes."


    After he made a promise, Hailey just let go of his hand.


    "Okay. Don''t you dare to leave?" She mumbled with droopy eyes.


    Bryan nodded and smiled before he gets out of her bedroom.

 Chapter 125 - Beautiful Memories (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 125 - Beautiful Memories (Three)</h4>


    After the attendants change Hailey''s clothes, Bryan is back in the room as he promised.


    "Now, it''s time for you to sleep, Princess," Bryan said; he sat on the bed. He extends his arm and brushes her hair using his fingers.


    Hailey was drunk, but she doesn''t want to sleep yet. She looked at Bryan and smiled.


    "Bryan, are you happy?" she asked out of the whim.


    Bryan blinks several times as he pondered how he would answer her question in careful words. Later then, he nodded and replied with cheer.


    "I am! Thank you for making my birthday, as always, a special one."


    "I''m d." She giggled and acted cutely. She pulled up her quilt above her head and hid underneath. Later, she peeped out and asked, "Would you stay until I fall asleep?"


    "Of course. I will sit here until you fall asleep," Bryan promised. He turned off the rest of the light in the bedroom except the tablemp.


    Bryan takes an ent chair and ces it near the bed. Wandering his eyes, he noticed the magazine on the bedside table.


    When he flips the cover, he found out that it is a book bind, and the photos inside are about different designs of skyscrapers, hotels, resorts, etc.


    From the look of the magazine, it was personalized-made for her. Bryan lifted his gaze and met Hailey''s eyes. She crawled closer, putting a pillow on the edge of her bed, and shey on her stomach.


    "What do you think, Bryan?" She asked sleepily, looking down at the pictures.


    Bryan continues flipping more pages. He asked, "Hm. Why are you collecting these?"


    "Because I will build my city!" she eximed excitedly.


    "Oh. You need my help?"


    Hailey''s dreamy eyes now open wide. "Really? But you aren''t an architect."


    "Silly. I''m not an architect, but I am an engineering student. Besides, I have beenpleting my degree in my AB course."


    "Are you serious!?"


    "And when did I ever joke on you about something?" Bryan chuckled and messed up her hair.


    "So we will build my city? Then Grandpa would be happy!" she almost jumped in delight.


    Bryan raised his right hand. "Yes. I''ll swear to his grave I will help you fulfill building your city."


    Hailey sat up and said with full of enthusiasm. "I will ask everyone if they wanted to take part as well!"


    She was about to get off her bed when Bryan stopped her. "You can ask them tomorrow. They were drunk already. Now, you should go back to bed."


    "Okay." She obediently listens; shey still on the bed this time. She didn''t notice when Bryan frowned for a moment.


    He hated that every time, he had topete with the other men. Although he is the closest one to her, she had everyone''s back who was always willing to lend a hand.


    He is happy, of course. But most of the time, he has topete with her attention. Bryan was contemting when he heard Hailey giggled.


    He knocks on her head. "What''s funny were you thinking right now, huh?"


    Hailey answered with honesty, "I''m just too excited, Bryan!"


    He chuckled. He stretched his arm and pulled her nose. "Then study very well, okay?"


    "Yes, I will! And I''ll work harder and learn everything I need to know to run apany! Like, dad!"


    "Uncle Jacob would be so proud of you," he whispered and ced a kiss on Hailey''s forehead.


    "I want him to be proud of me, yes," she mumbled.


    "Then, you need to sleep now."


    Hailey nodded and closed her eyes. But just a few minutes had passed; Bryan was confused when she suddenly sat up and looked like she forgot something.


    "I almost forget!"


    "What is it?" Bryan is anxiously waiting.


    "I thought you wouldn''t be home today, and so I promise a friend to watch him race."


    Hearing Hailey refers to a guy, Bryan''s brows twitching upward. "What do you mean promising him?"


    "I... He... He asked me if I can be his girlfriend." she bit her lip, nervous to tell Bryan about it.


    "What!?"


    "Don''t be angry! I told him I would think about it. And I will give my answer today."


    "And?" His voice is entirely irritated. He knew that sooner orter, men are lining up to date this girl. But those men don''t deserve her! He knew what they were after. "Where did the race take ce?"


    "Are you going toe with me?"


    "Yes." Good thing Hailey hasn''t noticed his firm tone.


    "Okay! I''m d you are here! I know dad would not permit me, so I haven''t told him yet, and I don''t know how to ask him."


    Bryan grinned. As of this moment, an idea came to his mind. "Don''t worry. I''ll talk to your dad."


    "Ah! Thank you, Bryan!"


    Guilt struck his chest. This girl has no idea what evil he was plotting. ''Someone must watch her closely!''


    "Alright. What time will the race be?" Bryan asked in a casual tone, not for Hailey being suspicious.


    "It will be in this afternoon, and so I could still sleep more hours." She repliedzily as sleep pulled her off.


    Soon, her breathing is deep and steady. Now that Hailey was asleep, Bryan need not hide his anger. He clenched both of his fists while his face darkened.


    Who dares to ask Hailey for a date? He''ll show that guy he is hoping for an impossible dream!


    *


    The following day, Hailey woke up past ten in the morning. After she gets a shower and changes clothes, she runs toward the grand kitchen.


    "Bryan!"


    The guy was in front of the stove, preparing Hailey''s breakfast, and it surprised him when she jumped on his back.


    If it''s not for his reflex, either he could catch Hailey, or the slotted turner would hit on her.


    "You should be careful!" It shocked him, at the same time, fear for Hailey to get hurt, and so, he didn''t control to raise his voice.


    Hailey was startled, a frightening sh in her eyes, and he suddenly felt sorry. He didn''t mean to raise his voice. ''But she''s very reckless!''


    "I''m sorry." He apologized. "I was only surprised and afraid you get to burn. Don''t do that again, okay?"


    Hailey shook her head, then lowered her gaze. "Not anymore. I''m sorry if I surprised you."


    "Alright. Sit now. Breakfast is ready." Hebed her hair and ced a kiss on her forehead.


    "Okay!" She ran toward the dining table and behaved in her seat.


    Bryan chuckled and shook his head. He ced the tters on the table and began filling her te. After that, he made her fresh orange juice.


    "Bryan, where is everyone? Did they haven''t woken up yet?"


    "Well, not yet. They have drunk until sunrise, so those men would only wake up in the afternoon."


    "Hmm... Okay," she mumbled, biting the buttered-toasted bread.


    "Do you want to discuss what we talked aboutst night?"


    Hailey creased her forehead. "Aboutst night? What we talked aboutst night?"


    Bryan froze for a moment and pondered. ''Did she forget about our promise of building her dream city? It looks like this girl should not get drunk if she didn''t know who she was with!''


    "Okay! I will tell you what we talked aboutst night. But you have to promise me one thing."


    "Wait, did I do somethingst night?" What happenedst night!? Did she get drunk? Then? Hailey stared at Bryan with anticipation.


    "Nothing. Don''t worry. But you have forgotten what happenedst night, is it?" he asked. He continued after Hailey nodded at him. "Now, promised me you would never drink if yourpany were not the boys."


    "Oh. Is that all? Okay! No problem!" She sighed with relief. In this case, she swears to herself not to get drunk again!


    Bryan smiled. It amused him watching how her face wrenching with worry. She looks cute.


    "Okay. Now eat. We are meeting your suitor, right?"


    Hailey lifted her head, and her eyes widened. All of a sudden, panic crept into your chest. Did she tell Bryan about Kian? That wasn''t cool! Argh!


    She was drunkst night! Although she needs someone to go with so that her dad will give his permission to watch a race today. But not about her suitor!


    "Don''t tell me you forget that too?" Bryan teased her.


    She nodded shyly. Now her cheeks are flushing pink.


    "Okay. Just promise me you will not drink outside without the boys or Kelly. Besides, you are still a minor."


    She nodded in agreement. "Then, what else I saidst night?"


    Bryan recalled the magazine he saw in her bedroom and the promise they made to build her city together.


    "Is that true? Are you going to help me?" Excitement overwhelms her chest.


    "Uh-huh? Who else would help you? It''s a great investment. I''ll ask mom, to give me her assets in advance."


    Building apany with Hailey is now his dream. It would be great if he could stay by her side forever.


    "Okay! Then what will be your position in mypany?"


    "Well, you will be thepany''s President so, I will be the Vice President. How about it?"


    "That would be great, Bryan!"


    "What is this all about?" Asked the guy who marched toward the table and picked up a toasted bread.


    "Good morning, Geoffrey! We have a meeting today!"


    "I didn''t make that for you!" Bryanins; he ps Geoffrey''s hand.


    He frowned, then get himself a mug and poured a brewed coffee.


    "Hmm? About what?" asked Geoffrey. He takes the seat across Bryan.


    "I will build my ownpany!" It was Hailey who answered. She is putting food on Geoffrey''s te. "Here, I can''t eat everything anyway."


    Geoffrey grins at Bryan, who is shooting a re at him.

 Chapter 126 - Beautiful Memories (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 126 - Beautiful Memories (Four)</h4>


    "So, what are you both discussing just now?" Geoffrey queried.


    "I will build my ownpany, Geoffrey!" she announced.


    "Oh. Is this about the Dream City you wanted to build?"


    "Yes!" Hailey answered cheerfully, unaware that the two men were staring at each other with intent.


    Bryan looked at Geoffrey with a questioning stare, and he understood that Bryan wanted him to exin.


    ''Why do I need to report to him?'' Geoffrey rolled his eyes in secret. He stuffs his mouth with food before he answers Bryan''s curiosity.


    "Hailey asks me to print those, so I book bind them afterward." Geoffrey gave a brief exnation to Bryan, and then he shifted his gaze to Hailey. "Princess, I would be d to join yourpany!"


    "Really? Then, what would be your position in mypany?"


    Before Geoffrey could reply, Bryan cut in. "He will inherit his family''s business, so Geoffrey doesn''t need to work for you, Princess."


    Geoffrey twitches the corner of his mouth. "Can''t I be a business partner at the same time holding a position in Hailey''spany? Dad would be happy instead if we are expanding our business."


    Bryan sneered but didn''t counter Geoffrey''s statement. He admitted that the Wilson family is far wealthier than the Anderson. But it doesn''t mean that their familypany didn''t prosper. He didn''t need such wealth to be of Hailey''s help, but his skills in engineering.


    "Whatever you like, prince. I know better about construction."


    "And my expertise is to run apany. I know marketing, and I have a course in International Marketing."


    Bryan gritted his teeth. Indeed, he could notpete on that. But it doesn''t mean he couldn''t be a big contributor to thepany.


    "Well, that would be a great help to Hailey. And ites from proposals and approving the contractors; I could work on it better."


    A sh of a sharp look Geoffrey shoots at Bryan, but he quickly brushes it off before Hailey would notice them. Bryan did the same as well.


    Hailey, who is listening to them arguing about her futurepany, doesn''t understand why they have to do that. And so, she reached Bryan and Geoffrey''s hand and held both.


    "Everyone is wee to join mypany and be part of my team. And I need Bryan and Geoffrey to lead my team!"


    She was smiling with pure innocence and honesty. And this is something they could not ignore but very careful to disy any of their disagreement and contradict ideas in the future.


    The two men share a look and then lower their gaze, looking at her hand that is holding theirs. What Hailey said next dropped their jaw on the floor.


    "I love Bryan and Geoffrey and everyone, and so, I don''t want a fight."


    Both men didn''t know whether to cry orugh. But this girl is just too naive to read between the lines. And they can''t be desperate for her because she cared and trusted everyone like her true brothers.


    "Alright, finish your food. We need to leave soon," said Bryan, shrugging off the disappointment he earns at the moment.


    But Geoffrey was curious to know. "Where are you guys going? The boys had ns for a grill party and went swimming once everyone woke up."


    "We are watching a..." Bryan replied, but Hailey covered his mouth.


    "I asked Bryan to apany me somewhere! We wille back soon after!" She said nervously. It doesn''t need for everyone to know.


    And for the action she did. It made Bryan happy to conclude that he is the only one Hailey trusted to know about her suitor.


    Bryan had another reason to express a mocking smile in front of Geoffrey. The guy red at him, but Geoffrey knew that he could not force Hailey to share her ns after Bryan learned about it already.


    After having breakfast that can consider lunch, Hailey changes her house clothes into a lovely sunny dress. She only ponytailed her long hair and put on lip gloss.


    She wore two inches brown wedge sandals and a sling bag around her shoulders.


    "Bryan, I''m ready!" She was rushing down the stairs. Bryan and her dad talked in the entryway, and she was halfway on the stairs; then, the two men dropped their mouths open upon seeing how skimpy her dress is.


    "Hold up, Princess!" Bryan runs the stairs and gently drags her back to her bedroom. "You will not go anywhere wearing this dress!"


    "Huh? Um, why..."


    Hailey is confused. What''s wrong with her dress? It''s just a tube dress, and she put on a jacket around her back.


    Bryan walked straight to her walk-in closet and started scanning her closets. "Where are your jeans?"


    Hailey strode to the corner and opened a closet. There are different colors inside, and so Bryan has a little difficult time choosing which color and which brand.


    ''No wonder she is always taking time to get dress.'' He mumbled. Then, he just chose a blue one not to take longer again.


    "Here, wear this and pair it with a t-shirt or a decent blouse." He told Hailey before he stepped out of the room.


    Confused, but she didn''t dare to ask and change her clothes without protest. Since she is now wearing jeans, Hailey reces her wedge sandals with converse shoes.


    "Bryan, I''m done!" She dered and stepped out of the closet. The guy was delighted with her new get-up.


    "Wait a moment." Bryan rushes to her closet, and when he''s back, a pink cap on his hand, and he puts it on her head. "Here... It will be hot on the open racetrack."


    She nodded and smiled. She ces her hand on Bryan''s elbow and happily chats while walking in the hallway.


    Jacob sighed with relief, seeing his daughter changes into appropriate clothes. He''s very thankful that Bryan is here.


    If it were him, he could not scold her daughter, saying, "Go to your bedroom and change into proper clothes, or you are grounded, youngdy!"


    Then his daughter would reply, "I hate you, daddy!" Ah, it will be the end of him! Jacob shook his head from his crazy thoughts.


    "Bye, dad!" Hailey ced a kiss on her dad''s left cheek before she rushed the door and ran the stairs.


    "Be careful, princess!" Jacob almost passed out watching her daughter fly the patio and ran toward Bryan''s car. He turned to the guy with a worried face. "Drive safely, Bryan. Don''t let her drive a sports car. She has no driver''s license yet."


    "Don''t worry, uncle. Leave it to me." Bryan promised.


    Jacob heaves a sigh, watching the receding car. He turned around and walked toward his wife''s portrait.


    "Darling, look at our daughter. She is a grown-updy now, but I have my worries. It is worsened each day. I know when you are alive, you can guide her. I''m sorry if I''m such a failure, father."


    Jacob heaves another sigh, then heads to his study to continue reading the reports and proposals he received the other week. He had so much work to take care of that he has less time for his daughter.

 Chapter 127 - Beautiful Memories (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 127 - Beautiful Memories (Five)</h4>


    Bryan drove south. After half an hour, they arrive at the ce, and he looks around to find a vacant space to park his car. Although the one he drove today is not the one he used to race, everyone couldn''t help but stare at his sports car.


    If he didn''t learn from Hailey that she promise someone to meet here and give an answer, he would not interest ining to this ce when a bunch of stupid teenagers ran this ce now.


    And this bunch of stupid teenagers tries to fool Hailey. Like he would allow that!


    dly, he suddenly had the desire toe home. It is not his real n, but strangely, he could feel a force dragging him home. Now he understands what it is about. It is something that Hailey was involved in.


    He is a teenager once too, and so he is familiar with how things in here. They had this crazy bet to get the hottest girl in the crowd by winning a race. He wanted to find out if it was Hailey''s case that they''d chosen her to make fun with today.


    It upsets him that this girl is naive to fall for someone''s trick so easily! Although she grew up with several men around her, she was treated right and pampered. Without the men''s watch, a bunch of boys already make their way toward her.


    And so today, he will kick someone''s ass if he confirms that his guess is correct. And to make sure that everyone would be intimidated by him, he called someone from his vi to send over his race car.


    Hailey didnt knew that he would join the race to save her. Bryan heaves a helpless sigh. Someone should watch this girl. Perhaps a bodyguard?


    That''s right! He will advise her father to have bodyguards to protect the princess.


    "Hailey!"


    A group of girls is waving at them. They squeeze in the crowd to get in front of the racetrack. As Bryan told her, it would be an open ce; it is truly a little hotter today.


    "You came!" Jamie eximed to her. She is her ssmate since the first year of Senior High.


    "Yeah! I want to watch them race."


    "Or are you ready to kiss Kian when he won the race?" Tease by another girl.


    "What? I did not promise him that!" Instantly, her face blushed. It''s not because of what Teresa had said, but because Bryan heard it.


    "That''s the rule of this race! You will kiss the winner!" Jamie echoed, which made Hailey''s ear red.


    "And should be on the lips!" Faith chimed in, which caused Hailey to drop her jaw.


    "No way!" She waves her hand. Honestly, she didn''t agree to it. Her purpose ining here is to watch the race, that''s all!?Besides, she is notfortable that the girls were talking about it when Bryan is listening!


    "Hail, I''ll go find a quiet ce to return a call," Bryan told her afterward.


    "Okay, Bryan!" She smiled awkwardly, trying to hide her flushing cheeks.


    When Bryan disappears, her ssmates squeal. Hailey only shook her head, watching her ssmates. She knew that they have a crush on Bryan. She did tell Bryan about it, and the guy only replied to her like this.


    "They are too young for me. They were more likely my little sister. Like you!"


    But she didn''t tell the girls he said that and just let them have a crush on Bryan. Her reason is to annoy him. In fact, she teases him on their way here.


    Now that Bryan wasn''t here, she could gossip with the girls without caring about the topic. Meanwhile, Bryan is not making a call but to see the truck where his racecar is keeping inside.


    "So, have you found anything?" He asked the guy he ordered to investigate what rules and bets on this race. And he was right. Whoever wins will be encouraged to be kissed by Hailey. It was already determined that Hailey would be picked out among the crowd.


    But that is not the conspiracy here. Kian makes a deal with most of the best drivers in here to make way for him. They will pretend that he will almost lose, but he will act a stunt to win because he is a genius.


    Bryan isughing on his stomach listening to this. Butter on, his jaw tightens from anger. ''How dare this guy!''


    "Alright. Go and register me." He''ll join the race to shatter that guy''s illusion.


    ''Do you think you are pretty smart? You''re mistaken, boy.'' He mumbled to himself.


    Bryan narrowed his gaze while looking at Hailey, talking to a tall guy that he thinks guy named Kian. He saw how the guy scanned Hailey''s body. He already perceives this, the reason he didn''t allow her to dress up in short dresses.


    "To hell!"


    *


    "Hey, Hailey! I''m d that you''de!"


    Actually, Kian immediately spotted Hailey the moment she arrived. He was waiting for her arrival, the reason he is always looking around. And when he found her, he pretended that he didn''t notice her until the girls approached him, just like he nned.


    "Yeah! Good luck!" she wished for the guy.


    "Thanks! I''ll win the race for you!" he told Hailey with head high.


    "Nah. You don''t need to. Just enjoy the race and do your best!" Hailey smiled shyly. She promised Kian to give him an answer, but maybe it''s best if she''ll tell him after the raise.


    "Of course. I''ll do that! At the same time, I am racing for you." Kian had a sweet smile across his face, but that was soon wiped out when a man stood behind Hailey and ced his arm around her shoulder.


    Hailey looks up; she instantly smiles broadly. "Bryan, you''re back! This is Kian." Hailey introduces the two guys. "Kian, this is Bryan."


    "Who''s he?" asked Kian with curiosity. He seems familiar, but he could not remember.


    "Ah. He''s my brother!" Hailey replied.


    Although he was hurt by how Hailey introduces him to her suitor, Bryan makes sure to ster a mocking smile across his face.


    "So, you do racing, huh?" He extends his hand to the guy.


    Kian epted it, and they shook hands. He sighed with relief to find out that this guy is only Hailey''s brother though he knew that she is the only daughter of Jacob Davies; it means he is not a threat.


    Even though this man is close to Hailey and acted like a boyfriend, still, the girl didn''t introduce him as one. With this thought, Kian smiled confidently.


    "Nice to meet you, big brother." He immediately regrets that he teases the guy. Now his hand suffered. Bryan tightens his grip. It feels like his fingers were disfigured under this guy''s power.


    But Kian remains to smile despite the pain he is experiencing at the moment. He''s thankful when Bryan let go of his hand. He hid his fingers behind his back as it trembled from pain.


    "So, good luck to us! Let''s show what a real race is," said Bryan with meanings.


    Kian blinks several times. If he didn''t make a mistake from what he heard, the guy joined the race.


    Upon hearing this, Hailey jumps in excitement. "Is that true, Bryan? You did join the race!?"


    "Yes. So, you girls can cheer for me?" He asked with a gorgeous smile across his face. It is obvious that he is flirting with them, and these teenagers easily fall for it.


    "Of course, we are!" said Hailey''s friends.


    Bryan is satisfied to see Kian''s shocked face.


    His cheerleaders are now cheering for another guy. The worst is, Hailey would cheer for him too, and worst from the worst, he remembered this guy!


    He is known as a devil! He is an experienced drag racer! It was lucky that he was alone.


    What he has heard, they are a pack of men who no one dares to cross theirne because they owned the road!


    Now, Kian is swallowing his saliva. Could he have a chance to win against this guy?


    But he already boastfully promised Hailey that he would win this race!


    Besides, he made a deal. They could trap this guy, and his win is for sure!

 Chapter 128 - Beautiful Memories (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 128 - Beautiful Memories (Six)</h4>


    All the cars are now in a position. Kian nced at his side-view mirror. He clenches his fists and tightly holds the steering wheel of his car.


    It upset him that someone like Bryan Anderson is suddenly joining this race. But he is confident. He already prepares a n, and he shares it with the others not to let the guy in the back win the race.


    Kian nodded at the other car driver. They nod back at him and grin. It excites them to kick someone''s ass!


    An announcement made, everyone pays attention to the man holding a pistol. He is pointing it to the sky, and they waited for him to pull the trigger.


    Bang!


    All the cars are now racing to get to the front and lead. And as nned, Kian was leading them.


    But among these cars, there is one that only drove casually, and that is Bryan.


    He observes the cars in front of him. After studying the way they race, Bryan chuckled. "What a bunch of amateurs."


    Bryan just let them lead for a couple of minutes. When about time, he began squeezing in and made an effortless effort to take over the leading cars.


    Kian dropped his jaw when Bryan caught up with him. He tried to pass him, but Bryan only blocked him until they reached the finish line.


    Hailey and her friends had been cheering on him the entire race that pissed Kian. When Bryan gets out of his car, Hailey runs toward him and jumps, hooking her arms around his neck.


    "Congrattions, Bryan!"


    "Thank you." The corner of his mouth contorted a smirk while meeting Kian''s sharp re.


    The guy was very pissed off. Too bad Bryan sees through him that this is his illusion to happen today; to impress Hailey and get a hug and kiss from her.


    Unfortunately, he won''t let these bastard teenagers do it in their ways. And regarding this innocent girl inside his arms, she needed to be scolded.


    "Let''s go." He put her down and led her toward the passenger in his car.


    "Are we leaving now?" Hailey asks innocently. The smile across her face remained there, and Bryan wanted to m the roof of his car to vent his anger.


    He walked to the driver seat, sat down quietly, and revived the engine. Bryan drives silently, but Hailey doesn''t notice his irritation, and the girl keeps talking about the race.


    Later she eximed that made Bryan even angrier.


    "Oh my gosh! I forget to tell Kian about my reply to him!"


    Bryan tightens his jaw, and his face darkened. He chooses not to say anything to control his irritation. But Hailey is too naive. He wanted to cry andugh.


    As he remained silent, Hailey continued bbing out. Later, she fell silent. Bryan nced in her direction to check out why she''s quiet now. Hailey turned her head to meet his eyes.


    She smiled and said, "Anyway, I don''t need a boyfriend because you are here. All I need is the best brother in the world!"


    It takes all his sanity not to step the brake and scream, or both of them shove their faces on the dashboard. Bryan clenches his fists and returns a smile to this naive girl seated next to him.


    ''Heavens! This girl has no sense at all! She''s too heartless!''


    But Hailey is just too innocent about a romance between a man and a woman or a boy and a girl.


    She only sees everyone as a brother, and her closest girl friends are her sisters.


    "Where are we going, Bryan?" Hailey asked afterward when she noticed that the route they were taking was going southeast.


    "Let''s grab dinner before heading home."


    "Oh. Isn''t everyone throwing a barbecue party this evening? Ah! Isn''t your flight tonight?"


    He replied, "Yeah. But I rescheduled it. I''ll stay for a few more days."


    "Really?"


    Bryan nodded. Now he is in a better mood seeing that glint of excitement in Hailey''s eyes.


    "I wanted to go somewhere before we go back to the mansion," he said to her. This time, his tone is a little cheerful. "I have been missing this ce and the food they serve there."


    "Oh! I''m excited to see this ce! Anyway, is it the ce you brought your girlfriends?"


    Bryan fell silent. He couldn''t help to feel upset. ''And where this idea came from?''


    "I don''t have girlfriends and no girlfriend I brought there yet." He said firmly.


    "Okay." Hailey notice that he seemed to get mad when she brought it up. She studied his face before she went on. "James and others used to say that you guys go on dates before. So I think that maybe it was the ce."


    Bryan could sense that she spoke softly now. She seems to understand that he is a little upset, and so she''s careful; might it make himpletely angry.


    And that is true. It annoys him how those idiot men have to tell Hailey about this dating thing!


    He didn''t control himself, and his knucklended on Hailey''s head.


    "Ouch! That hurt!" sheins when he knocks on her head. Now she is frowning at him.


    "Don''t ever listen to James." Bryan nced at Hailey''s face before his gaze returned to the road. He could see the confusion in her expression. "It was James who dated a lot, and he only dragged the boys with him."


    "Okay." She''s still confused, but she chooses to listen to Bryan.


    "Listen very carefully. I go on dates, but there is a difference in who I was with. Did you understand that?"


    Hailey shook her head. Bryan felt helpless about how he could exin it to this girl.


    "Alright! I went out with those girls in the past, but that''s all. It''s just a dinner date."


    "Okay. So we are also just having a dinner date then?"


    Bryan wanted to correct that, but Hailey''s phone rang.


    "Hi, dad!"


    "Hey, Princess. What time are youing back?"


    Hailey nced at Bryan. She pursed her lips into a sweet smile and joyfully told her dad. "Bryan will take me to dinner before we go back, dad!"


    Jacob blinks several times. He opens his mouth but closes it when he could not grasp the word he wanted to say.


    Is his daughter going on a date? She always goes out with the boys, but he never allows them to bring her somewhere during the evening.


    Then it means it was his daughter''s first date? No! It was Bryan she''s with, and so it is okay.


    "Okay, Princess. Tell Bryan not to stayte at night."


    "Okay, dad! Don''t worry. We will only have a dinner date, and then we will go home after!"


    Jacob dropped his mouth open. His daughter was too casual saying it! But for a father, that freaks him out!


    Meanwhile, Bryan almost hit his head on the steering wheel. This girl doesn''t mind who she talks with!


    He doesn''t want any misconception, but he didn''t manage to exin to this girl why people go on dates.


    There is a casual date for a woman and man to know each other.


    And then there''s a date with a special asion with someone dear to you.


    And this girl should know she is someone special and today is his birthday! He just wanted to spend his day alone with her!


    Now he needs to exin it to her father and this naive girl because soon, several men would ask her out!

 Chapter 129 - Beautiful Memories (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 129 - Beautiful Memories (Seven)</h4>


    Bryan brought Hailey to a seafood restaurant somewhere on the east coast, down south from Sydney.


    The girls were too excited to get out of the car, but Bryan stopped her. "Wait. Let me open the door."


    Bryan gets out of the car and opens the passenger seat. Hailey blushed and thanked him with a sweet smile on her lips.


    "Thanks, Bryan!"


    After saying it, Hailey wandered her eyes to the whole ce. She loves it! Her dad rarely brought her to these ces, but they had exclusive dine-in to an expensive restaurant or hotels.


    But the ce Bryan brought her is not bad. It looks delightful! There are so many cars to park outside, and the restaurant looks full of customers.


    Bryan led her to the bridge, and they crossed it. She could smell the ocean, and she likes to breathe the sea breeze.


    The restaurant has three floors, and Bryan brought her to the third floor. They were taking the wooden stairs when Bryan asked her a question.


    "You like the ce?"


    "Hum! It was beautiful! How did you find this ce?"


    "Dad used to bring us here." He replied.


    "Oh. I see." Sadness shes her eyes upon remembering Bryan''s father, who died in a ne crash.


    Bryan saw that her mood changes. He reached for her hand and said, "Don''t be sad. We are here to celebrate my birthday, not reminiscing memories of the past."


    "Okay. Oh! So that''s it! You wanted to celebrate your birthday here!" said Hailey, who didn''t notice that she and Bryan were holding hands while taking the stairs.


    Hailey seemed not to mind it; Bryan didn''t let go of her hand.


    "Yes, I want to celebrate my birthday with the people that are close to my heart."


    They already arrived on the third floor. A woman called out to them and waved her hand to get their attention.


    "Bryan, this way!" The middle-aged woman sat up from her chair and opened her arms to give Hailey a tight hug.


    "Aunt Tina!"


    "Hello, dear! I''m so happy that you could join us!" The older woman was happy to see this girl. Since Bryan is studying in the US, Hailey rarely visits their vi.


    "I''m happy too, aunt Tina! I didn''t know you are here as well."


    "Well, I thought I couldn''t celebrate my son''s birthday as he ns to leave soon. I''m happy that Bryan reschedules his flight."


    "It was really great, Aunt Tina! The boys will throw a barbecue party for Bryan, so we will go back after we had dinner."


    "No problem!" She has noints as long as who Bryan spends with is Hailey. "Now, let us take a seat. I already ordered something. They will serve the food soon."


    Bryan pulls a chair for Hailey; Tina was delighted to see this. She winks at his son, who he rolled his eyes at to show his mom a teaser.


    Very soon, their food was served. Tina asks a series of questions to Hailey while they were eating.


    Bryan is giving his mother a meaningful stare which she only ignored him. His mom is now asking crazy questions.


    "Do you have a boyfriend?" asked Tina, who could see at the corner of her eyes how her son widened his eyes.


    "I don''t have a boyfriend, Aunt Tina. I''m still a minor." She replied with honesty.


    "Is your dad who prohibited you this?" That man! Is he too strict with his daughter?


    "Not really, aunt Tina. It was I who didn''t want a boyfriend."


    The older woman was delighted by her answer, but she didn''t want to be obvious. "Why do you say that?"


    "Mom, can we just eat now?"


    But Tina only red at her son and ignored him. "Do you have a crush, Hailey?"


    Hailey fell into thoughts. She tried to ponder, but she could not tell if who she likes when she likes everyone.


    "I''m... well, I like Bryan and Trevor, and Geoffrey and..." Hailey paused when Bryan was coughing next to her. "Are you okay, Bryan?"


    "Ah. Don''t mind me. I only ate something spicy." His excuse and then emptied his ss of c.


    Tina, on the other hand, wanted tough out loud. She pitied her poor son and the other kids who had romantic feelings for this girl. She shook her head and hid her amusement.


    No wonder how Bryan was too worried about Hailey. She is an innocent princess who had a pure heart.


    "Okay. I understand that you like the boys as your brothers. Then, you promised me that you wouldn''t entertain anyone who asks you to be his girlfriend."


    "Oh! I just told Kian!" Said Hailey with a smile on her lips.


    "Oh. Kian, huh?" Curled her forehead, Tina nced at her son, who tried to hide the grin on his mouth. She suspected that her son did something with that guy.


    Ignoring his mom''s meaningful stares, Bryan leaned over at Hailey and asked the girl, "When did that happen?"


    "I texted him," she whispered.


    "You what? He has your number?"


    Hailey nodded. She is looking at him with curiosity. In her mind, she wondered if that was wrong.


    "Shouldn''t I give my number?"


    "No, you don''t. Next time, don''t give it to anyone, especially to a stranger or someone you just meet."


    Hailey seems to ponder over it. Later, she nodded and smiled.


    This girl has no idea of what is really going on, but she enjoys her food, and so she didn''t pay much attention to their conversation.


    "Bryan, you should look after this girl, or else someone will fool her and break her heart."


    "Yes, mom. You don''t need to tell me."


    Hailey doesn''t understand what the mother and son have been talking about. Her attention only focused on the prawn that was recently served on their table.


    *


    PRESENT TIME


    The food was terrific. After a beautiful dinner, he drove back to the mansion with sunset scenery on their way.


    It was one of the countless beautiful memories he''s holding inside his heart.


    But he messed up, and it looks like he''ll be going to mess up his life further if true that Eva was pregnant.


    Bryan turns off the shower; he grabs the bath towel on the rack and wipes his hair and entire body.


    He put on a boxer and dropped his body on the bed. He noticed that his phone keeps vibrating. He checks on the caller, and when it was Eva, he ignores it and goes to bed instead.


    It takes him an hour before it pulls him into a deep slumber. The whole time, he could only think of one person and even dream of her that night.


    At least, in his dream. He is holding her close.


    *


    The following morning, Hailey upied herself in reviewing all the piles of reports on her desk. It''s been a few months since she has no time to look at them when emailed to her as she was busy with her studies and field activities.


    After lunchtime, she had a brief talk with Vince as he has to meet the chairman soon.


    Hailey runs to her dad''s office and looks around.


    "Princess, do you need something?" He was signing a few documents when his door opened, and Hailey rushed inside. "What''s the matter?"


    Hailey picked up a few frames and took them with her. "Dad, can I keep them in my office instead? Since you opened your office for President Shen, he shouldn''t see my photos."


    "Ah, right! I almost forgot that Princess. Okay. We set a schedule to talk now. How if? Do you mind if I introduced yourself to..."


    "Some other time, dad!"


    Jacob hangs his mouth in the air. His daughter disappeared from his office too fast.


    "What''s wrong with her? Why is my daughter acting strangetely?"


    It confused him, but he was less concerned at the moment. Vincent Shen must be on his way, and so he closes the folders and sets them aside on his table.


    Meanwhile, Hailey rushes back to her office. Just the moment she can step inside the door of her office, it is the same time that Vincent and Tim reached the Reception desk.


    The ss door pushes open, and Vincent steps inside, walking toward the Chairman''s Office.


    As Hailey left a small gap in her door, she peeped out. She quickly but gently shut the door when Vince nced at her office.


    Vince almost caught her!


    Hailey dropped her body on the couch, which she''s still hugging the photo frames. She put them down on the coffee table and noticed her foot.


    "That was close!" She sighed with relief. dly she was barefoot; she could run fast back to her office.


    She almost forgets that her pictures are disyed in her dad''s office. dly that she was here, otherwise, Vincent would see them!


    While Vincent and her dad had a meeting, Hailey became busy when Kelly set an appointment for FaceTime with their business partners worldwide.


    Hailey was reading the reports, and it shocked her to learn that their Asian investors wanted to put up a store in P Country.


    "Is everyone certain about this?" Hailey asked their investors while her hands were typing speedily to message Kelly.


    Kelly received Hailey''s series of questions. Then she felt the need to exin.


    "Ahem. I''m sorry, Hail if I didn''t consult you about this matter. You have been busy in these passing months, and I have no chance to discuss with you when..." Kelly made a gesture that Hailey only understood. It was when they were in Palm Ind, but they have less time to talk about business.


    "So, that I was here in P Country. I did a little investigation, and Keith enlightened me with the status of the economy of this country. I think it is a good idea if we put up a store in Metro City and ept a personalized design by our clients." Kelly added. She then types a message and sends it to Hailey.


    ["You can supervise it anyway since you went to a university in Metro City, so I approve."]


    Hailey helplessly nodded at Kelly as a response. She has no protest as it was a good deal.


    Davies-Varghese Gem has been proposed a million US dor investment by their Asian business partners. Why would she say no? It was a fortune.


    Her only problem is, she had to brief their Asian investors to hide her identity if ever they saw her in P Country and heard some gossip about her rtionship with Vincent Shen.


    Not only that, Hilda Lopez Shen is a powerful woman in P Country and meets influential personnel in the neighboring nation.


    Shen and Lopezes are known in many countries. The possibility that their new business partners already meet Hilda Shen in person.


    And so, she needs to outsmart Vince''s mom not to find out she owned DV Incorporated!

 Chapter 130 - His Welcome Dinner Party

    <h4>Chapter 130 - His Wee Dinner Party</h4>


    The entire afternoon, Hailey had a series of meetings with her executives until evening came.


    Jacob knocks on his daughter''s office before he pushes the door open. He steps inside and finds Hailey signing some documents.


    "Princess, everyone is already preparing for the Wee Dinner party."


    "Okay, dad," Hailey replied without looking up.


    Jacob stared at his daughter. Even though she is often traveling a lot, but once she was in thepany, she would work nonstop, and she is making sure to take her part as the boss of thispany.


    Hailey could feel her dad''s eyes. She could sense that he has many questions in his mind, but he would choose not to ask but trust her.


    She put down her pen and tidied her desk. She meets her dad''s gaze and asks with a smile. "So, how was your meeting with President Shen?"


    "It was great! I like that man!" Jacob began talking.


    Hailey suppresses her lips, not widen her smile. She immersed herself in listening to her dad praising Vince endlessly.


    "He is very polite. I know he is not faking it. I have been working with many youngsters in my life, and I know Vincent Shen is different. I''m just sad, though..."


    There was suspense as to how it told thest sentence. Hailey studied her dad''s facial expression. But she failed to read his mind.


    She asked, "What''s wrong, dad?"


    "Nothing, honey. I''m just sad that he has a wife already."


    Hailey coughs and blinks her eyes. "Ahem. And why would you feel sad, dad?"


    She holds her breath and anticipates what her dad would say. It made her happy that her dad is warm to Vince. But how if he learns the truth? Would her dad treat Vince like he is now?


    Jacob could feel that his daughter was watching him keenly. He averted his gaze and then reached his chin and rubbed it.


    "Nah. I''m just thinking that..."


    Hailey knew that his dad had something on his mind if he was making this habit of his.


    "Oh, well. Never mind. It''s not important." said Jacob after brief thought. He is waving his hand as a gesture of dismissing the topic. "Alright! The contract signing would start soon. I know you have to prepare."


    "Yes, dad. See youter."


    "See youter, Princess."


    Jacob sat from the chair and headed to the door. He turned around and opened his mouth, but then he chose not to share his thoughts. From what he sees, his daughter is fine now.


    ''And maybe she doesn''t like the idea of dating new men.'' Jacob mumbled on his head while marching back to his office.


    Meanwhile, Hailey prepared herself to leave the office. She took the lift and pressed the button toward the parking lot.


    Her stylists are already waiting for her to do her transformation as Hailee Davies.


    Hailey drove her car North and stopped at a white building. She parked her vehicle underground and rushed to the elevator.


    *


    Exactly seven-thirty in the evening, everyone has gathered in Dream City Pce.


    Dream City Pce is a reception venue for special events such as Weddings. And yes, she almost got married to Bryan in this ce.


    They even had a wedding March rehearsal one month before their wedding. It was the time they had a photo shoot for their wedding portrait.


    But their marriage is fated not to happen.


    In the past, her chest has been stabbed a hundred times, seeing this ce. Buting back here, it was just a memory, not worth recalling.


    Moreover, she doesn''t feel heartbrokening to this ce again because Vince was here.


    Hailey is all set. She was inside in one of the rooms provided for their customers, changing into their wedding dress and preparing for the party.


    Hailey wore a lovely dress and a wig, and a hat on her head. Although she won''t show up in the reception hall, she could still watch everyone from a room upstairs.


    Hailey sat down on an ent chair, keenly watching the event in the main hall.


    Dream City Pce has three event halls, but the two halls are smaller than this one.


    Yes. It was a wide area. It''s crazy to celebrate such a contract signing to this hall, but she doesn''t care. It was Vince who was involved in this celebration.


    Finally, she found the architect she had been looking for a long time, the reason she was constantly traveling around the world.


    Furthermore, this man captured her heart. Is this not enough reason to have the grandest celebration?


    Although she''s the only one who knew about this, she didn''t care. She''s happy to throw a wee party for Vince as grand as this.


    Besides, Shen Group receives more projects among the firms that gather here tonight.


    This is a little token at the same time, a socializing moment for everyone. She invited even the ordinary workers that were working in her city.


    They may not include the event in the main hall, but she makes sure that they will enjoy the food and beer at the other two halls.


    It''s crazy how much she spent tonight. But like what she is saying, it is her token for everyone who works harder.


    She wanted everyone to get along as they all worked on the same goal; to finish her city and make it the best in the world.


    May she is not joining below, but these contractors could introduce themselves to each other and share the dream they were aiming for; to contribute something remarkable in the future once her city is open to the world.


    Finally, it was about time for her dad and Vince to sign the contract.


    Vincent and Tim were invited to a private room upstairs. From where Hailey was seated, she could witness all the happenings in the next room.


    And as she was staring at Vince, her heart has been missing him badly. She was tempted to run toward the next room and throw her arms around Vince.


    However, it''s not the right time to reveal her rtionship with him yet.


    Later on, her dad entered the room. He gestures at Vince to take a seat. After a few talks, Jacob and Vince started signing the contract with the executives and Timothy Cheng as witnesses.


    Hailey didn''t leave her eyes on Vince''s handsome face. His expression is solemn, but it is what made him mysterious. But when the signing is done, a thin smile ys on his lips as they pose for a photo.


    And soon, they will post all the happenings tonight on their Davies Group Official Website.


    In the reception hall, Vincent was weed with loud apuse and received endless congrattions.


    Before dinner began, Vincent called on the stage to pose one more time for official photos as a new contractor of Davies Group.


    Chairman Davies joined him, and then the Davies Group investors before the Executives also posed with Vince.


    After that, finally, dinner was announced. In the middle of the merry feast, the host called Vincent and Jacob to the round table, where a wine ss arranged like a pyramid.


    Vincent and Jacob opened the champagne and poured on the top sses, and emptied the bottles until all the ss filled with the liquor.


    Each of them had a ss and had toast.


    It was a very wonderful asion that she wished to stand next to Vince or Vince stand next to her.


    It was in the middle of a merry celebration; Hailey was in deep thoughts when the door of that room opened. She didn''t notice when someone entered and spoke behind her.

 Chapter 131 - Start Over

    <h4>Chapter 131 - Start Over</h4>


    "We are supposed to be the first one to use the main hall."


    "What are you doing here, Bryan?" She frowned instantly upon noticing Bryan standing behind her.


    Bryan walked toward the floor-ceiling window with both of his hands shoved inside his pocket.


    Actually, his voice is full of bitterness and regrets, but she doesn''t care anymore; between them is just history.


    This is what in Hailey''s mind after Bryan makes such a statement.


    Bryan looked at the hall down below. He is keenly watching the cheerful faces of everyone who attends this celebration.


    In his mind, his wedding would be merrier than this one. However, that is impossible yet to happen.


    Shifting his gaze toward Hailey''s beautiful face, Bryan turned around and leaned on the window.


    "I just wanted to talk with you properly," he said after a brief moment.


    Hailey looked up and studied Bryan''s gloomy face. He seems not drunk likest night.


    "I''m not drunk." He could tell what she is thinking at the moment. What he didst night is wrong. He admitted that. So he exined, "I just had one ss of champagne tonight, that''s all."


    Hailey withdrew her gaze and looked away. Then, she retorts, "We have nothing to talk about, Bryan."


    "Please, listen to me. That night..."


    "Please, Bryan. Whatever it is, does not matter anymore." Before Bryan could finish his words, she immediately interrupted him.


    "But, Hail! I want you back! I want us to start over! So I wanted to rify it with you! Please, give me a chance to exin and fix everything between us."


    Between them? What is between them? Who is between them? There''s none anymore.


    Eva is not a bother any longer between her and Bryan but to her rtionship with Vincent. How ironic. Still, that woman is in the way of her happiness.


    Hailey turned her head and looked at Bryan with seriousness in her eyes. She apologizes to him.


    "I''m sorry, Bryan. Everything about us has ended already. I have someone I loved."


    "How could you be sure that this man loves you the way how much I love you?"


    What Bryan has said annoys her. How dare hepare his love to Vince? If only she could tell him, but she is not obliged to tell him anything about it.


    She knew that Vince is genuine in his love for her. If he isn''t, he would not stand against his parents and even be bold in front of his inws.


    And if Bryan truly loves her, why would he still attach to another woman? Hailey pressed her lips and smiled bitterly.


    "What kind of love do you feel for me, Bryan? Howe that you could hurt me like that? You promised to protect me, but you didn''t protect me against you."


    "Hail, please..." Bryan kneeled in front of her. Her words keep shing his heart, and he deserves it. He will bear her punishment as long as Hailey would ept him back. "I want to exin everything to you."


    "Stop, Bryan. You know that my feelings for you are only a brotherly love. How can I sleep next to the man I don''t love romantically?"


    What kind of marriage she and Bryan would have if they got married in the end? She mused.


    Hailey''s confessions break his heart over again. But he knew that it was not enough for the heartbreak he gave her.


    Bryan tried to hold her hand, but she quickly avoided his grasp.


    "Don''t touch me, Bryan." There''s firmness in her voice and a glint of anger in her eyes.


    He looked at Hailey with helpless eyes. She''s not his Hailey anymore. That sweet girl, who is clingy to him, is gone, and the girl in front of him is someone who is reserved.


    Bryan lowered his head. Still, he would not give up until Hailey would forgive him. He doesn''t want to lose her, and so he would do everything that she would forgive him.


    "Please stand up, Bryan." Hailey insisted.


    "I would not until You forgive me."


    Hailey snorts. With grim in her voice, she scolded the guy. "Don''t be childish, Bryan! We are both adults now!"


    Yeah. That''s true. She''s finally an adult. She has incredibly grown into a beautiful woman who every man wants. But he only wasted the opportunity to have her himself.


    It is selfish. But when he realized that he could not live his life if isn''t with her, he ignored the fact that she only loves him as a brother.


    Regardless, that would be only a small matter. All he needs to do is make her fall in love with him.


    But he didn''t make her change of heart the way he wishes to happen. Instead, he messed up. Now, it is hard for him to get her back.


    Hailey nces at Bryan downward. When he didn''t move yet, she sat up from the chair and walked toward the door.


    But Bryan followed her and hugged her from behind. He begged, "Please, Hail. Tell me, what should I do so that you can forgive me?"


    "Let me go, Bryan!"


    However, Bryan has no n to let her go. He is determined to ask forgiveness annoyingly.


    "Please, Hail. Just let me hold you like this for a while."


    A chill crept down to her spine as Bryan''s breath, touching her neck. She struggles to perform self-defense because Bryan didn''t give her openings.


    Besides, it was him who taught her martial arts. And so, he knew what she could do if he lowered his guard down.


    "Let me go, Bryan!" She almost screams. But Bryan is not listening to her. "You would regret this instead, Bryan!"


    Hailey tried her best to threaten him. She gives up struggling. But it didn''t mean that she is giving him any chances.


    She hurls a long breath, pressing hard her eyelids as she mutters.


    "Fine. I would not repeat this, so hear me out. I already forgive you, Bryan. But I am not going back to you. So we don''t need to mend our rtionship. We can still be friends. But you know there is a limitation to it already."


    It takes a little while before Hailey feels that Bryan slowly loosen his arms around her waist, where her arms are locked on her sides.


    "I''m not giving up yet, Hail. If he hurts you and he breaks your heart, and you decided to leave him. Remember that I am waiting for your return and giving us a chance to start over," said Bryan.


    She thought he would now leave the room. But she didn''t expect that Bryan would pull her close to him and tried to brush his lips against hers.

 Chapter 132 - Missing You

    <h4>Chapter 132 - Missing You</h4>


    A loud p echoed in the room, followed Hailey''s scream. "How could you!?"


    Bryan opens his mouth, but no wordse out. His gaze lowered as he felt guilt for his actions.


    "I''m sorry, Hail. I just wanted to..." Bryan paused to raise his head and meet Hailey''s furious eyes. It is understood that she''s even mad at him after he attempted to kiss her. But he will exin himself. "Tell me, Hail. Did he already kiss you?"


    Hailey rendered speechlessly. Instead of replying to him, a realization came to her mind. And these thoughts saddened her.


    "And why do you ask, Bryan? It would be none of your business if I kissed someone!" She sneered at him. The tiny thread that is holding her patience has finally cut out. She won''t y with his game anymore!


    She''s not the naive girl she was before who doesn''t understand what romance is. Love shouldn''t be manipting!


    "Get out," she told Bryan, pointing at the door.


    In these two days since she came back to Dream City, she somehow discovers what kind of man Bryan is. At first, she doesn''t believe it, even after the heartbreak.


    But more and more, Bryan is showing his true color to her. No. He is already this kind of man, but she is blind to see it when she is naive back then.


    Then how if they got married, and she just discovered that he is this kind of a man?


    It seemed like his possessiveness will trap her in an unhealthy rtionship. In the past, it made her happy every time he would tell her not to have a boyfriend or don''t kiss a boy and don''t believe in their sweet talks.


    But now he is the perfect example of these men! How ironic is that?


    Hailey gritted her teeth while looking at Bryan with stern. She blurts out, "I will not repeat myself, Bryan. Get out! And don''t show me your face before me. I don''t want to see you anymore!"


    Her voice was trembling. The tears in the corner of her eyes threaten to escape, but she won''t allow it. She won''t shed tears for him anymore!


    Hailey turned around and helplessly looked at the merry people below. Her eyes search for Vince. Finally, he found him chatting with Architect Lewis and her dad.


    She wants to run toward him and hide inside his arms, where she felt security that she has never been.


    "Hail..." Bryan reaches out for her arms. But she quickly shrugs her shoulder and steps backward.


    "Don''t touch me! I told you I don''t want to see you anymore! Why don''t you understand?!"


    "What''s going on here?"


    Both Hailey and Bryan turned their heads in the direction of the door. Andre stepped inside and gave Bryan sharp res.


    ''What does he want from Hailey?''


    He moves his gaze to the girl whose eyes are red. It looks like it came both from anger and tears that she holds not to fall.


    What is going on? Hailey does not quickly get upset or angry. It must be something Bryan did to her. Andre thought.


    "You heard Hailey, Bryan. Why are you still standing there? If she wants you to keep a distance, you should do it." Andre''s voice is threatening, and Bryan should remember he is not joking around to give this warning.


    Bryan smiles bitterly. In the past, he is the one who is telling those men to stay away from her. He is the one who would threaten them and driven every guy who wants to be close to her.


    Ironically, he was the one who got the warning now.


    Bryan looks at Hailey with pleading eyes. He regretted his action. Now it is even more difficult for him to coax Hailey. But he''s willing to ask her forgiveness even if she will make things hard for him.


    And Hailey is right. First, he should fix himself ande clean. By then, maybe finally she''ll forgive him.


    Bryan lowered his head. He left the room with both of his shoulders dropped on his sides. He looks pitiful, but Hailey''s heart doesn''t feel any pity toward him anymore.


    Everything is not the same as what it used to, and it saddened him to ept this truth because he''s still living in the past.


    Whenever he showed up in front of her with bruises on his face, she almost cried while tending his wounds. She always had this innocent pity look on her face, twitching her mouth while murmuring, telling him not into a fight next time.


    Bryan reached for his left cheek. Hailey ps him hard; he could feel the tingling sensation on his skin, and he deserves it, though. It''s not enough payment for what he did.


    Yet, he scares her away, and the way she looks at him is fierce; she''s even more furious than thest time.


    Andre breathed out the frustration inside his chest. Seeing Bryan tonight, he seemed to be losing his mind each day. But everything that happens to his rtionship with Hailey is his very own doings.


    Once Bryan disappeared from the door, Andre turned around and looked at Hailey. He joined her standing near the window and noticed the emotion lingering in her eyes while she''s watching in the hall below.


    "Are you okay?" Andre reached Hailey''s back. He gently rubbed her shoulder as a gesture offorting her. "It looks like Bryan keeps troubling you."


    She didn''t reply but leaned her head on Andre''s shoulder.


    "Andre, I wanted to be happy."


    He didn''t understand what she meant by that. But if Hailey is talking about moving on from Bryan, then whoever causes her sadness should stay away from her.


    "What do you want to do about Bryan?"


    "He is still my business partner and the one who helped me build this dream into reality." Hailey looked up and went on. "Can I just go to the ce where I could be happy?"


    Andre studied Hailey''s face. He wanted to ask a question, but maybe he better keep it to himself.


    If Dream City didn''t make her happy anymore, he could not stop her from leaving Australia again.


    Later on, Andre nodded. "Okay. If whatever makes you happy, now, Tom is preparing the ne. We are good to leave soon."


    "Thank you, Andre. I want to bid goodbye to dad."


    "Alright. Sit here." Andre gently pushes Hailey on the chair. He bent on the floor and picked up her hat, and put it back on her head. "I''ll fetch your dad."


    Hailey nodded and pursed her lips into a thin smile. The sparks on her eyes are now disappearing, unlike the time when she arrived. Not only that, she looks gloomy again.


    Andre clenches his fists. He could not make Hailey share what happened a while back. But he believes it''s not just an argument, and he knew what he must do to find it out.


    Walking down the hallway, Andre phoned James and rys his message for his brother-inw. After then, he went to the Security Room and watched the footage.


    "Bryan!" Andre tightens his jaw upon watching the recorded video from the security camera installed in the room where Hailey stays during the party.


    He marches to the hall and searches for the guy. James noticed him, and he could tell that he is in a foul mood.


    ''And who dares to upset this wolf?'' James mumbled while walking toward Andre.


    "What''s up, dude?"


    "Did you see, Bryan?" Andre asked James the moment the guy got near him.


    "I think I saw him moments ago walking toward the veranda. What''s going on?" James may look serious when he talked to Andre, but in the back of his head is someone eager to hear some gossip tonight.


    "Get your car and wait for us at the entrance."


    Andre didn''t exin anything, and so James is confused. "Huh? Why?"


    "Just do it. How about moving your ass now?"


    James blinks, remain to stare at Andre. He knew how fierce this guy was when he got angry. And the way how firmed his tone is, it looks like someone is going to die tonight.


    ''Who''s unlucky ba...tard is this?''


    *


    Meanwhile, Jacob is knocking on the door, but no one is answering. He pushes it open and looks for his daughter, but the room is quiet.


    "Maybe she is in the powder room," Jacob mumbled to himself. He sat down on the French chaise and waited for Hailey.


    Jacob is browsing his phone when a distinct voice ising from the balcony. Hailey was on the phone, and she is talking with a sweet tone to whoever this person on the other line is.


    "I''m d! Ah¡­ I''m just missing you."


    On the other line, Vince could sense the sadness in Hailey''s voice.


    "Did something happen?" He asked curiously. Although the agent paid to watch her, he didn''t report anything to concern about. But still, it worries him.


    "Nothing. I''m just missing you." Herme excuse. From her location, she could perfectly see Vince''s silhouette standing outside on the Veranda.


    "I missed you too. I wish I could go back soon, but it will be busier for me from now on."


    Hailey replied, "I know. Don''t worry about me. I am fine. It''s just that I was in a perfect ce, but¡­" I can''t hold you.


    Vince is just meters away from her. They even look at the same skyline and the stars shining brightly tonight.


    "I wish you were here where I am." Vince groaned after a brief moment of silence from the other line. "The night sky would look more fascinating tonight."


    "I know. I am also looking at a beautiful skyline¡­"


    *


    Jacob is eavesdropping on his daughter''s conversation, andter, Jacob drops his jaw.


    ''I love you?'' His daughter told someone this!? Jacob stressed out.


    ''Who''s that ba...tard!?''

 Chapter 133 - My Fiancée

    <h4>Chapter 133 - My Fianc¨¦e</h4>


    The wee party that threw for him was lovely. But this is not only about him or Shen Group. This dinner party is also an opportunity to meet and mingle with the rest of the firm working under Davies Group.


    He got a chance to talk to these big firms that he looks up to ever since high school. Now, he was standing on the same level as they are.


    In fact, he was the youngest boss among them, and that is something that made him proud.


    Not to act arrogantly, but to show that apany like Shen Group couldpete internationally and give the best work like how these giant firms transformed the world.


    No. That''s not the correct praise. He could surpass them, and he is ambitious to do so and prove to the world.


    Now, his sess is within his grasps; he wanted to share it with someone his heart has been aching to hold again.


    Vincent excused himself and headed to the veranda. He took out his phone and dialed Hailey''s contact.


    It only takes two rang, and Hailey answered his call.


    "Hi!"


    "Hey. How are you?" he asked Hailey lovingly.


    Vincent didn''t hide how much he long to hold her again.


    "I''m fine." But the truth is, his call had just arrived at the right time when she badly needed his security.


    If people who aren''t in love or naive about romance, like her before, would never understand what she is feeling right now.


    Listening to Vince''s voice is like music that soothes her raging senses and can ease her loneliness.


    "I missed you too, Hail."


    Finally, a smile stered on her lips. All the pain she felt tonight suddenly washes away.


    "I love you."


    Her voice is full of solemnity that made Vince''s heart skip a beat. She didn''t say his name like thest time that identally was heard by Bryan. From here on and in the future chances, she needs to be extra careful.


    "I can''t wait to go home," said Vince after they talked about how beautiful the night sky is.


    "Same to me... I want to go home soon."


    They said, ''home is where your heart is.'' Everywhere is her home as long as Vince was there.


    "Alright. Since your friends are visiting the country, then seize the time you could enjoy theirpany and the ind."


    "I will. Thank you." Vince is thoughtful and considerate as always, the reason she could not help but fall in love with him.


    Although he slowly showed and admittedter how jealous he is if she is close to other men or is friendly with them, he never fails to treat her right and even treat her better.


    Hailey leaned on the wall and closed her eyes, wishing she was inside Vince''s arms and his lips against hers.


    "I wished you were here."


    She heard Vince groan from the other line. It''s like they were thinking the same at the moment. To feel each other''s arms.


    "Soon, I''ll see you," Vince added.


    "I''ll be waiting."


    The call ended. Hailey nced at where Vince was standing before she got inside the room and closed the door.


    After her conversation with Vince, she is a lot better now.


    However, Hailey paled when she found her dad sitting leisurely in a chaise.


    "Dad, when did youe in?" she asked nervously.


    "Ah, just now, Princess. I thought that maybe you were in the powder room. So I am waiting here."


    "Ah. I''m just answering some calls, dad." She studied her dad''s face. But she couldn''t find any indifference in his mood. It seems that her dad heard nothing, then she had nothing to worry about.


    "Princess, why are you leaving so soon?"


    "I''m sorry, dad." She sat beside her dad and leaned on his shoulder.


    Now that she secured the contract for Shen Group, she is at ease that finally, Vince is working for her.


    "Alright. But promise me to set a date to visit us here from time to time, okay? Or, how about I will visit you in Dubai sometimes?"


    Hailey suddenly was in a panic, but she calmed down and hid any uncertainties.


    "I wille sometime, dad," she assures the old man. She needs to think of an excuse and make ns to do this that Vince would not suspect. "Don''t worry. I will also call you regrly. But if one day I could not do that, then I''m pretty much busy."


    "Okay, Princess. I understood. I''m happy to hear that you will visit again soon."


    "Yes, dad." Hailey forces herself to smile broadly, not for her dad to suspect anything.


    What happened between her and Bryan a while ago creates a constraint to ask his help to meet Eva. She desires to resolve Vince''s divorce so that she could introduce him to her dad soon. Not only that, she wants Bryan to be free from Eva as well.


    But what should she do now? Bryan is vocal in his feelings and wanted to start over. He even confesses that he genuinely loves her.


    While Hailey has her worries, Jacob is fidgeting on the chaise. He is antsy while pondering if his daughter now has a boyfriend and who he is.


    The way their conversation goes on, his daughter is anxious to go home to him. It looks like it is one of the reasons why she doesn''t want to stay in Australia!


    Then who is he!? After all, he could not ask his daughter!


    Ah! He needs to talk to Pitt or Tom, or maybe he needs to call Shun for help!


    But if he investigates his daughter''s whereabouts, and she learns about it?


    Ah! Can he even confront his daughter? He is a helpless dad!


    *


    Meanwhile, Vincent is preparing to go back inside when someone calls out to him. He then notices the guy seated on the staircase.


    "Mr. Shen..." Bryan sat up.


    "Mr. Anderson? I didn''t notice that someone was here in the dark," said Vince.


    "It''s okay. It''s just be my habit of sitting here." Bryan replied. He climbed the stairs and joined Vincent in the railings of the veranda.


    Bryan rested his lower back on the stone railings. He reaches to his pocket and takes out a cigarette box.


    "Do you smoke, Mr. Shen?"


    Vince shook his head. "I was before, asionally. But Ipletely stopped it."


    "I see. Is it for your wife? She doesn''t like it?"


    "Well, partly. But my hands are always full with work, and it didn''t be my habit, so it''s easy for me to quit."


    "Hmm... It''s also an asion for me in the past or a year ago. My fianc¨¦ didn''t like the smell of cigarettes, and so I didn''t smoke when I was in Australia."


    Bryan nced at Vincent to read his face. He knew that he was curious why he was smoking now.


    "We called off the wedding. She broke up with me a year ago."

 Chapter 134 - Cherish Her: Shes The Only Woman I Ever Love

    <h4>Chapter 134 - Cherish Her: She''s The Only Woman I Ever Love</h4>


    Vincent remained silent and didn''t say ament. Ever since he set foot in Dream City, he has noticed that Bryan is always in a trance and seems there''s a weight on his shoulders, and he is distant to others, especially to the executives like him.


    He could feel the heavy atmosphere once everyone was in the same room.


    Those scenes intrigue him; however, putting his nose in someone''s affair is not his character. But since Bryan is opening up to him, then he could not hide his curiosity.


    Bryan pushed his lips into a thin smile as he continued babbling. "Mr. Shen, everyone knew about it. Sooner orter, you''ll witness the tension between the rest of the executives and me. So there''s no difference if I tell you now."


    He is right. And it is bettering from the man who is the center of this issue.


    He is just a few days here in Dream City, and he is already witnessing how the rest of the executive is close to each other, but when Bryan Anderson is in the group, only a few of them talk to him, and the rest is just ignoring him like he didn''t exist.


    "Well, I open up to you because I didn''t mean to eavesdrop on your conversation with your wife. Sitting on these stairs is a favorite spot me and my fianc¨¦ love to do during the time this pce is just being constructed."


    "My fianc¨¦e and I would stay herete to watch the night sky after work. From this height, the stars seem so close." Bryan looks up and sweeps his eyes to the skyline above them.


    "I see. This pce is above ground, and so the sky would look closer than anywhere in Dream City." Vince''s observation.


    Dream City Pce is built on a hill where the whole city could view this building as it stood majestically, located North of the city.


    "I was impressed with the design. Something I want to build it myself back in Metro City." Vincent added, praising the morous building.


    "Oh, well. This whole idea was her... Ahem." Bryan pauses and clears his throat. He almost slipped out to reveal that his fianc¨¦e is the President of Davies Group.


    "This design was the president''s idea with my help and the rest of the executives. So it was like an important ce for everyone. And they permitted me to hold my wedding here. It was supposed to be the first wedding to celebrate in this Wedding Hall, but I messed up, and everyone is angry at me because they are all close to my fianc¨¦. Well, you could imagine what the rest of the history is."


    Vincent could y scenarios like in a drama series in his head. But his question is, where is that girl now? Did that girl also work here?


    Besides, if he is not mistaken, Bryan has a girlfriend at the moment.


    "The tension in thepany is rted to my engagement. And so, if you notice that everyone is indifferent to me, can you ignore it, Mr. Shen? Don''t worry. It won''t affect your work. At least, most of the executives are trying their best to be professional and set aside personal grudges."


    ''Hm... So his fianc¨¦e was very close to everyone. If she is just someone stranger, these men won''t hold grudges toward him, and their friendship would not end. But they are all affected by the breakup? Could it be that everyone has a crush on her instead and Bryan who happens to win her heart?''


    ''Ah. And when did I be a love expert?'' Vince scolded himself.


    He gaped at Bryan, and he could see the sadness in his eyes. After he opens up to him, he isn''t sure how to share a piece of his mind.


    In his observations, Bryan seemed didn''t get over yet with his past. So who is he to give a bit of advice to him?


    He also had a big issue regarding his love life and can''t solve his arranged marriage.


    "Thanks for sharing." That is all he could say.


    "And thanks for listening."


    "Don''t worry. I don''t like to gossip, moreover putting my nose in someone''s private life." Vince wanted to assure Bryan. Besides, he needs to create a good rtionship with the executives. And getting close to Bryan Anderson is a good start to achieve that.


    "Great then." Bryan gives him a warm smile. "Honestly, I''m a little jealous listening to your conversation with your wife. It reminds me of how happy I was every time I talked to my fianc¨¦e."


    Vincent is not an expert in a rtionship, but he could tell that Bryan still has a feeling for his ex-fiancee.


    "Do you still love her?" He asked after a brief silence.


    Bryan''s lips curled into a bitter smile. He nced at Vincent and replied to his question. "She''s the only woman I ever love."


    It made Vincent render speechlessly. Then how could he cheat on his fianc¨¦e if he loves her so much?


    It is what is on his mind. But he knew it wasn''t his ce to ask Bryan about it.


    "Bryan!"


    Both Vincent and Bryan nced at the door. Vincent stared at the man that approached them. He has never met this guy yet, and so he is a little curious as he looks upset or something. He could sense in his firm tone.


    "Andre..."


    "I want to talk to you. Let''s go."


    Vincent gaped at the man in silence. The way he talks to Bryan seems to have a hatred for him. Maybe this is rted to his ex-fiancee if it''s not about other matters.


    "Okay. By the way, let me introduce the President of Shen Group, Vincent Shen. He is now part of the team, Andre."


    Andre has just now paid attention to the man in a ck suit. He heard a lot about this firm, and originally, he came to meet the President. But because of what happened earlier, it disappeared from his mind.


    "Mr. Shen, I want you to meet Captain Andre Hillson. He is Chairman Davies''s brother-inw."


    ''Hillson? The same surname as Hailey?''


    But Vince quickly shrugs his thoughts. There are a lot of Hillson in the world. It is just a coincidence.


    "Nice to meet you, Captain Hillson."


    "Pleasure to meet you, President Shen."


    The two men shook hands. After that, Andre said goodbye, and Bryan followed him.


    But before the guy took more steps, Bryan turned around and asked Vincent.


    "Mr. Shen, how much do you love your wife?"


    Vincent stands where his face is illuminated by the light from the chandeliers in the wedding hall.


    He curved his mouth into a sweet smile and answered Bryan.


    "She''s the only woman I ever love."


    Bryan blinks for a moment. He nodded and lifted his lips to form a thin smile.


    "Good to know. Please, cherish her and be careful doing heroic deeds that will ruin your beautiful rtionship."


    Vincent is a little confused, but he nodded at the guy. Bryan''s words are like a riddle to him. But it wasing from a person who made a mistake and regretted it.


    "I am cherishing her even before I could confess to her," Vincent mumbled; even Bryan has now disappeared in his sight. "It looks like he does suffer greatly from his loss."

 Chapter 135 - Beating Up Bryan

    <h4>Chapter 135 - Beating Up Bryan</h4>


    Hailey was waiting for Andre toe back, but the guy is nowhere to be found. Andre will apany her to go back to Dubai and spend time for two days.


    She has no choice but to fly to Dubai instead of going back to P Country. If Andre didn''t make this decision, she would only drop by in Dubai for a day to attend her meetings, then leave by night soon after. Suddenly, things gotplicated, but she must endure it.


    In these passing days, Bruce reported to her every day about the happenings in Metro city, which made her want to go back very soon.


    She''s d that Bruce is too intelligent to squeeze in and be chosen by Shen to follow her around. The guy could hide her activities, such as changing ns all of a sudden.


    "Princess, what''s wrong?" Asked Jacob. He noticed that his daughter suddenly became restless in her seat, and then she suddenly sat up and walked toward the window to observe the party below.


    "Nothing, dad. I''m just wondering why Andre hasn''te back yet. He said he would fetch you, but he didn''te back with you."


    "Oh. It was James who informed me that you wanted to talk to me."


    Hailey stared at his dad for a moment, then lowered her gaze to her wine. ''Could it be?''


    She''s guessing that maybe Andre figured out what happened between her and Bryan. When she searched his figure among the boys who have a chat with different people below, there is no Andre in the crowd and even James.


    Hailey dialed Andre''s phone. The guy answered it, and Hailey could sense what he was up to. However, she chooses not to ask anything.


    "You can go to the ne first. I''ll be right there in like fifteen minutester."


    "Okay." Hailey puts down her phone once Andre hangs up.


    "What did Andre said to you?"


    Hailey raised her head, then replied to her dad, "He told me to go to the ne first."


    "Then, let me drive you there."


    "Thanks, dad."


    Hailey sat up from the chair and followed her dad. They were taking the corridors toward the elevator.


    Her eyes sweep the entire hall and search for a particle man. They were trailing down the aisle on the corner were covered by ss doors that can be open or remain closed during an event.


    This time, it was tightly closed so that she could walk around freely, and everyone from the wedding hall would not notice her.


    Hailey''s eyes sparkled when she saw Vince walking toward the table filled with a different liquor. The guy picked up a bottle of red wine and poured his ss.


    He looks up and watches his reflection on the ss walls. He checked it out earlier and learned that it was an installed door and surrounded the wedding hall. It impressed him more of how this pce was designed.


    But at the moment, he felt something strange, like someone was watching him beyond the ss doors.


    Without him knowing, Hailey is passing him and her eyes lovingly gazing at him.


    She slower down her steps to take a moment to stare at his handsome face.


    Vince''s mouth is tightly closed. He isn''t smiling or frowning. It''s just the typical facial expression of him when he was in deep thoughts. And he seems to feel her burning stares as he looks up and scans the ss walls in front of him.


    Jacob noticed that his daughter was falling behind. He turned around, and he found her looking at the man behind the walls. He caught the gleam in her eyes.


    If he did not identally overhear his daughter a while back, he would think that she is interested in Vincent Shen.


    But Jacob shrugged the thought and convinced himself that the sparks in his daughter''s eyes while looking at Vincent Shen have no meaning.


    *


    Meanwhile, somewhere East of Dream City is a car pullover near a creek.


    Andre and Bryan get out of the car while James remains on the steering wheel. When the two men were standing in front of the vehicle, James lowered the headlights of his sports car; the lights focused on the ground.


    James got out of his car and sat on the hood. Since he would witness a bloody confrontation, he lit a cigarette and casually stared at the scene in front of him.


    It''s been a while since they beat up someone in the dark. Ironically, the man who always gives the first punch is the one to be beaten up tonight.


    James chuckled and shook his head. ''Look at how life is ying a joke on someone. But he brought this upon to himself. Bryan is such an idiot.''


    Facing each other, Bryan broke the silence. "You can do whatever you want. It''s not enough to pay the pain I''ve caused her."


    Andre took a long step forward and grabbed Bryan in the cor. He hissed, "Then why do you keep hurting her!?"


    Andre lifted his knuckle; itnded on Bryan''s left cheek. It''s just one punch, blood dripping from his nose. But it follows Andre''s left fist, and he trusts his knee on his stomach.


    Bryan fell to the ground and struggled to get up. He coughs and spits the blood he tasted in his mouth. He reached for his nose and wiped the blood with the back of his palm. He smiled bitterly, but his face contorted when the pain was striking in his mouth.


    "I only wanted to apologize to her. But every time I see her, I lose control of myself."


    "Dammit! Then you need to fix your head!" Andre shouted out, kicking Bryan in the stomach.


    Despite the pain caused by the kick, Bryan chuckled. He forgets the cuts on his lip, now his mouth twitching from pain.


    "I know it''s not enough even to apologize a thousand times. But I want to make up with her. However, I got jealous because..."


    "Because what!?" Andre asked impatiently. He doesn''t like how Bryan makes him guess what he wanted to say.


    On the other hand, Bryan cursed himself for his tongue to slip out. It was a mistake to mention that Hailey has a boyfriend. She seems to hide this person from everyone, and so he wanted to know her reasoning.


    He needs to find out why she didn''t want to introduce him to everyone. He should be the first person to know it!


    Bryan''s mouth is aching, but thinking that Hailey had a boyfriend made his jaw tighten. He gritted his teeth and spat the blood on his mouth.


    Andre caught the anger shes in Bryan''s eyes, which he misunderstood. He narrowed his gaze and roared at the guy. "Is that all you could say, Bryan?"


    Bryan remains silent even after Andre pulled his cor and angrily warned him.


    "How could you dare to assault her!? She trusted you and loved you from the bottom of her heart! It may not be the love you expect her to give you. But you can''t force yourself to her! Don''t you ever darey your hands at Hailey again! Otherwise, you''ll regret that you live!"


    Watching the drama in front of him, James froze upon hearing from Andre''s mouth what Bryan did to Hailey. His mouth opens, the cigarette falls to the ground.

 Chapter 136 - Locked Him Up In Dream City

    <h4>Chapter 136 - Locked Him Up In Dream City</h4>


    All of a sudden, James'' ears buzzing, and unexinable anger crept toward his chest. As his gaze darkened, he was like a mad man rushing over and yanking Bryan in the cor and letting him have a taste of his fists.


    "You fu...kng ba...tard!" James lifts his right foot and kicks Bryan in the stomach. All the grudges he holds toward this guy, he would vent it tonight!


    Among everyone, this guy has all the privileges of being the closest one to the Princess. The rest could not darey a finger to touch the Princess but this man!? He who has the gut to attack her?


    Another kick from James, and it flips Bryan. James goodnded on his jaw. He closes his eyes and presses his eyelids. He could feel that those around him were turning around.


    "Enough, James." Andre may be furious at Bryan, but he only wanted to warn him, not killing him.


    "We should bring all the boys!" He fretted, dissatisfied that he could not beat Bryan even more; he wanted to keep punching him in the face, and so, he needed someone to hold him while he would throw his fists continuously.


    "We''re not murderers. I just wanted to remind him that he no longer has permission to get near Hailey. dly, she''s leaving tonight. She need not endure seeing this bastard''s face."


    "Again? Why does Hailey, who needed to leave? Why shouldn''t this man be banned from stepping in Australia?"


    "Hailey is often abroad. It would be safer for her if this man were locked up here in Dream City." Andre dered.


    James furrowed his brows. After his head processes Andre''s statement, he concurs. "Don''t worry. I''ll keep an eye on him. I''ll make sure he could not take another step closer to the Princess."


    Andre nodded. He nced at his wristwatch and said, "Let''s go. It''s about time for us to take off. Drive me to the airport."


    "Okay."


    James turned around and never took a nce at the man lying on the cold ground. He slid on the driver seat and revived the engine of his car.


    Bryany still on the ground. He wanted to get up, but the pain in his stomach is unbearable. P


    After fifteen minutes, a ne flew past him. He knew it''s Hailey''s ne. Suddenly, his tears plummeting in the corner of his eyes.


    She''s leaving again. And once again, he hadn''t had a good talk with her. Moreover, he makes it worse this time. He made Hailey hate him to the extreme.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hailey didn''t leave her eyes on Andre, sitting in front of her.


    "Tell me. Did you beat up Bryan?"


    Andre smiled faintly. Later, he nodded. But he didn''t exin or say anything.


    "Did he say something to you?"


    Honestly, she was nervous. It made her worry that Bryan might mention what he overheard. She admitted to him that she has someone she loves now.


    But once everyone learns about it, her dad might do something and run an investigation, and he found out something. She is still hiding the truth about her stay in P Country.


    She''s lucky that her friends are loyal to her and ready to keep a secret whatever she''s up totely.


    After a moment of silence, Andre replied. "That was actually what made me annoyed. Bryan didn''t say anything."


    Hailey breathes out a sigh of relief. It ddened her that Bryan didn''t speak about her new rtionship. It''s not the right time yet.


    *


    It''s been an hour since Andre and James abandoned him in this side of Dream City, but Bryan still didn''t move.


    Not long, he moves his head to the other side when a car approaches him, and the headlights are blinding his eyes.


    "Damn. At least they announce that there is fun on this side of the city. It''s boring to watch a bunch of men drinking. Punching someone''s face is much better." Mocked by the person who just arrived in a green four-seats sports car.


    Bryan twitches his mouth. He wanted to speak, but his lips have severely received a bruise, now his face is swollen.


    "Hey, are you still alive?" The guy squatted on the ground and poke Bryan on the cheek.


    "Ouch! Can''t you see I can''t move?"


    However, the guy onlyughs at him. This person is none other than Doctor Hector Payne. He is one of the knights and assigned by Hailey as Director of Dream City Hospital.


    "Why are you here?" asked Bryan with a frown.


    "Dammit! Aren''t you grateful? How if I also punched you instead? No one would know I joined the fun." Hector grinned.


    Bryan only moved his mouth but didn''t counter Hector''s joke.


    "You are boring," Hector mumbled when Bryan only ignored him.


    He helps him get up, and even though he is tall and lean like Bryan, he still struggles to bring the guy toward his car. He ces Bryan on the backseat, who keeps groaning like a girl.


    "Ouch! Can''t you be gentle?"


    Hector rose a brow. He scanned Bryan''s face, and he burst outughing. Pissed off by his reaction, Bryan is ring at him.


    "This is the third time I saw how badly you are beaten up!"


    And the first time is when Geoffrey, Josh, Trevor, Chester, and Kelvin storm the Anderson Vi and beat him up. And the second time is Pitt.


    No one sees iting. All of a sudden, the guy came back to Australia and beat up Bryan inside his office.


    Now, Andre and James beat him up. And it must be something, and it looks worse this time that James also threw his fists.


    "Who told you I was here?"


    Hector positioned himself in front of the steering wheel and began driving. He nced at Bryan through the rearview mirror and replied.


    "It was the Princess who texted me several minutes after they already took off. She told me to treat your wounds."


    "And why did you just pick me up?"


    Hector pursed his lips and red at Bryan through the rearview mirror. "And you had guts toin? I have waited for James toe back to the party to ask where they bring you!"


    Bryan rendered his silence. He adjusted his back and sank on the seat.


    Hailey...


    He closes his eyes to push back the emotion surging in his chest that seems to connect to his eyes. Hailey still cares for him!


    But he admits he is such a jerk to use force and being persistent toward her. This is not going to work. He must think carefully about how he could coax her.


    All night, Bryan could not sleep because Hailey keeps appearing in his head. He was confined in the hospital, and ording to Hector, he needs several days of rest.


    The following day, his heart jumped from joy to see the caller''s name on his phone screen. Even though his ribs are aching so bad, he forces his ass to move to reach his phone.


    "Hail?"


    He waited patiently for the other line to speak, but only silence he could hear. Bryan took this opportunity to apologize.


    "Hail, I''m sorry aboutst night. I promised it would not happen again."

 Chapter 137 - The New Branch Store (One)

    <h4>Chapter 137 - The New Branch Store (One)</h4>


    Bryan is patiently waiting for Hailey to speak. He already conveys his feelings to her, but she remains silent, so then, he went on.


    "I deserved to be beaten up. This is not enough to mend your broken heart that I''ve caused you."


    On the other line, Hailey pressed her mouth before she spoke up. "I didn''t call you to talk about that, Bryan."


    The guy was a bit disappointed, but he remained enthusiastic. Since Hailey called him first, he won''t waste his chance to talk to her longer!


    "Okay. Is this about the projects? Don''t worry. I promised to work harder than I did before. I promised you that I would not cause trouble anymore."


    "I would be d if that is true, Bryan," Haileymented in a in tone.


    Bryan could feel Hailey''s cold treatment. But it made him happy that she cares to phone him very early in the morning. He knew that still night in Dubai.


    "Yes, I will! And you can assure that I''ll behave now. Please, Hail... I regret what I''ve done. So please, don''t hate mepletely." He begged. Bryan is full of courage at this moment. He seizes all the opportunities that he could get closer to her again.


    Hailey gritted her teeth. Suddenly, she felt ridiculous upon listening to Bryan''s pleas. It sounds childish!


    "Let''s not talk about that, Bryan. I didn''t call you for this. I have one thing I want you to do for me."


    "Anything, Hail! I''ll do it for you!" It thrills him. Bryan forgets that he had injuries after he was beaten upst night. But his joy is soon to wane.


    "I don''t want you to mention to dad or anyone that I have a boyfriend."


    Bryan had a mixed feeling at this moment. He isn''t sure either to be happy or to be sad. But a glint of hope remains in his eyes.


    Hail, do you really have a boyfriend? Or are you doing this to hurt me?


    Having these thoughts, Bryan contorted a smirk on the corner of his mouth. If Hailey is only doing this to make him jealous, then he still has a chance to coax her. All he needs to do is to be very careful not to trigger her bad moods.


    "Don''t worry, Hail. I''m still the same Bryan that you could trust and rely on. I know I hurt you. But let me prove that it won''t happen again. Please believe me. You are the only woman I love!"


    "Like what I''ve said, Bryan. I didn''t phone you to talk about us. In a perfect time, I will introduce my boyfriend to dad. So I am warning you not to meddle in my rtionship. That''s all I wanted to say. I am hanging up now; I have many things to do."


    Bryan''s shoulder dropped on his sides. He could see how his heart was crushed. He clenched his jaw and ignored the striking pain in his mouth. Not only that, but he felt furious that, in the end, Hailey is only protecting this man.


    And who is he anyway? Why does Hailey be very concerned about this man? What she''s afraid about?


    He needs to find out soon! And he has a n!


    Bryan is determined to know the truth, but he didn''t know that he was under James surveince which is watching him closely.


    *


    Dubai, UAE


    After Hailey ces down her phone, she hurls a long breath and releases it.


    From her floor-ceiling window, the night horizon from her apartment is magnificent. And the city underneath was still sleeping peacefully.


    It was three in the morning while seven o''clock in Australia. She still has a few hours before her day began here in Dubai, but she couldn''t take another nap. She was troubled with many things.


    Hailey remained standing near the window, the door of her bedroom open, and two delicate arms hugged her from the back.


    "Hail..." It was Kelly who was hugging her.


    After Andre decides to apany her, she quickly sends Pitt a message to arrange a private ne toe back to Dubai with Kelly.


    dly, they arrived before her nended.


    She has to be very careful not to let Andre know what she has been doing this passing year. She isn''t prepared to exin to Andre as she knew that he would dig a pit for Vince.


    "Hail... I''ve noticed how sad you are after you visited Australia. You didn''t show it around Andre and Pitt, and you are trying to hide it from me, but you can''t fool me. I am your twin."


    Hailey chuckled. She reached Kelly''s arm and rubbed it. "Let us take a seat on the bed first."


    "Okay." Kelly followed her, and the two of them sat opposite from each other.


    "Bryan talked to me," she began.


    Kelly''s face instantly twisted with disgust. "And what he wants from you?"


    "He asked me to start over."


    "The nerve! He has a thick face! Next time you go home to Australia. I wille along with you to beat him up!"


    Hailey parted her lips into a smile upon hearing Kelly''s fret. She reached the girl''s hand and said, "Don''t worry. Bryan and I are long over. The only feelings I have left in my heart are sadness that our friendship hurt because of what happened a year ago. Although..."


    "Although what? Do you believe his reasons?" Kelly gaped at her intently.


    "I''ll be honest, Kell... I wanted to believe in him."


    After that night, and a few months had passed, she slowly realized something. How if Bryan honestly didn''t mean to cheat on her? How if it''s a mistake, but it''s not his choice?


    However, when her head started clearing out, and the pain didn''t hurt her that much anymore, she found herself falling in love with someone else, and the reason that Bryan''s matter doesn''t make her concerned any longer.


    "But Hail, you saw the video!"


    "I know. It''s just that Bryan is persistenttely. He is begging me to forgive him. He confessed to me that I am only the woman he loves."


    "But Eva is his long-time girlfriend! So what does he mean that you are the only woman he loves? Then why did he always reunite with her again? Honestly, I''m sick of that woman! How many times they broke up and got back together? He is my cousin, but he doesn''t deserve you! If that happens to me? I will never be with a man whose ex-girlfriends would hunt me!"


    Hailey giggled at thest sentence Kelly had expressed. She senses something.


    "Is that speech for me, or are you referring to someone''s ex-girlfriends?" Hailey''s tone is teasing that made Kelly widen her eyes. Her big brown eyes are popping out from astonishment.


    "You''re kidding. Why did the topic suddenly point at me?" Kelly waves her right hand, and then her index finger points at her chest.


    Hailey shrugged a shoulder and mouthed, "Nothing. I know someone who has lots of girlfriends at the same time."


    "Jeez." Kelly rolled her eyes. She wanted to change the topic. "Back to you... So? Are you going back with Bryan?"


    "No. Never. Even if he didn''t get back together with Eva, I have no n in starting over with him."


    "Are you sure?" Kelly gives her a suspicious look.


    "Yes, I am sure." Because before I could move on, I found the man I want to give my whole life to him.


    However, she could not voice it out to Kelly that she has a boyfriend. A real one.


    Not to mention, she is living with him! But sooner orter, she needs to tell her the truth.


    "Anyway, regarding our new branch." Hailey changes the topic. She didn''t want to talk about Bryan anymore.


    "Well, since you were also living in Metro City. I will let you handle our new branch. Our Asian business partners are already preparing everything for the lunch of our store. And they also began looking for a ce to rent for our sister branch office. But I suggested buying a building instead. What do you think?"


    "Hm. Not a bad idea. Maybe I should assign Keith with this matter. I will consult him."


    "It would be great that we can appoint someone you trust into this! Well then, since this is the n we will go to discusster, maybe it''s time to get some hours of sleep?" Kelly suggested. She stretched her arms and yawned before crawling toward the pillow and lying down.


    Hailey agreed. She alsoy down on her spot. But it takes her half an hour before she falls asleep. She has been missing Vince.


    *


    DAVIES-VARGHESE Inc. UAE Main Branch


    In the afternoon, Hailey lounging in her office with a tea in her hand. Her eyes were mesmerized looking at the clouds that covered the city.


    Since herpany rented on top of this building, she has this beautiful view above the clouds.


    She was reading reports from Bruce and then contemted when a light knocks on the door, her secretary had announced.


    "Miss Davies, Miss Fraine has arrived."


    "Great! Let her in." Hailey put down her mug. She leaned back on her chair.


    The secretary bowed before she left the room. Soon after, a beautiful woman with short hair stepped inside.


    The woman casually looked around at this luxurious office, and she was impressed how the ambiance belonged to a royal person.


    Anyway, the person she is going to meet today is the DV owner. A self-made multimillionaire woman despite being an heiress of a big corporation.


    After her eyes feasted on the expensive furniture, her gazended on an ent chair facing the floor-ceiling window; she approached the woman seated in that chair and greeted her politely.


    "Good afternoon, Miss Davies. My name is Fraine Michaels..."


    The woman stops introducing herself after she recognizes the woman in front of her.


    "Aren''t you Vincent Shen''s girlfriend?"


    "Nice to meet you, Miss Fraine Michaels."

 Chapter 138 - The New Branch Store (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 138 - The New Branch Store (Two)</h4>


    "I... Wait, I''m trying to process my head right now," said Fraine in a humorous tone.


    "I know you are confused and wondering why I am the one who is seated inside this office, Miss Fraine," said Hailey; she gestured and offered the sofa across her. "Please, take a seat."


    "Thank you," Fraine sat down. She''s careful not to touch anything and fell on the floor. Looking at the ornaments around this office, she wondered how much it cost every piece of them? Even if she had a pretty amount of sry now, surely that would not be enough to pay them! Moreover, the woman sitting across from her is more expensive!


    Fraine couldn''t help but scan the boss of DV Gem! Her hair was styled into a bun and a dazzling Emerald headband tied around her head!


    The long drop earrings hanging on her ears are red diamonds. And her ne around her beautiful corbone that only emphasizes her long neck was the rare, Pink Diamond!


    Wait, that is 100 million US dors, is it?!


    Fraine swallowed. She doesn''t want to imagine how much the bracelets on her wrists, which are made of red diamonds!


    To sum up the jewelry, she''s wearing, it could be a total of 200 million US dors!


    Hailey smiled at Fraine. She understood that the woman calcted the jewelry around her body. She lowered her gaze and touched the watch around her wrist.


    "Miss Fraine, do you think that jewelry could make a woman happy?"


    Fraine fell into thoughts. If it is based on her preferences, she doesn''t like to wear jewelry, especially daily. But if someone will give her one and that person is dear to her heart, she would be delighted to wear it every day.


    Later, Fraine smiled. She somehow understood what Hailey tried to convey to her.


    "I would be happy if the person I like gives me jewelry that would represent my personality."


    "I''m d that you understand what my business is about, Miss Fraine."


    "This jewelry around my body represents my wealth; it''s not my personality."


    Fraine keenly watched Hailey when she took off the bracelets around her arms. Next, she took off the earrings, followed by the ne and headband.


    Hailey ced them on the table. And one by one, she exins to her.


    "These nes are worth 100 million dors. It was once sold many years ago."


    "And you bought it?"


    "No. It''s my dad. He gifts it to me after he designs a ne and ces this pink diamond as a pendant. It made me happy like I felt I am a real princess. That was nine years ago, on my 16th birthday. Since then, I only like a gift that was with my loved one''s touch, such as personalized-made for me. As growing up, I became fond of jewelry that dad designed just for me. I''m not wearing them, but I love to look at them."


    "And then I met a girl who loves designing. When we were in High School, she would design my bags until she began to design even my shoes, and then she learned how to make one on her own. We both attend a college where she goes to Art School while I am taking the Business courses. While we were in college, we drew out our dream of starting our own jewelry business."


    That is why she became a CEO at the age of 21. Money can make it possible. But it also needs intelligence and hard work for her business to bloom in just a few years. Fraine thoughts while listening to Hailey.


    "But I discovered that people could also found happiness in simple things. It does not need expensive materials, but talents and skills to create something that can make anyone happy."


    ''She must be referring cheap jewelry and those made in shells or wood.'' Fraine mused while she listens further.


    "As for me who always received expensive gifts... I was only fell in love with this wristwatch. I prefer to wear it than wearing a worth of a hundred million dors jewelry set."


    Fraine stared at the rose gold watch and said, "Because it was given by the one that is dear to your heart. Is it Mr. Shen who gave you that?"


    Hailey nodded. Her eyes gleam as she smiled. "It was the first gift I received from him. And inside the watch, engrave my name. Now I am more in love with my pseudonym than my original name."


    "Hailey..."


    "Both of you are so in love with each other!" Fraine couldn''t helpmented with excitement in her voice.


    "Can you tell even at the beginning our rtionship is exposed?"


    "In the photos that I saw every time you both are in the news, Mr. Shen always has his tender eyes looking at you! I could tell how he''s in love with you."


    She smiled at Fraine. Hailey contemted, ''Then ever since at the very beginning, the affection he showed to me in public is real. And the way he looks at me with sparks in his eyes is genuine.''


    She then recalled the time she questioned Vince.


    "Why are you snubbing me in those first weeks we live together?"


    "What would you do if I pinned you to the wall and kissed you?" He replied.


    Vincent has been gentle to her since the beginning. And because of that, he sessfully captured her heart. Not only that, she''s falling in love deeply with him.


    Hailey had forgotten that she was not alone in her office. Fraine coughs to get her attention. Hailey blushed upon realizing that she was daydreaming of Vince. She could not hide how she misses him.


    "Ahem! Well, let''s proceed now to the matter of why I called you before our meeting began. Miss Fraine, can I ask you a favor?"


    "Sure! Anything, Miss... By the way, how should I address you, especially when we''re in Metro City? Miss Davies, or should I call you Miss Hillson?" In case my tongue slips out so suddenly!


    "I was Hailee Davies at the moment."


    "Okay, Miss Davies. I''m all ears."


    "Hailey... Just call me by my name. There''s no need to be formal." A friendly smile ying on her lips made Fraine at ease.


    "Then you can call me by my name as well."


    "Great! Um... I will take it straight to the point, Fraine... the thing is, Vincent didn''t know who I am."


    "I see..." Fraine nodding. There is no trace of shock on her face.


    "You seem didn''t surprise to know my identity."


    "Nah. The only thing that shocked me is that you are wealthy. Wealthier than Hilda Shen." Fraineughs. But then she coughs in embarrassment. "After all, she''s your boyfriend''s mom."


    "You are right, Fraine. She is someone I must impress but not with what I have. I want her to ept me because I am the woman her son loves and the one her son wanted to spend his life with forever."


    "Wow! That was sweet! Why don''t you announce that you are the owner of DV INC? I am certain Madam Hilda would treat you nice!"


    "And that is what I don''t want to happen, Fraine."


    "Huh? Why?"


    "It will not be happy that she would like me because of my wealth."


    "Well, in that case, I could understand your feelings. But howe you be his mistress? I mean... Why do you agree to be his mistress?"


    Hailey pushes her lips into a smile. Then Fraine realized that she became rude.


    "Ah! I''m sorry if I am bold to ask! Sometimes I couldn''t control my tongue."


    "I like you, Fraine."


    "Ah! Thank you! I like you too! You are so pretty and elegant! No wonder you always look m beside Vincent Shen. You are born being one!"


    "Please, don''t think that I am only ttering you. I am telling the truth! Do you remember those socialites? They were envious of you, especially during the ss Reunion!"

 Chapter 139 - The New Branch Store (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 139 - The New Branch Store (Three)</h4>


    "Oh. Were you there? I''m sorry I didn''t recognize everyone who was at the party."


    "Nah. I was only forced to attend." Fraineughs nervously. She doesn''t want to remember that night!


    Hailey smiled faintly and didn''t return ament. Fraine took this opportunity to ask her opinion.


    "Do you believe that I am also someone''s mistress?"


    "It is your own story as I have mine. You must have your reason as I have mine as well. It''s not my habit to put my nose on other''s private lives. I am more concerned in mine." Hailey paused; she offered Fraine a cup of tea. "Please have some tea, Fraine."


    "Thank you."


    "As your boss is my business partner now, and she entrusts you to manage the DV Gem Store branch, I want your loyalty not to reveal my real identity to anyone, even to Vincent Shen."


    "Ah, I understood! You don''t need to exin it to me. I know how to keep secrets!" My existence has be this way, anyway. It seems like I live in this world to witness people living in secrets! Fraine sighs inwardly.


    "I''m d to hear that from you, Fraine. I think we will be good friends."


    "Really? Am I allowed to be your friend?"


    Fraine''s bubbliness amused Hailey. She had a new crazy friend from P Country.


    "It will be my pleasure to be your friend at the same time, your co-worker." Hailey winks at Fraine.


    "That''s right! Since you own DV Gem! You are my boss now."


    "Well, technically, yes. But this is my request to you, Fraine. Since I am hiding my identity, no one should know I am the owner of DV Gem Company. I will be visiting the branch store weekly and hold a meeting twice a month with the executives. And so I need your help to watch everyone not to leak my identity."


    "Leave it to me! You can count on me!" It''s my expertise! I already ept that my existence is keeping everyone''s secret! Even now, I wanted to live a peaceful life, but I am always entangled with other lives!


    "Thank you, Fraine. Now, are you ready with your presentation?"


    "Yes! I hope you will like it?"


    "I believe in you."


    Fraine smiled. Her admiration for this boss has increased.


    Hailey and Fraine had a further chat while they were waiting for the scheduled time of their meeting.


    Hailey took this opportunity to reveal more information to Fraine.


    "Remember, Fraine, don''t mention Vincent Shen in front of my best friend. She didn''t know my status in Metro City. What Kelly knew is I am only taking a course in N University.''


    "Your life is moreplicated than mine. I''m only an ordinary person, so I only have a little problem. But you know what? It''s the right decision that you won''t reunite with your ex-fianc¨¦. The cheater should burn to hell!"


    Haileyughs out loud. She likes Fraine. She feltfortable opening up to her why she came by Metro City and the rest of the story. Furthermore, she had nothing to hide anyway; Fraine is familiar with Vincent and Eva. How ironic and a beautiful coincidence.


    Later, it was Fraine''s presentation. Fraine discusses the branch office for DV Inc. in P Country.


    Fraine gives two options. One is to rent an office to one of Shen Group Towers. The second option is to buy a building that was located in central Metro City.


    Fraine''s presentation was both approved. They have decided. At first, the DV INC. will rent a lease in the Shen Group building while negotiating an old building to purchase.


    ording to Fraine, she did some research, and most of the buildings are giving a high price. And so, they have to negotiate very carefully.


    So in the time being, they will better rent an office until they could build the DV Inc. Asia Branch Office.


    They targeted Asian customers, not travel to Dubai, but they can purchase personalized jewelry designed by visiting Asian Branch.


    This means it will be good tourism for P Country. And Hailey was happy because it will be a good impact on Vincent and a good business for Metro City.


    "Fraine, that was a very wonderful presentation. I like your ideas." Hailey pped her hands after Fraine delivered her presentation.


    "Thank you, Miss Hailey. Once we purchased the desired location, I suggest hiring the Shen Group to design your building. But I heard Shen Group can make a good deal with these buildings. They are good at convincing the owners! No one could refuse them. They are good at negotiating those owners who think their crappy old buildings are made of gold."


    Everyoneughs at Fraine''s jest. They give her around apuse. Now that the meeting is over, Hailey and Kelly treat everyone to dinner.


    Fraine was mesmerized at the private room Hailey rented for them. Wealthy people know how to waste money. Not to mention that this person is Vincent Shen''s girlfriend, whose identity is secret.


    "Everyone would be shocked and dropped their jaw once they knew that you are the owner of DV INC.," she mumbled.


    Hailey chuckled nervously. "Why don''t you drink?"


    "Ah. I have to avoid it. Doctor advice." Or just an annoying person. Fraine mumbled inwardly. And, speaking of the devil, he is texting at her at the moment.


    "It''s time for you to take your medicine."


    Fraine frowned. Even she was across the desert; this guy could still stir her blood to boil.


    ''What he thinks of me? A five years old has to be reminded from time to time?''


    Fraine took out her notes and checked out the medical records she''s writing on her notes. She counted the hours of thest time she took her medicine. After relying on her fingers, the schedule she has to retake is half an hour from now.


    As she didn''t reply to the first text, and now another one arrives.


    "I just wanted to remind you since you are in a different timezone."


    Fraine pursed her lips. It annoys her how tenacious this guy but at times like this, she has no reason to get angry. However, she doesn''t feel like replying.


    *


    Metro City, P Country


    He was tapping his fingers on the table as he''s growing impatient. It has been fifteen minutes that passed, but the woman didn''t reply to him even once.


    He furrowed his eyebrows staring at his phone for fifteen minutes.


    ''Should I call her?'' He''s debating whether to do it now orter.


    "Ahem! Director Lopez, everyone had arrived. Shall we begin the meeting?" Whispered by his assistant.


    Director Lopez red at his assistant before he swept his gaze to the faces in front of him who was waiting for him patiently.


    "Alright. Let''s begin with the uing car show and then follow with the progress of the preparation for the concert next week."


    ''Whatever!'' He conceals his irritation before he could vent his anger to his innocent employees.


    He ces down his phone on the table but frequently checks the screen if a new message has arrived.


    *


    EXTRA SCENE:


    "So, how long would you stay here?" asked Hailey. She and Fraine are now having tea after the girl avoids drinking any liquor.


    "Well, my flight back is tomorrow evening."


    "Why don''t youe with me? Vince is going home next week, so I must go back to P Country soon."


    "Oh! Are we going to take your ne?"


    Hailey nodded at the bubbly girl.


    "Okay! I''ll tell my boss that I will spend more days here!"


    "Says, I invited you to stay for a few days."


    "Okay!" Fraine had a broad smile across her face while her eyes twinkled with silliness. She took out her phone and typed on it.


    Meanwhile, Director Lopez immediately picks up his phone when it vibrates, indicating a new message has arrived.


    "I will stay here for a whole week."


    It is what the text says that made him furious.


    "What the f...ck!"


    Everyone in that Meeting Room turned their heads and gaped at him with curiosity.


    ''And what is his problem this time?'' Everyone murmured inwardly.

 Chapter 140 - Vincents Cousin

    <h4>Chapter 140 - Vincent''s Cousin</h4>


    It''s been two days since Vincent signed the final contract from Davies Group.


    Last night, the first batch of engineers and architects finally arrived in Dream City. And today, his team was working on a spacious room to serve as their office.


    At the moment, Vince was assembling his desk while the rest of his team was doing the same as well. They were setting desks and tables for each of them.


    Vince''s private office is big enough for him to ce a desk, a sofa, one long table, and a row of cabs. And since it won''t be a permanent office, he doesn''t need a bigger one.


    Conveniently, this apartment has space on the first floor for them to use as an office. If ever he wanted to work overtime, he doesn''t need to drive around to go home. It will take just stairs away.


    Vincent tries on the blinds he ces on the ss wall in his office to have some privacy if he wants to focus on his work, especially when designing the Dream City Shopping Center and the Dream City University. He needs to draw at least two models for his boss to choose from and approve.


    Now that Vince finished putting up the blinds on the windows, next, he installed the hanging cabs on the wall above his desk.


    He was twisting the screw when he heard three voices of women chatting with his engineers and architects.


    He only shook his head as the conversation was loud enough for him to eavesdrop on them.


    "Hi, Shen Group people! Where''s Tim?" Helen immediately asked the moment she entered the office. Following behind her is Maine and Miley, another secretary like her.


    At first, the seven men were frozen from whatever they''re doing upon seeing three beautiful women entering their office. But then, they all cursed inwardly when they only looked for Tim.


    They wanted to think that these women were here to flirt with their boss. But yeah, their boss is snobbish. That would be impossible. But why were they looking for Tim anyway?


    When one of the architects returned to his senses, he smiled and said, "Wait here,dies. I''ll go upstairs and call Tim."


    The guy is the younger one among them all. He is also tall and lean, and the three secretaries instantly smiled sweetly at him with sparkling eyes.


    "Thanks!" The three women said it at once, which made the others chuckle.


    Harvey walks outside but stops at the end of the stairs. He looked up and shouted.


    "Timothy Cheng! Three pregnant women are looking out for you! They said you are the father..."


    "Shut the fuck up, Harvey!" Tim yelled back from the third floor, who is currently descending the stairs. The woman behind him frowned.


    "Is that joke isn''t outdated yet?" Nancy mouthed annoyingly. She used to hear this joke back in P Country, and so, she couldn''t help rolling her eyes.


    Timughed awkwardly. He nces at Nancy as he exined. "These men don''t have a better joke."


    Meanwhile, Helen, Maine, and Miley were shocked for a moment. But then, they joined the menughing at that joke, especially when Tim responded, which their voices were echoing throughout the apartment.


    Not long, Tim appeared in the office, and Helen immediately greeted him.


    "Hi, Tim!" But then, her eyesnded on the woman following him behind. "Oh, Nancy, you''re here!"


    "Hey." Nancy smiled inly as she still feels a little annoyed. She couldn''t stop herself ring at Harvey, thinking of hisme joke. The guy is just scratching the back of his head on the corner, holding, not bursts outughing.


    "What are you doing here, Nancy?" asked Maine to her, which made her even irritated, but she still smiled even though she only fakes it.


    "I came to help Tim prepare lunch for them," Nancy replied nonchntly.


    "Oh, my gosh! Is Tim your boyfriend?"


    Later, Helen burst out that made Tim and Nancy blushed. The sudden awkwardness they feel worsens when the other men cough, like teasing Tim.


    "Ahem! Ahem!"


    "Hey, girl! You''re keeping a secret from us!" Helen bumped Nancy by the hips, which the girl pushed toward Tim. Lucy widened her eyes, then red at Helen, who only gave her a teasing smile.


    "That''s right! Now I understand what Tim said before! He''s single but not avable to mingle! Tim is preserving himself for you, Nancy!"


    "Hey! What are you talking about, Helen?" Shocked, at the same time, embarrassment disyed on her face, which Helen kept teasing her.


    She leaned over and whispered to Nancy, "Don''t worry. We won''t steal Tim from you."


    Nancy''s ears are like bitten red and her face flushing pink. She''s praying that hopefully, Tim didn''t hear it. She suddenly feels embarrassed! But she truly gets jealous when some women look for Tim even though she knew it would be rted to their work.


    "Well then! We''re here to check on you guys. The bosses wanted to know why the Shen Group didn''t join us for lunch!" said Helen.


    "Director Wilson wanted to check out if everything were okay here," Miley chimed in, which Maine and Helen nodded, concurring her statement.


    "Ah! About that... We are too busy putting up our office here, so we decided to take lunch here for today," Tim exined.


    "I see. Then by tomorrow, you guys can join us!"


    "Yeah. Definitely." Tim replied to Maine while ncing at the boss''s office.


    "Well, then! Since we delivered the message, we''re going back to the office¡ªwork will start soon."


    Before the three women could say goodbye, their eyes twinkle. Suddenly, they rush toward an engineer who is installing lights on every cubicle in their office.


    Using suitable electric wires, electrical sockets and switches, and bulbs, he tests them first before installing them and connects them to the tablemps. The guy just did simple work, but the three women were fascinated by it.


    Nancy and Tim shared a nce; the former only shrugs a shoulder. Anyway, Nancy is somewhat familiar with these girls'' attitudes. They love getting close to men, but they keep away from married men. They were just too friendly to everyone, which made the other girls feel annoyed if they were not familiar with these women.


    Anyway, thepany had a policy that whoever caught having an affair while working in the city, the firm must act to it, and the worst that can happen is to lose the job.


    Thepany wanted to avoid issues such as this; it was due to experiences in the past, and it was chaos creating by legal wives, which happens before Bryan proposes to Hailey.


    *


    Vince heaves a long sigh after he was done setting his office. He nced at his wristwatch. It will be dinner soon. His team is grilling barbecues and preparing their dinner.


    Vince looked up when someone knocked on the door, and Tim''s head peeped inside. "Boss, I''m going to the Supermarket to buy some beer. Do you need anything for me to buy?"


    "Hmm... Nothing for now."


    "Okay, boss!" Tim salutes before he shuts the door close.


    Now that he was left alone, Vince dialed Hailey''s contact. She quickly answered it, and all of his fatigue disappeared hearing her sweet voice.


    *


    The following day, Hailey sends Andre to the airport. His stay in Dubai is just too short as he has to go back to the Air Force soon.


    Andre gives Hailey a tight embrace. He parted from her and stared in the face. "Be careful, okay? I heard from your dad that you are going somewhere for the expansion of your business."


    Hailey smiled at Andre before she hugged him again. "I''ll be fine. Don''t worry too much. I would bring Pitt with me even if Keith were there."


    "I''m d. Alright. Goodbye, Princess." Andre ced a kiss on her cheek. He walks toward the esctor and waves at her.


    Hailey turned around when Andrepletely disappeared from her sight. She walked toward the exit door when she noticed a familiar man.


    "What is he doing here?" She watched the man fetch by a car from a famous hotel.


    She''s grateful that she''s disguised as Hailee Davies. Vince''s cousin Rodney Lopez did not recognize her. Otherwise, she has to think of a way to shut him up.


    Hailey pondered if Rodney Lopez has a business here in Dubai. But there is one reason she could only think of.


    Hailey takes out her phone and searches for a particr contact.


    "Fraine, Rodney is here."


    "What!?" Fraine, on the other line, shrieked and began freaking out. "What is he doing here?"


    "I wonder, too," Hailey retorted.


    Fraine was currently packing up her things when Hailey called her. She was tidying up her luggage after Hailey told her that they could go back to P Country first thing tomorrow morning.


    Now she was racking her head to think of a way to avoid Rodney. "Hailey, I don''t want to see him! I need to move to another hotel. He need not see me! Please, help me!"


    Hailey creased her forehead. She wanted to ask Fraine about something, but she doesn''t want to be nosy. She''ll wait for Fraine to open up with her.


    "Okay. I will send Pitt to pick you up." She told Fraine after a brief moment of silence.


    "Thank you, Hailey! Thank you so much!" she sighed with relief after Hailey was willing to help her.


    "You''re wee." Hailey ended the call to phone Pitt and drove back to her condo to wait for Fraine. Maybe the girl would confess to her.

 Chapter 141 - The Lopez Cousins

    <h4>Chapter 141 - The Lopez Cousins</h4>


    Palm Ind, P Country


    Fraine is sighing with satisfaction. The young coconut juice she drank was fresh and sweet! The green coconut had just picked out from its tree nearby, and the moment it was open, she quickly drank its water.


    She took this opportunity to enjoy a one-day vacation before returning to Metro City with her new boss named Hailee Hillson or Mistress Hailey Hillson.


    But the girl she is with now is a self-made Billionaire Business Woman, an heiress who has a worth of several trillion dors. The numbers made her daze, but that is reality.


    How lucky she is, a peasant, to be blessed with this kind of luxury because her boss is too generous, and so, she will indulge herself in having fun once in a while!


    At the moment, they were at the shore, having a sunbath and enjoying the magnificent view and crystal water.


    Fraine watched Hailey get out from the seawater, and now she was having a sunbath to look tan. But her main purpose is to make Vincent Shen believe that she spends on the beach in these passing days.


    The woman only wore a tiny two-piece white bikini that proudly shows her wide hips and tiny waist.


    She is a woman, but she does admire Hailey''s perfect body. It''s no doubt why Vincent Shen goes crazy about her. She has a body to die for.


    And as for her, who''s only ordinary, and even a sick person, and cared less to maintain such a figure and looks, she sometimes couldn''t help feeling envy for women like Hailey.


    Even though the girlplimented that she''s pretty, still, she could not have the guts to wear a two-piece! She''s wearing a one-piece which she still put on pants.


    Still, in a trance, Fraine answered her phone when it rang. Suddenly she came back to her senses after recognizing the voice from the other line.


    "Finally, and you pick up your phone!"


    ''Shot!'' Fraine curse inwardly. She had no n to answer this guy''s call nor reply to his text messages. But because she was bewitched staring at Hailey, she anxiously swipes the green button!


    "Why aren''t you talking! Have you lost your tongue?"


    "You!" It always made her irritated talking to this guy!


    "Where are you? I have been searching for you the entire Dubai!"


    "Oh. Do you have a business meeting there?"


    "Fraine Michaels!"


    Fraine pulls the phone away from her ear when the guy on the other line keeps yelling.


    "Yeah. I heard you. You need not yell." She muttered in azy voice while rolling out her eyes. "If you just called to yell at me, then I better hang up."


    "Then answer me or reply to my messages!"


    "Fine."


    "Where are you?"


    "I''m no longer in Dubai."


    "What the..."


    Fraine heard the guy cursing on the other line. She felt like her ears burnt while listening to his cusses.


    "What''s wrong with you! I have been like an idiot checking every hotel and possible ces you might be!" Rodney stressed out. He admired how this girl could aggravate him every time.


    "And what possible ces is that? Besides, who told you to follow me there?" Fraine sounded teasing. But after Rodney replied, guilt crept toward her chest.


    "And where are those ces? Either you are in the hospital or kidnapped by someone? Who knows!?"


    Kidnap by someone? She''s not rich to kidnap. Who''s going to have the interest to kidnap her?


    "I''ll be home in P Country tomorrow. You need not look for me." She replied after a moment of thought.


    Fraine hangs up the call. Rodney called her again, but she just ignored him. She breathes a sigh of relief when the guy stops calling her. That guy is persistent. He''s getting on her nerves.


    However, she could not deny that even the guy always upsets her, he could also move her countless times.


    But still, she hated him!


    Fraine let out a breath. Now that no more a bother, she fixes her position andfortably lies down on the outdoor beach chaise. It has been only fifteen minutes since she closed her eyes when her phone didn''t stop ringing again.


    By the second time, she decided to check if Rodney had called her again. Fraine is a little bit panicked to see the name shing on her phone screen. She debated within herself if she''s going to answer it.


    The chimed ended, her phone rang again. This time, she decided to answer the call. If the tone she used toward Rodney is indifferent, her voice is colder this time.


    "What do you want?" She didn''t act polite at all. She asks the guy on the other line without greeting him.


    Fraine heard him hurl a long breath and release them furiously. When the guy speaks again, she notices how he only controls his anger.


    "Where are you?"


    Fraine twitched her mouth and mumbled to her head. ''He and Rodney are not mistakenly cousins!''


    "You don''t need to know. I''m going back tomorrow."


    Still, her tone is cold. She waited for the guy to reply, but he remained silent for half a minute.


    "You''re on the beach?"


    Damn! His ears are good! He could have guessed it because of the gentle waves hitting the shore. Now she could not deny anything nor make an excuse.


    "Yeah, to breathe some fresh air."


    "Okay. Just don''t forget to keep yourself warm at night. You might catch cold breathing the night breeze."


    It was Fraine who is speechless this time, and she remains silent in the next seconds. With the silence between them, she could hear a woman''s sweet voice in the background.


    "Zaijan, the French investor, and our Canadian business partners have arrived. Let''s go. We have to greet them."


    "Okay. You go ahead. I''ll be there in the minute."


    Fraine need not guess. She is sure that this woman in the background is cursing her inwardly.


    "Fraine, I need to hang up. Don''t forget to take your medicine on time."


    She frowned, listening to the man at the end of the line. It irritates her that she was treated like five years old.


    She survives living alone for many years, and she handles herself very well. She doesn''t need someone to dictate her life.


    However, she didn''t share her thoughts but stubbornly murmured to her head. ''And who told you to call me?''


    She didn''t reply to the guy on the other line and let him speak till the end.


    On the other side of the world, Zaijan heaves a long sigh. He massaged his forehead and pressed his left temple. He could feel the back of his head throbbing from a severe headache.


    "Alright. I need to go." Zaijan said goodbye after a long moment of silence. He ends the call and puts back his phone in his coat pocket.


    He frowned. He already dismissed the woman in front of him; her face exhibited how displeased she was.


    And she couldn''t take it anymore to be ignored like this.


    "Sometimes, I wish I was the mistress here to be pampered and showered with your attention!"


    Zaijan sat up from his chair and walked past the woman.


    "We are not married yet, but you start acting like a nagging wife." He scoffed.


    "Zaijan Lopez!"


    *


    *


    Fraine put down the phone on herp and stared at it.


    Everything is almost perfect but then ruined by this series of calls from those cousins. They''re only ruining her wonderful vacation!


    Sometimes she could ask herself if those men are truly Vincent Shen''s cousins.


    Why does the Shen president look gentle, but his cousins are a bunch of idiots and yboys?


    How if?


    "Fraine, are you alright?"


    Suddenly, she was pulled out from her deep thoughts when a hand patted her shoulder. Not only that, she was shaking gently.


    She looked up and saw Hailey''s worried face.


    "Oh. Hailey. Did you say something?"


    "I asked if you are alright? Are you feeling okay?"


    "Yes, I am! I feel fine. You need not worry. I''m just thinking about something not important."


    "Hmm... Alright. It''s time for lunch. Shall we?"


    "Okay!"

 Chapter 142 - Welcome With Fabulous Gossip

    <h4>Chapter 142 - Wee With Fabulous Gossip</h4>


    The following day, Hailey and Fraine flew back to Metro City. They were pushing their luggage toward the exit door when Hailey saw Bruce outside the airport. He casually nods at her before he disappeared among the crowd.


    Fraine stood beside her as they waited for the Uber car that Hailey chartered just now.


    While waiting for their car, they chat endlessly, talking about the life they have living in this city. Not long, their vehicle finally arrived.


    "Fraine, I will set a dinner tomorrow to meet my business partners. I will leave the rest to you."


    "Okay." She replied. Fraine didn''t need Hailey to borate her statement. She understands that she has to make sure that Hailey''s business partners here in P Country would zip their mouths once they meet her tonight.


    "Rx, Fraine. Just act casual around me. We are good friends now. Not a boss and an employee." Hailey smiled at her.


    "I think I''m still not getting used to it."


    "You will very soon. I will text you the address tomorrow morning after I confirm that the restaurant is avable. It was sudden, and I know they already have countless reservations for tomorrow night."


    Fraine blinks many times while staring at Hailey''s angelic face. Until now, she still can''t believe it after she discovers her true identity.


    But whatever she found out does not concern her, but her sry once she manages her store. Just thinking about it, she could finally save a lot soon!


    After twenty minutes, the car stopped in front of the apartment''s gate where Fraine lives. She waved at Hailey and watched the car leaving.


    Fraine turned around, the gate open, and the two security guards greeted her. She smiled at them and returned the greetings.


    When she entered the apartment building, the receptionist also greeted her, which she became friends.


    She walks straight to the lift and presses the top floor buttons. It only took a minute, and she arrived at her unit.


    And just the moment she stepped inside the entryway, she immediately noticed the men''s shoes on the floor. It''s not only one pair but two! Suddenly, her heart beating faster.


    She took off her shoes and put them in the shoe cab, and wore her pink slippers.


    Fraine breathes in and breathes out before she pushes the door open and slowly walks the corridor.


    She saw Zaijan seated on the single couch in the living room while Rodney was on the balcony which the guy was startled to see her entering the living room.


    Rodney was smoking, and he immediately puts out the cigarette in his hand to the ashtray on the table and throws them in the trash bin.


    Yes. Rodney threw even the ashtray.


    Fraine rolled her eyes then ignored the two men. She walked straight to the stairs and about to carry her luggage upstairs when the two men spoke at once.


    "Fraine..."


    She halted for a moment, and she could feel the sharp res throwing across the living room and balcony.


    Fraine sighed with frustration. She resumed climbing the stairs leaving her luggage on the floor. It irritates her to see these two men in the same room.


    She steps inside her bedroom and shuts the door close. She doesn''t care if it creates a loud bang.


    Not long, she heard soft knocks on the door. She ignored it, but the knocks are getting impatient.


    She opened the door, and it made her annoyedpletely. It was Rodney, holding her luggage.


    "What''s wrong with you!" He yelled at her all of a sudden.


    Fraine didn''t respond to the guy but scowled at him. She folds her arms across her chest and leans on the door jamb.


    She nced downstairs; Zaijan was looking at her with a frown.


    "Get down here." He said.


    That wasn''t loud but enough to frighten someone. But not her. She also ignored him and looked away to avoid meeting his intense gaze.


    "Don''t make me repeat, Fraine..." Zaijan is warning her, but Rodney cuts him out.


    "Shut the fuck up, Zayn!" Rodney roared at his older cousin. The guy shifted his gaze at him, but he only fearlessly met his dark res.


    "And what are you doing here in my house? You can drag your ass out. Now!" Zaijan clenched his jaw and roared at Rodney. He even pointed his index finger to the front door.


    However, Rodney only snarled back at him.


    "Why don''t you go to your fianc¨¦e instead?" His tone is full of disdain. He added, "I cane here whenever I want! I own this apartment as well!"


    Fraine was entirely fed up with these men. She screamed.


    "Can the two of you leave me alone!? It would be best if both of you get lost!"


    After she screamed out loud, she rushed inside her bedroom and mmed the door closed. She makes sure to lock it.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hailey was stuck in the traffic. But since she was still halfway to the penthouse, this is a good opportunity to discuss an important matter with the Uber driver, none other than Bruce.


    She was very impressed by how resourceful he is. He really deserves to be her knight.


    "What is the status regarding the investigation by Shen, Bruce? How far are their progress?"


    "Not much, Princess," he replied politely.


    "Can you convince them to give you this case instead? Is Shenpletely trusting you now?"


    "I think I almost got their full trust, Princess. I''ll court my chief to convince him to include me in the investigation."


    "Great! And once you get in, let us slowly provide the evidence that we have. But I want you to give it directly to Fred Shen."


    "Copy, Princess."


    "Thanks, Bruce."


    "It''s my honor, Princess."


    Bruce dropped her in front of the Penthouse main entrance door and helped carry her luggage until inside the lobby.


    "Thank you," she told Bruce.


    "Anytime, ma''am!" Bruce holds his cap and slightly bows.


    Hailey went inside the building and walked straight to the elevator. Somehow, the lobby is packed today. Several of the residents are hanging out here, chatting to their neighbors while having coffee.


    The lobby of this penthouse has a coffee shop that servesttes and pastries.


    When she passed them, some of these tenants greeted her, and some only smiled inly.


    Well, who else didn''t know her?


    She is the famous Mistress of Vincent Lopez Shen.


    And she cared less if they gossip about her. No one knew who she was anyway.


    Oops, speaking of gossip... Hailey contorted a smirk on the corner of her mouth.


    She just received a text from Hazel forwarding a link to an article about her.


    The news questions her if where she went? Because someone saw her taking a ne from C Province.


    They question if she had a vacation with someone else while President Vincent Shen is out of the country.


    The article even includes her photos at the airport.


    Hailey would love tough out loud. But she has to suppressughing alone in the elevator might they think she''s gone crazy.


    Just when shees back to Metro City, she was soon wee with fabulous gossip.


    "These people..." She clicked her tongue.


    What should I do with this gossip?

 Chapter 143 - Long Distance

    <h4>Chapter 143 - Long Distance</h4>


    Hailey pushed the door open after she put the password on the system lock. She steps inside the house; her eyes travel to every corner of the living room, the kitchen, and the pool area.


    Suddenly, a warm feeling wrapped around her heart, walking around the house that witnessed how her and Vince''s love bloomed.


    She looks upstairs, and it feels like she could feel Vince''s presence through the memories that flooded inside her head.


    So this is the feeling of being in love? It is overwhelming like she can''t exin, but tears want to escape from her eyes, and she allows a few drops to trail down her cheeks.


    She''s falling harder for Vince. It has been just two weeks since they were officially in a rtionship. But before that, they are already creating memories in this penthouse.


    Now she could feel it will be hard for her to leave this ce. The penthouse has be her and Vince''s love nest.


    That''s right. This house is their haven.


    Hailey climbed the stairs with her luggage; she put it away in the corner and looked around her bedroom. It reminds her of the first time Vince sleeps with her in this room.


    Well, it''s not the first time they were on the same bed because that happens in M Resort, but she only remembered a little as she got drunk from the party.


    But after many months that they were living together under one roof, they finally sleep together in the same room. Although nothing happened, she discovered that she had a dangerous effect on Vince''s body being next to him.


    He got a hard-on. But Vince showed how he respected her. He controls his desire, and that made her fall in love with him even more profound.


    Then, after Vince confessed to her during his ident, their rtionship moves to the next level. Their intimacy was not only kissing and hugging.


    And thinking about it now, she couldn''t stop her cheeks blushed even she''s alone in the room.


    But she''s already missing Vince. True, that she sees him back in Dream City from a distance. But it is still different from being wrapped inside his arms.


    He made her feel the assurance that inside his arms, no one can hurt her, and she is not allowed to be sad.


    She thought that Dream City could make herpletely happy. But she is wrong.


    It was Vince.


    And she thought that building Dream City is already her biggest dream. But she was wrong again.


    Her biggest dream is to have a life with Vince and, of course, to build a family and be together forever.


    However, right now, that is yet to happen. Especially that someone threatens Vince''s life. But once it will over, his divorce sure to follow.


    Before she could cry on, Hailey went to Vince''s bedroom andy down on the bed and breathed his scent that was lingering in his bed.


    No. His scent is all over his bedroom. Not only that, all their memories being together is like a shback. She and Vince not only make love in her room, but they also share love in his bed.


    Of course, she can''t stop recalling these memories because, through body contact, they created another world that only matters between her and him.


    Besides, it was a great feeling to wake up next to him, which Vince has been vocal to hertely. He misses waking up first thing in the morning that her face he sees the moment he opens his eyes.


    And she could rte to that. She began missing the day and night that his warm arms were tightly holding her, and the moment she woke up was his handsome face, she saw.


    They both miss each other.


    Hailey was lost in her world, thinking about Vince, when her phone rings out loud. Upon reading the name of the caller, she couldn''t stop her tears anymore.


    "What''s wrong?"


    She texted Vince that she arrived in the penthouse. Soon, he video calls her, and a worried face he saw on her phone screen seeing her crying.


    "I just missed you."


    Vince bes speechless. Even he is also missing this girl the minute he parted from her.


    "I''ll be home soon."


    He said in a gentle tone that soothes her chest. And yes, she needs her home.


    "I''ll be waiting." She sobs.


    Vince breathes a sigh of frustration. Nothing he wishes at this very moment is to hold this girl. He hopes to dry those tears with his kisses.


    "I''m d that you are home safe," said Vince.


    "Yes. And I am happy to be home. But of course, I''ll be happier if we are together." Hailey couldn''t help expressing her feelings toward Vince.


    "I missed you too, bad. Would you like toe with me instead?"


    Hailey is a bit surprised at the same time, worries linger in her eyes, but she quickly conceals them. At the moment, she can''t grant his wishes even if she would love to be in the same ce where Vince is. But that is impossible for now.


    ''I''m sorry, Vince. It''s not the right time yet.''


    "I would love to. Maybe by summer? This semester will end soon." She instantly finds an excuse. dly, Vince believes her because he supports her in finishing her course.


    "You are right. It will be just a couple of months."


    She nodded and nted a smile on her lips. "Yes. And then, I''ll be in my second year."


    Vince believes that she wanted to build her restaurant. And he also believes that she could manage a five-star hotel after shepleted her courses which Vince knew nothing about, that she would own everything soon, the reason she is taking these courses.


    Vince, on the other hand, was relieved seeing her sweet smile. ''This girl didn''t know how I always worry about her.''


    "By the way, I have something to talk to you about."


    "What is it? Is everything okay?" He asked. Somehow, he had the idea of what possible topic Hailey wanted to discuss. If this is about that issue, he wanted her to know that he didn''t believe it.


    Just a while ago, Bruce informed him about the article. It made him rage because those entertainment people used the opportunity when he was out of the country.


    How dare they nder Hailey with such gossip? Even if he''s not in the country, he''ll make sure to pay whoever is behind this news.


    However, it is not the matter what Hailey wanted to discuss with Vince. She had another concern more than the gossip, and that is her identity.


    Hailey bites her lower lip before she speaks. These passing days, she''s been lying with Vince. Although, since the beginning, everything is already a lie regarding her true identity, it is different now.


    She and Vince were in a real rtionship, except that everything is just an agreement between them; she has no worries because she ns to reveal her identity after divorce.


    But it besplicated. Moreover, she falls in love with Vince. Not only that, Vince confessed that he is in love with her for a long time already.


    After a long silence, Hailey finally speaks again. She smiled and said, "I just wanted to let you know that I was invited to prepare a special dinner tomorrow night."


    "Oh. Where?"


    "At the La Fleur Restaurant," she replied.


    "Oh. Is the Vasquez family having an important gathering?" asked Vince.


    The restaurant is owned by Congressman Vasquez, a perfect friend of his dad. Besides, Hailey worked as a part-time waitress in that restaurant before he offered her a contract.


    Recalling the past, Vince hid the smile ying on his lips. Of course, he remembered how tricky that waitress one time he dined in that restaurant.


    Vince fixed his facial expression. He conceals not showing his silly smile at Hailey. "Ahem."


    "Well, it''s not a celebration but a confidential meeting among DV Gem business partners. ."


    "Oh. Zayn mentioned it to me. The DV Gem will put up a store as an Asian branch in Metro City Garden. The store willunch soon."


    "Yes! The meeting will be attended by important personnel from GV Company, and so they prefer something French and Italian cuisine to serve during the dinner meeting."


    "Hmm. And that is your expertise. Of course, you can."


    "Thanks!" She breathes with a sigh of relief. At least she wanted Vince to know where she will be. The media is still keeping an eye on her. From now on, she needs to act with extra care.


    Ironically, her life here in P Country is more controversial than her life in Australia.


    "Wifey..."


    Hailey''s chest fluttered after Vince called her that way. The word isn''t just sweet but most especially the way Vince says it.


    "Yes, hubby?"


    Vince smiled. Suddenly, he felt like tears began forming in the corner of his eyes. It was a wonderful feeling to be called this way by the woman dear to his heart.


    Now he was distracted and forgot the things he wanted to tell her.


    "I love you, Hail."


    "I love you too, Vince."


    Vincentpletely forgets his request from Hailey. Butter tonight, Vince phoned her again, and it surprised her.


    "Are you sure I will be the one to choose the gift for your mom''s birthday?"

 Chapter 144 - A Gift For His Mom

    <h4>Chapter 144 - A Gift For His Mom</h4>


    Hailey was sorting some files when Vince phoned her at night. They cheerily chatted for a few moments then Vince asked her a favor.


    "Mom''s birthday will be next month. I realize the gifts I often give her are a purse or a bag. I want to give her something different this year. So, can you help me pick out a nice gift for a mother?"


    "What kind of gift were you thinking of giving her this time?"


    Hailey''s question made Vince push the corner of his mouth and murmured mischievously to himself.


    ''I preferred to give her a grandson.''


    Vince let out a low chuckle that didn''t escape from Hailey''s ear.


    "Did you say something just now?" she asked. ''And why is heughing now?''


    "Ah. I''m just thinking of giving her jewelry this time. What do you think?"


    "Oh..." When Vince mentioned it, suddenly, an idea came to her mind.


    "So, can you help me? I''m just thinking that you are going to meet the DV Gem executives. Maybe, I can ce an order even before the storeunches in P Country. I want personalized jewelry for mom. But I have no idea."


    "So you want me to pick out what kind of jewelry it will be?"


    "Yes!"


    "And do you trust me with this?"


    "Yes, I do. You are so lovely at those times we attended several parties. I trust your taste."


    Somehow, this encourages her to do it. Vince isplimenting her.


    "Okay. I''ll do my best to pick out something for her. But I wonder if your mom would like it." It worries her already; aside from the fact that she is Vince''s mom, she is the one and only Hilda Lopez Shen.


    "Thank you, wifey. Don''t worry. I know mom will like whatever gift you choose for her."


    "Likewise, thank you for trusting me," she said to Vince.


    "I will always do."


    Hailey bit her lip as guilt struck her chest. Vince''s words squeezed her heart with the reality that she had several lies to him to hide her identity. But she promises to tell him the truth once he is free from his marriage.


    If she reveals the truth, she doesn''t want Vince to feel ufortable with his work. Most of all, her concerns are her dad and the boys. They won''t make things easy for Vince.


    A possibility that they won''t confront her but Vince, the reason she wanted to avoid revealing herself as she is sure it will be chaos, and it will implicate the progress of the constructions.


    When the call ended, Hailey got her MacBook and a drawing pen.


    She began sketching on herptop until she did a lot of editing. It was past midnight when she was done.


    She''s not satisfied yet, but she will consult Kelly about it and fix her design. And since it was still evening in Dubai, she chatted with Kelly.


    "OMG! This is so gorgeous, Hail!"


    "Do you like it? I mean, whoever received this ne would like it?"


    "Seriously? No. I would love it!"


    "I''m d. But it''s not for you."


    "What!? I thought it''s for me." Kelly pouted. They had a FaceTime and discussed the ne she designs. "So, for whom this ne?"


    "It''s for her mom." She needs to lie again. It''s not the right time for Kelly to know about Vincent even though she knows she has to tell her everything, sooner orter.


    "Alright! Please leave it to me! I will make this myself."


    "Really? Thanks, twinnie!"


    "This is special. So then I will do it myself."


    "Thank you, Kell. I actually needed it very soon as it is a birthday gift for a mom."


    "No problem! It will finish right away!"


    "Thanks once again. Anyway, can you also make a pair of earrings and a ring?"


    "I''m actually thinking about that."


    "Great!"


    After the call, Hailey had a massive smile on her face. She''s d that her head is abundant with ideas at the moment.


    But behind these ideas, she designed the ne while thinking about her mom. She''s missing her badly, but she knows she''s in a better ce.


    And so she''s praying that Vince''s mom would love it.


    *


    The following day at Lopez Corporation...


    Zaijan is reading all the reports in the past month he was out of the country. It was just half a day that had passed, but his head is throbbing with a headache.


    Later, the door of his office was opened by a person who never knocks. The guy sat across him, yet he ignored him.


    "This is my report regarding the uing concert. Everything has been set up already. The international band will arrive next week, and the Presidential suite was already prepared for their stay."


    "Great," Zaijan replied tly. He nced at his wristwatch; he realized it was past noon already.


    Zaijan heaves a frustrated sigh, followed by his face darkens. It annoys him that Fraine didn''t remind him for lunch.


    He was about to dial the woman''s mobile number when his phone rang.


    "Vincent?"


    "Hey, Zayn. I heard you''re back in the country."


    "Yeah. What''s up? By the way, congrattions on winning a contract from Davies Group. I heard from uncle Fred; your work would take several years to finish. It''s good news for everyone."


    "Yeah. It will be a massive production for Lopez Steel Corp.; it means more work for us as well," said Vince on the other line.


    Zaijan is nodding while listening to Vince. "Uncle Fred schedules a daily meeting to meet the demands soon."


    "Great. I did ask dad to oversee the production. And so, can you take care of all the stuff regarding the expansion of Metro City Garden?"


    "Alright. I''ll assign Rodney to supervise this project."


    "I''ll be at ease then, especially now you will be there."


    "I know," Zaijan replied meaningfully. "I''ll be in the country for a longer time, and one idiot here also decides to live in Metro City permanently."


    A dagger look threw at Zaijan, but he still ignored the guy. Of course, it upset him when Zaijan mentioned ''one idiot.'' He knew that it refers to him.


    "Great. Anyway, I have another favor to ask." Vince went on.


    "Sure. Spill it out."


    "Can you look at who is behind the article?"


    Zaijan didn''t need the full details. He already understood that Vincent is referring to the gossip thrown at his mistress.


    "Okay. I''ll take care of it."


    "Thank you, Zayn," said Vince.


    "Small thing. But we should throw you a party once youe back."


    "Hm. It''s mom''s birthday soon. Maybe it would be best to announce it by then."


    "It looks a better idea." Zaijan concurred.


    "Alright. I''ll hang up now."


    "Okay."


    Vincent ended the call. It was more likely a in and boring conversation, but they had already shared important information.


    Zaijan looks up to meet the curious eyes looking at him.


    "What?" He askedzily.


    "Nothing. I''m just impressed that if Vincent you spoke with, you were so calm and spoke softly."


    "So? What''s intriguing about it?" Zaijan raised a brow.


    Rodney shrugged a shoulder and responded. "As I said, it''s nothing."


    Zaijan stared at Rodney for a long moment before he exined. "Vincent and I both run a bigpany. Apparently, we understand each other better and shared the same struggles to handle business matters."


    Rodney curled his mouth. Again, Zayn isshing him face to face that he is less reliable.


    "Get your car ready."


    Later Zaijan told Rodney, which made thetter even more annoyed.


    "What am I? Your private driver?" He grumbles.


    Zaijan made a sidelong nce at Rodney; soon, he withdrew his gaze and focused on his phone to dial a particr contact.


    "Where are you?" he asked the person at the end of the call.


    "In my office," Fraine answeredzily.


    "Lunch break just began. Have you finished that quick?"


    "I brought food with me," she replied.


    ''What? She made a lunch box only for herself and didn''t make one for me?'' Zaijan clenched his jaw. Today, he left the apartment earlier than he always does, and so he didn''t know whether Fraine cooks something when he''s gone. ''That woman!''


    "Go to the parking lot right now," he ordered before he hung up the call.


    Zaijan sat up from the couch and walked toward the door without casting a look at his cousin. He doesn''t like repeating his words.


    Rodney, on the other hand, heaves a frustrated sigh then quickly follows Zaijan.


    "I''ll drive you as long as you''ll treat me to lunch every day." He mouthed with a massive grin across his face.


    Zaijan scowled at him. The guy would be only willing to be his driver because Fraine would be there as well.


    On the other line, Fraine frowned. She has no n to listen to him. However, it''s no use if she didn''t follow what he said. The guy will march toward her office, and then an endless argument would erupt between them.


    Fraine sighed helplessly.


    In the parking lot, Fraine heard the elevator chimed. She turned around and gazed at the two handsome men who stepped out of the elevator.


    Both are undeniably handsome, and their height almost no different. Although one has a much firmer body than the other one, it didn''t make him inferior. His cold expression made him mysterious while the other one, his personality, exploded everywhere.


    Fraine lightly shook her head and withdrew her gaze from the two men.


    "Yo!" Rodney tries to steal her attention, but she ignores him.


    "Get in." Zaijan opens the door, and Fraine climbs into the car in silence; neither talks to the men.


    Once Zaijan settled in the passenger seat, Rodney drove his car to a restaurant he and Zayn discussed in the elevator a while back. As usual, there is a brief argument before it is decided.


    Fraine grew ufortable with how silent the two men. It made her wonder why the seriousness?


    Later, it was Zaijan who broke the silence.


    "After lunch, start investigating that article." He told Rodney.


    "Alright."


    Although she ignored the presence of these men, Fraine got intrigued by their casual conversation.


    "Vincent truly loves his girlfriend."


    Later, Rodney made ament that gave Fraine an idea. She quickly texted Hailey.


    "Hey! I learned that President Shen asks President Zaijan''s help to deal with the article."


    Meanwhile, Hailey is currently preparing the dress she will wear tonight. She quickly reads her messages when the sender is Fraine.


    Her eyes flickered to know that Vince was trying to protect her even though he was not in the country.


    "Okay. Thank you for notifying me."


    Somehow, her rtionship with Fraine has be her advantage to get information from Vince''s cousin''s activity. It will be a lot easier for her to monitor what is happening with the Lopezes.


    *


    Extra Scene:


    Fraine was exchanging a few messages from Hailey; she didn''t notice that they had arrived already.


    She just realized it when both of the backseat doors open.


    She was dumbfounded at first, but then it was reced with irritation when the two men acted childish again; both were throwing measuring gaze at each other.


    Fraine rolled her eyes, but she didn''t know which door she was going to choose.


    ''Ugh! Can''t they leave me alone?!''

 Chapter 145 - DV Gem Dinner Meeting

    <h4>Chapter 145 - DV Gem Dinner Meeting</h4>


    Evening...


    After Hailey prepares dinner for her three guests, she changes her casual clothes into a dress.


    Tonight, she is wearing a red backless dress with a long slit on her right leg. The front of the dress is a deep V-neck that disyed her two proud chests.


    And then, she is wearing a Red Diamond jewelry set. Tonight, she was a zing red.


    By seven in the evening, her guests had arrived one by one. Frainees one hour before the said time to prepare the agenda of this meeting.


    Hailey''s new business partners are two famous personnel in P Country, and the third one to join them tonight is an old friend. So then, only two people she has to worry about.


    The first woman who arrived is Leticia Javier, the wife of Senator John Javier. She was known as an iconic fashionista. She''s not only known in Asia but a favorite fashion icon by European designers.


    Then, the next woman who arrived is Dana Curtis Hanes. Aside from her business tycoon husband, she is a self-made millionaire. She put up multiple clothing stores.


    Andstly, Gigi Chan. Who didn''t know her? The Chan is the most powerful and wealthy family in S Country.


    Leticia and Dana were overwhelmed to meet Gigi. The three women did a cheek-to-cheek greeting before they sat on the dining chair at a round table.


    "Hello,dies. The co-owner of DV Gem Inc. is on her way."


    Leticia and Dana shared a nce. They both anticipated at the same time excited to meet the co-founder of DV Gem. They have heard that four women built thispany and each year, more women be an investor in the saidpany. Gigi Chan is an example.


    Not long after, two of the waiters opened the door, and a beautiful woman appeared.


    Leticia and Dana couldn''t believe what they were seeing. At first, they thought it was a mistake. But Gigi sat up and greeted the woman.


    "Hailey, I missed you!"


    "Hi, Gigi! Thank you foring!"


    "Of course, I can''t say no to the Queen," Gigi said, winking at her.


    The two women giggled, then hugged each other and ced a cheek-to-cheek kiss.


    Still, Leticia and Dana were in a trance, but the way Gigi greeted Hailey Hillson, they looked like a very good friend for a very long time already.


    "Hello,dies." Hailey warmly smiled at the two dazed women in front of her.


    On the other hand, Leticia and Dana snap themselves from shock. They returned a warm smile while musing inwardly.


    ''The famous Mistress is a co-owner of DV Gem?''


    "Allow me to introduce myself formally. My name is Hailey Hillson, co-owner of DV Gem Inc."


    "Wow. This is like a bomb thrown in our faces." Leticia muttered with excitement in her voice! "You were rich! I mean..."


    "Vincent didn''t know." Hailey cut off whatever Leticia wanted to express.


    "Wait... So are you saying that?" Dana is confused, but she''s trying to process the whole picture.


    "Why don''t we take a seat? Let''s have a toast because this is our first official meeting as business partners."


    Fraine serves five sses of wine, and one is for her. She was standing on the side and ready to assist thesedies tonight.


    Watching on the side, she felt overwhelmed. These fourdies are admirable! They were famous, wealthy, beautiful, and morous except for one who is hiding her true identity.


    After a loud toast, they sip on their sses and take a seat.


    "I know the two of you had many questions that are now running inside your head."


    "Yes, I do! I mean, if Vincent didn''t know, then his mom. Madame Hilda Lopez Shen didn''t know that you are as wealthy as she is?" Leticia queried with intrigue.


    Hailey smiled bitterly. "I don''t want her to ept me because of my wealth. I want her to see me as a woman who loves her son dearly."


    "Then how about Vincent''s marriage? Why he hasn''t divorce Eva yet?" This time it was Dana who asked curiously.


    "What!?" Gigi burst out in shock. She only listened to the conversation as Hailey instructed her while she gains these women''s loyalty. But this shocking news? "What are they saying, Hail?"


    Hailey looks at Gigi with pleading eyes. She apologizes, "I''m sorry if I didn''t tell you, Gigi. I promise. In one of these days, let''s have a coffee and chat, okay?"


    "But why are you in a rtionship with a married man? You, as a wealthy woman, are just someone''s mistress? I never heard such a thing in my entire life! Not to mention you keep it a secret from me! Aren''t we close?" Gigi pouted.


    Hailey chuckled. She reached Gigi''s hand and said, "I''m sorry. Look, Kelly didn''t know as well. So don''t be angry."


    "Humph! You''re using that spoiled tone of yours on me!" She said with hurt.


    "I need to hide it, Gigi," Hailey said with sad eyes. "If dad will know about it, can you imagine what he can do to the man I love?"


    Gigi pondered, and she understood Hailey''s reasoning.


    "Dad will bury Vincent alive. And the boys..."


    "Yeah. I understand." Gigi snapped at Hailey to stop her feeling down. ''But still, the guy has a wife!''


    "Where is his wife, by the way? Does she know that her husband has a wealthy mistress?" Gigi emphasizes the word wealthy.


    Hailey shook her head. She exined, "It was an arranged marriage. I know you understand this matter among everyone else. You were in an arranged marriage before."


    Gigi smiled bitterly and mumbled to herself. ''Life isn''t perfect even to those who sleep in a bed made of gold.''


    "Does he truly love you?" she asked afterward. Hailey nodded, and she saw how her eyes spark. "Oh my gosh! Finally, you fell in love!"


    Hailey nodded once again. "Yes. Vincent is my first in everything."


    "Hey! I could understand the meaning of your phrase!" Gigi shriek, and they both giggled.


    Later, Hailey''s facial expression turned solemn, and with a serious gaze, she stared at Leticia and Dana, whose admiration exhibits on their faces. They could still not believe the friendship they both have.


    "As you can see, things are veryplicated. I set this meeting because of a favor I wanted to ask from both of you." She began.


    Dana shared a nce with Leticia. The two women nodded at each other before they fixed their eyes on Hailey and smiled warmly.


    "Of course! We understand your struggles." Dana sounded likeforting her.


    "Dealing with the fact that Vince is legally married, you can''t introduce him to your father." Leticia echoed, then she asked, "Do you want my help? I have a good friend in Need in York. She is an outstandingwyer working in one of the biggestw firms in the US... I can introduce her to Vincent."


    "Thank you. But what I know, Vincent''swyers already appeal to the court. But they could not locate Eva to invite for a hearing."


    "Oh..." The two women nodded at her.


    "Anyway! I invited you,dies, not to talk about Vince''s divorce. I want our partnership to have trust and loyalty as well, to form a friendship."


    "It''s my pleasure to be your business partner at the same time, being your friend, Miss Hillson," said Leticia.


    "Same to me. Be at ease. Whatever I saw tonight, it will be like it never happens. I''m not fond of gossip. I hated it."


    "I know how dirty the entertainment circle is. They will always make up a story and don''t care whomever they write about."


    Hailey smiled. "I think we all can cooperate regarding this matter."


    "Yes! Your secret identity is safe with us!"


    Hailey keenly observes Leticia and Dana nodding in unison.


    "Thank you,dies. Now, could you ept my gift?" She said after a brief moment.


    There is a red box on a separate table. Fraine opens the cover and takes out two packages. She ced each box in front of Leticia and Dana.


    Suddenly, excitement crept to their chest, seeing the name of the boxes. They already guessed what it was inside, but still, they gasped when they opened it.


    "Oh, my..." Both are speechless, but their eyes are glimmering like the stones on the jewelry set in the box.


    "I hope you like it." Although she is confident, she needs to remind the two women that this gift is the reminder of the secret they must keep until she reveals herself on her own.


    "We love it!"


    The two women were delighted to receive such a gift. To be honest, they could afford to buy it. Still, it''s different when it was a gift from a new friend!


    Hailey watched the two women wearing the pieces of jewelry. Before she arranges this gift, she runs an investigation about them, including their favorite color.


    Watching enough, she turned her head to Gigi, who also enjoyed the show. The woman is leisurely sipping her ss and wink at Hailey.


    "I didn''t forget yours, of course." Hailey sat up from her chair; she took out a ck box and ced it on the table.


    Gigi excitedly opened it, and even though she owned countless expensive jewelry, she still gasped with awe. She took the ring and ced it in her hand.


    "Blue Sapphire..." Hailey curled her lips.


    "You do know my taste."


    Hailey even smiled sweetly; she then pped her hands and announced. "Now! Let us have our dinner."


    "Fraine,e and sit beside me."


    "Okay, Miss Hailey." Fraine quickly sat on Hailey''s left side. Now she is seated between Hailey and Dana Hanes. Then, she was surprised when Hailey ced a box in front of her.


    "Here, this is for you."


    "Oh. I have too?" she stammered her words due to excitement.


    "Of course! Silly. I will never forget you." Hailey chuckled. Fraine always amused her. No wonder she captured the Lopez cousins'' hearts. And good to know her life story.


    "Thank you, Hail! I mean, Miss Hailey."


    "Please, I don''t want you guys to feel like a stranger around me, especially you, Fraine. You need not slip out of addressing me formally. From now on, we have the same goal. To make women feel special and beautiful by wearing our jewelry."


    Hailey picks up her ss and raises it. "Bel Avenir!"


    "Bel Avenir!"


    *


    Extra Scene:


    **Morning News: Last night, President Zaijan Lopez and Director Rodney Lopez were seen outside La Fleur Restaurant with their dates.


    Earlier that day, several customers reserved a table sincest month suddenly canceled due to a private dinner of an unknown person.


    It turns out it was the Lopez cousins along with... Their Mistresses?


    We all know that President Zaijan Lopez is engaged, but the girl he is withst night is the rumored mistress he lives with in one roof, and the other woman of that night is none other than President Vincent Shen''s Mistress!


    What is she doing in that ce when President Shen is out of the country for a business trip?


    It looks like it was a dinner date to me!**


    *


    *


    "Exaggerating!"


    Rodney didn''t finish reading the whole article. Furiously, he threw his phone on the couch.


    "I''m going to kill whoever is behind this article!" He stressed out. ''Or else, Vincent, kill me first!''


    Meanwhile, Hailey felt displeased. Early in the morning, she will greet this kind of news.


    Well, she doesn''t care about the gossip. What enrages her are these people creating a hype when Vincent has to focus on designing her city.


    "Vincent should have no distraction!" She stressed out angrily.

 Chapter 146 - The Waitress (One)

    <h4>Chapter 146 - The Waitress (One)</h4>


    Hailey raised the ss and drew it close to her lips. She was on the sofa gazing out at the glittering city lights far ahead down the city below.


    La Fleur is located on a mountain hill, and it has a nice view from there.


    The dinner meeting this evening went well. And during the meal, they''ve discussed theunching of the branch store and choose the Ambassadress for the DV Gem.


    During the selection, Hailey allows Gigi and Leticia to choose the perfect model since they are more familiar with the modeling world.


    And since theunching is around the corner, Gigi stayed in the country and was amodated at M Hotel, the most expensive hotel in P Country.


    Now that she is alone, she roamed her eyes to the entire room and a beautiful memory shing back all of a sudden.


    *


    Hailey''s POV


    Saturday Night is a busy night for this two story restaurant named La Fleur.


    Daisy Vasquez, a friend of mine, asked a huge favor to train their chefs for a new French and Italian cuisine to offer. And since Keith Cole, her husband is my knight and a good friend; I can''t say no, so I came to the restaurant every weekend.


    There are two young chefs I have been teaching to make a simple French cuisine. They are learning, but it needs to perfect the taste of the sauce and the mixture.


    But tonight, the restaurant was in a bit of chaos. The restaurant manager was on sick leave, and they said super VIP guests were here tonight.


    Since I have nothing to do, I volunteer to cut some vegetables and spices when the restaurant floor manager storms the kitchen and is looking for a brave server to attend a particr VIP room.


    Tonight is extra busy because of the shortage of hands. Besides, the rest of the servers begged not to send them there.


    I got intrigued. What''s the fuss about? I tried to understand their conversation. I am not fluent in this country''snguage, but I could understand more words.


    "Is no one going to assist me serving them? They are already waiting!" Manager Fely hopelessly sighs when no one is answering.


    Out of curiosity, I asked. "Manager Fely, is there anything that I could help?"


    "Ah. I need someone to serve the VIP Room 8. But everyone is avoiding Madame Shen."


    Oh. The Shen!


    If everyone is avoiding them, but I want to get a little closer to my objective. At that moment, an idea came to me. I said, "I can help you attend to them if you can lend me a waitress''s clothes."


    "Are you sure about this, Miss Hillson?"


    I nodded. I know Manager Mely is worried because I am not a chef nor a waitress here, but a chef instructor.


    "I haven''t done much around here this evening. So I am likely free."


    Manager Fely has no choice, I could tell in her facial expression. It exhibits whether she must feel relieved or even get worried.


    How if something happens? But in the end, Manager Fely epts my offer of lending more hands tonight.


    I put on a waitress''s clothes and followed her to the VIP room. I took a long breath before I stepped inside because of the possibility that he was there.


    When I came in, I instantly scanned the elegant hall. They have well decorated the room with a modern luxury theme.


    In the middle of this private hall is a long table. And on the corner to the right is a living room set with two sofas and two couches and a round cocktail table in between.


    Five men are lounging on the sofas and drinking champagne while two older couples sat at the dining table with a beautiful woman.


    Manager Fely approaches the older couples, so I stand on the corner, casually look around. Then my eyesnded on him.


    My real objective why I was in this country, Vincent Shen.


    He is seated on a single couch, talking to a man that is older than him. Of course, I know enough information about them. In fact, it''s a piece of cake to run an investigation about Shen Group and this family.


    I sighed, then withdrew my gaze from the men. Later, I secretly nced in his direction, and he is discussing business with President Zaijan Lopez. My eyes passed to another man seated next to President Lopez, whose face is new to me, while the other guy I know is Vincent Shen''s sister''s husband.


    "Excuse me, waitress... Can you bring us two more sses, please?" President Zaijan ordered me.


    I partly nodded and walked toward the minibar on the left side of the hall, where they kept all kinds of wine sses.


    dly, I quickly found the trays; it kept under the countertop. I take one and ce two champagne sses, and put the tray on my right palm, then bring them toward President Zaijan.


    "The sses, sir," I said and partly extended my arm with a tray.


    "Miss Hillson?"


    *


    Vincent''s POV


    I just arrived at the restaurant as I have many projects to sort out with my architects and engineers, so I was thest one to arrive.


    I sat down on a single couch across from Zayn. After we briefly discussed our private life, our conversation shifted to ourpanies and the projects I work ontely.


    My ears caught the sound of an opening door. I partly nced at the door with no intention to look at whoever came in, but I froze in my seat.


    Just one nce is enough for my heart to flutter crazily.


    What she''s doing here? Is she working as a part-timer? I often bring my clients to this restaurant, and I didn''t notice her before. Maybe she had just started serving here.


    I keep my head, not to look in her direction; my neck has begun to stiffen from the restraint I am doing. But then Zayn asks for two wine sses. Not long after, she brought the sses to us, and she''s standing so close to me.


    "The sses, sir." She said, and I gasped. The pleasant faint fragrance mixed in the air when she passed me is like a fine wine that slowly made me intoxicated.


    I immediately close my eyes, and when I open them again, my gaze remains on the floor, or else my cousins and brother-inw would notice the sparks in them. However, I face another problem... I am now staring at her long legs.


    What the heck?


    I felt like I was even getting drunk. And so I tried hard to withdraw my gaze from her fair legs.


    Why isn''t she wearing ck stockings the same as the rest of the waitresses here? I asked myself.


    Wait... Am I the only one staring at her long legs or every man in this restaurant?


    "Miss Hillson?"


    I heard Carl call her. I nced at my yboy cousin, and I wanted to punch him for grinning like a dog.


    ''Dammit, Carl! I want to beat you up right now!''


    But wait... Why am I acting like this? It''s not like she is my girlfriend, or I am her boyfriend. Am I jealous?


    ''Of course, I do.'' I answered my questions. Dammit! I was like crazy now talking to myself.


    And the more I felt upset when Carl starts flirting with her!


    *


    Hailey''s POV


    I''m not surprised to see Professor Carl as he is Vincent Shen''s cousin.


    "Hello, Professor Johnson." I greeted him.


    "What are you doing here?" he asked me.


    And I replied with a lie. "Um. I applied for a part-time job, sir."


    "Oh. I see. Then what time are you going home?"


    Huh? Why is he asking me this? I processed in my head to understand, but then a stern voice spoke...


    "Can we order now? I''m starving," said Vincent to Professor Carl.

 Chapter 147 - The Waitress (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 147 - The Waitress (Two)</h4>


    Hailey''s POV


    Oh, gosh! I''m so happy that I am saved! I don''t want to answer my professor about what time I get off from work. That is not appropriate.


    Or am I just overthinking? Well, never mind. My attention returned to Vincent Shen.


    Until now, he''s still snobbish. How could I approach him in the future if he is always wearing a grim expression?


    He is too serious and seems like he is always in deep thoughts. I wonder what he''s thinking? Or maybe the right question is, who is he thinking?


    Ah! Why am I paying attention to this matter? All I see he is cold and snobbish. Just now, he seemed in a foul mood. But he is a talented architect. I really want to offer him a contract and hope I can make an appointment with him soon!


    And as I am thinking about it, I''m anxious if we can have a good talk. Maybe he''s different when dealing with a client and discusses projects.


    Yes. That''s how I''ll need him!


    It''s only two months away, and it''s going to be Christmas. I want to go home and spend time during the holidays with dad. I am missing him already.


    And so, I have to find a way to get an appointment and talk business with Vincent Shen.


    However, he is a snob! He''s even not looking at me. Am I not pretty in his eyes? I think I am sexy in my waitress attire. But he''s not sparing a look at me.


    Wait a minute. Why am I concerned with my looks? I indeed care about my skin and body. I make sure I look neat and pleasing. But I never did it for a man! So why would I worry if he didn''t find me pretty?


    *


    Vincent''s POV


    Shot! Her presence drove me crazy. I think it will be dangerous to be alone in a room with her. But Carl... This id...t cousin of mine!


    Why is he asking her the time she gets off from work? Has he had a n to court his student?


    Dammit, Carl!


    "Can we order now? I am starving."


    I spoke all of a sudden. I know I talk a bit indifferently. I nced at my cousins and brother-inw. The way they are looking at me proves that they sense the irritation in my tone. But no one dares to joke on me. Instead, they began flipping the menu book and concurring that they are hungry too.


    I could feel her eyes staring at me, and I desired to look up and meet her beautiful eyes.


    To distract me, I picked up the Menu Book on the table and began flipping the pages. However, I can''t decide anything tonight. I am just simply reading the dish''s names.


    *


    Hailey''s POV


    "What is the best dish of this restaurant?" The guy next to President Zaijan is asking me.


    My god, what should I do!?


    I was freaking out when Vincent Shen looked up, and our eyes met¡ªmy heart flutters, and I don''t understand why it beats crazily.


    And before I could open my mouth to reply to his cousin, he spoke on my behalf, and I just found myself listening to him.


    It looks like he is often at this restaurant as to how familiar he is with the most dishes ordered by the VIP guests.


    "I thought they had new dishes."


    I heard President Zaijan mumbling on my right side. I look at him, and immediately, I let my head work.


    "Yes, sir. We have new dishes, but we haven''t added them to our Menu yet. Good news! We are offering a free taste tonight." I replied, smiling broadly at the five men in front of me.


    I then noticed him tighten his jaw. I don''t understand what is going on with him, but tonight, he seems foul mood.


    And so, I give all my best to act as a real waitress taking their orders and exining a bit about the dishes in my mind.


    ''Is he finding my assistanceme? I know I didn''t correctly act as a waitress, which I have never done before. All I do is cook.'' I sighed inwardly.


    So nothing I could think of but offer my recipes! And I am hoping they''ll like it.


    I''m crossing my fingers!


    After I took all the men''s orders, Manager Fely and I talked in the corner. She stayed in the room to serve the Shen and Lopezes, and as for me, I rushed to the kitchen and began to prepare three French and two Italian dishes.


    I asked for the help of the two chefs I trained to make them. In this way, it was more like I''m teaching them the new dishes.


    And while I''m cooking the five dishes, I sent an appetizer to the super VIP guests to not feel bored waiting for the fish.


    After fifteen minutes, three of the dishes are done and sent over. And another ten minutes passed; finally, I finished preparing the other two dishes.


    But before I go back, I prepared ten tes of chocte mousse cake with raspberries and five bowls of ssic banana split.


    I am about to go back; I fix myself to look pleasing again.


    When I''m done, I ride the lift toward the second floor with the pushcart. Every head at that table turned in my direction after I came in.


    I partly bowed and brought the cart closer and began putting the desserts on the table.


    "Oh my gosh! My favorite chocte mousse cake and raspberries! This angel in my belly craved it!" Deena burst out suddenly.


    And yes, my investigation says she loves mousse cake. But the raspberry thing? I love to pair it if I serve one to dad.


    Now it looks like something to celebrate tonight.


    "Sweetheart, are you saying that you are pregnant again?" I heard Wace asked his wife. His eyes spark from excitement, and the couple embraces each other tightly.


    "Yes! I confirmed it when I was preparing for our dine-out. But I didn''t tell you yet as I saved the good news tonight! I didn''t expect that I''ll see raspberries and can''t help bursting out with delight."


    "Thank you, sweetheart!"


    I pped my hands along with everyone in that room, but I blushed when I saw the couple kiss. Of course, I haven''t kissed anyone on the lips yet.


    "Congrattions!" Everyone cheered, and I continued serving the dessert when Deena spoke to me.


    "Thank you."


    I nodded and smiled. "You''re wee, ma''am."


    But Deena creased her forehead and stared at me keenly. She seemed to try to remember something, then she said to me, "You look familiar."


    I do not know how to respond to her, and so I just smiled. Then I noticed she nced at her brother, and the siblings acted strangely. No words came out from their mouths, but their eyes seemed tomunicate.


    I ignored their behavior and served the dessert to Madam Shen. I saw that she finished the Italian pasta I prepared. Somehow, it made me happy that she likes it. I also noticed on her te, she tried all the dishes I cooked.


    "Ma''am..." I offered her the chocte mousse cake, and she thanked me.


    She only smiled inly. Her aura is not friendly, but she''s not scary as to how everyone describes her. I think it''s just her intimidating personality.


    "Whoa, cousin! You are indeed starving!" Professor Carl teases Vincent, who he only ignores.


    I nced in his direction, and as a chef, it is my pride if someone bes happy with the food I prepared.


    *


    Vincent''s POV


    It surprised me when my sister asserted that Hailey is familiar to her.


    But then, knowing Sheena, I had the idea that she was chatting with Deena about the girl we saw in Budapest.


    Yes. Sheena, I was waiting when I saw Hailey, and she also knew that I tried to search for Hailey so that I need not marry Eva.


    But I failed to find her. I tried to search Hungary, Italy, and France. But she''s nowhere to locate. I don''t know which part of the Earth she''s been hiding.


    And yes, fate is just ying with me. When I almost lost hope to see her again, I saw her strolling around Metro City Garden.


    I thought it''s just an illusion, but it was her.


    She appeared when I stopped searching for her.


    *


    PRESENT TIME


    Vincent pressed his back on the chair while he was speedily replying to Hailey''s message. She informed him that she finished serving the guests and was about to go home.


    He quickly messages Bruce to remind him to make sure that Hailey arrives at the penthouse safe.


    "Copy, boss," Bruce replied to him.


    After the brief exchange of messages with Bruce, Vince sent Hailey a text.


    "Tell me if you arrived home. Just then, I could sleep tonight."


    "Yes, I will... Love you, hubby."


    He couldn''t help smiling broadly even when he was alone inside his unit. He loves the endearment Hailey gives her.


    While he''s waiting for Hailey to message him that she finally arrives at the penthouse, he recalled those times he saw her working as a part-time waitress at La Fleur Restaurant.


    *


    NEXT ON:


    Morning Headline News: "IT LOOKS LIKE PRESIDENT VINCENT SHEN''S GIRLFRIEND HAD FUN PLAYING WITH DIRECTOR RODNEY LOPEZ IN HIS ABSENCE"


    "I''m going to burn this entertainment newspany!" Rodney stressed out.

 Chapter 148 - SHE WILL BE MINE

    <h4>Chapter 148 - SHE WILL BE MINE</h4>


    (A quick shback...)


    Vincent took a shower the moment they arrived in the mansion. He dried his body and wore his lower pajamas and a sleeveless white shirt since he has no n to go to bed but to work on hisptop at midnight.


    He''s reading some emails when a light knocks on his door, then follows Deana''s soft voice.


    "Brother?"


    Vincent stood from his leather sofa and let Deanae in. He asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Deana shes a smile then waving her phone. Soon, Sheena appeared on the screen, screaming.


    "Brother, it is true? Is it true?"


    Vincent was a bit confused about what gotten to his sisters. He looks at his two sisters with questioning stares.


    "She''s there! She''s there, right?"


    Ah. Now he understood. Deana told Sheena that Hailey is in the country.


    "Yes. She''s here, and she went to N University." He replied with a smile. This time he didn''t conceal the sparks in his eyes, and his sisters shared a nce.


    They were thrilled to see him like this. Both witnessed that their brother has never had a love life. And now they could see how happy he is.


    Deana and Sheena swear that they would only be with the person they love. And it is what they wished for their brother. Whoever he loves, as long this girl loves their brother back, they will give their support to them.


    "Wow. Really!? Oh, wait. How did you know? Don''t tell me you stalked on her?" Sheena teases her brother with sparkling eyes.


    Deana and Sheena nced at each other when their brother smiled yfully.


    "Oh, my God! So how was it, brother? When will you introduce her to us?"


    "Silly. It''s not like I could approach her and proposed to her immediately. What would her reaction be if suddenly, I knelt before her and asked WILL YOU MARRY ME?"


    Upon hearing this from their brother, both Deana and Sheena shrieked. Not only that, the two girls are jumping from the thrill.


    "Hey, you''re pregnant. Stop jumping." Vincent reminds Deana that surprised Sheena.


    "OMG! Is that true?"


    "Yes."


    "Ah! Brother, you should hurry up so that our children will y soon!"


    Vincent chuckled. It made him happy that his sisters are showing support toward him. But things won''t be easy for him.


    "First, I should confirm if she isn''t married yet."


    "You''re right, brother."


    "What you''re going to do now?" It was Deana who queried. "You should not let her escape from your sight."


    "Yes. I need to make sure that I can protect her once I take her into my world. She would face judgment and humiliation from everyone, especially from the media. That is why I have to make ns thoroughly."


    "And mom..." Both Deana and Sheena said at once.


    "Especially mom, yes. She will be the one to dig a pit for her." He witnesses how their mom wears a stone heart when his sisters choose the men that Madam Hilda Lopez Shen disapproves of. It will be the same for him.


    No. It will be more in his case. So then, to not lose the woman he fell in love with all these years, he needs to protect her even from his mom.


    "Know that we were here to support you, brother. And if you need help to win her over, I would be ready to fly there!"


    "Thank you. Don''t worry. This time, I will make sure SHE WILL BE MINE." full of determination; he didn''t hide his emotions in front of his sisters.


    "Oh, looks like you already have a method to capture her heart," said Sheena. Her voice is teasing as usual. But she was truly happy for her brother.


    Vincent smiled and replied to his sister...


    "I will not let anyone stand on my way to be with her."


    *


    PRESENT TIME


    Hailey changed her red dress into short skirts and a loose blouse which she tucked in. She still wears the red stiletto when she gets out of the restaurant.


    Outside, she saw Fraine frowning in front of the two men leaning on their cars.


    "I could go home alone," said Fraine. She noticed Hailey stood behind her. She added, "Hailey will drop me."


    "Your apartment and her penthouse are in the opposite direction." Rodney cut her out, which made Fraine red at him.


    Fraine turned around, her eyes pleading to Hailey. ''Help me, please!'' Her silent prayer. "Hailey will still send me home."


    "Yes. It''s just a quick drive," Hailey asserted. She saw Fraine breathed with a sigh of relief.


    However, Zaijan disagrees.


    "No. You wille with me,dy." He told Fraine with a firm tone. He added, "Rodney will escort Miss Hillson as we promise Vincent to watch over his girlfriend."


    There are no words from her mouth, but she''s a bit upset that Zayn always finds a reason to dominate her.


    Fraine nced at Hailey with apologetic eyes. Hailey nodded and walked toward her.


    "I packed the food left. It will be a waste if no one takes it home."


    "Whoa! Perfect timing! I''m starving!" Rodney eximed.


    He climbed the stairs to get the food bag from Hailey''s hand, but Fraine took it first. She was ring at Zaijan,pletely ignoring Rodney.


    "You haven''t eaten yet?" Fraine asked, gaping at Zaijan with a bit of worry in her eyes.


    "We just finished our meeting. So I have no time to eat." He replied.


    Fraine sighed furiously. She turned around and pursed her lips. "We''ll go first, Hailey. Thank you."


    "You''re wee. See you around, Fraine."


    "Yes. See you around." Fraine climbed the passenger seat after Zaijan opened it for her.


    "Rodney, make sure you escorted Miss Hillson till she''s inside the gate." Zaijan reminded Rodney.


    "I know," Rodney replied with a frown. He''s a little irritated. But it''s not because he assigned to this task. Besides, he has no other choice. But his issues are another thing. He''s jealous, of course.


    "Ahem." Hailey coughs to get Rodney''s attention. She hands over the good bag in her other hand. "Here... I packed the rest of the food for Fraine. It''s really for you and President Lopez."


    Rodney quickly hides the sadness in his eyes. He smiled broadly and thanked Hailey. "I heard that you were preparing Vincent a lunch box. He''s indeed a lucky bastard."


    Hailey smiled timidly. She didn''t expect that Vince''s cousin wouldment like this.


    "Shall we?"


    Hailey nodded and walked toward her car. She''s d that Rodney is sensitive to their situation. He senses that she is ufortable.


    She''s not shy toward Vince''s cousins. She is just always reminding herself that her man is a JEALOUS MAN.


    And he is vocal about how jealous he is if she''s friendly to other men.


    She grew up with men around her. But now that she has a boyfriend, she must avoid getting close to other men.


    Hailey turned the engine of her car and followed Zaijan''s car, then Rodney is tailing them.


    When they arrived at the main road, Hailey stopped and rolled down the car window. Fraine is waving goodbye, and Zaijan nodded at her.


    She watched the car turn left and head south. And as for her, she needs to take the road to the north.


    Hailey looked in her side-view mirror, ncing at the car behind her. She could see that Rodney was staring at Zaijan''s car that now disappears from their sight after it takes a turn right.


    She honks twice to get his attention. The car returned a honk, and that is the signal. She resumed driving, and Rodney followed her.


    Ten meters behind them is Bruce''s car. Hailey isfortably driving now that her knight is tailing them. But as they just drove halfway on this hill, two race cars drove past them.


    However, they''ve noticed that her car and Rodney''s car are not just ordinary sports cars. They turned around and apanied them along the road.


    They were screeching their tires and making a loud noise from their engines.


    Hailey tightly gripped the steering wheel. She struggles to keep her calm, but she needs to remain a clear head. Yet, the driver of the car behind her starts getting annoyed.


    Rodney is now pissed off. If he hasn''t escorted Vincent''s girlfriend, he already epts these idiot challenges, and he races with them. But the race cars are getting persistent.


    Then his eyes widened when Hailey''s car sped up, leaving them behind.


    "Shot! Vincent''s girlfriend is truly something!" He mumbled and stepped on the gas.


    He watched when one race car attempted to overtake the yellow Aperta. But the driver has professionally blocked the race car.


    "Damn! Is she this good? However, even she seemed to be a professional race car driver. Still, Vincent will kill me once he learns about this!" Rodney stressed out, and he began freaking out.


    The car in front of him is a bother. He tried to overtake from the left side, but the vehicle blocked him fast.


    "Shot!" He smashes the steering wheel. But then he saw Hailey blocking the car in front of him.


    In what Hailey did, she opened the rightne for him. He sped up, and now he was on the lead.


    He smirked. She''s perfect! "Vincent, you are a bastard! Where did you find this girl? What else she could do?"


    Not to mention how beautiful this woman is. She''s an international chef and now a professional race car driver?


    "She''s indeed a mysterious girl!"


    Hailey let Rodney take the lead. She focused on blocking the car behind. But then she remembered the traffic light at the foot of this hill.


    She nces at the crossing road down below this hignd. Some cars drive with velocity. And Hailey knows it''s not a good idea to maintain her current speed.


    She squeezed inside and overtook the car in front of her. She needs to stop Rodney and reduce their speed.


    Hailey is sending a signal to the three cars, but no one is reducing their speeds.


    She decided to overtake Rodney. Good thing that she secretly upgraded the engine of this La Ferrari Aperta to meet a race car speed.


    Her car''s actual engine has reced the reason she couldpete against a real race car.


    Hailey now takes the lead; she keeps sending Rodney the signal. Finally, the guy got it, and he''s now reducing his speed.


    She gradually reduced her speed and prepared to stop at the traffic light when a loud crash in front of her.

 Chapter 149 - Controversy (One)

    <h4>Chapter 149 - Controversy (One)</h4>


    She''s staring horribly at the scene in front of her. Hailey''s eyes widened as she was frozen in her seat.


    She watched how the red car flew across the road after crashing into a passing truck.


    Both vehicles run with such speed, and the crossing road is dangerous if you drive at such velocity.


    Hailey covered her mouth when the red carnded on the other side of the street, where it was severely damaged. It worries her whether the car driver survived that impact.


    Looking at the car in front of her, she could imagine Vince''s ident. Luckily, Vince didn''t have injuries.


    Still dazed, Hailey heard knocks on the driver seat''s window.


    "Princess! Princess!"


    She turned her head and rolled down the window; she looked at Bruce with a shock on her face. "Bruce..."


    "Leave now, Princess." He suggested. It is best that the media didn''t see her in the scene.


    Fell into thoughts, she came back to her senses upon hearing Bruce''s suggestions. "No, Bruce! We must help that car!"


    "I know, Princess. But please leave now. Let me handle the situation here. Your safety is more important to me!" It''s my job to keep you away from harm!


    She disagrees, but maybe Bruce is right. In the end, Hailey agreed.


    "I will tell Director Lopez to leave as well and escort you home. Please, be careful."


    She nodded. As of this time, she felt the warm love she always received from her knights, her brothers.


    Hailey watched Bruce talking to Rodney, who is also shocked by what he witnessed.


    "Director Lopez!" Bruce starts knocking on the window until the guyes back to his senses.


    Rodney isn''t afraid to witness a scene like that, but as of this moment, fear crept into his chest as he mused.


    How if he didn''t pay attention, and he misses Hailey''s warning? It can be possible that his car bes like the one in front of them that was severely wrecked! He wonders if the car driver is still breathing.


    "Director Lopez!"


    Rodney turned his head. He creases his forehead as confusion written all over his face of why this man is knocking on his window.


    "Who are you?" He rolled down the window and asked the guy suspiciously.


    "I am Miss Hailey''s secret bodyguard," Bruce answered the truth. It''s no longer necessary to hide his identity. "I was assigned by President Vincent Shen."


    "Really?" Surprised disyed on his face. It astounded him to see that Vincent is assigning Hailey a secret bodyguard again.


    "Please, escort Miss Hailey back to the penthouse," said Bruce, and he saw Rodney Lopez nodded, he added. "Let me handle the situation here, Director Lopez. Most importantly, Miss Hailey is safely home."


    Rodney nodded again and thanked the guy. He rolled down the window on the passenger seat to look at Hailey. Their eyes meet and converse silently. They nodded at each other then Hailey resumed driving, leaving the scene with him.


    "Hey! Where are they going?" The guy from the green car tried to block the two vehicles. "Hey! Bul...hit! You!" he turned to Bruce.


    The guy rushes to Bruce, who is currently talking with someone on the phone.


    "Hey! Why did you let them go!" he shouted.


    "Please, sir, calm down. I am calling a medical rescue, and the ambnce is on its way," said Bruce.


    The guy took a moment of silence as he pondered with something, but then he''s throwing a fret once again.


    "Shot! Why did you let them go!"


    "Sir, the police are on their way." Bruce calmly told the guy even though he wished to punch him.


    "Fine! I will make sure that those two drivers will pay!"


    Bruce didn''t reply. He just simply stared at the guy. Who''s at fault? If they didn''t challenge the princess, there would be no street race tonight, and most of all, there should be no car ident.


    dly, his dashboard camera recorded everything. That will be a piece of solid evidence if this stupid guy insists that the princess caused the ident.


    Not long, Police Patrol cars arrived on the scene and quickly investigated the ident. Soon, the ambnce arrived and helped the driver to get out of the broken car.


    The police officers questioned Bruce, his very own friend, and one of them reviewed the video recorded by his dashboard camera.


    He moves away to take a distance to make a phone call to an important person and let them know the situation.


    "Hello, sir Keith? It''s me, Bruce. We need to protect the princess."


    *


    Palm Ind, C Province


    "What? How is she?"


    "She probably arrived in the penthouse by now. I''m worried about the media once they found out," said Bruce.


    "Yes. They want to put her in the hot seat. They were keeping an eye on hertely. Bruce, call Sandy and tell him to make sure that no news will leak outside P Country. Sandy must prevent all the news."


    "Copy, sir."


    In these passing months, the Princess protected herself with Sandy''s help. She makes sure that any news about her and Vince would not leave P Country but is instantly blocked by Sandy.


    And if the link were shared with someone living in another country, this person can''t open the article, especially all Hailey''s pictures.


    That''s how Eva didn''t discover about her being Vince''s not-secret-affair.


    In the past, Zenaida used to share Hailey''s photos with Eva, but Eva alwaysins because the photo or video would only say, "not avable in your country."


    But Hailey''s real reason is not for her dad and the boys to find out where she is and what she''s been up to.


    "Keith, what happens?" Daisy asked her husband. She heard him named Bruce. It was just recently they met him as Hailey''s new knight. "Is this something about Hailey?"


    This morning, Daisy was digging a pit because of how Hailey was nder by the media. If Keith didn''t calm her down, she probably gives birth when it''s not her due yet because of her anger.


    "Keith, I want to release a statement regarding Hailey''s vacation. Can I use our resort''s official page to post the article I prepared?"


    "Sure, my love. But I need to talk to Sandy to ensure that this post would not leak outside P Country. We know how fast the people share a link and gossip."


    "I understand. It''s just that I can''t sleep tonight thinking of the false news thrown at Hailey."


    "Thank you for being a good friend to her. She''s like a sister to me." Sincerely, Keith told his wife. He has no sister, so he was drawn closer to her.


    Daisy smiled at her husband. She whispered, "I''m happy that she is my friend. I will help her by any means. Oh, I better call dad! I''ll ask him to check out what is happening."


    "It''s a good idea, Love."


    Daisy didn''t dy; she phones her dad to inform him about Hailey''s situation. Although she knew that Vincent would not abandon his girlfriend once he heard about the news, they wanted to protect Hailey with all their power and influence as well.


    That night, Congressman Vasquez quickly sent his men to check what happened after the dinner meeting.


    He runs his own investigation about the ident.


    Meanwhile, Hailey is pacing back and forth in the living room. She was nervous because she disappoints Vince this time.


    It was her childish behavior that, until now, she could not control her behavior sometimes as being a spoiled brat.


    Now she let Vince show her side of being a pain in the head and ass.


    But she didn''t wish for anything to happen tonight.


    Ugh! It was her who was infuriated when the media are creating hype. But now, she dragged her ass to controversies.


    Although it''s not her fault, she felt a sense of obligation to ensure that the car driver will remain alive.


    Hailey was in deep thoughts when her phone rang. It was Vince!

 Chapter 150 - Controversy (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 150 - Controversy (Two)</h4>


    Hailey takes a deep breath. She bit her lower lip to control her nerves from the tension she''s feeling at the moment.


    "Hey..." She tried to sound cheerful, but cold water poured on her spine.


    "How do you feel?" Vince asked; his voice was cold.


    Hailey closes her eyes. Vince is upset, and she caused it, and so she understood because she disappoints him.


    "I am fine. I''m sorry if I am hard-headed again." She apologizes, and she hears Vince hurls a deep sigh again.


    It was a part of her that was at fault. Even more, she gives Vince something to worry about while he''s away in P Country. She doesn''t want him to be distracted like this, but she provokes him, and now she''s in trouble.


    "Alright. You need to stay in the penthouse and don''t go out until things aren''t resolved."


    "How about my sses?" she asked worriedly.


    Vince fell silent for a brief moment, thinking of a solution to that matter. Then he dered, "I''ll talk to Carl to give you sses online."


    "Okay." This time, she could not assert what she wanted. She doesn''t want to make things difficult for Vince. And so, she swears not to do something out of capriciousness ever again.


    She''s impulsive; she admits that. And she needs to take extreme action regarding her behavior.


    She''s not the spoiled brat anymore, fearless to try anything because she knew that everyone would not say no to her.


    But now, it''s different.


    "Hubby... I''m sorry." She apologizes once again. She knew that Vince only suppresses his anger.


    "Okay. I''m just hoping that you won''t be street racing again."


    Hailey opens her mouth to answer, but she could not spill out the words forming in her tongue.


    She loved to race. It is one thing she and the boys shared as a hobby. And to stop to race was like a part of her cutting out of her system, but if it makes Vince feel at ease, then she''s willing to give it up and promise to drive extra careful from then on.


    Hailey realizes that she didn''t respond yet, and Vince now believes that she can''t give it up.


    "Hail, do you understand why I prohibited you from doing a street race?" There is bitterness in his voice.


    "I''m sorry..." She apologizes again. If Vince were in front of her, she knew that he would lecture her for good, and she would ept it.


    "Hail, I want you to understand how I feel. When I got into an ident the second time, I was so scared because I don''t want to die and leave you."


    He added with sincerity in his voice, "But Hail... It will be different if you are the one who gets into an ident and didn''t survive. I might go crazy!"


    "Vince..." She cried. For the first time, she felt afraid to die. She doesn''t want to part from Vince.


    *


    The following day, news came out about the ident. Although it releases the dashboard camera records, it still has many critics who exhrate the information.


    HEADLINE NEWS: "IT LOOKS LIKE PRESIDENT VINCENT SHEN''S GIRLFRIEND HAD FUN PLAYING WITH DIRECTOR RODNEY LOPEZ IN HIS ABSENCE"


    "DIRECTOR RODNEY LOPEZ AND PRESIDENT VINCENT SHE''S GIRLFRIEND SEEMS GETTING ALONG CLOSER"


    THEY WERE SEEN RACING THAT CAUSES AN ACCIDENT...


    Rodney didn''t finish reading the whole article. He dropped his phone on the couch furiously.


    "I''m going to kill everyone who is behind this article!" Or else, Vincent, kill me first! He stressed out. "I''m going to burn this entertainment newspany!"


    Zaijan nced at him; he smirked and said, "Instead of fretting, why don''t you start cutting the onions?"


    "Huh? Why am I always the one assigned to slice the onions!?"


    "Then go home to your unit and make your breakfast!"


    Fraine has just woken up, and this is the scene that greeted her. She rolled her eyes and mumbled, "Jeez. First thing in the morning, and they are already barking at each other."


    Fraine sat down on the sofa; Zaijan brought her a ss of warm milk.


    "Thank you." She said in a low voice, which Zaijan only nodded as a response.


    "Good morning, Fraine!" Rodney greeted with extra enthusiasm.


    Fraine gape at the guy with curiosity. He seemed acting weird this morning, and she could not describe what odds surrounded him.


    "Did something happenst night?" She asked curiously, shifting her gaze from Zaijan and Rodney.


    The cousins shared a nce and decided to tell Fraine the truth.


    "What the heck, Rodney?" She burst out after.


    "Yeah. I know. I hope Vincent won''t kill me!" Rodney sobs. He wiped the tears in his eyes, but he continued crying.


    Fraine wanted to offer a face towel for Rodney to dry his tears, but then she noticed the onions he chopped.


    "Seriously?" Fraine raises a brow and would like to smack him in the head. She scowled and turned around, leaving the men to take in-charge of the kitchen.


    Fraine stepped out on the veranda and sat in one of the chairs. She pulled out her phone from her pocket and began texting Hailey.


    "Hey. How are you? I just heard the news."


    "I''m OK¡ªnothing to worry about," Hailey replied to Fraine.


    "I know it will resolve soon. Zayn will help to solve the matter with the media."


    "Vincent must be asking President Lopez''s influence to investigate the incident. It sucks because the patient was the son of Vincent''s foreign investor. It''s a huge one."


    "Oh, my gosh!" Fraine freaks out. The situation is moreplicated than she thought.


    Fraine and Hailey chatted further until Zaijan announced that it''s time to eat. She said goodbye to Hailey with a prayer that things will settle soon.


    "Why don''t you reveal your true identity instead?" One of Fraine''s suggestions which Hailey could not concur with.


    "No, Fraine. Vince is trying to handle this matter, so I will let him take care then. But of course, I am also paying attention to the other party and will take a step in if necessary."


    Hailey heaves a long sigh. She could resolve this matter on her own. She could set a meeting with Vince''s investor, not pull out their shares.


    But she believes that Vince has a n. When he said that he''d take care of it, it means she must let him stand as her reliable lover.


    For now, she will step backward and allow him to be her man protecting her against the world.


    *


    Hailey''s entire day passed boringly, but she tried to distract her attention by preparing theunch of DV Gem Asia Branch Store. She had FaceTime with Gigi Chan, Leticia Javier, Dana Hanes, and Fraine Michael all afternoon.


    They''ve discussed where to take office, and they voted which building they''re going to rent a two-floors for DV Inc. Asia Branch Office. It will be at Shen Tower.


    Hailey agreed because it would be only temporary until they could negotiate with one of the old building owners and buy it a great deal.


    ~ ~ ~


    Hailey blow-dried her hair and prepared for bed. Tonight, she chose to sleep in Vince''s room to feel his presence.


    She hugs his pillow as it smells like him. Since Vince advises her not to check out the news, she turns off her phone.


    The night is getting older, but she was half asleep. Hailey buries her face and hugs the pillow even tighter when the scent lingering on her nostrils is more intense this time.


    She could inhale the fragrant of Vince''s shampoo.


    At first, she ignored the quiet movement around the bedroom. Butter, she could feel warm tiny kisses nting on her forehead and left cheek since shey down on her right side, so it was what side that exposes, to touch freely.


    ''Vince? He''s home!''

 Chapter 151 - The Treasure I Am Keeping Forever

    <h4>Chapter 151 - The Treasure I Am Keeping Forever</h4>


    Hailey moves to her side, and she hits her forehead on a hard body, particrly on the firmed chest.


    She opens her eyes and saw a handsome face smiling at her. Instantly, the corner of her eyes forms beads of tears.


    "Hubby... Am I dreaming? I missed you so much, so now I dreamed of you."


    But then, she heard a beautiful chuckle escape from his mouth. Is this still a dream?


    "I missed you so much too, wifey." He whispered and bit her earlobe. At this moment, she was fully awake.


    And she''s not dreaming! Vince is truly here!


    "You''re here! It is real!" she burst out happily.


    Vince lowered his mouth and covered her lips. She puts her arms around his neck as Vince deepens the kiss and begins kissing her hungrily.


    His mouth has be demanding, and she responds to him passionately. Vince thrust his tongue inside her mouth, exploring inside andter dancing with hers. When they almost couldn''t breathe, Vince parted their lips and rested his forehead on hers.


    She opens her eyes and meets Vince''s gorgeous deep dark ck pupil eyes.


    "Why did youe earlier than you nned?" She asked afterward. "Has Mr. Lee did not change his mind?"


    "Rodney had a meeting with him earlier this evening. But he stood on his decision to pull out his investment."


    "I''m sorry." She apologizes.


    "What are you saying? You did nothing wrong."


    "But I was the one who didn''t keep my cool. I was the one who dragged Rodney into this. Now you lost a huge investor." She''d guessed already that the Board called Vince for a Corporate meeting.


    "What I lost is nothing. It''s just 0.001 percent of the treasure I am keeping forever."


    Hailey gaped at Vince''s handsome face. He is serious when he utters that, but his tone is full of sincerity.


    She lifted her right hand and her fingers tracing his jawline down to his chin and the bridge of his nose. Then, her fingers touched his lips.


    ''I need to do something soon.'' Hailey thought; she hid the smile ying on her lips. ''You lost a sardine? I will give you a mackerel, my dear hubby.''


    Vince pulls her hand and nted tiny kisses on the back of her palm, and then their fingers intertwined.


    She blushed after she felt his hard-on. He always gave her this impression of how gentleman he is to have control every time their body is this close. They could feel each other''s heat, but he made an effort not to act being aggressive.


    Hailey is lovingly staring at Vince as he is passionately gaping at her angelic face. Their eyes locked and made love.


    She could not exin what she felt right now. But it can be possible that someone can get through your soul just by making love through eyes? She believes so.


    ''This guy... Does he n to die with a hard-on?''


    But she knew that Vince took control of his desire as much as he could because she better prepared herself once he started. Somehow, Vince has monstrous stamina, but she tries to keep it up with him.


    Hailey swallowed and bit her lower lip upon thinking of the times they make love. But then she jolted and gasped when she felt Vince''s stiff shaft throbbing from excitement.


    She looks up and notices how he stares at her lips. It seems that he''s aroused when she licks her lip and bit it. He moves his gaze to her eyes, and she swallows one more time when his eyes are looking at her with AFFECTION.


    She won''t use the word "LUST" because the electrifying heat they shared is with love.


    They are making love... Letting their body be one along with their love and affection for each other.


    The moment Vince imed her mouth once again, she could sense his hunger to devour her whole.


    As their kisses deepen, Vince''s hands start exploring her body. He gently massages her shoulder down to her arm. It climbs upward and now moves gradually toward her neck down to her breasts.


    Vince cupped her right chest and gently massaged it on top of her silk nightgown. The heat from his palm sending tiny bolts toward her core.


    A strange sensation began forming in her core as Vince''s hand caressing every inch of her body, and soon, she just realized that he already pushed up her nightgown, and the only thing it needed was to pull up from her head, and Vince did it.


    His eyes wandered her almost naked body. She blushed to remember that is left only her tiny lower lingerie in her body, and now Vince''s hand is massaging her legs and around her thighs, so close to her dampness.


    She let out a moan between their kisses when his fingers touched that part of her body only covered with thin fabric, but Vince''s burning palm aroused her whole being.


    He slowly pulled the lingerie down to her ankle so that he could freely y the center of her womanhood.


    "Uh... Vince..." She gasped when he put one finger, and he explored her insides. She reached for his shoulders and held onto them when it slid deeper and hit her walls. Furthermore, she arches her body, holding her breath before she breathes out.


    Vince ces a kiss all over her face; he licks and bites her earlobes... Slowly, his mouth lowered to her neck and traveled to her corbone.


    Later, his mouth found a haven with her breasts. Hailey moans every time Vince biting her ni..ples and her nails buried on his back when he added another finger on her insides. Not only that, his thumb is taunting her cl....is...


    She breathed in and let out a satisfying cry after several minutes that Vince worked on her dampness for her to reach the peak.


    She thought he was finished teasing her insides, but she was wrong. Vince''s mouth traveled down her stomach while his hands parting her legs.


    He knelt between her thighs and lowered his head to devour herpletely. The bedroom filled her cries until she once again reached another release. Her body shudders from the waves of pleasure that Vince made her feel over again.


    And, of course, that is just a beginning. All night, Vince brought her to a height of pleasure she can''t refuse, but her body craves for more.


    She responds wildly to how aggressive Vince imed her body, soul, and heart all over again and again all night.


    She is exhausted, but she wants to wash her body. Vince brought her to the bathroom and put her down in the tub to take a bath together.


    Actually, Vince bathes her. All she did was leaned over to the bathtub and rested her head above her arms. They have no sleep yet, and Vince needed to attend the Board meeting.


    After Vince gives her a warm bath, he also blow-dries her hair. She ces her elbows on the dresser while her palm holds her chin, or else she would shove her face on the furniture.


    "Hey, I haven''t prepared your breakfast." She uttered sleepily.


    "Forget it. I will call Tim to pick up some food in the restaurant." Vince replied,bing her long hair.


    "Okay. Then I will make your lunchter instead. I will get a couple of hours of sleep, then send someone to pick up the lunch boxes."


    Vince finished drying her hair; he picked her up from the stool and put her down on the bed.


    "Forget making meals. Just save up your energy for tonight."


    Hailey opened her eyes and looked at Vince with wide eyes.


    She''s right. He grins naughtily!


    "You haven''t had a wink of sleep ever since you arrivedst night, and now you were thinking about tonight?" she pouted, then ring at him.


    Vince chuckled sexily, and it was like music to her ears. It made her chest flutters crazily.


    "Hey,e here for a sec..." She called Vince, gesturing her index finger.


    After he ced both of his palms on the bed and leaned over to level their faces, Hailey bit Vince''s earlobe, she giggled, then hid under the quilt, leaving the guy stunned from what she did.


    But she noticed that Vince remained leaning on the bed. She peeped out.


    "What''s the matter?" She asked him, and she caught when Vince pressed his lips and furrowed his brows.


    "I can''t go to thepany with a hard-on."


    Hailey dropped her mouth open, and her eyes widened.


    ''Oh my gosh! No way! Ah! I should be sleeping now!''


    And Vince is supposed to be on his way to the office. The time on his wristwatch is seven-thirty in the morning.


    Hailey regretted a little, yes, only a little, that she bit Vince on the earlobe. Now she is paying the punishment!


    But at least, she discovers where Vince''s sensitive part is.


    "Vince!!!" She screamed when Vince flipped her over and pushed her body down to the bed while he parted her legs while she was kneeling.


    She''s exhausted, and so she buried her face on the pillow.


    ''Ah, where did his energye from!?''


    "Uhn¡­ Vincent Shen!"

 Chapter 152 - The New Investor

    <h4>Chapter 152 - The New Investor</h4>


    Metro Group of Companies Headquarter


    MGC is a unitedpany aiming for the same goal and making Metro City the best city in Asia.


    One of its stakeholders is Lee Corporation. But then, they pull out their investment and partnership after the ident that involved Hailey, and now, the organization''s anger pointed at Vincent for the mess that it causes by his mistress.


    "President Shen, you are the first person who knows that we are expanding Metro City Garden. Now that Lee Corp pulled out their investment, how are we going to finish the ongoing expansion of the mall?"


    "That''s right. We already began the construction of the Emerald Theater that cost over a hundred million. Now how are we going to continue that?"


    Vincent is only silent the entire time since the meeting began. Now that they ask him directly, he pursed his lips and smile. By what expression he shows to the Board made them confused. From what they''ve seen, he remained calm all this time.


    "The construction will continue. I''ll take responsibility to look for another investor. Metro City is doing well. More foreign investors are attracted to put up their branchpany, and it happens that I have countless foreign business partners who are willing to invest in MGC," Vincent responded with superiority in his tone. There''s no way these old geezers would scare him to step down.


    The stakeholders fell silent only for a moment, then whispers rising in the room.


    Meanwhile, Zaijan, who is patiently watching and listening to this boring meeting, finally speaks up.


    "Finding new investors is a must, and Vincent can take care of that. And if all of you have forgotten, DV Gem is soon to open their Asia branch store here in Metro City Garden." Zaijan nced at Vincent and Tyler before he went on. "Lopez Steel Corporation will continue supplying all the materials that are needed to build Emerald Theater. There''s no need to stop the construction¡­."


    Whispers arise again, Zaijan and Vincent could sense that the Board is not satisfied with their exnation. They may be lost a big investor, but they knew what actions to take to get new ones.


    Later on, the Board called a half-hour break. To what happens, the stakeholders are divided. Inside that meeting room are the groups that sided Vincent, but some of the investors discussed crucial steps against him.


    Meanwhile, Vincent, Zaijan, Rodney, and Tyler Lopez are lounging in the lobby outside in the meeting hall.


    While Rodney and Tyler smoke, Vince and Zaijan suit themselves with a mug of coffee. And speaking of Tyler Lopez, he is the Director of Lopez Steel Corporation.


    "Zayn, thank you for speaking up earlier," Vincent said to Zaijan.


    "No problem. It upset me that these people would take all the opportunity to take us down. Minor problems, they would happily use it against us," he stated.


    "I am also prepared to speak up if those old geezers won''t stopining," Tyler echoed.


    Vince pursed his lips. He is grateful for how his cousins are reliable men. He did not ask for their help, but they would volunteer. It''s always like that. All of them were once in a situation, and each one leaned a hand to resolve one''s problem.


    "So, how was Australia?" asked Tyler to change their topic.


    "It''s great. We have to start preparing for the groundbreaking, and so, I requested our workers to prepare their Visa and documents. Next week, they need to fly to Dream City to begin the work."


    "Great! Congrats, Vincent! If only you tell those old geezers of what current project you are working on. I am certain they could not pull up their jaws from the floor to close their mouths once they found out." Tyler scoffs.


    "Those old geezers don''t need to know. In this way, we could identify who will give a hand and who attempts to bring us down," Rodney muttered meaningfully, which the three men concurred with his statement.


    Vincent chuckled after discerning his words. He told his cousins, "I am nning to announce it during mom''s birthday. Besides, originally I dreamed of this project so that mom would be proud of me."


    "Heh. Aunt Hilda doesn''t ept your girlfriend yet, right?" Tyler queried Vincent. He has heard the news about it.


    Vince replied, "Yeah. But I know she will be, in the right time, especially after Eva and I had a divorce."


    "Huh. I pitied you that you had a strong-willed nominal wife. Still no news here whereabouts?"


    "I have a lead," Vince answered.


    "Oh. Where is she now?" asked Tyler; Rodney and Zaijan were anxious to hear his answer.


    "Australia..."


    "Australia? Really? What is she doing there?" Rodney queried.


    "That''s what I''m trying to find out."


    "I see. That''s great then."


    They chatted further, suddenly, Tim rushing toward them.


    "What happens?" asked Vince.


    Tim replied, "Boss, you will not go to believe it!"


    "What is it, Tim? Don''t thrill us!" Rodney blurts out. He hates surprises.


    "Someone arrived and announced that he is interested in investing in MGC," he announced breathlessly.


    The four cousins shared a nce. Now they are curious to know who this person is.


    Inside the meeting room, all curious eyes staring at the man standing in front of them.


    "Good morning, everyone. You know me already, but I will introduce myself since you are confused about why I am standing in front of you. My name is Keith Cole, son-inw of Congressman Vasquez. On behalf of Cole Holdings, we choose to invest in MGC projects with a sum of ONE BILLION US DOLLARS."


    Almost everyone in that room dropped their mouth except the Lopez cousins and Vincent Shen. In fact, they were grinning. They are confident that investors have their way to join MGC one of these days; however, it happened too soon.


    Because of the good news, the stakeholders had forgotten that they were plotting to pressure Vincent because of the ident involving his girlfriend that caused a problem when the Lee Corporation pulled out their investments.


    Ironically, the new investors are higher by 55 percent than the Lee Corporation investment.


    "Look at these people, awhile back they work hard to put you in a hot pot. Now they seem to havepletely forgotten what happened," Rodneymented, furrowing his brows from annoyance.


    But Vincent shrugs a shoulder. He doesn''t see it as a threat to his position.


    After the stakeholder''s meeting, they had lunch in one of the exclusive restaurants in Metro City Garden.


    Everyone weed Keith, and each of them wanted to talk with him. Then when food was served, he chose to sit next to the Lopez cousins, particrly beside Vincent Shen.


    "Wee to Metro Group of Companies, Mr. Cole."


    "Thank you, President Shen." Keith takes Vincent''s hand, and they shake hands.


    After the delightful lunch, Keith didn''t take long, and he bid goodbye.


    Today, he was escorted by his father-inw''s men. Keith stepped inside the SUV and satfortably in the backseat.


    He took out his phone and dialed a particr phone number.


    "Princess, the investment is sessful. No one is suspicious of my appearance today."


    "Great! Thank you, Keith."


    "No problem. The Cole family will also benefit from this act."


    "But it means more jobs for you."


    "It''s my pleasure, Princess. Yes... Bye."


    Meanwhile, in Crescent Penthouse...


    Hailey has just woken up. After the news that Lee Corporation pulls out its partnership with MGC, she already made a move, requesting Keith act as an investor on her behalf.


    She perceived that the Board would make Vincent''s life harder. But he need not be distracted¡ªthe reason she will do everything for him.


    She''s bing greedy. She just realized this, but she just wanted Vince to focus on building her city.

 Chapter 153 - Personal Driver

    <h4>Chapter 153 - Personal Driver</h4>


    Time had passed so fast that day, Hailey prepared five dishes for dinner since Vince is here.


    Exactly seven in the evening, Vince arrived home. She rushes to the door and meets him in the doorway; Vince instantly wrapped her inside his arms and kissed her passionately.


    It was supposed to be just a greeting kiss, but they found their way to the sofa, and now, they are both naked and exploring each other''s bodies.


    Vince gritted his teeth and clenched his jaw; he groaned. He lowered his head and kissed Hailey hungrily while her hands worked on his shaft, who stood proudly between his legs.


    She gently strokes his hardness while Vince is kissing her fervently, exploring his tongue inside her mouth.


    Vince reached for her proud chests and massaged them until he''s almost on his release.


    He stopped her before he had his first climax. He held Hailey by her bottom and position her to crouch on hisp. They both moan in pleasure when their body bes one.


    Vince tightly gripped her bottom, guiding her body while she grinds her hips. He lowered his head and devoured her two mounds using his mouth, teeth, and tongue. He just let go of her chests when he is near his orgasm again.


    He held her body, not move while thrusting inside her with such speed, but her body is moving on her own.


    Vince lets Hailey meet his thrusts, pushing down her body onto his shaft, and, after several minutes, they are both panting for air.


    They took a shower before they ate dinner, but before they get out of the bedroom, one more time, they make love on the bed.


    "President Shen, you have not slept yet since you arrived the other night." Hailey''s fingers are caressing Vince''s shoulder, which has some effect on his body. He''s hard again.


    "Well, I don''t need it when we''re together," he utter mischievously.


    She smacks his shoulder and pouts. "Hey, what are you saying? You must sleep and stay healthy. I''m not there to make your meals, and so, promise me that you will eat whatever Tim will cook for you. I will try to teach him simple dishes that you like."


    Vince brushed his lips onto hers and hugged her tight. She''s sweet and thoughtful. If only he could bring her to Dream City and keep her by his side at all times. But he doesn''t want to be possessive toward her. If she wants to finish her college courses, then he will support her.


    "Thank you," he whispered while biting her earlobe.


    Tiny bolts of electricity crept to her entire body; once again, warmth starts building up inside her core, not to mention that Vince remains hard.


    They were on the sectional chaise, watching the city lights from their living room while drinking red wine.


    She sat on hisp, and her bottom could feel his hardness. And it hardens when she moves, changing her sitting position or reaching for dessert on the coffee table.


    "When will you go back to Dream City?" she asked casually, avoiding sounding eager to know his ns.


    "After I finalized how many architects and engineers I needed for Dream city. Also, I want to make sure that my old projects have no problem. Fortunately, dad was there to oversee them."


    "That''s good then. It''s nice to have a dad who both of you could understand the nature of your work." Like dad and me. Hailey added to herself.


    dly, her dad is a businessman, so he didn''t question her business based in other countries. And soon, she has an excuse to her dad why she was staying in Metro City after her business jewelry began to operate here in Asia.


    "Um... Wifey?"


    "Hm? What is it?"


    "Can I give you a personal driver?" said Vince out of the blue.


    "What?" It surprised her. Hailey parted from Vince, and as her action is sudden, her bottom pressing his shaft, made Vince clenches his jaw as he groans. She whispered, "Oh. I forgot."


    Vince saw the yful smile across her face. She is taunting him instead, and he would love to punish her for being such naughty!


    "Am I grounded now?" She asked with sadness shing in her eyes. ''My goodness! I have never been grounded before! Dad cannot dare to ground me but pampered me and forgave me when I made mistakes!''


    And because of what she said, Vinceughs echoed in the entire living room, but then, he stops. His shaft is squeezing on her bottom.


    "Ahem. I''m not grounding you. I''m just worried if I let you roam around the city alone. The media still in the heat against you. Please, don''t misunderstand. I just wanted to protect you," he exined.


    Hailey pondered. The moment Vince opened this subject, there is only one person who came to her mind. Vince will assign Bruce to be her driver.


    Then, if it was the case, she could still wander around the city without worrying that her personal driver would discover her secret activities.?Moreover, she could gather more evidence pointing out the culprit who wanted Vince dead since she could casually talk to Bruce without hiding from the public eyes and media''s watch.


    Hailey ced her head on Vince''s firmed chest to hide her emotion. She mumbled, "Okay, hubby, if this is what will make you feel at ease."


    "Oh? You agree?"


    She nodded with a sweet smile on her lips, but she remained leaning into his body. "Can I know what the name of my driver is?"


    "Ah. I will introduce Bruce to you tomorrow."


    Hmm... I knew it.


    "Okay, hubby..." She felt Vince kissed her hair, and guilt crept to her chest.


    ''Please have your divorce from Eva so that I stop lying to you.'' Her silent prayers.


    "Hubby, can we just make love in the dawn and not tonight?" she requested Vince.


    "Hm? Why?"


    "You need to get some sleep." She urged him. Vince has no rest since he came back.


    "But..." Vince would like to protest, but Hailey cut him out immediately.


    She threatens him, "I will sleep in my bedroom alone tonight if you don''t want to agree with me."


    It''s against his heart. But between none or never, he better listen.


    "Okay." Why do I feel like I was dominated out here? But he''ll be honest; he somehow likes it. And if ever Hailey dominates her during the times they make love, it sounds exciting, and he feels like it aroused him thinking about it.


    He needs to stop imagining scenarios; this novel is not erotica.


    Vince carried Hailey toward his bedroom and did his best to behave all night. dly sleep drags him and slowly doze off.


    He embraces Hailey tightly while kissing her hair as he warns her. "Wifey, you need to prepare when I wake upter."


    She giggled. Hailey pressed her head into his chest and snuggled on his waist. She said, "Good night, hubby."


    "I love you, my wife..."


    "I love you too, my hubby..."

 Chapter 154 - I Remember That Man

    <h4>Chapter 154 - I Remember That Man</h4>


    Soft cries came out from her throat as she felt Vince''s fullness in the deepest part of her core. Vince made slow thrusts, but he buried it deeper.


    After a few hours of sleep, she woke up with tiny kisses around her face down her neck. Vince brushes his lips on her forehead, her nose, cheeks, and gently on her lips.


    This guy is waking her up to give attention to his best friend down below between her legs. She could feel how it was rock hard again.


    She was still half asleep, and she had no idea what she was doing. She lifted her right leg and ced it around Vince''s waist. For what she did, his shaft rubbing her thighs and what between there.


    She wore thin lingerie, but it was tiny to cover her private parts.


    Vince''s left palm gently massages her neck down to her lower back. She was hugging his waist and her breasts with erect nipples rubbing his chest.


    She closes her eyes to enjoy his touch. Later, her tense muscles in the back feeling at ease, and it''ste for her to realize that she arched her body, rubbing her dampness into his stiff rock shaft.


    Vince grunts after she rubbed his lower body. He grinds his hips, giving her dry, making love; his hand is gripping her bottom, pressing it to his hardness.


    She heard Vince''s rough breathing puffing on her face. She knows that he''s holding it for hours already. Before joining her to the bed, he took a cold shower, and it would only help a little.


    Vince didn''t give her long forey. Once she is wet enough, he gradually prates her inside, and both moan with pleasure after their bodies be one.


    Vince groaned when she was swallowing him whole and hitting her walls deeper.


    Soon, their breathing gets louder and rougher when he is gradually speeding his pace and made steady, solid thrusts.


    Hailey is holding on to Vince''s shoulder to seek strength. When he was near his climax, he gently pushed Hailey''s shoulder toy on her back on the bed.


    He lifted her legs and ced them on his shoulders; then, he began thrusting mindlessly in the next seconds.


    Her body is shaking due to Vince''s quick pushes. He was like joining a race to determine who is the fast athlete. But they were doing a different exercise, and she knew Vince is just on the starting line.


    After hours and a few times that they reached the peak, Hailey reminds Vince that it''s time for him to prepare to go to thepany.


    "You need some breakfast before you head to the office," she mumbled.


    "I''ll call Tim with that matter."


    "What Tim would think that you were only eating take-out for breakfasttely?" She pouted. Vince''s arm is tightly hugging her waist while his face is resting between her neck and shoulder. He is not letting her go yet.


    "Don''t mind him. I raised his srytely."


    "Really? Great then. You know, except for his job as your private secretary, he is also doing many errands being your personal assistant. Now I made him as your cook too."


    "Hmm... Thank you."


    Hailey stared at Vince''s eyes that is now remain closed. He was cute, having a soft expression on his face. She didn''t stop herself from kissing his forehead, which made her giggle afterward.


    Vince lifted his head and ced it on the pillow. He curled his forehead as curiosity disyed on his gorgeous dark brown eyes, staring at her lovingly.


    "What''s on your mind, and now you are giggling... Hm?"


    "Nothing. I remember something." Hailey shook her head, but she could not hide the silly smile ying on her lips.


    "Are you being naughty early in the morning?"


    "Who''s being naughty before the sun rose this morning? Hm?"


    Vince let out his sexyugh that is music to her ears.?Hailey shook her head at first but then burst outughingter. He picked her up and brought her to the bathroom.


    Once the bathtub filled with hot water, he joined her and wrapped her body with his arms.


    "Please, tell me what fun stuff you were thinking." He ced his chin on her shoulder and gently biting her earlobe.


    "Hm... I remember someone."


    Vince froze, and suddenly, his gaze darkened. ''And who''s a bastard seeking death now? How dare he make his Hailey think about him?''


    Hailey noticed Vince be stiff behind her, and he fell silent. She bit her lip, not to let out augh, a loud one. But she could not control her body to shudder.


    Vince frowned.


    "Ahem! I remember that man, who..." She purposefully makes her words thrilling to see his reaction, and now, he''s holding his breath and face twisting from irritation after she spoke of about another man. "A man whoins about receiving a kiss on the forehead because for him, it''s a grandma kiss."


    Vince blinks several times. Why is the scene in his head familiar?


    Of course! He was that man!


    Vince grinned. He whispered, "You silly girl. I''m willing to punish you right now, right here. But first, I will reward you for thinking that man."


    Hailey chuckled. She looked up and reached Vince''s mouth to kiss him passionately.


    Of course, Vince would never forget that day. It was the first day that their rtionship had be a real one.


    After their passionate kiss, Vince began massaging her neck down to her shoulder and lower back; she moaned with satisfaction.


    This guy is pampering her after he wildly made love with her just a while ago. Good thing she is getting used to his fullness; she doesn''t feel ufortable anymore, just soreness after.


    They finish the bath, and Vince helps her dry her hair like yesterday. Instead of sharing a good breakfast before he went to thepany, they gave each other a warm bath, and he would help her dry her hair after.


    Hailey watched their reflection in the mirror. She keenly observed Vince''s serious expression whilebining her hair. He looked too immersed in whatever he is doing to her, and she couldn''t help falling in love with him even deeper.


    She wanted to flirt with him, but she already learned the lesson yesterday. Otherwise, she would scream over again before he stops and decides to go to hispany.


    "Thank you," she told Vince.


    She ced a kiss on his left cheek, his brow raised for what she did. Of course, he is dissatisfied that she only rewarded him with a kiss on the cheek.


    "What am I? Your son?" He muttered with a pout, faking it that he''s hurting.


    "Huh?" She knows he''s just poking fun at her, and so she acted innocent. "How did I get impregnated and give birth to a giant man overnight?"


    She and Vince burst outughing afterward. He lifted her and ced her on the dresser.


    "This is the reward I wanted." After he muttered, he imed her soft lips and kissed her fervently until both were out of breath.


    "Hey, I''m just careful not to wake up someone down there," she exined while panting.


    Vince''s eyes flickered after he understood what she meant. He ced his forehead onto hers and said, "Don''t worry. He was very satisfied this morning."


    "I''m d to know." She and Vinceughed.


    When Vince is about to kiss her again, they hear the doorbell at the main door chimed. Hailey looks at Vince with a questioning stare, guessing who it was.

 Chapter 155 - Stalking

    <h4>Chapter 155 - Stalking</h4>


    Outside, Bruce''s eyes traveled to the beautiful scenery thaty before him. From this height, it feels like he is the king of the world.


    ''No wonder wealthy men love to build a penthouse then live on top of the building.''


    Bruce straightened his back and stood still after he heard a door opening.


    "Good morning, boss." Bruce greeted the man that came out, and next to him is a beautiful woman, his Princess.


    "Good morning," Vince greeted back. He nced at Hailey and introduced the guy. "This is Bruce. He will be your personal driver and bodyguard. He will also apany you even in your field activities if you don''t mind."


    "I understand. No problem with me." Hailey smiled at Vince; she turned her head and looked at Bruce. "Hi. Hailey Hillson. Nice to meet you."


    "Bruce at your service, Miss Hailey. It''s my pleasure meeting you. By the way, I''m just one call away if you needed me."


    "Cool!" She widened her smile, but then she remembered what Vince said before. She must not smile enormously in front of other men. She returned her gaze at Vince to let him see that she is OK with the arrangement he prepared for her.


    "Alright. I''ll go now," said Vince. He added, "Bruce will be in the parking lot after he drops me in the office. See youter."


    "Hm. See youter."


    Vince lowered his head and kissed her in front of Bruce. She didn''t see iting, and so she blushed a bit.


    "I love you," he whispered.


    "I love you, too."


    After Vince and Bruce left, Hailey took a nap for hours. By three in the afternoon, she is ready to meet Fraine to check out the branch store at Metro City Garden.


    Hailey went to the parking lot; she saw Vince''s Maybach parking across the lift, which Bruce promptly opened the door in the backseat upon seeing her approaching. She thanked him and satfortably.


    Along the way, Bruce handed her an envelope. She read the reports, her head throbbed.?She muttered, "Why does the new evidence point in more directions?"


    "I will do my best to dig more evidence, Princess," Bruce assures.


    "Alright. Right now, we must keep an eye on the possible culprits."


    "Copy, Princess," Bruce replied. He nced at the rearview mirror, and it didn''t hide the displeasure registering on her beautiful face. "Something is bothering you, Princess?"


    Hailey tilted her head to the side. She''s pondering, and it made her upset more, thinking about the people who want Vince dead.


    Bruce looked in a mirror and studied her face. He is sure that she figured something out.


    "We''re here, Princess," Bruce announced when they arrive at the mall. He didn''t ask further if the Princess chose not to share her mind with him. For the time being, he''ll wait until she shared her mind.


    "Thank you, Bruce. Let discuss it at some other time." she steps out of the car after Bruce opens the door for her.


    "Princess, paparazzi, five o''clock," Bruce informed her before she could take another step.


    "Great!" She nted a sweet smile across her face and swayed her hips every step she took toward the mall entrance door.


    If they love taking photos of her, then she will give them her beautiful angles.


    After Hailey entered the mall, Bruce took out his phone and called his other boss.


    *


    MGC Headquarter, METRO CITY GARDEN


    Vincent lifted his head upon hearing the chime of his phone. He checked the caller and saw it was Bruce. "Excuse me, Zayn. I need to answer this."


    "Okay." Zaijan nodded.


    "Bruce. What is it?"


    "A paparazzi following, Miss Hailey, boss." His report.


    Vincent knitted his brow and sharpened his gaze. "Okay. Thank you, Bruce."


    "What happens?" Zaijan asked Vincent after he put down his phone.


    "Paparazzi is following Hailey."


    "Oh. Someone is looking for fun. It''s been a while since thest time I beat up someone." Rodneyletst his knuckles create sounds as he stretches his neck. "I''ll go check the Security Cameras."


    "I''ll tell Bruce to point out their faces."


    "Great!" Rodney salutes and is swallowed by the door.


    Vincent looked at Zaijan. "They''re not leaving me alone."


    "They''re also bothering Fraine. I''m thinking of sending her back to Maind City, but she was chosen to manage the DV Gem Store."


    "I see." Vince is nodding, listening to Zaijan. Later, he asked his cousin. "Are you going to marry Jessie?"


    A sharp re shes in Zaijan''s eyes. He clenched his jaw and replied to Vince, "It''s just a marriage of convenience."


    "Are you willing tomit to that?" Vince gaped at Zaijan, waiting for his answer. "Make sure you know what you are doing."


    "Advised from someone experienced, huh?"


    Vince shook his head and rolled his eyes. That was sarcasm but the truth. He dropped the subject; he resumes to discuss the expansion of Metro City Garden.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hailey was informed by Bruce that Vince is on the move to catch the paparazzi, and they will be banned from Metro City forever.


    Hailey breathes a sigh of relief. Since Vince is here, she will let him protect her and take care of everything.


    "So, do you like it?" asked Fraine, showing the wholeyout of the store. "Tell me if you want me to change anything."


    Hailey flipped the photos disyed on the TAB and carefully studied them.


    "I like it. The lounge is gorgeous." Hailey approved Fraine''s rmendation.


    "And these are the samples for DV Gem Asia Branch catalogs. I studied the old themes, and they inspired me, so I came up with an idea of mixing some patterns."


    "I see." Hailey reviewed the three samples Fraineid on the table. She chooses, "I like the third one, Fraine."


    "I''m d you like one of my samples." Fraine is now able to breathe. She''s nervous about whether this princess likes it or she needs to each her head for another idea that meets her taste.


    "Okay, Fraine. That''s all. Thank you for your hard work." Sheplimented the girl.


    "You''re wee, Hailey." This time, shepletely rxed.


    "Then, we are done here. Vince is in President Lopez''s office here in Metro City Garden. Can you show me the way?"


    "Sure!"


    Fraine leads her toward the Fifth Floor of the mall; they cross someone Fraine and Hailey don''t want to see.


    "Oh. Look who''s here? The same feather flocks together. Isn''t it Zenaida?"


    "Huh? Ah. Yes, Jessie." Zenaida concurred, and sheughed awkwardly. She cast a nce in Hailey''s direction, but she withdrew her gaze quickly.


    "What a sight. Two Mistresses are like best friends. I am impressed." Jessie snorts. Her eyes never left Fraine.


    But Jessie was shocked when someone grabbed her arm.


    "Let me go, bas... Zaijan?" Jessie was startled to see Zaijan. Not only that, he is gripping her arm, and she''s hurting. And in her eyes, panic shes as the guy is gaping at her with a threatening look.


    But what made Jesse freak out when Vincent Shen appeared behind Zaijan. Same as the guy, Vincent is throwing a sharp look at her. All of a sudden, her knees were shaking. She didn''t know that Vincent is back in Metro City!


    Meanwhile, after looking at Jessie indifferently, Vincent ignored her and walked toward Hailey, then you kissed her left cheek. He asked, "Did you buy what you need?"


    "Yeah! Fraine helps me pick out."


    "Good," said Vincent; he nced at Fraine and nodded at her.


    Fraine faintly smiled. Not long, she bid goodbye to Hailey. "Hail, I''m going first."


    "Okay. Thank you again." Hailey watched Fraine walk past Zaijan and Jessie while Zenaida is quiet on the corner.


    "Where are you going?" Zaijan asked Fraine.


    "I''m going home," she replied coldly.


    "Why are you not wearing a coat?"


    "I''ll buy one in the store downstairs," she responded stubbornly, which annoyed the guy.


    "Stop right there! I''m still talking to you!"


    But Fraine didn''t listen and walked straight to the elevator.


    "I said, stopped!" Zaijan shouted. He let go of Jessie''s arm; his voice is softer this time. "I''ll drive you home, Fraine."


    "Zaijan? Have you forgotten? We have a dinner meeting soon!" Jessie reminds him.


    Fraine stops to take another step, but she didn''t turn around. She muttered, "I can get a cab."


    "It''s raining outside." Zaijan starts walking toward Fraine, ignoring Jessie, but Rodney appears from nowhere.


    "I''ll drive her home." Rodney now stood close to Fraine. He took off his coat and ced it around her shoulder. "Come on, Fraine."


    Fraine nodded and resumed walking. She quickly steps inside the elevator and sighs with relief when the door closes.


    Watching the drama in front of her, Hailey remained to stare at the elevator where Fraine disappeared from. She''s sort of worried about her.


    "Are you okay?" Vincent asked her with a worried expression on his face.


    "Yeah. I''m fine." She replied gloomily, which made Vince even worried.


    "I could see that you are concerned about her. Don''t worry. Zaijan is doing everything that is best for her."


    "Hm... Okay. Hazel''s birthday is about to begin."


    "Let''s go then." Vince took Hailey''s hand. He leads her toward the hallway heading to the hotel. But she remained silent. "Are you still thinking about Fraine?"


    Hailey nced at Vince and saw he''s worried about her. She pursed her lips into a smile and rested her head on his shoulder while they walk the aisle.


    "I just remembered those times that your cousin keeps visiting Fraine even though she doesn''t want to see him."


    "Ah. You were neighbors before, of course."


    "How did you know? I didn''t mention it to you? Oh, did your cousin mention it?"


    "Ah. Regarding that... Yes! Zayn told me that he had seen you in Fraine''s apartment."


    "Hm..."


    Inwardly, Vincent sighs with relief. Although Hailey knew that he was stalking her before, he can''t admit that it was him who realized that the woman Zayn is living with is Hailey''s neighbor back then.


    Vince kissed Hailey''s hair. She looks up and gapes at her curiously. "You seem acting weird now."


    "Me? Why should I?" He acts innocent indeed.


    "You found it out on your own, isn''t it?"


    "About what?"


    "Because you were stalking me before."


    Vince chuckled sexily. He can''t deny it anymore. "Yeah."


    "You are cute!" she smirks, teasing him.


    "Hey! Like you aren''t stalking to me either."


    "And why would you say that?" She''s a bit nervous about Vince''s words.


    "Everywhere I go, I''ve seen you."


    "You have a thick skin, you know." She told Vince. She''s indeed stalking him, but Vincent didn''t know her real purpose.


    Haileyughs, and they had nothing to deny toward each other. If only Vince knew, they were stalking each other. Now, as Vince remembers, they could not stop teasing each other.


    "Did you hear that I work at the coffee shop near yourpany? The reason you wereing there? I heard from the old baristas. You were rarely going there."


    Vinceughed before he replied. "You''re right."


    "Sneaky!"


    "Aren''t you sneaky too?"


    "Yeah. I am..." Hailey admitted it. "Because of your cousin''s obsession, he forgets to care about other people. So, I am apanying those teenagers, and maybe you could talk to your cousin."


    "Yeah. But it''s an advantage on my part, by the way," said Vince with a grin on his mouth.


    "And why is that?" She raised one brow and red at Vince.


    "The fish eat the bait."


    Hailey reached his waist and pinched Vince. They continue teasing each other andugh. They don''t care if everyone is looking at them.

 Chapter 156 - Hazels Birthday (One)

    <h4>Chapter 156 - Hazel''s Birthday (One)</h4>


    METRO CITY PALACE HOTEL


    "Good evening, President Shen."


    "Good evening."


    Vince was greeted countless times before entering the grand hall on the tenth floor of this hotel. They were crossing known people in the business world lounging in the lobby, and everyone wanted to speak with him.


    Fortunately, Bruce appeared and blocked whoever ns to approach Vince.


    "President Shen has an important gathering to attend to,"? Bruce exined.


    Hailey was satisfied with his job. With Bruce around, she could enjoy Vince''spany without minding the people that always block their way for a talk.


    Now that Vince would stay in Australia most of his time, it will also mean less time for her. It saddened her, but why would she feel that way?


    It was her who gave Vince the job. Why is sheining now? Besides, she could be with him if she chooses to reveal herself to end all of this hiding from him.


    Arriving at the reception, the hall was decorated with pink and purple flowers, as Hazel''s birthday theme. This evening, Hailey is also wearing a purple dress.


    Standing in the middle of the hall was the birthday celebrant wearing her purple cocktail tube dress with a long tail at the back, flowing down on the floor.


    Hazel was gleefully talking with a group of female ssmates when she spotted Hailey and Vince entering the hall.


    She wanted to scream, but now that she is 20 years old, she must behave like a properdy.


    But of course, there is a reason why she made the change to herself. From now on, she will act like an adult woman!


    And yes, she wanted to get someone''s attention. That is why she is doing this, and that man is here tonight.


    Hazel waved at Hailey. She waved back, and instantly she understood why the birthday girl is behaving tonight.


    "Hey, bro!" Jake Vsco waved at them. He is seated at the corner table with Carl and Lloyd. On their hands is a ss of champagne.


    Vince nced at Hailey like he was asking her permission. Sheughed and told Vince. "Go ahead. I know they were waiting for you."


    "Alright. And I know your friends don''t want me around guarding you. Have fun."


    "Okay. Have a drink tonight. Bruce will drive us home anyway."


    "Hmm... After all, it''s great to have a personal driver," he whispered in her ear, and she concurred.


    At the moment, an overwhelming feeling filled her chest with their talk.


    Vince is considerate toward her, and she must return his thoughtfulness. He is too busytely, and he should be working right now instead of apanying her for partying.


    Why should she not feel lucky? Naturally, she felt like a happy wife.


    Hailey ced a smacking kiss on his lips before she let him go.


    As Vince approached the table, she heard Jake teasing him. "Dammit! Showing off as always!"


    Haileyughs, listening to the men''s jest. She shook her head then walked toward Hazel. She admired how he would always consider she''ll spend time with her friends as long as it was just a group of girls and no boys.


    He is a jealous man, but he knows when he should act like one. She believes that Vince doesn''t want to embarrass her nor her friends.


    And by this, Vince made her fall in love with him over again.


    ''I''m adding it to my RED NOTEBOOK, Mr. CEO''s Charming Qualities.'' she beamed.


    Thinking about it, she could not help giggling alone.


    "Hail!" Hazel jumped on her and then hugged each other tightly. "Why are youte? Don''t tell me?"


    Hazel''s gaze uses her that a WONDROUS EVENT happened before they headed to the party.


    "Silly girl. Vince had multiple meetings he attended today, and I picked up your gift."


    "OMG! What is it? Can I open it now?"


    Hailey chuckled. This girl quickly changes her mood. "It''s a birthday present for you, so yeah," she said and winked at Hazel.


    The birthday girl didn''t wait any longer, she tore open the gift wrap, and she almost passed out reading the box''s name.


    Hazel was thrilled to pull the ribbon, and next, she took off the box case. Right now, Hazel was surrounded by everyone to see what is Hailey''s gift for her.


    Everyone held their breath to see the DV Gem symbol, a pink crown.


    Inside the box is a diamond jewelry seat: a diamond watch, diamond ne, and diamond earrings.


    "Oh, my god, Hazel! That must cost a thousand US dors!"


    "Oh, god! I saw that on the DV Gem website! I can''t believe I would see one for real!"


    "Hail, thank you so much!" Hazel is now teary-eyed while thanking Hailey.? Instantly, Hazel wore the diamond watch that has her name surrounded the watch. "What do I see here are real diamonds, right?"


    "It is." Hailey nodded.


    "Ah! Thank the boss for me!" She knew that Vince has a lot of money but being showered with his blessings? How lucky she is!


    "Sure. I will tell Vince." Hailey smiled sweetly. Of course, Vince is willing to pay all of her capriciously. But her gift for Hazel is from her very own pocket.


    Now that most of Hazel''s guests were here, the disco party began.


    On the stage is the famous DJ hired by Hazel''s dad to y tonight. Hazel''s ssmates and cousins now gathered near the tform: jumping, dancing, and singing along.


    *


    A while ago¡­


    "Hey, bro! What are you doing here?" asked Jake after teasing Vince for being a show-off of his love life.


    "What sort of a question is that? I live here and have apany here while you? Do you have any business matters here since you migrated to the US?" asked Vince with a smirk.


    "Hey! You have forgotten the most important reason why you can''t stay away from that long." Carl corrected Vince, and his tone is ridiculing.


    "Heh." Vince shook his head and threw a punch at Carl. "Shut up, cousin."


    "Tsh! When did you be a bully?" Jake snorts. "What''s wrong with attending a birthday party after I was invited?"


    "Oh, how admirable your dedication is. You are willing to fly the pacific ocean, from New York to P Country, to attend a birthday party?"


    "And when did you be a bully like Carl? Tsk!" Jake scowled.


    Lloyd shook his head, listening to Jake. He poured champagne on an empty ss and gave it to Vince.


    "Thanks, bro," said Vince.


    "Anyway, I am surprised that you were here already. So, what project are you going to work for, Davies Group?" asked Jake after they stop taunting each other. Like usual, they''ll talk trash, then suddenly their moods shift, and now talking about serious matters.


    "Hmm..." Vince gulped half of the champagne. He ced his ss and replied to Jake. "I''m going to announce it during mom''s birthday. If you want to, you are invited toe home again."


    "I''ll definitely attend Aunt''s birthday!" Jake assures.


    Vince nodded, then Lloyd raised a ss for a toast. Not long, their attention shifted to the big screen in that hall when Hazel opened Hailey''s gift, and their ssmates screamed with excitement.


    "Hmm. So great to be young." Jake mumbled while they observed the group of teenagers in the middle of that hall.


    "You mean, bachelor life is the best?" Carl countered his statement.


    Jake scoffs at his sarcasm. He red, then smirked afterward, "I have ns to get married. How about you?"


    He smirked at Carl, but then he realized that guy only ignored him. This is not the Carl he used to know.


    It seems that hepletely changed now. He remained silent and did not counter his joke. ''What happened to this guy?''


    Jake nced at Lloyd, hoping to answer, but he only shrugged a shoulder and didn''tment at all.


    Vince also notices Carl''s silence tonight. This guy is the noisiest among them, but what is happening to him now?


    Last time, Carl did not attend the ss Reunion, although he is part of the Board.


    Vince shared a nce with Lloyd. He and Lloyd often hang out mainly in drinking sessions. The guy shook his head, and his eyes were moving toward Carl, who is silent drinking now.


    He also looked at Jake, and same as him, the guy is confused at Carl''s behaviortely.


    Jake leaned over toward Vince, he whispered to him. "What is happening to your cousin? He seemed too silenttely."


    Vince concurred; he nced at Carl and shrugged a shoulder. He said, "I don''t know. I''m also curious why he is silenttely."


    "Does he have a problem? I''m sure it isn''t about his love life," Jakemented.


    "Stop gossiping about me. I''m just right here sitting in front of you," he said, frowning at them.


    Lloyd and Jakeugh out loud. They were holding their stomach from amusement, while Vince just shook his head.


    He emptied his ss and poured another champagne. Casually sipping on his drink, he fell into deep thoughts.


    Carl seemed to be having trouble, but he keeps it to himself. Whatever was bothering him, he wants to know. His cousin looked stressed.


    And so, maybe he and Carl need a serious talk before he goes back to Australia. The guy has acted suspiciouslytely.

 Chapter 157 - Call The Asian Knights

    <h4>Chapter 157 - Call The Asian Knights</h4>


    Hailey joins Nadia and Liza dancing on the corner. Hazel was in the middle of the dance floor dancing with her male cousins.


    Later on, the DJ changed the rhythm of the music. It was slow, but the beat made you grind your body.


    Hailey gasps when a warm hand grips her waist. But she need not guess who it was. His scent has already imprinted in her system, which his warm arm is what she longs for every night.


    Hailey grinds her hips, and the man behind her makes sure to keep up with her movement. She raised her right hand and held his nape, and let their bodies rub against each other.


    Vince reached Hailey''s arm while his left hand tightly clutched on her hip. He ced tiny kisses on her arm down to her ear and neck.


    Jake, Carl, and Lloyd were looking dumbfounded at the couple. Well, particrly at Vince. They just knew that this guy would never dance this way.


    Of course, Vince is a good dancer. But not intimately with a woman. Never in their wildest dreams would Vince dance this bold in front of a huge crowd. Not only that, they were flirting while dancing!


    "What a total show-off!" Jake stressed out.


    On the other hand, Lloyd couldn''t swallow the champagne he was gulping. It was Carl who only had no emotion at all. He remains somber while looking at them.


    Hailey is rubbing her hips onto Vince''s front, and she could feel him start having a bulge on his pants.


    ''No way! Is this guy aroused watching her dance?'' It seems that she needs to be very careful around him in public. She already proved how he would react if she''s flirty with him and the night is always in danger!


    Hailey turned around; she made sure that there has a gap between their bodies. She ced her hand around his neck and whispered, "Mr. President, behave yourself tonight."


    "I can''t control it," Vince whispered back. Not only that, he bit her earlobe that sent a thousand bolts throughout her body.


    "The night is still young. Let''s enjoy thepany of our friends, the food, drinks, and music." she urges him.


    "Hmm¡­" He hummed and pulled her body closer to him. Now, they were swaying their body into a sweet slow beat of their hearts. "I can''t help if my body craves for you."


    She blushed, listening to Vince''s mumbling while his lips brushing her ear. They continue dancing and flirting asionally.


    In the end, it''s not their party to attract so much attention being bold in the crowd, and so, after the song, she encourages Vince to eat dinner.


    They walk toward the buffet table to get some food. They n to join Carl, Lloyd, and Jake''s table, but they are driven out.


    "I''ve seen this already! You lovers are going to show off in front of us! Shoo!" Jakeins. Vince lightly punched him on the shoulder before he led Hailey upstairs.


    Hazel''s parents and other guests were lounging upstairs. It was quieter up there and had a nice view of the city where they could watch the mall below since it has a round ss roof in the middle of it.


    From there, they could see the shoppers lounging in the garden where children are ying, groups of friends chatting, and couples are dating.


    She likes Vince''s ideas to design Metro City Garden Supermall this way; over again, she could not stop falling in love with the man sitting next to her.


    She is very proud of him. And the likes of him should have produced a lot of offspring.


    Ah! It means she must prepare herself to bear his children.


    Upon having these thoughts, Hailey couldn''t suppress giggling. Vince raised a brow as it seemed she was thinking about some fun stuff again.


    "Hey, are you thinking of me again?" This time, he asked directly. He''d noticed that if she behaves like this, she was thinking something silly about him.


    Hailey looked at him. It''s clear that she is trying to hide her amusement, and it made him eager to hear what it is.


    "Should I punish you first before you speak to me, my woman?" He warned her.


    Vince''s voice is deep and firm. It''s not threatening at all but enough to wake up all the nerves of her body. Her eyes twinkle, and excitement crept her entire senses.


    Their eyes locked and made love. The affection shown in each other''s eyes is uncontroble, stirs the heat they felt this close.


    She was supposed to hang out with Nadia, Liza, and Hazel until midnight. But she bid good night to her friends while the night was still young.


    Now, she found herself inside a Presidential suite; naked and crying in pleasure, while the man on top of her brought her to the peak countless times.


    "Uh¡­ Vince¡­" she''s too close for her release, and he knows it.


    Vince reached for her lips and kissed her passionately while his thrusts were steady. He''s making her dy for her burst out, urging her body to hold a little more time.


    "Come with me¡­" he pants on her ear. Once again, he covered her mouth, and she moaned between their kisses.


    "Hmmm¡­" she wrapped her legs around his waist and met his thrusts. "Uhhh¡­"


    Soon, her body shudders from waves of pleasure after she and Vince reach the peak of their heat, and he copsed on top of her.


    Vince ced tiny kisses on her forehead, nose and brushing her lips with his.


    "I love you, wifey¡­" he whispered.


    "I love you too, hubby..." she answered back from the bottom of her heart.


    Slowly, drowsiness brought her into a deep slumber.


    The next day, Vince attended his business meetings all morning. He ced a kiss on her hair when she moved from the bed.


    "Go and sleep more. I''ll be backter."


    "Okay." Then, she goes back to sleep. She woke againter before lunch.


    Vince came back for them to have lunch together inside the suite. But then, he left immediately for another visit to the Shen Group sites currently constructing the East Bay.


    She witnesses how Vince was too busy all day, and so she patiently waited until evening.


    Days had passed, and Vince needed to go back to Australia.


    She sent him off and watched his ne take off.


    "Call Bruce or Carl if something happens. Also, don''t hesitate to approach Zayn or Rod. I asked them to help you if you needed one." Is it what Vince said to her before he climbed the ne.


    "Okay. I will¡­" she replied and ced a kiss on his lips. "You take care out there too."


    "I will¡­" he answered. "I love you."


    "I love you, too."


    *


    Hailey tilted her head on the armrest and watched outside the window. It was raining. The weather seems to join the emptiness she feels right now that Vince is out of the country again and woulde back before his mom''s birthday.


    "Princess, are we going straight home, or do you have a ce to visit first?"


    "To the penthouse, Bruce. Paparazzi must be following me."


    "Copy, Princess."


    Hailey was about to close her eyes when a car stopped next to them. They were moving slowly after they got stuck in the traffic.


    The drowsiness she had felt earlier suddenly disappeared upon recognizing the man in the backseat.


    "Liam Huo!"


    "Who, princess?" Bruce startled when she suddenly burst out in the backseat.


    "Liam Huo¡­ he was once pursuing dad to arrange our marriage two years ago." Hailey massages her temple. She pulled out her phone from her bag and dialed Keith''s mobile number. "Keith¡­ Call the Asian Knights to gather here in Metro City. Liam is here."


    ''Did I bring a war to P Country? Or is this because of Vince?''

 Chapter 158 - Friends She Could Lean On

    <h4>Chapter 158 - Friends She Could Lean On</h4>


    The moment she arrived in the penthouse, Hailey dialed Gigi''s roaming number.


    "Hail? What''s up?" She knew that Vincent Shen''s flight back to Australia is today. Now that Hailey was free, they could continue working on theunching of their branch store.


    "Liam is here, Gigi!"


    "What? Where did you see him?" Oh, my gosh! She freaked out as well. Liam is a cousin of her ex-husband, and she knew he was pursuing Hailey once.


    "It''s just a coincidence I saw him. We got stuck in traffic, and his car stopped next to mine. I am certain it was him. I recognize his men inside the car."


    "Gosh! What could be the reason he is here?" asked Gigi. She mulls over if it''s because Hailey was here in Metro City. "Hail, could it be he learned that you are here?"


    On the other line, Hailey is pacing back and forth in the living room. She could not stay calm and at ease. Her head is messed up, and she isn''t sure what to think first. She needs to know if Liam''s appearance is rted to her or he is just in the country for a business matter, nothing else.


    "Gigi, I want to think that it has nothing to do with me. But I have a bad feeling. It made me restless."


    "So, what are you going to do now, Hail?" Gigi asked. She has a bad feeling as well. There can be many possibilities why Liam was here.


    Meanwhile, Hailey opened herptop and chatted with Bruce and Keith. Now that she''s home, Bruce can do his job to investigate Liam Huo.


    "I ordered for the Asian Knights to gather here. In case things get worse. In the meantime, they will hide on the ind. Keith is working on something, and Bruce runs an investigation. Liam is in M Hotel like you." Hailey told Gigi.


    "I see. What suite is he staying in? Did they find out why he''s here in P Country?"


    "Not yet. Liam has countless men, and you knew more than me. By the way, I''m waiting to know which suite he''s staying in."


    "Then, since he''s here in the same hotel I stayed in, I will try to check on him. Maybe I can get some information."


    "Gigi, are you nning something? Please, I don''t want you to get involved with this."


    "Hail, without you, I can''t be free from my miserable arranged marriage. What I''m doing is just a small thingpared to what you did for me. So please, allow me to help you," said Gigi. By the time she was desperate, Hailey was there, standing by her side.


    "But, Gigi..." It worries her. She knew better than what she got through before.


    "Don''t worry. Liam won''t raise a war against the Chan family. He won''t hurt me. So let me help you, okay?"


    Somehow, that made her a little at ease. But she won''t remain cks while Liam is around. "Thank you, Gigi."


    "I don''t want you to experience what I have been through in the past. You know, Hail? Sometimes, it is funny to think about our life. We, as heiresses of unimaginable wealth, are struggling to get our happy endings. People see how morous our dresses, cars, houses, and the jewelry on our bodies, but they didn''t see the pain behind our smiles," Gigi paused to breathe in and release them.


    "We want a peaceful life too because we are living in an imperfect world. That''s why I''m so d to see that you find your happiness with the person you love, although your situation is stillplicated... I''m hoping both of you can settle what is needed so that both of you can love each other freely."


    She could sense Gigi''s sadness. Although she was a sessful businesswoman after taking over half of her family''s business empire after her divorce, still, she didn''t find her love.


    "Gigi, thank you for being a good friend to me," Hailey told Gigi. She heard herugh from the other line.


    "What are you talking about? I''m the one who should say that. Thank you for being a good friend to me. In our circle, it''s rare to find a genuine person. A gem with a pure heart. And that what you are. I consider you as my sister¡­."


    "I''m happy to know."


    She pursed her lips into a smile. It ddens her too. The life that they are living¡­ MEN want to dominate them.


    Building DV Gem is not only because she''s obsessed with gems and jewelry. It is also their existence as sessful women in this world that MEN runs it.


    Anyway, if it weren''t for Liam, she would not learn about the Underground World. If Liam didn''t pursue her, she wouldn''t find out the world her dad is living in.


    "Don''t worry. When the knights are here, I''ll assign one to apany you. It''s still different if I have someone I trust to be around you, aside from your bodyguards."


    "You are right, Hail. Thank you. I might need that. Besides, in that way, there is someone who can directly report to you," she concurred.


    "Yes. I''ll call Tom and Pitt as well. It is best if Pitt were here," said Hailey.


    "Great! Pitt is the leader of your Asian Knights." Gigi sighs with relief.


    "But Tom, I will assign him to apany you around," she informed her.


    "Okay, Hail. Thank you." She was nervous, but she is determined to help her dear friend. "So, are you going to attend theunch this Saturday?"


    "I''ll be watching in the private room."


    "Hmm, okay. Like the usual, then¡­ Anyway, it would shock everyone if we announced you are a business partner. How about if I will talk to Mr. Shen and invites him to invest in DV Gem on behalf of his beloved Mistress. What do you think?"


    Haileyughs out loud. The tension she felt slowly dissipated. "Thank you. I feel better now. And it''s not a bad idea, girl."


    "See? Let me know when hees back, and I''ll make an appointment. People would not suspect every time you areing into the branch office after he invested under your name. Besides, by then, it''s no doubts he truly loves you."


    "Silly. I didn''t doubt his love for me. But I have so many secrets. What will he do to me once he learns the truth? Can he forgive me?"


    "Then, what are you going to do about that?"


    "Gigi... I didn''t think that I would fall in love with him. He is somebody''s husband whom this woman hates me to the bones! And now, I''m bringing trouble to Metro City, his beloved homnd."


    "Like as you said, you didn''t expect to fall in love with him. Girl, love moves mysteriously."


    "Yeah. Once it hits you, you can''t stop your heart from beating for this person. And if things are going to mess up? I might need to confess to dad."


    "And your cousin. He needs to know as well."


    "Above all, he must know what is going on, yes. So I need to find out if Liam would start a war here."


    "I''ll inform my brother as well. You know my brother is on your side."


    "Thank you, Gigi. Be careful."


    "Yeah, Same to you. Bye."


    Hailey hurls a long breath after the call ends. She''s d that she has friends she could lean on.

 Chapter 159 - The Underground World

    <h4>Chapter 159 - The Underground World</h4>


    The following day, Hailey received a call from Pitt. She pulled her phone away from her ear when the guy from the other line shouted.


    "What the hell, Princess!"


    She frowned. Only this guy could yell at her just like that, not minding his position. She mumbled, "I''m still your boss. Don''t scold me."


    But no one could stop Pitt, like how he marched toward Bryan''s office and beat up the guy. One more time, he yelled at Hailey. "Are you insane?"


    "I''m warning you, Pitt?" she curled her lips, and her face turned sour.


    The guy from the other line stays silent for a moment. Pitt breathes in, but then he yells again. "Is it true that you are living with a man, Princess!?"


    Hailey bites her lower lip. Pitt doesn''t care who he would beat among her knights as long as he doesn''t like this guy or someone hurt her like what Bryan did. Moreover, the issue about Liam.


    "Pitt... Keith exined to you already, right?"


    "But still... I don''t understand! Yet, you hide it from everyone! Your dad doesn''t know that your boyfriend is working in your city!"


    "And my boyfriend didn''t know he is constructing my city," she corrected him.


    "F....." Pitt cursed continuously. Hailey rolled her eyes as her ears buzzed from listening to his cusses.


    "You know why I want to get close to him, remember?"


    "I did not! Ugh! I still could not believe this!" Pitt stressed out. He dropped his body to the couch.


    He swept his eyes to the entire room. The Asian Knights already gathered in Palm Ind and are only waiting for hismand after the Princess orders.


    "Alright, Princess. So, let me hear your ns."


    "Now that Liam showed up in Metro City, I am looking into scenarios that involved him in Vincent''s ident. Bruce, my new knight, and Keith are working together to investigate the possibility. Right now, I am trying to solve the puzzle, connecting the people that possibly he maniptes to work for him."


    "You know what, Princess? Liam won''t have the guts to harm you if you step in as a Lord of Oceanic Continent."


    "Shut up, Pitt!" She has no interest in Underground World!


    "Alright. Then, the more I need to keep an eye on that guy. If something happens to you when you are inside my territory, I have no face to show your dad and cousin. I want to be there close to you."


    "Of course. And regarding that matter, I already arranged something for you. I invested one billion dors in Metro Group of Companies under Cole Holdings, which means you are Keith''s business partner."


    Pitt pondered for a moment. "Hmm¡­ In that way, I am free toe into your boyfriend''s world. Princess, what are you doing? Why did you let yourself be a mistress of someone''s husband?"


    "Pitt, remember... That someone is Bryan''s girlfriend," she sighed.


    "Dammit! I want to beat up that guy again!" Pitt gritted his teeth.


    "It doesn''t matter anymore. Importantly, I will confirm if Liam''s business has nothing to do with me. But in case he brings trouble to Metro City, I am ready to fight him. By the way, I want to assign Tom to protect Gigi."


    "Copy. We are now preparing to leave the ind. See youter, Princess."


    "Okay."


    Hailey put down her phone on the table. She sat up from the sofa and strode towards the floor-ceiling window.


    Her gaze traveled throughout the entire Metro City that reaches her eyes. In recent years, the city''s economy has grown triple.


    But one reason behind this sess is the Underground World or known as Mafia Association.


    Now, she''s wondering. Whose family are members of the Mafia Association? Can it be one of them is the Lopezes''?


    She is certain that one of Vincent''s cousins is a Mafia member. They are qualified and couldpete between territories.


    Can it be Zaijan? Or Tyler? How about Rodney?


    They were just a few of what she suspected.


    And possibly, some of these members are from politics. Anyway, she could have the answer if she directly asks Shun.


    And speaking of the devil, the Emperor of Mafia Association named Shun Crow is ringing her at the moment. Hailey picked up her phone and brought it close to her ear.


    "Cousin?"


    "Hey! What''s up?" greeting from the other line.


    "Hm... I know you did not phone me to have a chit-chat, right?" She said straightway. She heard Shunughs from the other line.


    "Hey. Cassandra missed you! When do you n to visit us here in Maind City?" he asked, dodging to reply to Hailey''s query.


    "I''ll see it by this summer. You know I am trying to finish Dream City as soon as possible."


    "Hm. And finally, you found the architect you needed," said Shun.


    Hailey took her silence to ponder for a moment. She is sure that Shun already knew of her activities in Metro City. He has eyes everywhere.


    "You already knew, right?" she said. There will be no other reason Shun would contact her out of the blue.


    Phoning her right now proves that Shun had his eyes on her with something she did, and he didn''t like it. And Liam''s presence also possibly catches his attention.


    "Well, yes, I ran an investigation. But I have other important matters to talk with you aside from the appearance of Western Asia Mafia Lords in P Country."


    "Lords? Then it''s not only Liam who was here?" Could it be? Gigi must know!


    "Yes. So I want you to be very careful, Princess."


    "I see. Don''t worry. My knights were already here. However, my Executives don''t know about anything yet. If they hear Liam is in the same country as me, they will fly instantly. But I want to stay my low profile, cousin. So, please don''t tell, Dad. Let me tell him the truth."


    "Okay. I will respect your decision. But it would be best if you do it sooner before things are out of your control."


    "I know. Thank you for the advice." Hailey sighed with relief. A weight lift from her shoulder that she shares this with Shun.


    Soon then, Shun continued. "Anyway, about the matters, I want to talk to you."


    "Okay, anything. What is it?" Hailey waited anxiously.


    "The U Government has been noticing that ATHENA is eyeing on them in these passing months, followed by a security breach and stealing important data information from HL Security. You are one of the few who had ess to ATHENA. Hail, I know Sandy is working with you. But I want to avoid a dispute between continents."


    "I''m sorry. I know I have been using the satellite for my selfish purposes," she apologized.


    "Alright. But you know I created ATHENA for important security countermeasures. You can use it as well, but with a hope that you won''t abuse HER."


    "I understand, Shun. Again, I''m sorry." Hailey bit her lip. She would admit that she has been impulsive in passing months. She didn''t change at all.


    Instead, she bes greedy.


    "Hail, I''m just trying to bnce thews I implement in the association. This is for you too."


    "Yes, I understand."


    "Another thing is, you were controlling the P Country''s web portaltely. Soon, P Country will start suspecting why a couple of sites suddenly disappeared."


    "I am covering my stay here in P Country," she confessed.


    "Alright. But you can''t do it more often."


    "Okay. No more." Ah! So, her cousin called to lecture her! But Shun is right. She must stop messing up the inte world; even so, she has to watch the portals.


    "Anyway, I was impressed by your recent activities," said Shun afterward.


    ''Eh? Scolding me or praising me? If so, what is it, really?'' Hailey mused. She contorted the corner of her mouth.


    "Hail, have you not change your mind yet?"


    "With what?" she asked innocently. Shun is up to this again.


    "I think you are ready to take over your dad."


    "You know I am not interested," she frowned. Pitt has just said it to her today. Now is her cousin.


    "Hmm¡­ I can continue training you. I would love to. Besides, there''s not much to teach you."


    "You know it''s because of that, I met Liam, and things in the past got messed up."


    "But you are stronger now. And in the passing years, you gathered your very own army. They are now called Knights."


    "I know. But I will repeat it. I am not interested in your world." She stands firmly on that.


    "How about Mr. Shen?"


    "Don''t you dare! I want you to stay away from him. Otherwise, you''re going to fight me."


    Shun''sugh is echoing from the other line. There is a massive smile across his face. ''This cute princess is finally growing up.''


    "See? You will go against me. But if ever your mind changes, or let me to ...."


    "I will only repeat once, my dear cousin. Don''t you ever touch him, nor mess up with him," she said in a serious tone. "We won''t get involved in your Underground World."


    "It isn''t just an underground world anymore, and you know that."


    "Whatever. Just stay away from Vincent."


    Shunughs once again. He knew that Hailey is frowning right now. "Alright. I could see that you are now greedy more than before."


    There is no reply from her. And Shun smiled. He said, "I was once greedy because of the woman I love. I don''t care for whomever in my way, even if my family."


    "Hmm¡­ It runs in the blood, then?" she smirked, staring at her reflection in the window. "So? You''ve also noticed?"


    "Yeah, and definitely when ites to love," Shun phrased. "Anyway, do you want me to send Daichi there?"


    "No. I want to solve this matter on my own. If brother Daichi appears here, things might get even messier, as I still hide my identity. I want to avoid more controversy."


    "Okay. I understand. But if you need my help, ring me."


    "I know, and I will."


    "Take care always. And, you should tell your dad as soon as possible. I know he''s always worried about you. You are his treasure, and your dad would freak out once something happens to you."


    "Yeah. It reminds me of one time. Dad is scary once provoked." That is why I worry about Vince! Well, I will just exin slowly and carefully to him.


    "Goodbye, Princess. See you soon¡­."


    Hailey didn''t understand Shun, but she just shrugged it; she hummed. "Hmm¡­ See you soon."


    "What is that about?" she mumbled after Shun ended the call. She sighed, "Things gotplicated out here. Should I tell him?"

 Chapter 160 - Gigi Chan: Send Me An Angel (One)

    <h4>Chapter 160 - Gigi Chan: Send Me An Angel (One)</h4>


    M HOTEL, Metro City


    Tonight, Gigi is wearing a red dress, her beautiful long hair finely styled as a bun. She''s on her way to the dining hall of this hotel for dinner.


    The moment she entered the grand hall, every head turned in her direction. Some have an attempt to get her attention, but only a few of them she greeted back.


    "Hi!" she smiled, passing tables.


    Well, who else didn''t recognize her? She was a fashion icon and a sessful businesswoman here in Asia and was known worldwideter on.


    In recent years, she was all over the media with important gatherings she attended, both the Business Association Summits and Hollywood red carpets, when someone invited her as a date.


    Gigi wandered her eyes to the entire grand hall, searching for her aim tonight. And like how Keith used his influences, he assures that all her table reservations will be next to Liam Huo.


    She walked straight to her table, and when she was close to Liam, she greeted the guy wearing a brown suit tonight.


    "Liam Huo? It is you! I thought it was just someone else," Gigi eximed with enthusiasm, a warm smile ying on her lips.


    "Sister-inw?" It surprised Liam to see her. But Gigi didn''t buy it. She is sure that Liam knew she was in the country.


    Well then, she''ll y along. Gigi smiled at Liam; she reminded the guy. "Um¡­ you know, it''s already in history, Liam."


    Her marriage to his first cousin is long forgotten, and shepletely buried it in the center of the earth, praying for the worm to eaten it as it was rotten.


    Liam smiled dazzlingly and apologized. "I''m sorry, sister-inw. I''m just used to it."


    Gigi ced a sweet smile across her lips. She admits that Liam is more handsome than her ex-husband. He is tall and has a perfect physique. He is also charming, the reason many women dream of sleeping in his bed.


    However, despite how perfect this guy might be, he is not the ideal man for Hailey. He is ruthless and possessive¡ªone thing Hailey doesn''t like about him.


    Gigi snaps herself. She must stay focused on why she showed up in front of Liam Huo. She smiled at the guy one more time and said, "Well then, I better go to my table. See you around, Liam."


    She murders Liam and his cousin in her imagination. But in the back of her head, she wants to ask Liam if she could join his table.


    Gigi nced at Liam''s date before she takes another step. She recognizes this woman. She has seen hertely on social media.


    "By the way, sis¡­ I mean, Miss Chan, why don''t you sit with us? I want you to meet Lory Gu." Liam''s invitation, which Gigi thankful in secret.


    "Oh¡­ Can I? I don''t want to be the third wheel on your date." Gigi teased Liam, to which the guy chuckled charmingly.


    She saw how Lory''s eyes spark staring at him but soon was reced with disappointment after Liam deny his rtionship with her.


    "Nah. We are just having dinner. She is a friend," he exined.


    "I see¡­" Gigi nodded, then smiled. This time it was sweeter. Her attention shifted to Lory to greet the girl. "Hi! Nice to meet you."


    However, Lory remained to stare at her and didn''t greet her back. Gigi raised a brow. She could see that Lory is arrogant. She only cast a looked sideways, scanning her from the head down to her red stiletto; her eyes gleamed, staring at her jewelry.


    "Ahem." Liam coughs. Lory nced in his direction, and panicked shed in her eyes.


    After that, Lory began smiling at her. Not only that, she stretched her hand for a handshake. But this time, Gigi snobs her. She cast a re at the girl downward.


    ''Who she thinks she is? What a lowly social climber. Huh. How cheap you are, Liam? You are now like your cousin?''


    Gigi didn''t ept the girl''s hand. She saw how Lory was embarrassed for what she did. The girl scowled; she quickly hid her sharp res toward her.


    Sensing the tension between the two women, Liam sat up and pulled a chair for Gigi. She saw when Lory frowned. She is convinced the girl is into Liam, but the guy is mainly ignoring her.


    At that moment, Gigi came up with an idea. She pursed her lips into a sweet smile and said, "Thank you, Liam."


    And she''s correct. The girl doesn''t like when she flirts with Liam. Gigi scoffs inwardly, ''She''s only a friend. What an assuming girl.''


    She called a waiter to give her orders. While talking to the waiter, she could sense how Lory is throwing sharp res in her directions again. ''What is her problem?''


    Sitting at this table feels awkward. But it''s the only thing she could do to help Hailey. She needs to find out why Liam was in the country.


    "I''m surprised to see you here in Metro City, Liam." Gigi starts a warm conversation to hide her nervousness. "Did youe for some business like me?"


    "Yes, sister¡­ I mean, Miss Chan." he immediately corrected himself with a smile ying on Liam''s lips.


    Gigi is nodding her head. She gives a remark, "P Country has a good standing in recent years."


    "Indeed. And so, I think it''s the best time to invest here." Liam concurred, his eyes shing meaningful stares, but he hides them instantly. His mouth pursed into a thin smile as he went on. "How about you, Miss Chan? Did you invest some business as well?"


    "Yeah! I actually did." Gigi is also smiling meaningfully. She nced at Lory, who the girl remained silent when the conversation shifted about businesses. A while back, she is giving her a stern look.


    This time, she''s the one who stares at Lory sideways. The girl is wearing an expensive jewelry set that is in the DV Gem limited collections. Actually, the girl began getting through her nerves after putting on air around her.


    It seems she was arrogant because she dines with one of the famous bachelors in Asia. Not only that, it boils her blood of how proud the girl is just because she wore expensive jewelry, which she is sure is only a gift by someone.


    Although the slogan of their jewelry business is to make a woman feel unique and beautiful, somehow, she hated how Lory throwing scornful gazes toward her.


    Later then, she and Liam were merrily chatting,pletely ignoring Lory. Now the girl felt she was out of ce, and Gigi could see the displeasure written all over her face.


    ''Humph! Don''t start with me b..ch!''


    Gigi was about to open her mouth to ask Lory something, but she caught a familiar silhouette of the man walking toward their table, which this guy is thest man she wanted to see in this lifetime or even in the next ones.


    She froze for a moment, but she gathered all of her thoughts in one ce. She eats her food quietly until the guy sat down next to her. Ah, no.


    He sat between her and Lory; still, she ignores him, like he didn''t exist because it was the truth.


    For her, this man has never existed in her life.


    "How are you, sweetheart?"


    Galvin Huo spoke, but Gigi isn''t sure if it addresses her. She doesn''t want to assume. But this is Galvin''s endearment to her, which disgusting. She ignores him as she knew that Galvin is not talking to her.


    Soon then, Lory''s irritating voice broke the silence on their table.?"I''m d you were back, Galvin. I am getting bored out here. I felt like I was the third wheeler between Liam and Miss Chan."


    "Is that so?" Galvin replied, but his eyes stared at Gigi, who remained eating quietly on his left side. Her long slender fingers are holding the fork elegantly. He blinks twice and coughs as his throat dries all of a sudden. "I''m sorry. I have some business to attend. Now I''m here."


    Gigi almost chokes her food. All the hair in her body rose from disgusts listening to her ex-husband flirting with his new girlfriend. No wonder the girl acted as she hates her to the extreme. It was now clear why Lory is often frowning at her.


    ''Damn. I want to leave now, but I''ve only got little information.''


    It''s not yet clear what Liam''s real purpose why he''s in P Country. But then, she found out that Galvin is here too. Now she wants to stay away from him.


    ''Huh. How cheap he is, picking up a social climber like her recement. It looks like they were perfect for each other.''


    And like she cares? It was damn long years, and she''s happy with her freedom.


    Gigi continues mumbling inside her head, but she also praying to the heavens to send an angel to save her. As seconds pass, she''s bing restless next to her ex-husband. Galvin is often ncing in her direction, and his burning stares made her ufortable.


    Meanwhile, Liam enjoying himself watching this drama. There is a grin in the corner of his mouth, and Gigi sees that. In fact, it annoys her. The guy invited her to join their table because Galvin is here as well!


    Ugh! She badly wants to leave this ce!


    Later on, Gigi jolted when a big palm ced on her left shoulder and warm lips brushing her right cheek to ce a kiss. She was in a trance, looking up at the man leaning over her, which he blocked Galvin''s view; she didn''t see when her ex-husband clenched his jaw and sharpened his gaze.


    Galvin''s dark pupils shrunk from anger. Not only that, he recognized this man. Of course. They were killing each other years back.


    "I''m sorry, darling. I didn''t realize the traffic from the airport toward here is extremely heavy!"


    A sexy deep voice escapes from this gorgeous man''s mouth, whose blue eyes held her captive. Gigi''s eyes traveled to his high nose bridge down to his enticing pink lips, partly smiling at her.


    "Tom¡­" Oh my gosh! Gigi freaked out.


    Did she moan his name!!!???

 Chapter 161 - Gigi Chan: How To Take Care Of My Woman (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 161 - Gigi Chan: How To Take Care Of My Woman (Two)</h4>


    She wished for the floor to swallow her whole. What just happened is the most embarrassing thing she ever did in her entire life!


    But she is sure that her pretty mouth only whispered Tom''s name! How would she know it will sound like she''s moaning!?


    Where did that evene from? She has no idea!


    Or maybe she was just too excited that Tom arrived, and now she was saved from extreme awkwardness being at the same table as her ex-husband and new fling?!


    Yeah. She knows it''s just a fling, the new vor of the month, andter, Galvin would have another girlfriend.


    Her ex-husband will never change, and she doesn''t care about that anymore. They were long divorced, and even if Galvin had ten girlfriends simultaneously in a day, her name wouldn''t drag into shame anymore.


    Gigi hurls a long breath inwardly and gathers all of her sanity not to show how embarrassed she is.


    ''God! I''m so grateful to you for sending me a gorgeous angel, but his perfection brought shock into my core!''


    Gigi bit her lower lip before her lips pursed into a sweet smile. She stretched her arm and reached the cor in Tom''s trench coat. Using her sweetest voice, she says, "I''m d you''re here atst. I''ve missed you already."


    ''OMG! Why did I say that!?''


    Her head is messy, and she''s having a hard time to breath when Tom''s face is too close to hers. She felt their lips were just an inch away, and with any movement, he''ll going to kiss her!


    Not only that, her heart beating wildly, and she doesn''t understand. She''ll turn thirty years old soon, for god''s sake! Why was she blushing, like seeing her crush and his presence made her knees weak?


    Suddenly, she felt embarrassed in front of Tom. And when he chuckled sexily, her heart fluttered crazily, and it won''t settle down.


    ''What is happening to you, Gigi? Your ex-husband never made you feel this way!''


    She was still staring at Tom''s gorgeous blue eyes when Liam coughed. Somehow, she''s grateful for Liam''s action, and she came back to her senses.


    Gradually, it refreshes her head how her ex-husband exchanges bullets against Tom and Hailey''s other knights years ago.


    ''Gosh! Did Galvin recognize Tom? Hoping he didn''t!'' And before anything happens, she must think of a way to leave from this ce and separate Tom and Galvin, asap!


    "Well, I''m done eating. We can go back now to our suite." ''Why did I emphasize the words OUR SUITE? What''s wrong with my brain and my mouth?! Is this the effect of Tom on me? I can''t take my eyes away from him!''


    All the feelings she had right now only caused her fear. And she''s afraid to admit it¡­


    Tom pokes the tip of her nose before he straightens his back while his hand remains on her shoulders. He looked at the men at that table, one by one. He first greeted Liam before he fixed his attention on Galvin.


    "Good evening, Mr. Huo and, and Mr. Huo?" Tom partly nodded, and he didn''t back down wrestling stares with Galvin after the guy gave him a dagger look which only made Tom grin. "It''s a small world toe across you, Mr. Galvin Huo."


    Galvin tightened his jaw and pursed a smile. He muttered, "It''s a small world, after all, Mr. Thomas Morris."


    Gigi gasps. So, her ex-husband remembered Tom years ago!? She looked up at Tom with worried eyes, but she could see no fear registered on his face but mockery in his tone.


    "Indeed, Mr. Huo. Anyway, I hope you don''t mind if I join your table."


    Tom''s statement surprised Gigi. And without waiting for a reply, Tom took an empty chair and sat across from Galvin. Not only that, Tom held her hand and ced it on the table.


    ''What is wrong with him? Do I have to pretend I am his girlfriend and we have a rtionship now? Why am I not informed of his game! Because my heart is not prepared!''


    Gigi nced at her left hand that locked inside Tom''s palms. It still dazed her with everything that happened all of a sudden.


    First, her ex-husband showed up out of the blue! Now she has a boyfriend she never knew that she has!


    Anyway, she could notin, and she will never be! Her fake boyfriend is a damn hot adonis with a gorgeous set of deep blue eyes. He''s undoubtedly an angel sent by heaven.


    And honestly, her head is still all over the ce because of Tom''s presence. Ever since he appeared, she could not avert her eyes from his handsome face.


    "Darling, why did you eat only a little?" asked Tom.


    Gigi blinks her eyes and gathers all her senses in one ce to y along with Tom''s act. She smiled sweetly as she replied, "I guess I have a little appetite because you weren''t here to eat together."


    ''Did I really say that? My goodness! What am I doing now!?''


    She saw when Tom parted his lips into a huge smile and showed his beautiful white teeth. ''Why didn''t he join the modeling career?''


    She''s certain that all the famous leading brands of men''s underwear will precede Tom to be their model.


    And why did she think about men''s underwear for Tom to endorse? In all men''s wear? Should it be underwear? What is going on in her brain?


    It was as if Tom had suddenly filled her entire system. Now she could not think properly but fantasize about him! What''s wrong with her?


    She was lost in her own world, she didn''t notice that Tom had eaten her leftovers; then he started feeding her. She opens her mouth and eats the food Tom offers her.


    "You should eat more. You are getting thinner each day. I don''t want other people to think that I do not know how to take care of my woman."


    Gigi dropped her jaw to the floor. ''What did he say?''


    He''s going overboard with their acts! But Gigi understood Tom is trying to stir the tension in their table. He''s provoking Galvin by making indirect remarks!


    ''Ah! This guy! What is he doing?'' Is he starting a fight against her ex-husband?


    On the other hand, Liam Huo keeps grinning on the sideline. He enjoys watching the great show. From what he is seeing, someone is about to explode in anger.


    ''This is great!''

 Chapter 162 - Gigi Chan: My Darling (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 162 - Gigi Chan: My Darling (Three)</h4>


    "So, what business brings you here, Mr. Huo?" asked Tom. His gaze did not leave Galvin, who he often nced at his hand that intertwined with Gigi''s fingers.


    Galvin withdrew his gaze from their hand. He clears his throat, emptied his ss, and poured another wine. Later on, he lifted his gaze and met Tom''s mocking stare. He''s thinking, if only they were at S Country, he already killed this man. But right now, he must control his temper.


    It was apparent that Tom was trying to provoke him, and whatever the guy is doing was effective. Galvin nced at Gigi one more time before his gaze shifted to the guy he wanted to kill soon.


    "I think it''s none of your business, Mr. Morris." Galvin returned; he sharpened his gaze after Tom contorted a smirk on the corner of his mouth. The guy won to anger him.


    "Come on. We both know what business you are interested in, Mr. Huo." Tom asserted. He watched how Galvin is throwing daggers at him, which he only enjoyed his reaction.


    Galvin pursed his lips tly, and with a stern voice, he said, "Then nothing you need to ask, Mr. Morris."


    "Don''t get me wrong, Mr. Huo. I''m just well aware that your family is expanding their territories. Is marrying Senator Gu''s daughter would strengthen your influence? I don''t think so."


    Gigi raises her head. She nced at Tom before she looked at Lory Gu. She doesn''t like how Tom sounded mocking, but she could not help snorting from amusement. She stared at Lory and mumbled to her head, ''Poor girl.''


    Then, she nced at Galvin, and she felt disgusted staring at his face. Her ex-husband is using the same tactics as what he did to her family.


    After the Huo family strengthens West Asia by marrying her as the daughter of the Chan family, and then the South, they n to take the Oceanic Continent.


    And the wealthiest and powerful Lord is Jacob Davies; that is why Liam pursued Hailey. At that time, Hailey is turning 22, who has no idea about the Underground World.


    After she was introduced to that world, she was trained by her cousin, the Mafia Emperor; since then, Hailey gradually became mature and adapted to the ways of the Mafia Association.


    But Hailey is not fond of bloody fights. So she built her army, and these men were called Knights. Andter then, she built Davies Group in western Australia, a sisterpany of her dad''s corporation.


    But still, Hailey wanted to build an empire run by women. And that is how DV Gem became the foundation of the women''s association.


    Hailey wins the Chan family in West Asia through her. Not only that, she got Middle East support through the Varghese daughter, Kelly.


    And in North Asia, Cassandra Young, Shun Crow''s wife.


    Then recently, she has South-East Asia by winning over the Javier and Hanes family through Leticia Javier and Dana Hanes.


    Even though Hailey already said that she would never join the Mafia Association, it doesn''t mean she won''t create her own legal association in the form of women.


    And her stand would even be strong if she will win the Lopez and Shen family, one of the most powerful families in Southeast Asia.


    Actually, it was just by a snap of her finger. But Hailey wanted the hard way. And as what Hailey told her...


    "I just fell in love with Vince. I don''t care about the Underground World nor the Business World. My love for him is separate from these worlds. It''s just me. The ordinary Hailey Hillson."


    The name Davies is a huge name both in Mafia Association and Business World.


    However, in the end, Hailey has to get involved in both worlds. Besides, she could not keep her secret identity forever.


    But then, someone wanted Vince dead. And some of the evidence pointing to Mafia movements. Now that Liam appeared in P Country, Hailey suspects that it was him who plotted everything. Liam even uses people to go against Vince.


    Gigi snaps herself from falling into deep thoughts again. But now that she came back to her senses, she couldn''t help rolling her eyes when the two men wrestled with gaze once again.


    Why does his husband don''t want to stop showing that he still wants her back? She would be more at peace if Galvin treated her like she didn''t exist in the world. In that way, she is more at ease.


    Like now, the tension she is feeling further increases with each passing time. She may have ignored looking into Galvin''s direction, but she could feel his sharp res throwing at Tom and burning stares at her face asionally.


    Gigi nced at Tom. He''s not finished eating yet, and in what she sees, he is intentionally eating slowly! He is not in a hurry at all!


    ''Ah! What is the nning?''


    Tom noticed that she was staring at him again. He scooped a spoonful of colew sd and offered it to her, but she refused this time.


    "I should not eat a lot tonight. I have a fitting by 8:30," she told Tom.


    "Oh, your dress for theunching of the DV Gem branch store here in Asia. There will be a red carpet and a lot of media following that event."


    "Yes. So the measurement should be precise. Hm?"


    "Hmm. Okay. But still, I''ll order some midnight snackster," said Tom with a meaningful smile ying on his lips.


    "Are you going to fatten me?" she snaps, ring at the guy yfully.


    "Nope. But it would help if you had some energy tonight." Tom said, then he winked at her.


    Gigi could feel her cheeks burning after she understood what Tom meant with his remarks.


    ''And what is his deal this time!? This guy is bing shameless! We''re not close!''


    Meanwhile, Galvin darkened his face watching his ex-wife flirting with someone else. On the sideline, Lory soured her face. She could see that Galvin still has a feeling toward his ex-wife.


    "DV Gem¡­ So, you are also attending the party, Miss Chan?" Lory Gu couldn''t stay silent tonight. She asks Gigi which. She cast a downward look at her.


    The girl is arrogant, the reason Gigi doesn''t want to speak with her. But she needed to give a simple nod at least.


    "Oh, well, I''ll be attending as well," Lory said proudly. She even lifted her chin. "Galvin wanted me to ce an order for our wedding band!"


    Gigi smiled and said, "Congrattions then!"


    Lory felt annoyed. How could she make this woman jealous of her? She''s also from a wealthy family and a famous fashion icon like her. But Galvin remains fond of his ex-wife!


    "Thank you, Miss Chan." Lory barely smiled as she''s even felt annoyed toward Galvin''s ex-wife.


    "Yes. I''ll see you on Saturday. I hope you like my wedding band designs. I could show you our new collection." Gigi smiled.


    Lory creases her forehead, confusion written all over her face why Gigi Chan imed that she designed for GV Gem.


    "It seemed like you didn''t know that my darling is co-owner of DV Gem, Miss Gu," said Tom while his eyes never left Gigi as he nted a kiss on the back of her palm.


    Lory dropped her jaw. She knew that Gigi Chan is from a wealthy family, but she didn''t expect that she is one of the founders of DV Inc.


    Of course. DV Inc is a famous tale among High Societies anywhere in the world. Although no one knew the five women who founded it, she looked up at them. But never in her wildest dream that Galvin''s ex-wife is one of these women!


    Lory pursed her lips and remained silent. She could only stare at Gigi, who sat up from her chair and left with her boyfriend.


    "I''m sorry. But we have to go. My designer is on his way to show me his dresses." said Gigi to Liam, then she nced at Lory, who lost her tongue all of a sudden.


    "Good night, Mr. Huo. See you around." Tom didn''t wait for Galvin Huo to respond; he ced his arm around Gigi''s waist and guided her toward the exit door.


    Gigi breathes with a sigh of relief after they step inside the elevator. She''s d that her act is over.


    "I didn''t get much information," she mumbled between sighs.


    "Don''t worry. We got enough information," said Tom.


    Gigi looks up, and her eyes meet his gorgeous eyes. She realized that she was hugging Tom while his hand is clutching her waist. This must be the effect when her knees tremble the moment she sat up from the dining chair.


    But her knees didn''t shake because of her ex-husband. It was because of some other guy.


    Shrugged off the awkwardness she''s feeling at the moment, she asked the guy. "Really? What information?"


    "That Galvin Guo and Liam Guo will be there at theunching event," said Tom.


    Gigi pondered for a moment, then utter, "But no men were allowed inside the hall. It will be only an all-female event."


    "Yes. But they will be nearby because of the Gu family influences."


    "Huh! That man! I hate him! He always has a lot of dirty tricks on his sleeves!"


    "Yeah. So we also need the help of your business partners'' influences."


    "Are you talking about Senator Javier?"


    Tom added, "And Congressman Vazques. You need to request more security."


    "And the security who will be there are Hailey''s knights!" Gigi had guessed.


    "Yes. That''s the n."


    "Hm. Alright. Then I have nothing to fear about." Somehow, she felt at ease hearing this news.


    "Of course. You have nothing to fear as long as you are here by my side, or I was by your side."


    "Huh?" Wait¡­ ''Why was I pinned on the wall, and this man''s lips are so close to me? Why am I always distracted when he is around? ''


    Hail, I need to talk to you!

 Chapter 163 - Gigi Chan: You Are Beautiful (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 163 - Gigi Chan: You Are Beautiful (Four)</h4>


    "Hail, Galvin is also here." Gigi immediately phoned Hailey after she arrived at her suite. "Anyway, it turned out that he ns to marry the daughter of Senator Gu."


    On the other end of the call, Hailey creases her forehead. She queried, "Senator Gu? Then, that girl''s name is Lory Gu?"


    "Yes, and she will attend theunching party this Saturday. Now that Liam and Galvin had Senator Gu''s backing, they will be freely roaming Metro City." Gigi envisioned it already. So then, they must be extra careful from now on.


    After Hailey ran an investigation about Howie Gu, she learns all the names of the Gu family members, and they only have one daughter.


    "It may be true they have influences here in Metro City, but the Gu family is inferior to the Lopez family throughout P Country when ites to power," said Hailey as she went on. "The Lopez family is a huge family, and they hold most businesses in the Country."


    "Hm¡­ They owned most of the malls all around the country. Why don''t you tell Vince about your situation, which involves your true identity? In that way, Vince can use the influence of his family."


    "Precisely, Hilda Lopez family. And telling Vince is not that easy. This is not the one I want him to see about me. Someone who is tangled with the Mafia that I was the sort of sessor of an underground world Lord."


    "Do you have a choice? Besides, you once told me. Probably one of Vince''s cousins is also a member of the Mafia Association. Maybe that person who you must speak to? Also, his other cousins are helping him deal with the gossip in his absence. I think they could help to suppress the Gu family when ites to politics. In that way, Liam and Galvin would have difficulties touching you here in P Country. Not to mention the Cole and Vazquez families."


    "You''re right, Gigi. However, you knew among everyone else how the Huo cousins were full of dirty tricks. They won''t care to kill anyone. I will only put Vince''s cousins into a bloody fight, which is actually not their fight."


    "And you think Vince is not ready to kill someone for you? He came home when a huge issue erupted and dragged your name into it."


    Hailey heaves a long sigh. "I know Vince would do any means to protect me, which he already did these past months we are together. And at those times, we''re just faking our rtionship. He''s worried about me, so you are right. He''ll be an angry lion once someone hurts me."


    "See? Then the more he will do anything for you! In your situation right now, you can''t freely move around the city because you are hiding your identity. Not to mention that Liam is watching closely at you, and he could do that easily with the resources from Gu family."


    Hailey could not agree more. However, she still has uncertainties. If ever, she would stir huge trouble in P Country.


    "I need to think about it, Gigi," she said afterward. "But for now, we need to ensure that everything went well during theunch. After that, I have to make a decision regarding a possible fight against Liam and whether I have to tell Vince about him. By now, let''s focus on how we can get my knights to watch the security during ourunch without Liam and Galvin recognizing them."


    "I will speak to Leticia. Maybe we can ask her dad''s help." Gigi suggested.


    "That''s right. Leticia''s father is a retired general of the Arm Forces of P Country. He has connections we could take advantage of. We needed to meet up and have a final meeting."


    Gigi agreed. "We need that, yes. I will set a meeting tomorrow. Are you okay with that?"


    "Yeah. I''m good." Hailey approved.


    After Hailey ended the call, Gigi dropped her body to the sofa. She felt the stress creeping through her body. Tonight, she wants to have a good sleep. She doesn''t want to remember her encounter with Galvin. It will only boil her blood.


    Her eyes caught a wine bottle and sses on the table; she poured some wine for herself. Instantly, Gigi gulped the entire wine in her ss. She was agitated, and this is because of Galvin Huo.


    Gigi poured more wine on her ss and drank it in one go.


    Meanwhile, Tom was in the bathroom, taking a shower. Gigi''s suite has only one bedroom. But since he pretended to be her boyfriend, he has to stay in the same suite, and his only choice is to sleep on the couch.


    Wearing only a bath towel around his waist, Tom got out of the bathroom and strode toward his luggage in the living room.


    His mouth dropped open, staring at the drunk woman lying on the sofa. Tom raised a brow while he scanned the wine on the table, then returned his gaze toward Gigi.


    ''This woman could not hold her liquor?'' No wonder she only drank a little earlier when they had dinner.


    "Hey, go to your bed if you want to sleep." Tom leaned over and shook Gigi''s shoulder. But he noticed the beads of sweat on her forehead. She''s also breathing heavily. No, she was shivering, and her body was on fire. "Hey! What happened? Gigi?"


    Tom had a bad feeling about it. He''s confused about whether his guess is correct. But it''s impossible, otherwise...


    "I¡­ He¡­ help me." Gigi whispered in a hoarse voice; then, she was coughing.


    "What''s going on with you?" He asked while he''s helping her drink some water.


    "I¡­ I felt strange¡­." Gigi could only stammer through her words. She wanted to exin it to Tom, but she felt ufortable. "Wine¡­"


    "Wine? What do you me¡­" The wine! Tom immediately picks up the winess and sniffs on it. He took the bottle and poured some wine on the ss, and drank it.


    Tom shrunk his gorgeous eyes, which turned into dark blue pupils. The effect is not fast but potent. ''Damn it! Who put some drugs on the wine?''


    He scooped Gigi from the sofa and brought her to the bathtub inside her bedroom. Tom filled the tub with cold water, but he knew it wouldn''t help her that much.


    "You¡­ why did you drink it as well?" Gigi asked him.


    Tom gape at the woman inside his arms. Her cheeks are flushed red, and tears are flooding her eyes.


    "I want to check if it mixed some drugs with the wine."


    He watched her dark brown eyes widened from shock. After realizing what''s going on, fear exhibits in her beautiful eyes butter is reced with anger.


    Gigi clenches her fists. She knew one person who is capable of it. "Galvin! It must be him!"


    How ironic! While she put too much effort into getting information from Liam, she did not know that Galvin had alreadyunched a plot about how she would fall into his hands!


    Her ex-husband just wanted the opportunity to get a hold of her! And if Tom didn''t arrive, the possibility that she wakes up the next day lying on the bed next to her disgusting ex-husband!


    The nerve! Her hatred for Galvin is beyondparison that even hell would vomit it! "I really hate him!"


    However, even she''ll throw a fret, she is helpless at this moment. The cold water didn''t help her body to feel better.


    She looked at Tom, and she just noticed that he was naked. Gigi swallowed. She averted her gaze and looked at the wall.


    But she forgot it was a mirror. She watched their reflection, and her eyes traveled to Tom''s nakedness. The heat she felt because of the drug seemed twice, staring at Tom''s perfect physique.


    From his handsome face down to his muscr shoulders, firmed chest, to his t belly, and beyond that waist is¡­


    Ah! She must worry about how to get out of the situation she''s in! How to remove the effects of the drugs inside her body? She knew a way, but can she do it? Still, she felt shy even just thinking about it!


    But her body is burning with lust. And looking at Tom, her head became wild.


    On the other hand, Tom is gaping at her with earnestness while he strips her, and it only takes one pull, and he tore her dress.


    Gigi gasps and bites her lower lip. She has no brassiere but tiny underwear. The dress she wore has its padding, and so she needs no bra underneath.


    Her cheeks were already red, caused by the drugs and wine. But being stared at by Tom that way, she felt like her face turned into crimson red.


    "First thing tomorrow, we need to move to another hotel. It looks like Calvin has someone who could freely ess your suite even if you have bodyguards." Tom suggested. He is scanning Gigi''s body.


    "Do¡­ Don''t look at me¡­" she whispered. She tries to cover her breasts, but Tom grabs her hands.


    "Why not?" Tom''s gaze became solemn; his eyes feasted, looking at her almost naked body. "You are beautiful. I won''t get tired looking at you."


    He lowered his head and imed her lips. Gigi wanted to protest, but she could not resist Tom kissing her. The only thing her body wanted is to respond to his fervor kiss.

 Chapter 164 - Gigi Chan: A Chance To Love? (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 164 - Gigi Chan: A Chance To Love? (Five)</h4>


    Even though her body burning with lust, the back of her head has a fear of being touched by someone.


    "No..." she tried to push Tom, but she had no strength at all, which Tom had all the energy and control.


    She could feel his hand wandering all over her body, even to the part that she wanted to hide from him. She was embarrassed, but her body betrayed her for yearning more.


    Tom continues ravishing her mouth while igniting the fire inside her body that causes her to suffer even further.


    Later, she felt her back hit the soft bed. Tom left her lips, he nted tiny kisses all over her face, down to her neck. She cried when Tom bit her n...ples and taunted it with his tongue and teeth while pinched the other with his fingers. He fondled her chest until he''s satisfied with one and moved to the other, doing the same.


    "Tom..." Damn! She''s moaning his name for real this time. And she hated how her body reacted to his touch. It wants more than his mouth and hands.


    Although she knows it was the effect of the drugs mixed on the wine she drank, she already felt an electrifying sensation trickling throughout her body when Tom''s hand holding her hand in front of her ex-husband.


    "Wait... No! What are you doi... Uhn..." Her body shudders after Tom swam the deep of her river. And it feels strange.


    She never felt this warm feeling when her ex-husband slept with her, which is only forced her to, and she felt disgusted afterward. Maybe, because she hated Galvin and she didn''t love him.


    It ddens her that it only happens a few times. Otherwise, she might jump from the building to end her misery.


    "Tom..."


    Tom, on the other hand, froze all of a sudden. He looked up and debated within himself what to do in a situation like this.


    Gigi is sobbing. He sat up and leaned over at her; using his left hand, he ced his palm on the bed to support his weight while his other hand was wiping her tears.


    "Shh... I want to help you feel better. If I stop, you will continue to suffer."


    "I know... It''s just that..."


    She doesn''t know how to express herself. She bes a great businesswoman, but expressing her personal feelings, especially to a stranger, is thest thing she would do. Even with her suffering at the hands of her ex-husband, she conceals her emotions.


    "Tell me, what do you want me to do?" Tom asked with his husky voice, while his fingers caressing her smooth face; asionally, he dried the tears that fell from her eyes.


    Gigi clenched her fists. She only wanted one thing in this life and that she couldpletely erase the silhouette of her husband inside her head.


    "I hate him so much that I wanted to end my life so that I could not remember him. And now..." She confesses between her sobs. "I don''t want to see him nor remember him anymore. I want him to disappear from my systempletely!"


    Tom lowered his head and dried her tears with his kisses. Hebed her wet hair and said, "Then allow me to do the honor. I will make sure that after tonight, you''ll no longer remember him but me."


    "Tom..." She may not understand what he means, but it gives a warm feeling inside her chest that someone is listening to and trying to understand her feelings. "Tom..."


    "That''s right. I want you to say only my name from now on."


    She didn''t understand it again, but she nodded. When Tom brushes her lips with his, she opens her mouth and responds to his kisses until she is lost inside his mouth. He thrusts his tongue, and she wees him inside, letting him y with hers.


    She moans between their kisses, and she only came back to her senses after she felt a hot stiff thing, entering her body.


    Gigi gasps and cries. She holds on to Tom''s shoulder as he fills her insides with his hardness.


    "Hmm... Tom..."


    "Yes, darling. Say my name."


    Tom is whispering sweet words in her ears while his warm breath tickles her skin. She cries in pleasure every time Tom fills her insides. He thrust slowly but deeper untilter on, his pace increases.


    "Oh, Tom...." she arches her body to uphold the sensation that is about to explode inside her.


    "That''s right, darling..." He bit her earlobe. Dissatisfied, his mouth lowered down her neck and licked her corbone, then left tiny bites around.


    Tom grabs her legs and ces them on his shoulder before he speeds his thrusts. Gigi''s body shudders from pleasure after her first climax. She pants and gasps when he continues invading her inside until she feels another eruption.


    "Darling, we have all night. We''ve just begun..." said Tom huskily as he spread her legs wider.


    Gigi reaches for the sheets and holds onto them. Tom is tirelessly driving her body hotter than the effect of the drugged wine.


    She is wildly screaming his name all night while epting his constant thrusts and letting him spurts his sperm inside her.


    Wait... They aren''t using any protection!


    But she cares less about it. She doesn''t even remember when all she wanted was for her body to feel relieved.


    And above all, Tom''s touch somehow set her free...


    *


    The following morning, the sunlighting through the curtains blinded her the moment she opened her eyes. It is morning, and she feels some weight over her.


    She wanted to move on her left side, but two muscr arms wrapped around her waist. Also, she could feel her bareback rubbing into a bear firmed chest.


    Gigi examined her body. She doesn''t feel any disgust or feels ufortable. Well, she''s exhausted and sore, but opposite to what she felt after Galvin used her.


    Instead, she loves the warm feelings lingering inside her chest. Tom''s caress was gentle.


    Slowly, she recalled what happenedst night. Suddenly, her face turned red. Last night was such chaos. She remembered they also make love while having a bath and while she''s leaning on the wall and... Ah, she was embarrassed to recall everything!


    Gigi froze when the man next to her moved. But only to tighten his embrace and then bury his face in her nape. She could feel his warm breath on her neck. Later, she was tickled by his tiny kisses. Tom is actually awake!


    Ah! Should she let him know she''s already awake? Or she pretends to fall asleep again?


    Gigi was debating within herself what to do. But then, it startled her when a loud chime yed by the doorbell of her hotel suite.


    ''What''s going on? Do her bodyguards need something from her?''


    She felt Tom moving in her side, pulling his arms wrapped around her, but he was very careful not to wake her up. Not long after, he came back, and now he''s leaning at her.


    "Do you want to take a shower first or have breakfast?"


    Ah! He knew she''s awake! Gigi grabs her pillow and hits Tom with it.


    "Hey! Is that what I would get in the morning?"


    Gigi slowly opens her eyes. She rolled her eyes upon seeing that the guy had a massive grin on his face.


    "Good morning¡­" Tom greeted her, brushing his lips on top of hers. "How about¡­"


    She red at Tom. She had already guessed what he would say next, and she was right.


    "If you would like, you can have me as your breakfast."


    Gigi widened her eyes and gape at Tom with awe. She mouthed, "I could not believe you are this shameless!"


    She remembered. Tom is a reserved man, only spoke little among Hailey''s knights.


    "Why not? You already see my naked body. You even steal my soul," he said shamelessly.


    Gigi dropped her mouth open from everything that came out of his mouth. But after her dazed brain processed his words, tears formed in the corner of her eyes.


    "Shh¡­ I don''t want you to cry ever again. It is thest thing I want you to do." Tomforted Gigi.


    "How if I cried with joy?" she asked with a yful tone.


    Tom licks the corner of her lips, before he replied, "Then if that''s the case, it is considerable."


    "You are a sweet talker." She smiled and cupped Tom''s face to scan it closely. It feels like she was still inside a beautiful dream.


    He teases her, "And I can be your breakfast every day while talking sweet."


    Gigi blushing red as she mouthed, "What are you? A Second Chance at Love: My Whirlwind Romance?"


    "I like the title. But maybe we can find better ones," hemented.


    Gigiughed; she pinched Tom''s waist, which only made the guy chuckled sexily. She blushed.


    "See? You look more beautiful smiling like this."


    "Thank you," she uttered sincerely afterward.


    "Hmm¡­ What if I want more than thank you?" Tom wink at her.


    "Stop! Just feed me first!"


    "I would love to be obliged." Tom has a broad smile, winking at her again."


    "Jeez¡­" This guy is too shameless! "I want real food."


    "But I am tastier than food." Tom pouted, acted like he''s hurt.


    ''Oh, my goodness! I can''t believe his shamelessness is this extreme!''


    "I''m still sore and exhausted. Besides, I should start working soon. I need to set a meeting and contact my business partners, including your boss."


    "Hmm¡­ And we need to transfer to another hotel. I already asked one of your bodyguards to book us a suite in Metro City Pce Hotel."


    "Great then! I''ll call Hailey toe to the mall," said Gigi. She was about to sit up, but Tom helped her up. His thoughtfulness moved her.


    Honestly, he is such a gentleman, and she might fall for him. But the question is¡­


    Is she ready to love someone after her bitter experiences from her forced marriage?

 Chapter 165 - Just You Is Enough To Complete My World

    <h4>Chapter 165 - Just You Is Enough To Complete My World</h4>


    Later that day, Gigi secretly transferred to another hotel. She and Tom leave M Hotel with no luggage, so Galvin''s men won''t notice anything.


    But when they left the hotel suite, Keith''s men dressed up as cleaners and took their suitcases, and moved their things to Metro City Pce Hotel.


    Tom goes through an inspection of the entire suite. He cursed when Gigi''s bodyguard booked a presidential suite which has two bedrooms. He frowned after finding out that Gigi locked the door in her room. Now it forced him to stay in the other bedroom.


    But of course, he won''t sleep alone tonight. With this thought, his lips curled a naughty smile. After he inspected the living room and the minibar of the hotel suite, he knocked on Gigi''s bedroom.


    "What is it?" Gigi looked at Tom suspiciously.


    Tom instantly scowls when she only opens a small gap in her door. The woman seemed to think that what happened to themst night was just a one-night stand.


    Heaving a long sigh, Tom pursed a faint smile. "I''m going to check your room."


    "Is that necessary?" she asked.


    "Yes. I need to make sure you will be safe here if ever I was away," Tom insisted.


    Gigi pondered for a moment before she widened the door and let Tom get inside. She watched him, checking every corner of her bedroom. He even inspected the durability of the windows and bathroom door.


    "Mr. Shen does impressively," he murmured while inspecting the bathroom door.


    "Who? Are you referring to Hailey''s boyfriend?"


    "Yeah. He''s the one who designs this hotel. And hispany who constructs this building." Tom pointed out.


    She nodded but said nothing. She only watched him with curiosity in her eyes.


    "The door is solid. It won''t give in if someone kicked it, even with force," Tom added.


    "Is it important?" She asked innocently. She understood Tom wants to ensure her safety, but what will be the rtion of the bathroom door?


    Tom could see that it confused Gigi. He gestures at her, "Come here."


    "Why?" she''s hesitant toe near him.


    Tom raised one brow. He notices it since they arrived in the mall until they walk into the hotel; Gigi suddenly bes elusive and keeps her distance from him. Now she''s acting like he is just a stranger.


    "I have something to show you, soe with me to the bathroom."


    "But why do we need to be in the bathroom?" she eyed him with a strange look on her face.


    Tom is certain. Something is running inside her head. So he needs to exin it to this na?ve woman.


    "Look¡­ There is a possibility that Galvin will force of getting you. If that happens, I want you to run inside the bathroom. The door is solid enough to buy you more time."


    "For what?" she just asked whatever his exnation toward her, and she could see that Tom is getting annoyed by her cold treatment. But it scared her.


    How if the feelings she has now is only an unrequited love?


    Tom is a free man. He was like an eagle soars the sky with no bounds. He was always in many ces, especially when Hailey was on a trip around the world.


    He could meet hundreds of women, so it is impossible to fall in love with someone like her¡ªa divorced woman.


    That is why, while still early, she needs to wake up and kill whatever feelings are blooming inside her heart.


    "Gigi? Did you hear me?" Tom snaps her back to reality.


    "Ah¡­ I''m sorry¡­ I have many things in mind. What is it, by the way?" She was lost in her thoughts, and now she came back to her senses; her eyes widened, staring at Tom holding a gun. "Wha¡­ What''s with the gun?"


    Tom takes out the bullets from the gun and gestures to Gigi to follow him. He wrapped the gun and ammunition to a face towel, then ced them inside the Ziplock cellophane.


    "I will hide this gun here in the bathroom. You know how to use it, and so, I will leave it here." Tom put the stic cellophane in one of the cabs inside that bathroom.


    "Is that necessary?" she asked with worries exhibiting in her eyes. She doesn''t want to recall the past when she runs for her life and gets free from Galvin. Is it going to happen again?


    "Of course. If Galvin seeds in nting a bullet in my head, then that''s the time you have to protect yourself," he exined.


    Suddenly, Tom wanted tough while observing Gigi''s face. He guesses that the woman imagines a scenario inside her head because her face is now twitching. But what made his heart flutter when worried exhibits in her eyes. And he prayed that the reason is for him.


    "Why are you thinking about dying?" Afterward, Gigi asked him with seriousness in her tone.


    "Don''t worry, darling. I am happy to die for you," he said with a solemn facial expression.


    Gigi jolted when Tom caressed her left cheek. She didn''t notice that he already cornered her on the washbasin, and now he''s leaning over her.


    He is a six-footer, which,pared to her height of only five feet and five inches, the guy is towering her.


    Later she replied, but she only stuttered her words. "Why¡­ Do you think you''ll die protecting me?"


    "Why? Are you worried if I die?"


    A glint passes her eyes. "Of course! Who else would be happy if someone dies? "


    "Then you don''t want me to die, huh?" Tom looks at her with intent. His eyes are hopeful she would say yes.


    "I¡­ I don''t want you to die, yes¡­." Gigi bites her lip. She lowered her gaze then looked up to meet Tom''s intent gaze. "Especially in the hands of my ex-husband¡­ Promise me you will not going to die!"


    Tom''s eyes flicker, his lips parted into a gorgeous smile. "For you darling, if I die, I promise toe back from the dead."


    When Tom lowered his head and imed her mouth, she did not shun away. Her heart doesn''t want to refuse anymore.


    *


    Meanwhile, at Crescent Penthouse, Hailey was preparing to leave to meet Gigi and Leticia when her phone rang.


    She checks the caller, and it was Vince. She swiped the green button and greeted the guy lovingly.


    "Hey! You''re done having lunch?"


    "Yes. I''m on my way back to the site."


    "Great! You are working so hard. I''m so proud of you." She praises him from the bottom of her heart. And she would love to reward him if ever they were together.


    They said men always look forward to a sort of reward, and they be inspired and in a good mood, as long as they are satisfied. She wonders if it was the same case with the others, but it works with Vince. And upon remembering it, she blushed even though she''s alone in the penthouse.


    "I missed you already."


    She heard Vince groaned from the other line. She could feel his loneliness as it was what she is feeling at the moment.


    "I missed you too¡­" she said with sadness in her voice. Soon she remembered they were talking candies. She could hear the inaudible sound of the car. She asked Vince, "Are you driving or Tim with you?"


    "I drove the car. Tim only spent like fifteen minutes eating his lunch then left to see his girlfriend."


    "Tim has a girlfriend?"


    "Yeah. He meets his childhood sweetheart here in the city."


    "Oh, wow! Who''s among mmm¡­ Is she an employee of thepany?"


    Shot! She almost said, ''Who among my female employees is Tim''s girlfriend?'' Ah! That was close! Her tongue almost slips out! It seemed like she needed to do something about her secret identity.


    "Hmm. Tim''s girlfriend is the supermarket supervisor here," replied Vince.


    "Oh. I''m happy for Tim!" she chirped.


    "Hah. Now he could not poke fun at me behind my back."


    Haileyughed from the other line, and Vince smiled delightedly to hear herughing. He already arrived at the site; he parked near a tree and got out of the car, then leaning on its door.


    It couldn''t hide the smile across his face. All of his workers saw how his face brightened while talking to his mistress on the phone.


    Of course, there is only one person who can make him happy like that. They have been working with him for many years, ever since he was in college, and he is rare to smile gleefully in front of them. Most of the time, he immersed himself in his training andter¡ªas their boss and less time to mingle with his employees, but only duringpany dinners and seasonalpany parties.


    "Hubby, I''m having a lunch meeting with a DV Gem executive to discuss the progress of your order."


    "Oh. Then you have to leave soon?"


    "Yes. I was about to leave the penthouse when you made this call."


    "Ah. Then I should hang up now," said Vince with sadness in his tone.


    "No! We can keep talking while I''m on my way."


    "Okay. Thank you for doing this for me," he uttered with a smile.


    "You''re kidding. It is the least I could do for you," she responded. Vince is referring to the gift for his mom that she is taking care of.


    "You''re wonderful," said Vince, melting Hailey''s heart.


    "I''m happy to do everything for you." Her words have a meaning that only she understands.


    "I love you, Wifey."


    "I love you too, hubby."


    "How about if you will also open up in the meeting that I am interested in investing in the DV Gem? I mean, it''s for you."


    Vince''s suggestion stunned her. Gigi was talking about itst night, but Vince is actually thinking about it as well.


    "Do you really mean that?" her voice began shaking with the emotion deluging in her chest. Vince''s thoughts moved her.


    "I want to give everything to you," said Vince sincerely.


    She rendered speechless as guilt struck her heart. She wants to end her lies and secrets, but she needs to consider the steps she must take care of.


    "Let''s talk about that when youe back, okay?" she told Vince.


    ''But I don''t need everything in the world. Just YOU is enough toplete my world.'' Hailey mused inwardly. She didn''t voice it out as tears formed in the corner of her eyes.


    ''Soon¡­ things will take ce.''

 Chapter 166 - You And I Against The WORLD

    <h4>Chapter 166 - You And I Against The WORLD</h4>


    Today, Hailey passed through the lobby. As usual, the residents crowded it. It is lunchtime soon, but they still hang out there, having a coffee while gossiping about other people''s lives.


    Well, yes. Who doesn''t like gossip?


    That''s right, they love to gossip about their Landlord''s mistress, and that was her.


    "Sigh. That''s what you will look like being a Mistress of Vincent Shen." a woman in a red dressmented.


    "She''s stunning!" echoed a pregnant woman in a floral halter dress.


    "She''s also pretty without makeup and just wearing casual clothes," said a woman in a skirt. She is a size plus, but she''s pretty.


    "Or maybe she just looks elegant after spending Mr. Shen''s money." chimed in another resident. The woman''s voice is full of envy.


    "Jeez. It''s President Shen, and he had a lot of money to shower his mistress." countered by another woman who always praises Hailey whenever she sees her.


    "Indeed. It will damage President Shen''s image if we see his mistress only wearing cheap brands of clothes."


    And the gossip continued. Standing near the main door, Hailey shook her head, listening to thesedies. It is true, anyway.


    In these passing months, she used Vince''s money to buy the clothes she needed to wear to look elegant and pleasing every time Vince brought her to his business engagements.


    Lately, she always has meetings with the DV Gem business partners. However, the dresses she is wearing are personalized designs and made from Paris and Italy. And none of it paid by Vince money. It was all from her ount.


    That''s why these women gossiping about her spending Vince''s money is false. The bag she carried and the clothes, shoes, and jewelry she put on today were all from her revenue. She could afford to clothe herself, even if it cost a hundred thousand US dors overall.


    She owned a bigpany that could support her luxurious life. Whatever she wants, she could buy it with her own money.


    "Bruce, I''m here at the main entrance door." She phoned him. While waiting, the lobby was in a fuss.


    Everyone gasps and squeals when a dazzling man appears in the lobby. He was the new tenant in this building, and just one day, he already made the women fall in love with him.


    The guy turned his head; he winked at the first girl that caught his eyes. The poor girl almost passed out with what he did. And everyone wishes he will also look in their direction.


    But the handsome guy marched straight to the exit door without looking back anymore¡ªleft the singledies and married women daydreaming about him.


    Hailey rolled her eyes. No wonder Kelly hated him so much. He lives up to his looks.


    Pitterson Cha, a Chinese-Korean descendant but grew up in Australia. He and Kelly are neighbors, the samemunity as Bryan and Andre.


    Indeed, he has a handsome face and smooth, fair skin. All the time, he mistook for an idol. But just his look because he is bad-mouthed and bad-tempered.


    Pitt joined the military and even the Navy but retired at 30 to be my full-time Knight and bodyguard traveling the world. Surfing and sailing are his favorite things to do. Now, Pitt is 35 years old and a gorgeous bachelor.


    And yeah, he purchased a unit in Vince penthouse, so they are now neighbors to watch her closely. But as for how the residents respond to his charm, it will be a pain to her ass.


    *


    "Princess, Captain Pitt is on standby for a convoy," Bruce reported. They are now leaving the Crescent Penthouse vicinity and joining the traffic.


    "Okay, Bruce. Thank you. Anyway, stop calling Pitt as Captain, or else he''ll dig a PIT for you. He lives up to his name, by the way." Hailey warns Bruce with a smirk.


    The poor guy suddenly swallowed as he imagined a scenario. ''Maybe it''s not a good idea.'' He murmured to himself.


    "Um, then what can you advise me, Princess? How should I address him?" he asked afterward. Suddenly, he became restless.


    Hailey smiled. "Brother Pitt, he''ll be okay with that."


    "Okay, Princess." Pitt nces at the rearview mirror, and he could see that silly smile ying on her lips. "Um, Princess... You aren''t digging a pit for me, right?"


    "Don''t worry. Just reason out to him that I ordered you to call him that."


    ''Ah! She''s making fun of me!'' Bruce scratches the back of his head. It looks like it''s a prank; the princess is joking! Bruce cried inside. So he decides to ask Pittter.


    Pitt is his senior. He wants to address him correctly, to show his respect. He doesn''t want to give a wrong impression when he is just the newest Knight.


    Soon Hailey saw her convoy. Two cars are now tailing her, and one is upfront with Pitt in it, leading the convoy.


    Pitt phoned Hailey to inform her he spotted Liam''s men and attempted to follow them behind.


    She''s annoyed. Now the picture is getting clearer; Liam is truly after her. She told Pitt, "I need to get rid of him as soon as possible before he could harm my rtionship with Vincent."


    "Sigh. I can''t believe you, Princess," Pitt grumbled in the other line. "Anyway, Keith has the lead of the recent investigation. It looks like it''s not just the Gu family he tried to persuade to back him up here in P Country."


    "I foresee this already. He will gather as much family to strengthen his ally here in P Country. Congressman Vasquez is eyeing them, but we need Leticia Javier''s father on our side to use his influence."


    "See? You are this cunning as well, Princess. Just one step and you can be a real Lord."


    "Shut up, Pitt!" The Mafia Association is thest thing on her mind. But she needs to do something about Liam.


    "Don''t worry, Princess. I know General Videl Garcia. I will help to convince him." Bruce speaks up after she finishes the conversation with Pitt.


    "Thank you, Bruce." She smiled, looking at the rearview mirror. She looks outside the window, sighing. Later, Hailey made an overseas call to someone...


    "Kristian? How is it going with Dad?" she asked immediately, not waiting for the person from the other line to speak up.


    "Hello, Princess. Everything is fine out here." Kristian answered, scratching at his temple.


    "How about the reports? Nothing reaching, Dad yet?"


    "Don''t worry, Princess. All the reports go through me, and I''ll make sure nothing reaches him," he assured.


    "Great! Thank you for being loyal to me but hiding things from dad." It is not simple; Hailey knew that. But she doesn''t want her dad to get to worry about her and now the issues about Vince.


    "Thank you, Princess. But I could only half-heartedly ept yourpliment. As you can see, I don''t want to lie to your dad, but I can''t say no to you."


    She indeed begged Kristian to be her eyes and ears, as he is her dad''s private assistant. Kristian knew everything about her dad''s business engagements, especially the Mafia movement in Australia.


    "Kristian, the boys also didn''t know yet. If whatever happens, I want you to protect Vince from everyone if the Australian Mafia Association hears rumors."


    It took a moment before Kristian replied to her, and she understood that she''s asking Kristian''s loyalty again over her dad.


    "Okay, Princess. But from my perspective, your dad likes your boyfriend. I think it''s easy for you to make him understand about Mr. Shen."


    "He''s married. I will disappoint dad. I was in this scandalous rtionship," she exined.


    Kristianforted Hailey, and it moved her. "Like what you said, it is only an arranged marriage. I''m sure he''ll understand."


    She was happy, and she had this talk with Kristian today. He''s the closest person who knows her dad''s mood. "Thank you, Kris. You don''t know, but you encourage me somehow."


    "Your dad always worries about you. And so, he deserves to know the truth."


    "Yes. I am already guilty of all the lies I havetely. Thank you once again. You are always a big brother to me."


    "It''s my honor, Princess. I''m always here if you need me."


    Hailey felt a lot better after the talk she had with Kristian. It helps her to ponder what better steps she must take from now on.


    She''s grateful for the men who surrounded her. They were allmitted and loyal to the Davies family. But of course, it didn''t take just a day to get their loyalty. It was through generations, brotherhood, and family.


    "Sometimes, I''m thinking of stepping in and recing dad," she muttered while looking at the scenery from that hilltop route.


    Bruce nced at her in the rearview mirror and queried, "Is it about protecting, Mr. Shen?"


    "Vince is part of the decision, yes. But overall, I love working with everyone. I guess we don''t need to put up tension between territories. In this way, we avoid a dispute between Lords."


    "You were talking about the Mafia Association, Princess?"


    "Yeah. But I pray the day won''te, that I have to make a decision, because if someone asks me now what I want to do with my life?"


    ''I feel the thrill to be Vince''s wife and a mother of his children.''


    "I want an ordinary life, Bruce. However, it''s impossible to achieve that kind of life."


    "Even if you are not a daughter of Mafia Lord, Mr. Shen''s life is already a controversy." Bruce shared his opinion.


    "Yeah. You''re right, Bruce." Hailey concurred. She hurls a long breath and releases them. Her mood changes; suddenly, she feels gloomy.


    "You know what, Princess? I know what the title of your love story is. YOU and I Against the World."


    Sheughed. It ddens her that Bruce is a sensible person. He senses her sadness now; he is trying to cheer her up.


    Bruce hit that right. She once thought the same. She also came up with this theme¡­ US¡ªAGAINST THE WORLD, but YOU AND I sound better.


    It applies to her and Vince''s love story. It is what she is facing to keep him by her side.


    And first, Liam must disappear from her life forever.

 Chapter 167 - Possibly Still In Love?

    <h4>Chapter 167 - Possibly Still In Love?</h4>


    Hailey sat across Leticia Garcia Javier and Gigi Chan seated on a single couch on her right side.


    She was confused upon seeing Tom Morris, Pitt Cha, and Keith Cole at the long table, discussing a serious matter with Bruce.


    She heard Vincent assigned him to be Hailey''s bodyguard. But who are these two other men?


    Hailey smiled at Leticia; she knew it needed a lengthy exnation for the woman to understand her and Gigi''s situation.


    "I know it confused you why there are other people in this room." Hailey began.


    Leticia nodded, then asked, "Does President Shen know already?"


    "No. Before Vince hired Bruce, he was already my Knight," she exined. Leticia knitted between her brows; Hailey turned her head toward the table, replying without looking at Leticia. "They are my Knights. And they are everywhere around the world."


    "You mean, they were likely your bodyguards?" Leticia queried. She remained calm even though she wanted to freak out. Who is Hailey Hillson?


    Meeting Leticia''s curious eyes, Hailey nodded. "Yes. They were always on call wherever in the world I was whenever I needed them."


    "It was like, anytime, anywhere," Leticia mumbled.


    She tried to process this information inside her head. The woman in front of her is not just a sessful businesswoman or a famous mistress in Metro City. She is more than a pretty face and elegance.


    This woman is dangerous! You shouldn''t offend her!


    Leticia coughs. She clears her throat then asks afterward. "So, what can I do then? I think today''s meeting is not just about theunching of the store. Am I right?"


    Hailey smiled at her. She knew Leticia is a smart woman, so she wanted to tell her about her fight against the Huo family.


    "You are right. We are here today to discuss a serious matter. The truth is, I am timid to fight back when there is gossip about me. So what I did instead is to vanish them in the face of Earth secretly."


    Hailey looks Leticia straight in the eyes. The woman swallowed, and beads of sweat began forming on her forehead. She added. "Don''t worry. I just deleted those websites. I''m not talking about people."


    Hailey smiles warmly at her, but Leticia can''t stay calm about it. ''That''s what I''m talking about! You must not offend her!'' She thought while listening further.


    "I cared less about harsh words andshing about me, but when ites to Vincent, that is another story." Hailey picks up a folder and ces some photos in front of Leticia.


    "They are the Huo n." Hailey pointed at the photos as she exined. "He is Galvin Huo, Gigi''s ex-husband. He is the Lord of the West territory in S Country, while Gigi''s family holds the East and South. And the other man is Liam Huo, the Lord of South Asia, particrly the Northern part of V Country. They were cousins, yes, and currently in Metro City."


    "Wait, a minute¡­ When did you say, Lords? You are talking about the Underground World, right?" Leticia wants to rify so that she could follow Hailey''s exnation.


    "That''s correct. We are talking about the Asia Mafia Lords." Gigi chimed in. She continued, "My ex-husband forced my family to arrange our marriage so that he will defeat the Lord in the Northern territory of S Country."


    "But you got divorcedter?"


    "Yes. Thanks to Hailey, she saved me from Galvin, and my family took back the East and South territory."


    "I see. Then¡­" Leticia paused; she fixed her gaze on Hailey upon inquiring, "It means you are a Mafia as well?"


    Hailey shook her head. She leaned back on the French chaise and replied, Leticia with the truth. "It was my dad. I refused to rece him. Instead, I took another path and built my army. I called them Knights. However, I can''t deny where I came from. I was already involved with the Underground World even before I was born."


    "I get it. So? Do these cousins have a n in P Country the reason they were here?"


    "This is what I want to confirm first. I want to believe they simply want to strengthen their territories. But in my separate investigation regarding Vincent''s idents, some evidence pointing to Liam Huo."


    Leticia pondered for a moment, then asked another question. "Why does Liam Huo want Vincent dead? Did he offend the Huo family? Are they somewhat business rivals?"


    "Liam Huo once pursued me for a marriage."


    "Oh! Then?" Curiosity disyed in Leticia''s face. She mused, ''Things are getting intriguing about Hailey Hillson.''


    "I''m uncertain whether it''s because of me. Buttely, his men are following me, and Galvin''s men are following Gigi. The cousins are both monitoring our recent activities."


    "Galvin Huo wants you back?" Leticia turned her head toward Gigi while asking this question.


    Gigi shook her head. Then she replied, Leticia. "I don''t know. He is engaged to Lory Gu, which she will be at theunching party."


    "Oh¡­ Does your ex-husband want to make you jealous?" There is a tease in her voice. It''s just that the love lives of these two powerful women areplicated and intriguing; it also leads to a dangerous path.


    Before Gigi answers Leticia''s query, she nces in Tom''s direction. Their eyes meet as the guy is keenly listening to their conversation. It seemed like Tom waited for her answer.


    Gigi wants to tease Tom, but the answer thates to her mind sounds exciting to imagine. Later, she told Leticia. "Actually, it was the other way around."


    She nced at Tom; she saw the smirk contorted in the corner of his mouth. Gigi rolled her eyes, which Hailey and Leticia saw. The two women shared a nce and smiled in secret.


    Earlier, Leticia just arrived in the room, and she caught Gigi and Tom whispering in the corner. Tom rested his right palm around Gigi''s waist.


    But then Gigi parted from Tom and warned the guy after she noticed her entering the door.


    "Behave! Hailey is close!"


    Leticia came back to reality and shrugged it off. She fell silent to ponder. Slowly, she connects the scenarios that are ying in her mind.


    The Huo cousins have a history with both Hailey and Gigi. Now that Hailey has a rtionship with Vincent, Liam Huo wants him dead.


    Is Liam possibly still in love with Hailey? Or some reasons? But he is ready to kill Hailey''s lover!

 Chapter 168 - Do I Deserve To Love Him?

    <h4>Chapter 168 - Do I Deserve To Love Him?</h4>


    And regarding Galvin Huo; probably he was here to persuade his ex-wife, who possibly found a new lover now. It was Tom Morris.


    If that is so, theunch is not safe for everyone. There might be some problems so then; they have to ensure the safety during the party.


    "So? The conclusion in today''s meeting is to n out how we could make the event safe." Leticia concluded.


    Both Hailey and Gigi nodded and smiled. "I know you will understand us right away."


    "Then, what can I do to help?" asked Leticia.


    Hailey answered, "I need someone to back me up. I want to scatter my knights during that event. And so, I need your dad''s influence."


    "Hmm. Ipletely understand. Our guests during the event are women from wealthy families in the country," Leticia concurred.


    "Not only that, there will be attendees from all over Asia and even from the US," Gigi added.


    "And so, we must ensure tight security. It''s not just the opening of our branch store. Affluent women in the fashion world want this event to show off their fame and wealth. And it will be a bad image of ourpany if something happens that night."


    Nodding, Leticia yed a scenario in her head. That night will be an extravagant parade of dazzling gowns and pieces of jewelry.


    "I understand. I will talk to dad about it." Leticia paused for a moment. "Oh, my gosh! Madame Hilda Shen would be there, too!"


    "She''s the number one guest on the list." Hailey smiled meaningfully.


    "Your mother-inw!" Leticia sounded teasing.


    "Yet¡­" Hailey said that made the girls giggle. "Thank you, Leticia. I know you will understand. That''s why I am confident to share our troubles with you."


    "I am happy, and you trust me. It''s an honor for me. I promised I would mention nothing about everything I learned today."


    "Until I reveal myself, yes. Thank you once again."


    Growing up with a man in uniform, Leticia quickly understood. Right away, they set a meeting tonight evening to talk with her dad. Keith, Pitt, including Bruce will be there to exin the situation.


    "Hail¡­ What do you think will happen this Saturday?" asked Gigi after Leticia left to visit her dad. She couldn''t help but worry. It''s not for herself but the safety of the attendees that evening.


    "We will make sure that Liam and Galvin could not get near the venue, nor us."


    "What are you going to do with Liam after the event?" she asked Hailey further.


    Hailey turned her head to look at Gigi with a serious gaze. All she wanted was to end the cold war between Liam Huo''s n and the Davies Group in everything that happens.


    "I can''t do anything yet until it isn''t clear to me his entire purpose in P Country. All the evidence is pointing at him. But if I give it to the Shen family, another question will arise. Why does Liam Huo attempt to kill Vince? Then another question, followed by more confusion. I want to solve this matter, but I need to n it well, and I must do it carefully," she stated.


    "Things are messing up, Hail." Gigi rested her head on Hailey''s shoulder. She could sense how upset Hailey was, and she was too! She wanted Galvin to disappear from her life forever. "We just wanted to fall in love and live peacefully."


    "Yeah. And because I can''t introduce Vince to dad as my boyfriend since he''s still married to the woman who causes my engagement to break off. Things are a mess because Dad is still angry at Bryan. So I am trying to figure out which one I should take care of first."


    Hailey went on. "I was like in a starting line with three directions. The first direction is toward, dad. And the second direction is Vincent, while the third one is Liam. Whichever direction I choose, there is no finish line waiting yet."


    "It will matter because these three men are pointing back at me. And so, I need the fourth direction." Hailey hurls a long sigh. "After the event, I need to go back to Australia."


    "You''re going to tell your dad? Or Vincent?"


    She shook her head. "No. It''s Bryan. He is my fourth direction."


    "What? Why was it, Bryan? I mean, why do you want to see him?" Gigi is a bit confused, but she trusted her friend.


    Hailey meets Gigi''s eyes, and she replied, "I need to see Eva. There are questions that only she could answer."


    "Alright, then. Do you want me to apany you?"


    "I want you to stay by my side so that I am sure you are safe from Galvin," said Hailey. "Besides, Tom is my pilot, and so, you have to be with me then."


    "Okay¡­ Oh, wait! Why do you sound teasing, huh?" Gigi parted from Hailey; she saw the teasing smile ying on her lips. "You are a naughty little sister of mine!"


    Haileyughed and said, "You can''t hide it from me. There are sparks in your eyes every time you look at Tom."


    Gigi bit her lower lip. Her cheeks turned scarlet red as she debated within herself whether, finally, she would admit her feelings for Tom.


    "Do I deserve to love him?" she asked Hailey with doubts in her heart. It will always make her worry if Tom could ept her.


    "Silly! Why not? Tom is a great guy."


    "It''s just that¡­."


    "That what?" Tom asked her.


    Gigi wasn''t able to finish her excuse when Tom cut her words. He suddenly appeared out of nowhere. She met his set of deep blue eyes, which she could feel how Tom''s intense gaze could see through her soul.


    "Ahem! I better go to the kitchen and fix some dessert for us. I think it will take me some time toe back. So then,ters!"


    Gigi dropped her mouth open, watching Hailey disappear at the door in a sh. ''She''s fast!''


    "So?" asked Tom. He was already seated next to Gigi. Not only that, his arm was already hooked on her waist, pulling her closer.


    "I¡­" she could utter no words when it just disappeared from her tongue. Then, upon being distracted like this, she would find herself a prisoner in Tom''s embrace while his kisses punish her in sweet and passionate ways.

 Chapter 169 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (One)

    <h4>Chapter 169 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (One)</h4>


    METRO CITY PALACE HOTEL


    Tonight is the DV Gem Asia Branch Storeunching, which the Pce Hotel Hall was decorated morously with a gold and silver theme.


    Super busy this evening, Gigi, Leticia, and Dana made ast check to the venue. They have to make sure that everything is all ready.


    However, three hours ago¡­


    Hailey sat on a French chaise lounge, sipping tea inside a private room while her eyes fixed on the giant screen. From there, she will monitor all the happenings in the event hall.


    As she waits for the time that guests start to arrive, someone knocks on the door, whereas two people lead to assure her safety and are now guarding the door.


    Whoever attempts to enter that door they have to go through Pitt and Bruce''s knuckles along with her other knights.


    "Princess, the DV Gem General Manager from the Main Branch Office, is here," Bruce announced.


    "Let here in."


    Walking inside the room, Mina strode closer and bowed to Hailey. She then ced the ck suitcase on the table, opened it, and showed the purple velvet box kept inside.


    "Miss Davies, the jewelry set you designed."


    Hailey takes the box and carefully opens the top cover. Her eyes gleam upon seeing the jewelry. Kelly''s touch is truly extraordinary. Her poor design miraculously has brightly shone now.


    It was beautiful. Suddenly, Hailey wished for her mom to be still alive. She would love to see her wearing the pieces she designed.


    But the thought that the one to wear these pieces is the woman who gives birth to the man she loved brings warmth to her heart.


    Hailey closed the cover and ced the box back in the suitcase. Later, she will hand it to Vince''s mom.


    "After the party, I want you to escort Madam Hilda Shen in this room," Hailey instructed Mina.


    "Note, Miss Davies. I''ll take my leave to prepare for the event. Guests will arrive soon."


    "Go ahead."


    Mina bowed and left the room. Hailey leaned back on the chaise lounge, her eyesnding on the box again. She opened it one more time and looked at the pieces inside.


    It was truly stunning. She could imagine Madam Hilda Shen wearing the ne. Even though Vince''s mom only gives her a frown every time she sees her, she has seen Hilda Shen''s photos with a beautiful smile.


    A photo of Vince graduated from his second course, and Hilda smiled proudly during a family picture. Vince was the Summa Cum Laude, whose mom would not smile and feel proud?


    Hailey came back to reality when her phone rang. The caller is Liza. She wondered why the girl was calling her. Liza didn''t know she is the owner of DV Gem, and she''s a part of the event tonight unless there is a problem since she chooses her mom''s services to cater to the food tonight.


    "Hello, Liza?"


    "Hail! Where are you? I need your help!" Liza cried from the other line.


    "What''s the matter, Liz?" Creasing her forehead, she asked curiously.


    "Mom has a problem, Hail. The chef that was assigned to prepare the food tonight was stranded at Lemon Ind. They prohibit nes or ships from traveling today when a typhoon ising, and it will directly hit the ind!"


    "Oh. Then, the food that is supposed to be served tonight is¡­."


    "The hotel will pay any amount. Hail! Please, help me!" She cut Hailey''s sentence. She was in a hurry to convince her. Hailey did it during the ss Reunion, and then only Hailey could help her. "We need a chef who is an expert in European cuisine, Hail!"


    "Okay. I''m on my way. Stop crying now," sheforted the girl.


    "Mom is too worried. It is one of the biggest events she handled, and she doesn''t want to damage the hotel''s reputation. She already med herself even though it''s not her fault."


    "She shouldn''t be. There are things we don''t expect to happen. I''d call you if I were closeby."


    "Okay, Hail. Thank you so much! It happens because a senator requested the chef to cook for her son''s wedding, and mom can''t say no to her. Mom sent the chef to the province!"


    "I understand. So stop worrying now, okay?"


    "Okay. Thank you so much again! I''ll wait for you in the lobby!"


    "Bye." Hailey puts down her phone and calls out for Bruce.


    "Yes, Princess?"


    "Send someone to buy me casual clothes. There is a problem in the kitchen. It''s been two hours left, and the event will start."


    "Right away, Princess." Bruce immediately got out and requested a female employee from DV Inc. to buy the boss casual clothes.


    After fifteen minutes, the clothes arrived, and Hailey changed immediately. She runs to the back door of the event hall, where a corridor will take her to the kitchen of this hotel.


    If the food dys, this will be a problem for the event, not to mention thisunching is her very own store.


    "Liza!"


    "Hail, thank God you came!"


    "Don''t worry. We have enough time. Are the desserts ready?" she asked Liza.


    "Yes, Hail. Mom finished baking them. She prepared choco mousse cupcakes, caramel cake, macaroons, and some fruitcakes. They will prepare the sds soon, but the dishes..."


    "Great! Let''s disy the sweets during the program. Exined to the organizer that they will serve foodst."


    She already notifies thedies about the minor changes. It should serve dinner first, while a couple of bands and singers will sing a song. But as food hasn''t been prepared yet, they have to push back at thest part of the event.


    That''s the n she came up with. Maybe it''s not a bad idea. It will be a perfect time for the guests to mingle.


    "Let''s go, Hai¡­." Liza froze her feet on the floor. She could not open her mouth, staring at the woman behind Hailey. She didn''t notice her passing through them, and the woman''s gaze intimidated her. All she could do was lower her head.


    Hailey wondered at Liza''s actions; she nced over her shoulder, and she saw the woman halted a couple of meters away from them.


    She turned around and bowed at Madam Hilda Shen. The woman did not reply to her gesture which she''s used to already. Instead, Madam Shen only scans her from the head down to her slipper.


    "Liza, hurry! We need to prepare the food!"


    They heard Liza''s mom calling at them. She missed noticing Hilda Shen as she immediately turned around and rushed back to the hallway, headed to the kitchen.


    "Let''s go, Liz," she whispered and pulled Liza away from the lobby.


    Hilda also resumed walking, headed toward the elevator. She reserved a room for her stay where she prepared to attend the event. And it surprised her to see her son''s girlfriend just lounging around the mall.


    She wondered if they invited the girl to this event. Even if she is just a mistress, Hilda has witnessed from past asions. That girl was often asked because of her son''s influence. They want to impress Vincent and to earn favor in return.


    Anyway, why would she care about her? However, after two hours and she''s ready for theunching party, Hilda remained bothered by something. The more she ignores it, the more it upsets her.


    "Crissa! Find out what that girl is doing!" She instructed her assistant.


    Not long, Crissa phoned Hilda to give her a report. "She''s asked to cook tonight''s dishes, Madame Shen. And ording to one server, she''s done preparing the food."


    "Bring that girl here immediately!"


    Crissa was confused. She''s uncertain if she heard it correctly, but she has to follow her madam''s order. She wants to approach Hailey inside the kitchen, but Bruce stops her.


    "What do you want from her, Miss?" asked Bruce with vignce in his tone.


    Crissa blinks. She was taken aback after this man suddenly appeared in front of her. But after she came back to her senses, she frowned and red at him.


    "Who are you?" She remembered that she''s well trained in Martial Arts and shooting a gun to protect Madam Shen if she needs to fight one day. And she would love to give this guy a flying kick with how rude he is toward her.


    "Ahem. President Shen assigned me as his girlfriend''s bodyguard." Bruce replied. He''s still using his rough tone.


    Crissa was stunned for a moment. After then, her expression softens and even lowers her voice. "Madam Shen wants to see Miss Hailey."


    "May I know why?"


    Crissa answered with annoyance. "I''m just following her orders."


    "Okay. I will inform Miss Hailey," said Bruce and left her outside the kitchen.


    "Humph! He''s just a bodyguard!" Crissa mumbled after the door swallowed the guy.


    Inside the kitchen, Hailey helped to make sds when Bruce approached her.


    "Princess, Madam Hilda Shen has requested to see you."


    "Oh. What is it about?" She''s a bit worried. She needs to go back to her room to monitor the event, but she can''t refuse Madam Hilda''s invitation.


    Soon after, Hailey and Bruce followed Crissa toward Hilda''s hotel suite. Along the aisle, she noticed Bruce was smirking while checking out Crissa''s legs.


    She red at him but then winked after. She was teasing Bruce, and the guy scratched the back of his head. Being caught at what he did, he falls back a little and walks behind them.


    When Hailey came to Madam Hilda''s suite, she noticed she was ready for the party. But she seems patiently waiting for her.


    Hailey began wondering why Vince''s mom wants to see her. She''s hoping that this is not about her breaking up with Vincent.

 Chapter 170 - Mother Queen Versus The Queen In His Heart

    <h4>Chapter 170 - Mother Queen Versus The Queen In His Heart</h4>


    "Good evening, Madam Shen," she greeted Hilda.


    The middle-aged woman looks up, scrutinizing her from the head down to her toes. She looks displeased, staring at her get up, wearing only a short skirt and an oversized blouse she tucked in, showing her right shoulder, then only a slipper on her feet.


    For teenagers younger than her, the outfit was a trend. But for Madam Shen, who is ssy, for her, it looks trash.


    "What are you doing?" Hilda questions Hailey with a stern tone in her voice, which she can hear outside the room.


    Bruce was nervous while eavesdropping at the door. He even pressed his right ear harder to listen closely, prepared to barge in to protect the Princess if Madam Hilda Shen went overboard insulting her son''s girlfriend.


    He doesn''t care, even though she is Hilda Lopez. Notably, he only follows someone''s orders.


    "Protect her, even from mom."


    Vincent Shen''s words, his other boss, and he will follow this order with his life. That is why, if something happens with this meeting, he will storm into the room and threaten the mighty Madam Hilda.


    Oh, well. He needs to prepare himself for the oue. The other knights were keeping an eye on the Princess. If there is a fight between Madam Shen''s bodyguard, it will be big trouble between the Queen and another Queen in Vincent Shen''s life.


    Ah, correction. It was the Mother Queen versus the Queen in his heart.


    He''s hoping that Vincent won''t be a coward and choose his mother. But if he chooses the Princess, he deserves his salute, and he will recognize him as King worthy of the Princess.


    Listening further, Bruce heard someone snorting behind him. He throws a sharp re at the woman standing beside him; she returns a dagger look at him.


    Bruce rolled his eyes. They are both busy listening to what is happening inside the room; he has no time to pay attention to Madam Hilda''s assistant.


    Meanwhile, Hailey rendered her silence. She wants to go back to her room to monitor the happenings of theunch. But she can''t be disrespectful to Vince''s mom. She has to endure it for a while.


    She lowered her gaze and spoke. "Madam Shen, I''m sorry if you seemed disappointed to see me today. I could see you are ready for the party. So I am lost as to why you want to see."


    She needs to ask her straightforwardly. She got ufortable when Madam Shen continued sizing her up.


    "You were not thinking at all! How could you embarrass my son like this? He''s throwing fortune at you, but this is the only clothes you can buy?"


    Hailey was in a trance, processing Holda''s words. She is insulting her way of dressing. However, she feltfortable in this way. Vince''s mom''s concern is an image that is throwing back to her son.


    "You''re wrong, Madam Shen. I am justfortable with these clothes," she exins, which Hilda clearly is not happy about her reasons.


    "What are you talking about? I inquired, and they invited you to this event. Why aren''t you dressed up? Unless you are nning to go to the party in that sort of clothes?"


    Hailey shook her head. Now she understood why Madam Hilda Shen was throwing a fuss. If she wasn''t mistaken, she wanted her to attend the party.


    Criticizing her ways of clothing is actually encouraging her to wear better ones. Hailey concealed the smile ying on her lips. And since Madam Shen brought up this issue, she must give her an excuse. "I''m sorry, Ma''am. But I chose not to attend the party."


    Hailey looks up and meets Hilda''s eyes to see her reaction. She could see how Hilda was dissatisfied with her reasoning. The middle-aged woman hurls an impatient sigh. She even lifted her fingers and lightly massaged her forehead.


    "You''re giving me a headache," Hilda muttered. Later, she called out to her assistant. "Crissa,e here!"


    Spit out by the door, Crissa rushed inside. "Yes, Madam Shen?"


    "Phone the Lopez Collections and tell them to send all the evening gowns with small sizes."


    Confused, Crissa did her best to work her brain. "Is it for the event, ma''am?"


    "Yes. And where is Baron?"


    "I am here, madam! What can I do for you?" Baron was only on standby in the corner, prepared to be called out anytime.


    "Take away this girl. Let her wash up first." Waving her left hand, she instructed her stylist.


    "You wanted me to style her for the party, madam?" Baron asked. He was actually listening to the conversation. And, of course, he knew this girl. She is the famous mistress of the city, and he admired her fashion sense!


    There is actually no wrong with her casual get-up. She still looks stunning with that skirt that shows her long legs!


    Ah! He can''t wait to dress this girl up! He will make sure Vincent Shen appreciates what he does to his girlfriend! Baron thought to himself.


    "Madam Shen, leave it to me! I''ll transform her as the queen of the night! Although she already looks like a queen like you!" Baronughs then bites his lips when Hilda red at him. He''s overexcited, the reason he didn''t control his mouthplementing both women.


    Baron takes Hailey''s arm and drags her to a room; he pushes her inside the bathroom, closes the door. Hailey sighs with relief. It seemed like she had to y along.


    It still surprised her that Vince''s mom suddenly became nice to her. Well, not totally, but she''s wondering why she wants her to attend the party.


    Hilda is patiently waiting for the dresses she requested from her niece''s boutique in the living room. Not long, her niece Janise entered the suite with her employees, pushing clothing racks to the room.


    "Aunt Hilda? Why do you need small sizes?" Janise queried. After she heard her aunt asking for more evening gowns, she rushed to the store to handle the requests. She is familiar with her aunt''s mood, so she needs to deal with her carefully.


    "It''s not for me," Hilda replied. "Anyway, I have to see them now so that I can head to the event now."


    "Okay, aunt. We shall go together then. So¡­ What do you think of these gowns?"


    Janise showed the dresses she brought over; they were in various styles and cuts. The event''s dress theme is gold, silver, and cream colors.


    Hilda carefully chose three of the dresses Janise brought over. "Baron,e here!"


    "Yes, madam?"


    "These are the dresses I want her to try on. Tell Crissa to escort that girl to the event after you styled her."


    "Note, Madam Shen!"


    Hilda looked at her niece and said, "Let''s go, Janise."


    "Okay, Aunt." Janise nced at Baron. She and this stylist are close friends. She''s the one who introduced Baron to her aunt and became her stylist ever since then.


    Casting a questioning look at him, Baron gestured and winked at Janise. "I''ll send you a text."


    Janise nodded and followed her aunt in silence. She''s curious about what is going on. Her aunt mentioned ''HER'' then who''s this girl that her aunt spares a time to dress her up?

 Chapter 171 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 171 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Three)</h4>


    Janise Lopez quietly followed her aunt, who remained silent the entire time as they walked toward the elevator. Her aunt seemed in deep thoughts, and the girl she mentioned earlier must be the reason that she is troubled right now.


    Hilda and Janise went to the ground floor and rode a Rolls-Royce Phantom toward the Metro City Pce Hotel Hall main entrance door for a red carpet, where hundreds of media and reporters worldwide were waiting for this event.


    She is walking on the red carpet; Janise waves and poses while countless cameras take her pictures. After the grand entrance, Janise proceeds to the stairs, where her aunt is waiting impatiently.


    Hilda walks the carpet without looking at the cameras,pletely snubbing everyone. She only halted at the main backdrop of the event for a photoshoot to post at DV Gem''s official website.


    "I''m sorry, Aunt Hilda!" she apologized, hurried her steps, and followed the woman ascending the grand stairs toward the great hall of the hotel.


    Janise noticed her aunt seemed not to be by herself tonight. She simply nodded at her after apologizing, different from the usual attitude that quickly gets irritated and berates her immediately.


    ''I am too curious about who this girl''s aunt is talking about with Baron. But I can''t ask my aunt about it; then I have to wait untilter when she shows up at the party.''


    Well, Hilda was indeed in deep thoughts this entire time. It happens; she always recalled the conversations she has with her two daughters these past days. It started when Vincent got into an ident.


    "Mom? How was big brother?" Sheena immediately made an overseas call after she heard the news from Deena.


    "Your brother is fine. I''m d he didn''t have severe injuries. He only sprained his shoulder."


    "Thank God! Can I talk to him, mom? I can''t contact his phone."


    "Um¡­ Your brother is with his girlfriend in the patient room."


    "Oh! I''m d Hailey was there!" Sheena suddenly burst out, which confused her mom.


    "What happened to you?"


    "Mom, I''m just happy that they reunited atst!"


    "What do you mean, reunited atst?" Hilda ponders. She''s trying to mull over her memories of Vincent having an ex-girlfriend in the past.


    All those years, she always investigates whether Vincent has a girlfriend or a girl he courted, especially have a one-night''s stand. She just wanted to make sure that no woman can corner Vincent or trap him in a situation.


    But Vincent didn''t involve any women in the past. Could it be the person she assigned to follow Vincent around didn''t report everything? But it''s impossible.


    "Tell me, Sheena. Do you know something that I didn''t know about your brother regarding his mistress?" she asked her daughter.


    She remembers the time when they dined out at La Fleur Restaurant. Her son and that girl acted like they didn''t know each other. So what then?


    "Mom, I know you hated Hailey because you think she is only my brother''s mistress. But mom, if only big brother has a choice not to marry Eva, he should be free to marry Hailey instead."


    "What are you talking about? We don''t know where that girl came from! How if she''s a gold digger or brings harm to your brother? Do you know that someone attempt to murder him the reason he got into an ident?"


    "But mom? I''m sure she is not after our wealth. And how can you say that Hailey is involved in my brother''s ident? What could she earn to do that?"


    "Who knows? Maybe someone is paying her or whatever!" Hilda reasoned out stubbornly.


    "Mom, stop!"


    Hilda got irritated that Sheena keeps arguing with her. Not only that, she is taking sides! Her daughter defended that mistress instead!


    "Don''t forget that we are talking about your brother''s life, her Sheena," she warned her daughter. They were influencing their brother!


    "And I am talking about my brother''s happiness, mom! He''s been suffering for many years! He has no love life at all!"


    "He has a wife! Why didn''t he persuade her instead?"


    "But brother loves someone else all these years!" Sheena argued. "Why can''t you let him be happy this time? Can you allow my brother to die a sad life?"


    "Why can you say that, Sheena? Your brother is one of the brilliant architects in the whole world. They recognized him abroad. What else he''ll be sad about?"


    "Mom, you don''t understand at all. When he meets Hailey once again after years, I just saw how his eyes spark, and he smiles genuinely. I''ve never seen my brother as happy as he is now."


    "What do you mean when he meets her again? Is that mistress his ex-girlfriend?"


    "No, mom. But brother gives her up to please you. He searches for her, but he gives up when you are bugging him about Eva. He did everything that you wanted. Brother didn''t abandon you but sacrificed for your sake. Can''t you see that, mom?"


    Hilda could not believe that her daughter chided her instead! It was the other way around?! She was supposed to scold her daughter for being rebellious and hard-headed.


    But now, she has med her son''s unhappiness!


    Even so, she takes a moment to ponder. Vincent is at the peak of his career. He just closed a massive deal with Davies Group. And this project is a hundred billion in US dors.


    She admits she arranged his marriage, hoping that her son would begin to build his family. But he only neglected Eva, like she didn''t exist in this world.


    She was indeed happy about his achievements. Her son even worked harder and brought the Shen Group into glory. But he never attempts to work on his marriage until one day, he lives with someone.


    Her son had a mistress!


    "Aunt Hilda, we''re here."


    Hilda came back to reality when Janise patted her shoulder. They halted at the long table where their invitation needed to be verified.


    Suddenly Hilda was stunned for a moment. She remembered she forced Vincent''s girlfriend to attend the party. It worries her if that girl can enter the hall when all the invitation cards have QR codes to verify that it was valid.


    DV Gem''sunching party was super tight and strict. There is a security protocol to follow; even though she is one of the major investors of this hotel, she has to go through it.


    It felt ridiculous. But DV Inc. is not an ordinarypany. Most of the foreign guests that were invited to this evening are famous people. So then, this security protocol is necessary.


    "Excuse me. I have apany. Can she stille in even if she has no invitation?" Hilda asked the personnel at the table, none other than Fraine Michaels.


    "I''m sorry, Madam Shen. Everyone must present the invitation we sent out," Frained replied.


    Displeasure is written on her face. Now she is worried if that girl can attend the event.


    "Ahem. May I know this girl''s name, Madam Shen? Maybe we invited her." Frained queries.


    "Ah. Hailey Hillson."


    It surprised Fraine for a bit, then she smiled. "We invited her."


    "Ah. I see. Thank you." said Hilda; she walked to the door now that she was cleared and good to enter the hall.


    Left behind, Janise, still shocked that the girl her aunt dresses up as is Vincent''s mistress. And she''s even concerned if that girl can pass through the security protocol.


    Anyway, neither Hilda nor Janise knew they meant this security measure to protect Vincent''s Mistress.


    And the guests knew nothing about it as well, except for Gigi and Leticia, whereas Fraine and Dana do not know that there is danger just hoarding around.


    Meanwhile, Fraine shook her head. Why do they have to send an invitation to the owner of the store that isunching tonight?


    Is it ironic?

 Chapter 172 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 172 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Four)</h4>


    Leticia Javier and Dana Hanes wee all the guests to tonight''sunching party at the grand hall. When they spotted Hilda at the door, they warmly weed her.


    "Good evening, Madam Shen!" Dana weed her, then Leticia offered to the woman and guided her to the ballroom.


    "I will show you your table, Aunt Hilda."


    "Thank you, Leticia. I love the theme." Sheplimented after her eyes traveled to the whole reception.


    Leticia is familiar with her character. Her family is a good friend of Frederick Shen''s family. And once to receive praise from Hilda Shen, it should regard it as a treasure.


    She is a person who is hard to please. The asion tonight costs millions to be one of a kindunching party, and it would be a waste if it didn''t meet her expectation of a grand event of the year.


    "I love the chandelier," said Hilda after they arrived at the table reserved for her. She noticed they reced the chandeliers in this hall.


    "Hail... I mean, Miss Davies sent it from Dubai for this grandunching, and she ns to donate it to this hotel." Ah. Her tongue almost slips out!


    "Really?" Hilda was a bit surprised at what she learned.


    The chandeliers are made of crystals and gold metal, worth thousands of US dors each. To sum up the three chandeliers, over hundreds of thousand, which in P Country currency, costs millions.


    "So, she is throwing fortune just like that, huh?" Hilda remarked. She is impressed by how generous the DV Gem boss.


    "She wants to build a good rtionship with Metro City Garden, Aunt Hilda," Leticia exined. Hailey didn''t say anything, but it must be the reason. Anyway, one of the owners of this mall and hotel is her boyfriend''s family.


    "Hmm... I like her. She''s a brilliant businesswoman," said Hilda with no idea that the person shepliments¡ªnone other than is the girl she dressed up.


    Leticia broadens her smile. If only she couldugh, but Madam Hilda would be confused why she''sughing all of a sudden between their conversation. The woman might misunderstand and thinks she''s insulting her.


    "I will send a message that you are pleased with her gift."


    "Please... I''ll be delighted if you do that. As well, I would love to give her my congrattions in person if I am given a chance to meet her."


    Leticia''s smile even widened. She could not wait to chat with Hailey and have some gossip. ''Hail, your boyfriend''s mom is praising you!''


    "I will mention it to Miss Davies, Aunt Hilda." You can tell her yourself! You have all the opportunities, Aunt Hilda!


    "Hm. Thank you, Leticia. By the way¡­ Do you think Miss Davies of DV Gem and the heiress of Davies Group are the same person?" Out of curiosity, Hilda asked Leticia, who was partly surprised.


    "Honestly, I only have a little information about the owner of the DV Inc., Aunt Hilda." It was the truth. She did not know, and she had no information about the heiress of Davies Group. There are rumors around society, but no one could confirm it.


    All they know, she has a worth of a trillion US dors. And if she has that kind of worth, she would also choose not to tell the world that... ''Hey, I am Miss Davies. The heiress of tremendous wealth.''


    Leticia came back to reality when Hilda spoke again.


    "I see. I''m just wondering if they are the same person as Vincent''s boss."


    "Oh, right! It will be incredible if they are the same person! There will be possibilities, but if not, maybe they are rtives? I''m curious to know too! But I should maintain a professional rtionship with Miss Davies. Maybe one day, I could gather the courage to ask her. Anyway, hasn''t Vincent met his boss?"


    "No. It''s only the Chairman of Davies Group."


    "I see. Well, if she is the same person and Vincent didn''t meet her yet? Then she must invest more time in DV Inc. than her otherpany," Leticia gives her opinion with a smile and a meaning Hilda failed to read. The woman seems in deep thoughts.


    "Yeah. I''m hoping I can meet the DV Inc. owner." Hilda muttered with hope. "By chance, is she nning to visit P Country?"


    "Maybe, aunt Hilda." Well, Vincent won''t meet her if she is in P Country. Leticia mused.


    ''I want to meet her one day. Maybe she''s still single, and I could invite her to my birthday and... Ah. What am I thinking? My son is obsessed with someone else already. If I introduce him to another girl, he probably hates me more. I don''t want him to hate mepletely. That is why I am trying my best to be nice to his girlfriend. But maybe¡­'' Ah. She must be thinking impossible things.


    Meanwhile, when Hilda is lost in her world, Leticia also thinks, ''Madam Shen, you don''t need to wish to meet the DV owner! You often cross paths with her!''


    As they have a pleasant conversation, Leticia and Madam Shen continue chatting a little more. Later on, their eyes glued to the big screen on the stage.


    *


    Back at Hilda''s hotel suite, Baron couldn''t contend himself while staring at Hailey''s beautiful face.


    "My God! You''re so pretty! We don''t need to do much with your face. You are already beautiful, so we need to apply light makeup on you and probably a rogue or mauve lipstick. And this, and this..." Baron makes himself busy in the next couple of minutes.


    "It''s done! Now is your hair! My gosh! I don''t know what hairstyle I should do to your hair! Ah! I need to calm down. Breathe in and breathe out..." He inhales and exhales for seconds. "I want to try everything! But Madam surely is waiting already."


    "Yeah." Hailey was amused, staring at the mirror, particrly at Baron''s reflection. She just let him do whatever he came up with to style her, which satisfies her.


    "Ah! I don''t know if I should style it as a bun or let your hair rest on your back. Ah! Barbie girl! Anything is good for you! But I want to make you the most beautiful woman at that party!"


    "Thank you, Baron." She thanked and smiled at the guy who began styling her hair.


    "It''s my honor to style you like this! And so, if you are going to attend a party in the future, I would love to offer you my service, and it''s for free!"


    "I''ll remember that, and I''m looking forward to it. I will tell Vincent to reward your hard work." She knows well that Baron is a close friend of the Lopez family. Little ttery won''t hurt.


    "Omg! That is amazing! Thank you, Barbie girl! There, you''re ready for the party! Oh, wait! There''s one more!" Baron strode to the bed and raided the jewelry boxes, but he came back empty-handed. "I can''t find any suitable jewelry for your dress!"


    "Oh. In that case, I''ll borrow a set from a friend." She readied a party dress and set of jewelry in case of the need to show up or something happens.


    "Hm. Then I''ll leave that to you! The truth is, I am following your fashion sense! I always waited to see your photos on social media to see your dresses and jewelry and how you styled your hair! And they are all stunning!"


    "Thank you. During those times, I put makeup on myself and do my hair all by myself," she told Baron. Hailey sat up and scanned her reflection in the wall mirror in that suite.


    "Wow! Why don''t you create a channel where you can post a tutorial video?"


    "Ah. I have no time for that." And it''s true. She has more things to do! She has businesses to run to. "Besides, I''m not fond of wearing makeup all the time."


    "Well, you are so pretty without makeup." Baronplimented furthermore. "Oh! Before I forget! Can we have a photo together?" Asked Baron, which she was approved of. The guy was delighted to take several selfies and whole-body photos of her.


    "But don''t post it right away. My appearance would not be surprising anymore." Hailey reminded him before she left the suite.


    "Got it!"

 Chapter 173 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 173 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Five)</h4>


    Escorted by Crissa and Bruce, Hailey followed them toward the elevator and went down to the lobby to wait for the car.


    Hailey was walking toward the door; her phone rang. She takes out her phone from her purse and checks the caller; it was Vince. With a smile on her lips, she answers the call with joy.


    "Hey! Are you done having dinner?" she asked.


    "I was in the middle of it when Janise texted me."


    "Oh¡­" she had an idea what Janise told Vince.


    "So¡­ Is mom nice to you now? Tell me if she insulted you. Don''t keep it a secret to me." he said, and his voice was worried. Hailey could sense it.


    "Silly. Don''t worry. I have known your mom now. Even though she hates me, she does nothing scandalous in public. Your mom is more concerned about her image than making a scene, especially in front of the mass media which were everywhere."


    "Do you think so?" It does not convince him yet as worries linger in his heart. He wants his mom to ept the woman he loves with all his heart.


    Besides, he would literally worry if his mom does something to Hailey because he loves them both. He may choose Hailey over his mom, but she''s still the woman that gives birth to him, and he''s grateful for that.


    Hailey replied to him, "Yes. So stop worrying, okay?"


    "If that''s the case, then I have to trust a woman''s instinct," said Vince.


    She giggled at Vince''s remark. This guy is so thoughtful. She could not stop herself from falling in love with him over again.


    "So, what dress mom chose for you?"


    "Oh, I will send you some photos." Hailey ends the call, she sends a couple of selfie photos to Vince. Later on, she received a frowning emoji that made herugh hard.


    Vince phoned her again; he asked, "So, where are you now?"


    "I was in the lobby toward the parking lot. I was waiting for the jewelry I wanted to wear to look suitable for this dress."


    "Hmm. Did you wear a coat?"


    "Ah¡­" she didn''t think to wear one when the climate here in P Country is getting hotter.


    "Why does mom choose that dress for you?" Vince groaned from the other line.


    Once again, Hailey giggles at how Vince sounds so cuteining now. Honestly, she''s thankful that the dresses his mom chose for her to wear tonight are all beautiful. And the one she is wearing right now captivated her heart. It was a gorgeous evening gown.


    "Hey, why are youining now? I''ve worn more daring dresses during the parties." She sounded teasing, causing Vince to feel even more frustrated.


    He reasons out, "I approved it because I was with you."


    "But you have nothing to be jealous about. The attendees at the party are women," she exined with a smile across her face. Vince is too cute; she wants to pinch his face.


    "Hm. Okay..." It looks like he has to give up being childish.


    Anyway, there''s nothing wrong with the dress. She was too beautiful; he wanted to hide her from everyone, especially from the men which the media was all over the ce of the venue.


    Wait¡­ Is he bing greedy now? But he admits how jealous he is. But Hailey deserves to have a life as well, even if she''s tied to him.


    Hailey heard when Vince sighs helplessly. Her smile never disappears on her lips, thinking how cute he is and wishing he is in front of her to give a sweet and steamy kiss on his lips.


    However, the smile on her lips disappears when she notices the man outside. She sees a vehicle stopped, but she ignored that person as she was immersed in talking with Vince.


    Now the guy is leaning on his car, gazing at her. Hailey sharpened her re, meeting the man''s gaze, who pursed his lips into a sweet smile. ''Liam!''


    "Wifey, are you there? What''s wrong?"


    Vince''s sweet, worried voice snaps her back to her senses. She cleared her throat and hummed. "Hmm¡­ I''m still here. I''m sorry. The valet is here, so I have to go soon."


    "Okay. Then, I should end this call. Please enjoy yourself at the party. I might send mom a message."


    Hailey got worried about what he said. It worries her if Vince would say something that angers his mom even more. "Please tell me you''re not nning to send her a warning message or something?"


    "Don''t worry. I will only thank her."


    She breathes with relief. She actually doesn''t want their rtionship to hurt because of her. "I''m happy then. She''s still your mom, you know."


    "If only mom knew how incredible you are. She has no reason to hate you just because some woman is holding myst name, and you aren''t."


    That stunned her. Then tears began forming in the corner of her eyes, and she did everything to push them back. Even though it was tears of happiness, she wants to look beautiful tonight, so she doesn''t intend to ruin her make-up.


    "Wifey? Was my reception bad? Are you losing the connection?" asked Vince when she didn''t reply right away.


    "I could hear you clearly. It''s just that..." she''s very emotional at the moment. A mix of emotions that overwhelm her heart flooded her chest.


    "Wait¡­ Why is your voice shaky? Are you crying? Did you not like what I said?" Vince asked, still worried and restless from the other line.


    "No. In fact, you said something that made me happy." She told Vince to stop wondering. This man is adorable! He has no idea that he just made an indirect proposal of marriage to her!


    "Really?" Vince fell silent to ponder. He tried to recall the words he told Hailey. He''s trying to figure out which one made her happy that she wanted to cry at the same time.


    "Can you tell me which one I said that made you happy?" Later, he asked curiously. "I want to say it properly then."


    "You are cute." Hailey giggles, but Vince frowned. He''s kind of nervous at the moment. Not long, Hailey speaks again. "You, saying that your mom should not hate me just because I didn''t hold your surname, but another woman has it. You have no idea; that sounds like an indirect proposal to me."


    "Oh¡­"


    Hailey holds her breath. Vince fell silent. And it worries her if she did it right. Maybe she should not mention it at all and let it be?


    She''s curious about what Vince was thinking right now. But Liam also steals her attention.


    He''s still outside, and Vince''s Maybach that will take her to the Red Carpet has arrived.


    She needs the knights.

 Chapter 174 - I Want To Replace Your Surname With Mine

    <h4>Chapter 174 - I Want To Rece Your Surname With Mine</h4>


    "I want you to know that you are the only wife for me. I want to give you my surname and be the mother of my children. Would you ept me?"


    "You are proposing to me now?" she asked. The beating of her heart went wild as happiness filled it.


    "Ah¡­ I should have done it in person."


    "What?"


    Hailey widens her eyes when the Maybach door opens, and Vince steps out from the car.


    ''Vince is here!?'' However, the happiness she had felt has a mixed feeling of fear.


    She''s happy to see him. But he should stay in Australia because Liam wants to kill him, and the guy is just meters away from him!


    She wanted to scream and call all her knights to gather in here and protect Vince. But she''s not ready to exin everything to him. His appearance ruins her ns!


    What is she going to do now?


    Hailey meets Vince''s eyes. He was so damn hot, wearing a tailored blue suit and a trench coat around his shoulders, while his right hand was holding his phone close to his ear and his left hand is inside his pocket.


    He looks like a Mafia boss suddenly came out from an expensive car he owned.


    She couldn''t take her eyes off from looking at Vince''s handsome face. But asionally, she is ncing at Liam. She could see how Liam is shooting Vince with a sharp look.


    Vince nces in his direction, but he quickly withdraws his gaze as if he doesn''t care who he is nor why he was there.


    "Wifey, you are so beautiful," said Vince, scanning her from the head down to her silver stiletto. Vince still outside, and they continue conversing on the phone while staring into each other''s eyes.


    Hailey''s eyes twinkle, and a sweet smile appeared on her lips. Vince could always make her heart flutter, which in his gazes, baritone voice, andpliments caused her heart to skip a beat.


    But the glint in her eyes and the smile on her lips disappeared when Liam inserted his right hand inside his coat.


    She knew that Liam always kept his favorite gun on the left side of his body. She wants to run toward Vince, but why do her feet was like they are nailed on the floor!? She can''t move or speak.


    "Vince..." She wanted to warn him. dly, Pitt appeared from nowhere and now standing next to Liam, and his hand is on his shoulder. Now she breathes with a sigh of relief.


    "Wifey, what is it?"


    Vince''s voice is too tender, like mellow music in her ears, and it brought tears to her eyes. Vince is talking sweetly to her. She is uncertain if Liam could hear him. He must be, as his face soured and his eyes watching Vince''s back with daggers look like.


    If Liam''s gaze could kill, Vince must be in pieces now. And she believes Liam already killed Vince inside his head a million times.


    Liam is cruel and ruthless. There''s no way that she would fall in love with a person like him. Even in the next life, she would never wish to meet him again.


    Vince hung up the call; he put back his phone inside his coat pocket. His steps are long, and he immediately wrapped his arms around her body.


    "You''re here!" she eximed, pretending that her voice is full of enthusiasm upon seeing him because the truth is, her heart is wary as Liam is outside.


    "Did I surprise you again?" He asked, brushing his lips on top of hers. "I am on my way to pick you up after you receive the gift for mom. But then, Bruce told me they requested you to cook for the event, and then I should wait until you are finished. Unexpectedly, mom decided to take you to the party."


    Hailey was rendered speechless. Why does no one report that Vince left Australia?


    Vince is safer in Australia than in his homnd at this time around!


    She wants Vince to stay at Dream City to avoid being in the same ce as Liam. But Vince came home all of a sudden.


    "It surprises me, yes!" she muttered with a smile¡ªnot for Vince to notice that she is nervous.


    "And I have another surprise," Vince whispered, brushing his lips on her earlobe.


    ''Is this guy flirting with me in the middle of the lobby?'' But she notices the sparks in Vince''s eyes. Not only that, his face is bright. "You seem to have good news to tell me."


    "Hm... Eva contacted me. She''s now going to sign the divorce agreement. So, she requested me toe back to P Country to meet us here. Finally, I will be free soon."


    "Did she really tell you that?" she asked Vince, and he nodded at her. But it didn''t make her happy. It didn''t make sense that, out of the blue, Eva would contact him.


    Why does Vince have toe back to P Country if they could meet in Australia? All it needs are thewyers to fly there. Also, they should have done it in New York, not in Metro City!


    It didn''t make sense to her at all. This is trapped for Vince!


    She was lost in her thoughts. She only came back to her senses when Vince cupped her face and proposed.


    "Hail, I want to make a proper proposal. But my sh..t arranged marriage ruined everything when it took a long time before I got my divorce. Even so, I want to give you a grand wedding after everything is over."


    "So, this is really a proposal, huh?" she muttered yfully.


    "Sort of, because I want to rece your surname with mine soon."


    "Vince¡­" Hailey bit her lower lip. She blinks to push back the tears in her eyes.


    "So, I have been thinking, which one should I give you first? An engagement ring or a marriage license? I know it should be a ring, but how about giving you both at the same time? Can that be still a surprise?"


    Hailey could see the sincerity in Vince''s eyes. But to be honest, his divorce and his proposal are not the most important to her at this moment.


    Vince must live to fulfill his promise of giving her a grand wedding, which she once dreamed of. But this time, it will be with the man she loves with all of her heart.


    Hailey threw her arms around Vince''s neck and kissed him passionately. After a long kiss, she parted from him to give her answer.


    "I only set my eyes for a future scenario... I, being with you, are building a family of our own."


    It made Vince''s eyes spark with joy. Although Hailey is responding to his I love you''s, but he''s a bit worried if she would like the idea of being his wife.


    "I imagine a life with you, like what I said over the phone. You are the only wife I wanted and the only one to mother my children. No other else..."


    "Oh, Vince! You are the only man I wanted in this life!" Hailey let her tears flood her cheeks. dly her makeup is waterproof; it didn''t ruin her face with the dark ink from her mascara.


    Meanwhile, Crissa, who stands on the corner with Bruce, is witnessing this sweet moment. dly, she immediately snapped her phone and recorded this romantic moment.


    On the other hand, Bruce allows Crissa to take a video since this is a special moment with his two bosses. After this proposal, he will confiscate the recorded video and give it to the Princess to keep it.


    It''s perfect for keeping the video of this sweet moment of promises between two people who love each other, even though reality wants to separate them.


    Someone wants his male boss dead. If that person seeds, then it will bring sadness to his Princess.


    *


    A while ago, one of his insiders saw Hailey heading to the kitchen. But, his men can''t get near the ce when bodyguards are scattered around, ensuring no one can approach the Princess.


    And so he waited patiently. Now, out of the blue, Vincent Shen appeared. He''s back.


    The first thing he wanted to do at first sight of the guy is to nt a bullet in his head. However, someone stopped him.


    "Never think you can do anything as you please under my watch." Pitt appeared suddenly, his hand gripping tightly on his left shoulder.


    Liam nced at his hand and threw a threatening look at Pitt.


    "Pitterson Cha, one of the Mafia Lords in Northern Asia. So, the rumor is true. You are in the country as well."


    "There''s no surprise if I was. But how about you? Liam Huo, Mafia Lord of Southern Asia. This is not your territory."


    "Are you sure to question me with that?" Liam muttered with a mock in his voice. Heughed, "Southeast Asia is not your territory either."


    "Be careful with your presumption. Don''t ever underestimate the Princess''s Knights and their territories. Oops, there is a dark secret in that. Unfortunately, you are once her knight. And the Princess regretted she made you her knight. You don''t deserve the title."


    Liam sharpened his re, soon reced with a smirk. "What makes you think I want to be a knight? My actual goal is to be her king."


    Pittughs loudly, and it annoys Liam. Among the knights, Pitt''s attitude he hated most. His ridicule always pisses him off and his influences on the Princess. She trusted him, among others.


    "I''m sorry. It''s just too funny." Pitt is motioning his left hand while his right palm is holding his stomach. "I''m sorry to shatter your dream, dude. But that would never happen. Just ept that the Princess is choosing someone else as her king. Just ept the truth, dude."


    "Is that so? Like I care. All I need to do is remove them by taking their crown away, and that is to cut off their head first."

 Chapter 175 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 175 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Seven)</h4>


    "VINCENT MEETING LIAM"


    * * *


    Pitt is prepared to counter Liam''s statement, but Liam''s attention was on Hailey.


    "Why is she crying?"


    Pitt followed Liam''s gaze. And the guy is correct. The Princess is crying. Liam made a step toward the stairs, but Pitt held his arm.


    "Don''t you dare take another step, Liam! I mean it." Pitt throws a warning look at him while he contacts Bruce through the earpiece on his left ear. "Bruce, what is going on there? Why did the princess cry?"


    "Ah. About that, Captain Pitt, I mean Mr. Pitt¡­ Boss Vincent is proposing to the Princess." Bruce whispers. He took a few steps away from Crissa. "Said boss soon gets his divorce, and so, he''s nning to give the princess a grand wedding."


    "Getting married soon? What the¡­" Pitt stops talking after Liam shakes off his hand and marches toward the door. He followed him. And this time, he gripped his elbow tightly, giving the guy meaningful stares.


    "Take your hand off me, Pitterson." Liam hissed.


    "Don''t you dare to ruin the Princess'' happiest moment, Liam... Otherwise¡­"


    "Otherwise, what? Do you think you can stop me?" he snapped.


    Pitt shrunk his brown pupils, staring at Liam with intent, then returned with a threatening tone, "I will stop you by all means. Whatever you n to do, Liam, you can''t force the Princess to love you. For what you are doing, you are pushing her even farther away. Don''t you see it?"


    "I''m not interested to see it. What only interests me is to see every man''s head cut off from their neck." Liam hissed at Pitt. Gritting his teeth, he clenched his jaw upon saying it. His eyes were full of hatred that, at this very moment, he is determined to kill someone. And he doesn''t care who it is.


    "You are a sicko, Liam! Don''t you dare to make the Princess miserable again, or else, your head will be the one to cut off from your neck!"


    "Ahem!"


    In the middle of their heated quarrel, someone coughs. Both Liam and Pitt turned their head to the man now standing behind them. It was Bruce, making a meaningful stare at them.


    Soon, they noticed that Hailey and her boyfriend were walking in their direction. Good thing that Bruce is brilliant. He immediately rushed to the door to warm the two men fighting in front of the door.


    And if ever Liam would do anything, he is ready to protect his other boss.


    From what he understood from Pitt''s exchange with the guy, he intends to kill Vincent Shen. Then, by all means, he''ll protect the man she loves. Once something happens to him, the princess would be sad. In just a few weeks that he is serving the princess, she is outspoken about her love for Vincent Shen. And he also witnesses how the guy showed his love for her. Both are in love with each other. However¡­


    "Bruce, I am now at war with Liam. Even though he won''t harm me physically, he won''t think twice about killing Vince in front of me. So on an asion that the three of us meet somewhere, please choose to protect Vince. You said before, Bruce. You will catch a bullet for me. Then, please do so for Vince."


    The princess begs him.


    "I can''t lose him."


    And the princess almost cried saying that.


    He understands now. Liam Huo was once the Princess knight. But his behavior is what the princess hated about him.


    Liam Huo falls in love with the princess, and he couldn''t ept that the princess cannot return his feelings. But then, Liam Huo is harming all the men that persuade the princess''s love.


    A love that he could never have; others should not have it as well. So his issue is jealousy? Or is he just obsessed with the princess? But in his perspective, it was both.


    "They''reing. On standby, Bruce." Pitt forewarned the guy, his gaze remained on Liam.


    "Pitterson Cha!" He yelled at the guy, but Pitt only tightened his grip on his arm.


    Hailey and Vince are now stepping out of the door. Thetter was curiously looking in their direction. His forehead creased from curiosity while his eyes were shifting from Liam and then toward Pitt.


    This moment is suspicious for Vincent Shen. Two handsome men are arguing like lovers outside the lobby, just across from the parking lot. Pitt quickly makes a move not to show an obvious scene. He pursed his lips, then smiled.


    "Good evening, President Shen! My name is Pitterson Cha." He introduced himself, extending his right hand. "I am pleased to see you out. In fact, I am looking forward to meeting you."


    "Pitterson Cha¡­" Vincent fell silent for a moment, and his face brightened after he remembered. "Right! You are Mr. Cole''s business partner. You are our newest business partner. Thank you for investing in ourpany."


    "Don''t mention about it, Mr. Shen. Anyway, if you haven''t known yet. I recently purchased a unit in your penthouse."


    "Hm... I see. The manager emails me about my new tenant. It''s nice to meet you, Mr. Cha. Even though this is not the best time, as part of the MGC Board of Directors, I wee you and look forward to a great partnership."


    "It is a great investment, and so I am hanging around, Mr. Shen."


    "Good to know, Mr. Cha." Vincent''s gaze shifted to the man next to Pitt. Liam smiled at him and extended his hand for a handshake.


    "Liam Huo, Mr. Shen. I heard a lot about you."


    Vincent is about to raise his hand, but Hailey holds tight on his arm. He turned to her, and he saw a flirty smile across her lips, the same as her voice.


    "Honey, we have to go. I don''t want to make your mom wait that long."


    "Hmm¡­ Right. Mom hates tardiness." Vince chuckled, unaware of the fact that Liam shes a dangerous re at him.


    If only Hailey could shoot Liam a dagger look, but Vince is looking at her tenderly.


    "Hm... Let''s go then." Vince dered, which he didn''t know how she sighs with relief in secret.


    But Vince remembers that he and Liam were having a quick chat. He partly turned his head in Liam''s direction and gave the guy a faint smile.


    "I hope it was good gossip, Mr. Huo." Vince meets Liam''s gaze, and he doesn''t like when Liam frequently ncing at Hailey.


    There are two reasons why men are looking at Hailey. First, her charm seduces any man, and second, they want to believe the rumors that she is only a paid woman he kept on his side.


    But...


    There is this third reason a man would keep staring at her in his presence.


    They have a n to steal his woman.


    ''The hell I would allow that!''

 Chapter 176 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Eight)

    <h4>Chapter 176 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Eight)</h4>


    "THE ENGAGEMENT RINGS"


    * * *


    Pitt and Liam watch the car leaving the parking lot lobby. The vehicle takes a right turn, headed toward the entrance door of Metro City Pce Hall located on the opposite side of the hotel''s main entrance.


    "Whatever you are nning, Liam. I dare you not to do it." Pitt warned the guy, who only grins at him wickedly, not feeling threatened at all.


    "Why would I feel threatened just because you told me?" Liam countered Pitt''s statement with a mock in his tone. It always irritates him that Pitt is so self-entitled, being the best knight who knows everything.


    "Liam Huo! Are you dering a war against the princess?" Pitt sneered at him.


    Liam lifted his chin. The corner of his mouth contorted into a smirk as he spoke. "We used to be on the same side. Our instinct is always in sync. We want to eliminate anyone who harms the princess."


    "We drove them away! Not killing them, which is not the princess type to do so!" Pitt corrected the guy. It annoys him how Liam is self-righteous. "Why don''t you understand anything at all, Liam? What are you doing now? Aren''t you harming the princess by killing the one she loved, huh?"


    "Are you referring to Vincent Shen?" he asked with seriousness in his tone and the way he looks at Pitt.


    "You don''t know who you are fighting against," Pitt warned him one more time. "Stop your idiocy."


    Liam remains to stare at Pitt. Later on, he smirked and said, "I don''t need to exin myself to anyone. Let us meet on the battlefield, Pitterson Cha."


    Pitt cursed, watching Liam slid inside his car and trotted away. ''Dammit!''


    "Pitt¡­" Keith walked toward the guy and patted his back. He could see how upset he was. Any minute now, if no one stops this guy, he would start digging a pit for someone.


    Keith was nearby all this time. He''s only hiding. He is prepared to back them up if Liam moves toward the princess or against Vincent Shen. And he heard everything about Liam and Pitt arguing about. In his understanding, this is not just an ordinary obsession with the princess. Liam Huo is losing his mind, and his behavior will put the entire city in danger.


    "Keith, let''s search the entire area for suspicious movement. We should pay attention to both the hotel and the mall. We have to make sure Liam''s men are not around."


    "Okay. I will head to the monitoring room to check all the CCTV''s." Keith concurred.


    After Keith left, Pitt phoned Tom. "Liam is officially dering war. Vincent Shen came back out of the blue. We need to do something asap."


    "Then, we have to n out how we could take the Princess back to Australia without Liam''s knowledge. It would be best if the princess should go back with Vincent Shen."


    "Yeah. We need to talk to her. Ah, Miss Gigi can do that since we can''t talk to the princess directly. We must avoid contacting her when Vincent Shen is around."


    "You are right. By the way, you sounded irritated. Liam mocked you to the extreme, is it?"


    "You need not ask." Pitt frowned.


    Tomughs. He could picture Pitt''s soured face. ''I just know how those two had the same behavior.'' Tom muttered to himself. But there''s no way he''ll tell Pitt about his thoughts. He just enjoyed his love life. He didn''t wish for his grave to be dug at this time around.


    Anyway, even though Pitt has a bad temper, he didn''t think of murdering someone to solve everything. Unlike Liam, he never needs an exnation or listens to it but would kill someone on the spot whether this person did wrong or hasn''t.


    That''s how brutal Liam is, the reason the Princess was very careful to give her whereabouts. And the fact she is controlling the web portal and abusing ATHENA to hide from Liam. Later on, she had more reasons to do every means, and that is protecting Vincent Shen.


    *


    Meanwhile, Vince''s car was on a halt, following the traffic flow of the vehicles that headed to the red carpet. They are waiting for their turn since more guests arrive ahead of them.


    Since ites to this, Vince took the opportunity to give Hailey his gift.


    "Hm? I have an early birthday gift?" She jokes. Her birthday will be before the year ends. That would be several months away.


    "Just open it." Vince urges her, and Hailey could sense the excitement in his voice.


    Hailey opens the box and gasps with surprise. She thought it was a ne, as the box was rectangr. But what was inside were two diamond rings. Ah, no. The ring was in a ne chain.


    Vince took the ne and put it around her neck. He said, "I will put them on your finger after we get our marriage license."


    Hailey was speechless; she couldn''t take her eyes off the two rings. They were beautiful! One ring was tiny diamonds surrounding it, and the other one, also covered with ent diamonds but has a center stone of a Marquise cut.


    "It was lovely," she muttered between her sobs. "I should buy you one as well."


    Vince''s eyes twinkle with amusement. This woman never failed to flutter his heart. He leaned over and nted tiny kisses on her forehead.


    "It''s okay. I have one too." Vince muttered. He pulled something from his neck, and she realized it was a ne with an engagement ring for men.


    "So, they are a couple rings!" she eximed happily.


    "Yes." Vince lifted his right hand and wiped the tears from her eyes.


    "I need to call Baron to retouch my makeup," she mouthed worriedly.


    Vince chuckled, watching how cute she was. Later, a limo stops next to their car. Tim knocked on the window. She learned Vince told Tim to get Baron and get a limousine to change the vehicle. And they will befortable while retouching her makeup.


    After Baron made a miracle, retouching her swollen eyes, they proceed to the entrance where hundreds of media reporters are waiting for all the attendees to have their moment showing off on the grand Red Carpet.


    Vincent steps out of the limousine; his appearance surprised everyone. They knew he was often out of the country for his new projects. They have no detailed information about it, but the Shen Group PR promises to announce it soon.


    Seeing him at the event means only one thing. He''s here to drop off his girlfriend. And their guess was correct when Vincent helps a woman get out of the Limo.


    Everyone gasps in awe. They snapped the button of their cameras and took this opportunity to take a photo of him and his famous mistress. As usual, the woman never fails to impress them with her seductive charm and beautiful body.


    She was too lovely in her sexy evening dress.


    "See youter. I will book a room for us." Vince whispered in her ear before he let her go.


    They''ve kissed in front of the media, which nonstop taking their photos. They were too happy to have this kind of disy. It will be a big headline tomorrow.


    Hailey began walking across the red carpet, but everyone requested Vincent to walk with his girlfriend.


    "But this was only an all-female event." he reasons out that the media won''t stop bugging him.


    Later, Vincent gives in with the requests and joins Hailey to walk over to the red carpet, which she was already halfway through. She waited for Vince. Hand in hand, they walk together and pose several times in front of the reporters.


    Not long, their eyes caught those nes hanging around their necks with rings as pendants.


    "It could be?" The reporters are whispering to each other.


    Hailey and Vince halted in front of a backdrop. Mina Lynch, the General Manager of DV Inc. Main Office, handed Hailey a pen and whispered. "Miss, we still have to take your photo even if we will not include it on our website."


    "Okay. By the way, regarding these photos. I want to speak with you in the office one of these days."


    "Okay, Miss Davies."


    Hailey scribbles her signature on top of the backdrop where Gigi, Leticia, and Dana''s signature ced above everyone else.


    She handed the pen back to Mina and made several poses once again. After then, she pulled Vincent to pose together. But she could feel his burning stares on her face. She knew that questions now started flooding in his head.


    "See youter, hubby," she whispered in Vince''s ear, nibbling it and wink at him.


    Hailey left Vince with a perplexed expression on his face. She climbed the stairs, but Mina followed her.


    "Miss, is that alright?"


    "What is it, Mina?" she asked the manager, giving her a curious look.


    "You used your actual name and signature."


    "Yes. After all the attendees arrived and finished signing, take it down right away and hide it."


    "Okay, Miss." Mina bowed and went back to the lobby.


    Before Hailey takes the rest of the stairs, she turns around and looks at Vince, who is staring at her receding back.


    Their eyes meet, and she gives him an apologetic look. Soon, her mouth formed into¡­


    "I love you."


    Hailey was already disappeared, but he remains standing on the spot where Hailey left him. Later, Vince drags his feet to the exit door.


    Still, the name and signature on the backdrop keep ying inside his head. The name and signature are too alike from the contract he signed with Davies Group.


    The CEO''s name and signature were the same on the backdrop signature...


    "HAILEE DAVIES"

 Chapter 177 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Nine)

    <h4>Chapter 177 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Nine)</h4>


    Inside the hall, everyone is looking on the screen at the stage where it showed the video coverage of the event: both inside the reception and the happenings at the Red Carpet.


    Like Hilda, it also surprised everyone in that hall to see Vincent Shen walking on the red carpet. The gossip about how they did not invite Vincent''s girlfriend to this event was circting a while ago.


    Someugh ridiculously and mock Hailey that it pissed Hilda because it drags Vincent''s name into it.


    "It looks like they did not invite President Shen''s girlfriend tonight," said one woman.


    "Why would they invite a mistress like her?" echoed someone at the same table.


    "It''s true! She could not afford all the jewelry that we will seeter!" A girl from a neighboring table chimed in.


    "She''s only wearing expensive clothes because of Vincent Shen''s fortune." Hissed by another girl.


    And the gossip continues until it circtes the hall, followed byughs and mocks toward Hailey. Janise nced at her aunt, who remained silent but she displeased written all over her face. They could hear the gossip and Hilda getting irritated listening to these socialites who can''t do better in their lives.


    Leticia didn''t like it either, listening to all this ndering against Hailey. She throws a sharp re at those women who are nothing, to begin with. These women are also trying hard to be socialites in High Society.


    "Humph! Soon, these stic women will bend on the ground once the truth is revealed!" She didn''t hold her temper and muttered these words in front of Hilda Shen in her annoyance. Now the woman is looking at her with a puzzled look on her face. It is a good thing that Madam Hilda Shen didn''t question why she said that.


    Later, the gossip died down when a beautiful woman appeared on the screen. She was too beautiful in her evening dress, showing every curve in her body.


    Everyone shut up. The only reason they love to spatter words against Hailey is that they all envy her. She won not only Vincent Shen''s affection, but she also has perfect curves and a pretty face.


    "Aunt Hilda, your fashion sense is on top! The dress you choose for Hailey is one of my best favorites! Can youpliment the designer, please?" Janise makes sure that her voice is loud to be heard by many. She red at the table next to them, who were gossiping nonstop about Hailey, not minding that she could listen to them. They thought she was not Hailey''s friend just because her aunt Hilda did not wee her into the family.


    Now, these women sealed their mouths like someone put glue on them.


    "You''re a very talented fashion designer, Janise. I never regret investing in your store." Hildaplimented her niece.


    "Thank you, aunt Hilda! I''m thinking of throwing another Fashion Show, so then, I might set a meeting with you one of these days!"


    "Sure. I am always avable."


    "Yay! You are great, Aunt Hilda!" Janise smiled sweetly. Well, all it needs are pleasant words toward her mighty aunt that everyone fears.


    She was very thankful that this night happened, and her aunt brought Hailey along. As a designer, sometimes she needs inspiration. A person who she could imagine, she dresses her up, and her best model is Hailey!


    She designed and tailored the one Hailey wore at thest ss Reunion. Vincent rented her store to close the entire afternoon just for her girlfriend to choose a few dresses and shoes for the said party. But of course, that was Vince''s secret until the night of the ss reunion.


    They might rarely see each other or hang out, but she considers Hailey a friend since Vincent always asks her to help choose the best dress for his girlfriend.


    And now, those two people walking hand in hand at the Red Carpet are damn gorgeous! They were just perfect for each other. And if she''s not mistaken. The rings hanging around their neck are engagement rings!


    The camera focused on it, and now it was so clear. There''s no doubt! Vincent is only waiting for Eva to sign the divorce agreement. Of course, she knows everything because even she was arranged for someone she doesn''t love! And she needs Vincent''s help to get away from it!


    Not long, Hailey entered the grand hall, and every pair of eyes in that room was looking in her direction.


    "In fairness to the DV Gem founder, she just deserves to have a one-of-a-kind entourage," Gigi whispered to her when she pretended to wee her as a guest.


    Among everyone else, only Hailey walked on the red carpet with a male escort. Now everyone is jealous, and their eyes are full of envy.


    "Gigi, I let Vince know who I am," she told the woman with eyes full of worry.


    "What?"


    "I signed with my real name. The same signature in the contract I offered to Vince."


    "Oh, my gosh!"


    "Vincent and Liam met a while ago. I am freaking out now! So, I have to change my ns now since Vincees back home so suddenly without my knowledge."


    "Good luck, Hail. Everyone has your support. If you would like, I can also talk to Vince."


    "I''ll handle this. It happens because I hide my real purpose here in P Country. So, I should be the one to exin to Vince everything about me and the troubles I am facing."


    "Okay. I really wish all of this would be over soon."


    "Thank you. But we have to begin the event now. Let''s talk more about itter if we have the chance."


    "Yes. So, where do you want to sit? At our table or Madam Shen''s table?" Gigi asked with a tease.


    Hailey smiled and replied, "I will take this opportunity to mingle with her while I am Hailey Hillson."


    "Okay. I hope things will take ce from now on." Gigi squeezes her hand. She prayed that all hindrances thaty in Hailey''s path would disappear soon. This girl is too kind and sweet. She deserves all the happiness in the world.


    "Thanks. Let''s stop whispering in the corner. Everyone is looking at us," said Hailey.


    "Humph! Let them die with all the assumptions their little brain made up about you!" Gigi was actually in rage. But she needs to stay calm and remain nice even though she was on the verge not to kick out every person from this hall who ndered Hailey in front of her.


    Sure they didn''t know she was one of her sisters, maybe not by blood but by heart. But she hates gossip, especially if all is only false usations!


    Hailey giggled and shook her head. She wanted to hug this woman, but they were under the pretense that they didn''t know each other.


    "Ah! That engagement ring is too beautiful! Kelly is really awesome!" Gigi could not help eximing out with excitement. "Oopsie¡­."


    "What!? Kelly, who designs it?" So Vince ordered her engagement ring from herpany!


    "I just learned it yesterday when Mina told me about a very important client named Mr. Vincent Shen."


    "Oh¡­" Her tears wished to escape from her eyes once again, but she tried hard to hold them back, as she didn''t want to ruin her makeup. It is an important event tonight, and it includes the celebration of her engagement with Vince.


    It is not official yet until Eva signs the divorce agreement. But Vincent was in a hurry to marry her. It is the same as her, though. She wants to get rid of Liam as soon as possible. But that guy had many dirty tricks so that he could get a hold of Vince and execute his n of killing him.


    Hailey walked toward the table where Hilda Shen seated at. "I''m sorry to keep you waiting, Madam Shen."

 Chapter 178 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Ten)

    <h4>Chapter 178 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Ten)</h4>


    Hilda lifted her gaze and looked at Hailey. Her eyes traveled from her face down to her shoes, then went back to her chest, where two beautiful rings are resting between her cleavage. She need not ask, but it looks like her son cannot wait for his divorce, and he already proposes to his girlfriend.


    "Ahem. Sit down," said Hilda. Her voice is not stern nor friendly, but it''s not scary either.


    "Thank you, Madam Shen." After she thanked the woman, her eyes shifted to the otherdies seated at that table. She saw President Zaijan''s mother and Director Tyler''s mom were there too, and the other Lopez wives.


    Hailey smiled, particrly at Janise, who gestured at the empty seat next to her. "Thank you," Hailey whispered to Janise.


    The girl is staring at her rings. She looks like she wants to start a conversation, but she knows what is stopping her. They could not have a casual chat when Madam Shen was at the same table.


    Not long, Gigi ascends to the stage and makes a wee speech. After she acknowledges everyone, a video ys on therge screen.


    "DV Gem was established about three years ago by two best friends. One loves designing, and these designs are fascinated by the other. So, at 22, our founder put up the office of DV Inc. and its first store in the heart of Dubai.


    She aims for unique essoriester; thepany focused on creating personalized designs known worldwide inter years.


    Our CEO believes that every woman deserves to wear beautiful jewelry. And so on, she designed the slogan ''To make every woman feel special and beautiful'' by wearing our jewelry!


    Since it was established, many visited our first store from around the globe until we had our second store in New York City to celebrate our first anniversary. Then the third one is in Italy as the celebration of our second year.


    Now we are soon to celebrate our third year, and we are opening our Asia branch, which is the lucky city are yours! I officially announce that our fourth store is to open here in Metro City!"


    A round of apuse echoed throughout the entire hall. Then Gigi continued.


    "Ladies, I officially opened our DV Gem Auction!" Gigi gestured her hand toward the right side of the hall.


    Everyone heard a humming followed by the mirror wall opening; it showed a dazzling room with hundreds of pieces of jewelry of different sizes, gemstones, and colors inside mirror boxes.


    Everyone gasps in awe. They stood on their feet and walked toward the room. But the store managers from other branches stop them for a brief exnation, and Mina, the General Manager of DV Inc Main Branch, does the honor.


    "Hello,dies. My name is Mina. Before, I will give a brief orientation for tonight''s auction. I want to remind you that this auction has a purpose. Twenty percent of every purchased item tonight goes to our Foundation, where we will distribute it to our chosen schrs throughout the globe.


    As to celebrate our third year since thispany was established, our DV Gem CEO officially opens the DV Gem Foundation for younger women who struggle to fund their college courses."


    Another apuse echoed in the room. Then Mina continued.


    "Now, as you all can see, we separate the jewelry.


    On your right are earrings, brooches, and bangles. Then on your left are the nes, bracelets, and pendants. While in the middle are rings and watches.


    And as for our set of jewelry. They are in the back. Please, indulge yourself!"


    Mina steps away to allow these women to begin strolling the room. Everyone cannot wait to spot the most beautiful and expensive jewelry tonight.


    On the other hand, Hilda didn''t join the crowd but remained seated, pampering herself with Rose wine.


    Back at the Auction Room, a group of women lingering at the jewelry set corner, soon, their eyes captivated by the mannequin on top middle disyed on a shelf, wearing beautiful emerald pieces.


    "Oh, my gosh! That was too beautiful! How much is that? Why is there no price on it?"


    "I''m sorry,dies. That set is unavable. It was a personalized design, and we asked our client to disy it today," Vienna exined, store manager of the Italy branch.


    "Can we order the same design?" asked one woman, which others concurred.


    "I''m sorry, ma''am. But we are told that this design will be only in the world."


    "Oh. Who''s that rich woman capable of such demands?"


    "Yeah..." Then followed with further mumblings.


    "Well, this set of jewelry was made as a gift for a special woman, yes," Vienna exins further.


    "Oh! Can we know who this special woman is?"


    "I''m sorry,dies. It is confidential. It is up to our client to reveal herself and to whom this present."


    "Ah¡­" Everyone was disappointed. But soon, they''ve forgotten about the emerald set of nes and move on to check out the other disys.


    Anyway, it has too many beautiful pieces to choose from, and they had some trouble deciding which one to purchase.


    It''s been over an hour, and everyone still can''t get over purchasing all kinds of jewelry. A while back, Janise asked Hailey to look around, to which she agreed.


    Now that she is with Janise, no one dared to open their mouth to nder her but immersed themselves by picking out what to buy.


    Hailey saw Zenaida across the room. But the woman immediately averted her gaze. But before that, Hailey saw that smirk contorting in the corner of her mouth; that gives her a warning.


    ''I know what you were thinking, sister.'' She mused as her gaze sharpened, staring at Zenaida. ''What are Eva''s ns, Zenaida? I know you knew something.''


    Shrugging off the thought, Hailey looks around the room and decides to ignore the woman. Theunching of her branch store is a sess. It is something she must celebrate now.


    She looked at the disys, and she was very proud of all of their designers and artisans. All the pieces they''ve disyed tonight are different from each other. They assure that it has various cuts, shapes in colors.


    Hailey pointed to ne chains and letter pendants of H, N, and L. She was looking at them closely, and Janise joined her side.


    "Are you giving that to your friends?" she asked.


    "Yes. They are a team of cute three teenagers."


    Janise chuckled. She remembered thest time they were in her store to pick out a dress for Hailey. It is great to be young and not have big responsibilities yet.


    Well, school is stressful too, but the reality of keeping a promising career is more challenging. Many socialites want to marry a CEO because they don''t want to work but waste their husband''s money.


    But not for her. She wanted to stay single and be a known designer in the entire world. Just like the founder of DV Gem, she wants to achieve something at a young age.


    And so, she wishes to meet this amazing woman. Ah, she hoped she made her wear her designs! That would be the most outstanding achievement in her life!


    They said that she was beautiful. Maybe in the future, she will meet this incredible woman, and so, she must work harder to be worthy of that opportunity.


    *


    While everyone is upied purchasing at the Auction Room, the service crew, who happens to be Hailey''s knights, sets up the buffet table. Later on, a band started ying some upbeat love songs.


    Dinner is served. And those who finished shopping went back to their table and fetched some food and began eating.


    On this asion, several Lopez women gather tonight and socialize and chat with other wealthy women in their circle.


    Of course, it also divided the High Society among true wealthy women and those wannabe socialites. Or to say gold diggers.


    And they always pushed Hailey toward the level of gold diggers. The purpose of the gossip about her is to leave a wrong impression on the Lopez women, who are part of the wealthiest women in Asia.


    But Lopez''s women can''t offend Vincent. It''s not because he is Hilda''s son but because Vincent brought theirpanies into glory. All the projects he won are good news for Lopez Steel Corporation.


    LSC is one of the primepanies the Lopez family has. Vince''s sess reflects their sess too. The more projects Vince won, the more productions of steel they can produce.


    That was a win-win for their entire family. Especially that Vincent got several numbers Billion Dors projects that wouldst for several years.


    So, who would not be happy?


    All they have to do is be nice to his girlfriend and be careful that their mouths won''t slip out uglyments about her.

 Chapter 179 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Eleven)

    <h4>Chapter 179 - DV Gem Asia Branch Launching (Eleven)</h4>


    Before the party ended, Gigi came to the stage to thank everyone. She went on...


    "Thank you foring to tonight''s DV Gemunching party. This event would never be sessful without your presence... On behalf of DV Gem and DV Inc. Company, our utmost gratitude for all your purchases.


    As we will celebrate the third year since it established thispany, we will hand it over to the countries that have chosen to grant schrships to deserving young women for full support¡ªour next generations, who aim high for a difference in this world. We are now living in a society in which equality is stillplex for everyone to achieve.


    Our charity foundation, with our CEO''s vision, these young girls may be the beginning of a great change!"


    Loud apuse echoed in the entire hall; Gigi thanked the investors that presented tonight''sunching party representing the US and Europe branches. She called them on the stage, and now they were exposed as one of those influential women in the fashion world.


    Next, Gigi thanked the Asia branch business partners and acknowledged them, including herself. Gigi also calls Fraine Michaels to the stage, who will be the head store manager of the Asia branch.


    "Andst but not the least... I want to thank my angel for being so fabulous! She is my very good old friend back from college days although I am older than her... And if it weren''t for her, we wouldn''t have a good meal tonight."


    Everyoneughed when Gigi sounded it as a joke. But Hilda promptly looks at Hailey when Gigi mentions food. She scrutinizes her face with a gentle expression throughout the evening, even though other guests gossiped about her.


    Every time she sees this girl, she always has this inexplicable impression of her. And each day passes, she''s bing a mysterious girl to her.


    ''Who exactly is this woman?'' She keeps asking herself. Hilda shrugs at the thought. Her attention shifted back to Gigi Chan, who continues to be on the stage.


    "Thank you very much, Hail. You are always a great friend of mine, an angel sent above, always saving us with grace."


    Hailey didn''t see iting. Gigi knew how she wanted to keep a low profile until the end of her pretension. And what Gigi had announced made everyone drop their mouths open.


    They can''t believe that a woman like Gigi Chan is actually a friend of Vincent Shen''s mistress! She''s not just somebody!


    "Nowdies, let me introduce you to this woman who will be DV Inc. Asia Branch Office overseer... Pleasee to the stage, my dear friend... Director Hailey Hillson!"


    If most everyone was shocked, Hailey was also stunned that Gigi made a bold move by appointing her as the Asia Branch Office Director.


    She may didn''t reveal her true identity. But this is massive news in P Country! Now, she has to join them on the stage, then pose for apany picture.


    "Congrattions, Hailey!" Gigi hugged her, followed by the otherdies on the stage. Later, Gigi urges her. "Please, give us a speech!"


    Hailey would love to spank this older sister of hers for taking this opportunity to put her in the spotlight. And since she was already in that situation, she took the microphone and prepared for a brief speech.


    But before that, she whispered something to Mina. The girl immediately left the stage and ran toward the Auction Room. The Auction time is only within two hours, and so the room is now closed.


    "Hello,dies. Thank you foring tonight. As the Asia Branch Office Director, I invite everyone to visit my office for any personalized orders. I will help you with all my knowledge and capability. And for showing you a sample of my work. I will take this moment to give this present to someone who is here tonight. Maybe her birthday is weeks away, but I think that this is the best moment to hand over the gift from her beloved son."


    Mina stepped out from the Auction Room and walked toward the table where Hilda seated at.


    "Madam Shen..."


    Hilda takes the box with a puzzled look on her face. Confused, her eyes moved toward Hailey, who was just a few meters away since her table was close to the stage.


    "Weeks ago, Vincent asked me to pick out a gift for his mom, as he did not know what best to give to her. And as he entrusted me with it, I chose a set of jewelry she could wear during her 55th birthday. With my capabilities, I give my heart to design these pieces." Hailey motioned her hand toward the purple velvet box at Hilda''s hand.


    She opens the box. Everyone gasps in awe. It was the set of jewelry disyed in the auction, but it is not for sale.


    Everyoneplimented Hilda for receiving such a splendid gift! The mystery revealed that she is the special woman to get that set of jewelry highlighted in tonight''sunching party!


    Not only that, her son''s girlfriend designed it!


    "Hilda, you are so lucky!" Her friends areplimenting both her and the jewelry she received.


    "Oh! I would feel so lucky to have a daughter-inw like her! Your son hasn''t married her yet, so I could introduce her to my son, who a single man! He is the CEO of our logisticspany. He''s as rich as your son! So maybe..."


    Hilda frowned, listening to the bbing of other women bragging about their sons. She wanted to thank Hailey in person, but the girl was now crowded with mothers who suddenly arranged a blind date with her.


    It ruins her mood. How dare these women shamelessly introduce their sons to someone engaged, and that happens to her son! And what upsets her most, she could not counter their ndering against her because her son is a married man!


    She doesn''t want to admit it, but at this moment, it infuriates her that her son is not a single man!


    *


    Next On: (Spoiler)


    Under the dim light from the wallmp of the hotel suite, Hailey halted in the middle of the living room. She meets Vince''s intense gaze. And the way he looked at her, she felt naked.


    Vince scans her from the head down to her high heels. His lips purse into a thin line; she swallowed the lump in her throat as suddenly, it dried when Vince didn''t disy a confused look or anger expression. He remains seated there, emotionless.


    She cringes a little when Vince lifts his ss and gulps down the liquor into his throat.


    God, he''s beautiful. His expressionless face only added to how gorgeous he is. The way he looked at her was like he wanted to devour and swallow her whole.


    "Who are you?"

 Chapter 180 - Who Are You?

    <h4>Chapter 180 - Who Are You?</h4>


    It takes an hour before she could get away from those mothers and sisters who suddenly crowded her to chat and then invited her for a blind date.


    It always made her ufortable being in the spotlight. Even though she grew up in high society, she didn''t mingle with her dad''s associates in the business world nor socializing like this one.


    If ever, she is always in the body of Hailee Davies, wearing wigs, heavy makeup, and a hat to hide her true identity. Plus, the boys crowded around her so that no one could approach her.


    Until she learned about the Mafia Association, she started meeting people but limited herself to whom she should see, even after establishing herpanies. But despite the sess inter years, she had a low profile to continue wandering the world with a secret identity and taking courses as much as possible without worrying that someone would recognize her.


    But most of the time, those people act like they didn''t know her, the reason she is confident wandering around. Not until Liam. She had an unpleasant history with him.


    Andter on, her heartbreak leads her to P Country, where she meets Vincent Shen. The only man who can make her heart skip a beat until she falls in love with him.


    But then Bryan wants her back, and Liam is bothering her again. Now she has to stop Liam. But first, she has to settle things with Vince.


    With the help of her knights, Hailey finally exited the event after the neighboring countries, and foreign guests annoyed her. She exins she has a boyfriend, but somehow, they knew about Vincent, and for them, it''s just an unsteady affair.


    Is it?


    *


    Hailey walked into the suite as Vince texted her a while back. Now that she''s inside the room, something is telling her that the atmosphere is awry. The moment she had a glimpse of the man, seated on a single couch with a ss of wine in his hand, she was sure he was drunk already as the liquor passed half the bottle.


    Hailey halted in the middle of the living room under the dim light from the wallmp of that hotel suite. She met his intense gaze and the way he looked at her; she felt like he was stripping her.


    Vince scrutinizes from her head down to her shoes. His lips purse into a thin line. She swallowed the lump in her throat as suddenly, it dried when Vince didn''t disy a confused look or anger expression. He remains seated there, emotionless.


    She cringes a little when Vince lifts his ss and gulps down the liquor into his throat.


    God, he''s beautiful. His expressionless face only added to how gorgeous he is. The way he looked at her was like he wanted to devour and swallow her whole right there.


    His ways of gaping at her, sending some danger warnings at the back of her head. The Vince she''s staring at tonight is a different Vince from a few weeks ago, who always had a tender look with a beautiful smile across his handsome face.


    "Who are you?"


    The silence inside that suite broke after Vince''s husky but firm tone echoed, and the atmosphere became stiff. However, instead of answering his query, she made an excuse.


    "I want to take a shower first. My makeup makes me ufortable."


    It was true anyway. Besides, she wants to freshen up before performing her ns. Hailey slid down her dress to her feet, followed by her jewelry, but she kept the rings hanging around her neck.


    Hailey walked naked toward the bedroom in that suite. She noticed when Vince clenched his jaw. She just knew that Vince couldn''t resist desiring her body. If he isn''t giving her the cold shoulder, he already followed her into the bathroom.


    She only took a quick shower, dried her hair with a bath towel, but gave up and left the remaining wet.


    She got out of the bedroom, her body only wrapped with a bath towel and her hair still dripping. She halted in front of Vince, staring at him lovingly.


    "Vince..." She was bolder to step forward and sat on hisp and rested her head on her firm chest. "Let me be your woman tonight, please."


    Vince is only wearing loose pants and a robe around his body. Hailey is caressing his bare chest; he gritted his teeth as it creates a reaction to his manhood.


    He blinks and softens his facial expression. He lifted his hand andbed her wet hair with his fingers. The water drops, leaving a tingling sensation on his skin.


    Hailey lifted her head and reached for his mouth. He didn''t push her away but responded to her kisses until Hailey''s mouth nibbled his ear and traveled down to his chest and t stomach, brushing her lips to his skin.


    He heaves a long breath and huffs. Hailey''s warm finger wrapped around his erection and began stroking his stiff shaft. He blinks and shrunk his pupils while watching her pretty hands make an up and down motion.


    His gaze lifted to her face. She was looking at his thing as her mouth partly opened, but then she bit her lower lip. He knew Hailey was a little surprised when his shaft throbbed excitedly because of her unknowingly action that excites him.


    Hailey lifted her gaze and met his eyes. At that very moment, she looks too seductive. The way she stares at him is totally the different woman he met years ago. She''s not innocent at all.


    He grabbed Hailey''s arm when she opens her mouth wide and lowered her head. Hailey gives him a confusing look when he stops her suddenly.


    He gritted his teeth as he pulled her, shoving her on hisp. She is ready to give him head. What for? He doesn''t want to know the answer dammit!


    He holds Hailey''s head with his right hand as he is ravishing her mouth with a punishing kiss. It was intense and rough.


    "Vince..." she moaned in protest. Vince is kissing her furiously. He was drunk!


    She wanted to push him away, but she didn''t stop kissing him back but deepened the kiss with love.


    Later Vince goes slow. His arms wrapped around her body, pinning her tightly inside his chest. She can''t move, but his kisses are not punishing anymore. This time, it was tender, like how he used to kiss her.


    Vince pushes his tongue inside and meets hers, dancing by the rhythm created by their heartbeats. It was a long kiss. She gasps for air after he leaves her mouth.


    But he didn''t stop. He nibbles her ear and licks her there and here. She pressed her bare chest into his own exposed body but he parted from her a little to grab her chests and rub them. He pinches the nipples before he puts one on his mouth.


    "Vince..." She arches her body, rubbing her bottom into his stiff shaft. Vince pulled her bath towel and threw it on the floor.


    His other hand stroking her back, upward to her neck, then down to her leg. She shudders when Vince nibbles on her other nipple.


    "Hmm..." she moaned when Vince grabbed one of her ass cheeks, then pressed down her bottom to his throbbing shaft. "Uhn... Vince!"


    Soon he put two fingers. She buried her nails to his back and grind her hips.


    "You can''t wait, huh? You''re dripping wet down her already." Vince''s husky voice aroused her even more. It has another effect on her, and Vince didn''t realize why she''s oozing right now.


    But the next seconds drive her insane. Vince is pushing it deeper while his thumb is teasing that spot of her womanhood.


    She closed her eyes and moans. He''s somewhat punishing her through anticipation. So then, she moved her hands and grabbed his stiff shaft.


    In the next minute, they let their hands busy while staring into each other''s eyes. Both came in, chasing breaths after.


    Then Vince carried her toward the bed.? He threw her to the mattress, but Vince just remained standing in the footbed, staring at her with a strange emotion written all over his face.

 Chapter 181 - Be My Everything

    <h4>Chapter 181 - Be My Everything</h4>


    Hailey gasps when Vince holds her foot and pulls her closer to the edge of the bed. He leaned over to give her an intense kiss on the lips before his mouth traveled down between her legs.


    He spread them wide, knelt on the floor while shey on the bed, whimpering with pleasure in the next seconds. She reached Vince''s head, clenching her fist on his hair, and pulled them every time a sensation surges throughout her body.


    "Vince... Um..." She arched her body as she ced her foot on his shoulder. Her body shudders when that feeling started to build deep down her core and would re out at any moment.


    Vince is not only using his mouth and tongue but also his fingers. He''s trying to punish her through anticipation. And when she''s about toe, he stops.


    Hailey looked at Vince with confusion written on her face. It seems like Vince''s intention to stop right there and let her suffer. "Vince...."


    He''s mad, and this is his way to vent his anger, thought Hailey. Then she must do her best to satisfy him tonight.


    "I want to be your woman," she muttered.


    Vince gets up from the floor; he pushes down his pants to his ankle and kicks away, then positions himself between her thighs. She cries when Vince fills her inside so suddenly, then pulls it slowly. He has been doing it for a while.


    He kept shoving his fullness deeper, andter on, her body began craving for more. She knew Vince wanted her to beg; that''s why he''s doing it.


    He was shoving it with force in a surprising thrust, then pulling it out. Vince was doing it to tease her until she would beg for more. With his husky voice, he hissed in her ear. "What are you waiting for? Don''t you wanna beg?"


    She bites her lower lip. Vince is looking at her with a haughty stare, and his face is emotionless. He wants to make things difficult for them. Hailey closed her eyes, then pursed her lips. She breathes in.


    "Please..."


    "What?"


    "I want you to do it faster," she begged.


    "Oops! Did I say you could demand? I said beg!" he hissed. His mouth is too close to her ear, but his breath tickles her skin, causing her to feel aroused more.


    "Then, please... Could you do it faster?"


    "Like this?"


    "Ahhh! Vincent Shen!" she screamed when Vincent bolted his lower body at a fast pace, without warning. She reached for his shoulder and buried her nails on his back.


    He didn''t stop. The way he thrusts into her insides causes her body to push upward to the bed. She reached for her breasts to hold them with one hand, as her body was shaking continuously.


    "Isn''t this what you want?"


    She shook her head but then noddedter. Vince does steady thrusts; she could feel he''s hitting deeper into her walls. It creates an exciting feeling.


    But this is not making love. This is not how she wanted their bodies to be one.


    She wants love...


    Hailey could not take it anymore. She covered her face with both of her hands and cried.


    To see her break down like this, guilt inted in his chest. ''What I am doing, dammit!?'' Vince stopped. He wrapped his arms around her body, and his head rested on her shoulder.


    "I don''t want to go back! I want to be yours forever. Be your lover, girlfriend, wife, mother of your children, or even as your boss! Make me as your everything, please..."


    She continued sobbing and mumbling. "Vince... What should I do? Why can''t I choose? Do I really have no choice? How if I want to stay as Hailey Hillson forever? I want to be your Hailey!"


    He let her cry in the next minutes. After then, he takes her hands that are covering her face to dry the tears that wet her beautiful face, but they keeping.


    Vince ces tiny kisses all over her face, drying her eyes. He scooped her body. He sat down on the edge of the bed and put her on hisp. She is crouching on him while he''s still inside of her.


    "Vince... About my..." She barely began her exnation; Vince ced two fingers on top of her lips.


    "Not now... I don''t want to hear it." He holds her head as he shortens the distance of their faces. He brushes his mouth on top of hers.


    She could feel Vince''s kisses were passionate this time, and she dly responded lovingly.


    Vince''s hand is massaging her back upward, then down to her bottom. He grabs both cheeks. He gently pushes them down to his rock-hard thing as he moves. And Hailey means to return the deed. She grinds her hips. Later, she was bouncing on hisp.


    She held tight around his body, resting her head on his shoulder to borrow strength; she''s about to have another orgasm. In the next moment, she and Vince were panting. She''lle soon as Vince speeds through his thrusts.


    After reaching the peak, they stay embracing each other''s arms as tight as if it was no tomorrow.


    "So, I''m going to marry another girl, huh?" Vince, who spoke first. He''s brushing his lips into her neck.


    She could only nod at him, staring with sincerity in her eyes. She softens her gaze, ncing at their engagement rings around their necks.


    "In that case, I have to make a new agreement then," Vince added.


    Hailey creases her forehead. She tried to process what Vince had said. She listens as he goes on.


    "How about this... I will marry this woman. I do not know about her, but I''m willing to rece her surname¡­ She will be the mother of my children. However, I have a proposal first... Will this woman consider it?"


    "Wha¡­ what is it?" she asked excitedly.


    "I want to add a use to our marriage contract because I have this sneaky girl I want to stay as my Mistress."


    Hailey gape at Vince with teary eyes. But it was a happy tear, of course!


    That''s right. She lived in two personalities: Hailee Davies, an heiress of tremendous wealth, and Hailey Hillson, a simple girl who wants to live without worries. Now, she wants to remain as Hailey Hillson because this girl holds many memories of Vince.


    Maybe she''s trying to live as someone else in these passing years, but Hailee Davies created this person and became her light. In which, Hailee Davies only bes her shadow she hides somewhere...


    And then, Vince falls in love with Hailey Hillson.


    "Don''t get me wrong¡­ I want her to be my everything, and she promised she would be," said Vince afterward.


    This time, she didn''t hold back anymore and broke down in tears. She wrapped her arms around his neck and cried.


    "Yes! I want to be your everything! Your wife, mom of your children, your girlfriend, your business partner, and even as your boss! But I also like to remain as Hailey Hillson. I can''t let her go. Please¡­ Let her be your forever mistress!"


    "Then, as long as Hailee Davies signs those contracts, it means Hailey Hillson will be my mistress forever," Vince whispered into her ears. His voice is getting huskier as the minute passes.


    He brushes his mouth on top of her lips, then left light kisses around her face. He whispered once again...


    "I can''t throw away the four long years of loving you. Now, she has topensate me, and I want a life together forever with you, my dear Mistress."

 Chapter 182 - Getting Married

    <h4>Chapter 182 - Getting Married</h4>


    Vince carried Hailey to the bathroom after another intense lovemaking. He turned on the jacuzzi in the bathtub and soaked in the warm water.


    Hailey rested her head on Vince''s shoulder while her fingers were caressing his chest. Vince is also massaging her back, which made her sleepy.


    "Vince, I want to talk about Hailee Davies." She opened up. Maybe this is the best time.


    "Hmm¡­"


    Vince is only responding by humming. Suddenly, she got worried that he''s angry at her, but he only waited for a great time to vent it.


    She lifted her head to look at Vince''s face. It was calm. She searches for nothing, a sign he is angry; instead, he is somewhat worried.


    "You can ask me anything you want to know." She urges him. She would love to hear his thoughts. She wants Vince to share his true feelings after he learned something about her real identity.


    Vince lowered his gaze and met her eyes tenderly. He leaned to kiss her. He whispered, "What is more interesting about Hailee Davies? Can I spank her for being cheeky?"


    Her eyes twinkle. Vince is talking about some hot stuff here. His teasing voice brought warmth toward her chest that he''s still flirty toward her.


    "Hubby, you just spank her a while ago." She pouted, but her cheeks are blushing pink.


    "I see¡­ But I feel like I''m not satisfied yet," he teased.


    If she blushed pink just a second ago, now her face turns scarlet red. And since Vince was in the mood, she had to try her best to return his tease.


    "Hubby, I know I am such a bad girl. You can spank me if you want until you are satisfied, and I would also love¡­" she shifts her position. She crouches on Vince''sp and grinds her hips. "I can ride tonight."


    She caught that sh of excitement in his eyes before he concealed them. She smiles yfully, watching Vince''s throat move, evidence that it affects him since he is hard again down there.


    But he wears a serious face when he speaks, pretending that he''s still upset at her. "It seems like you really wish for a punishment, huh?"


    He lifted his right hand and wrapped her neck. Hailey is a bit nervous if what he''s going to do. But Vince only pulls her closer to kiss her on the lips. It was a long fervor kiss, and it causes her to pant for air after.


    Vince rubs her cheeks. He muttered, "I would love to hear your exnation, but I need to fly to Las Vegas."


    "What''s wrong? Did something happen?" She knew Shen had investments and projects in the US, but why so suddenly?


    "A year ago, I worked at this casino that my friend''s family-owned. I redesigned the whole building and even invested in it. The business there is good if it is being managed carefully. Earlier this evening, while I was waiting for the event to finish to confront you, Theo called me."


    "Theo?" The name is familiar, thought Hailey.


    "Yes. I think you are familiar with Li-Shang. They are the biggest bottlerspany in Asia and the number one distributor of fine wine from Switzend."


    "Oh, you are talking about Theo Shang. The CEO of Shang Holdings in Maind City." Oopsie¡­ now that her identity is known to Vince, she could not shut her mouth and expose herself being familiar with the business world.


    "Hmm¡­" Vince scrutinized her, and she bit her lip. But she breathed with a sigh of relief when Vince smiled. "Yes, it was him."


    "Then, what happened in Las Vegas?" Why does the beating in her heart tell her it was nned?


    "Someone nted a bomb in the casino. It looks like an inside job."


    "Oh, my god! Then it means it has casualties?" She watches Vince nodded.


    "Yes, and several of them are celebrities. So, Theo called for a board meeting. My ne is just waiting for me."


    "Oh. Then you have to leave soon." She wants to ask Vince if he needs help, and she''s ready to offer her hand. But she must refrain herself and let him resolve the problem. She will stand on the sideline in the meantime, waiting for the chance to lend help as she trusted Vince. He knows what to do.


    "I have to go soon, yes. And when Ie back, I will listen to everything that you will share with me."


    "Yes! I will wait for your return. Please be careful, okay?"?Can it be that it is something out of revenge for the Shang''s? She has little knowledge about it because Cassandra and Theo''s wife are her friends.


    And speaking of those girls, they are pregnant again. Now she''s envious and wishing she''ll get pregnant soon. Maybe soon, while Vince is away, she should see an OB-Gyne and have aplete check-up if her body can carry a child.


    Thinking about it, her chest filled with joy. She can''t wait to carry a mini-Vince inside her belly. "Hubby, can we have a quick one before you leave?"


    Vince stared at this beautiful woman in his arms. He shrunk his pupils, scrutinizing her innocent face, which someone hides in there¡ªa seductress who can make him go crazy about her.


    Yes. He is head over heels to this sneaky and cheeky girl. He must get upset or angry. And he is! However, he waited for four lonely years to find her again and be his. Now that he got a hold of her, will he waste everything?


    He must be stupid if he''ll let to lose her again and missed every opportunity to keep her by his side. He was honestly hurt and confused about what to do. But he''s insanely in love with this woman. He can''t give her up. And he has no n to.


    Vince bathes Hailey, like the ritual he''s doing after they made love. He would blow dry her hair and then snuggle on the bed. But at this moment, he was working on top of her, giving her wild, quick sex before he headed to the airport. No foreys and teasing for now.


    Hailey woke up the following day, still feeling exhausted. Vince left for Las Vegas, and so she already knows that the other side of the bed is empty without opening her eyes.


    She turned to her other side to reach for her phone on the bedside table to check the time; it was nine in the morning.


    It''s just a few hours since she falls asleep around four in the morning. But she felt delighted.


    She stared at the ring on her middle finger. Before Vince leaves their suite, he slips the engagement rings on her finger. And so, she is too on his finger.


    Hailey sits on the bed and leans her back on the headboard. She noticed the boxes of fresh roses on the bed. She reaches for the card, tears suddenly flooded her eyes, reading Vince''s handwritten message.


    "To my Moon,


    I can''t wait to see your smile soon.


    I love you forever, wifey..."


    ¡ª Vincent


    She wipes the tears in her eyes, gets her phone, and snaps a photo on the card and the roses. Next, she took a selfie with a massive smile on her lips, showing her engagement rings.


    "Hello, hubby. Thank you for the beautiful sunshine you gave me. I love you, too." She sent the photo and put it as a caption.


    Hailey pondered for a moment. It''s been a while since she updated her Instagram ount as Hailee Davies. This public ount is only about the ces she visited these passing years, pictures of her luxury cars, yacht, a blurry photo of her inside her private jet, her outfits, and business stuff.


    She never posted her face on this ount; most of the time is her back or side view but hides in a hat.


    And today, her millions of followers feasted on her post. She posted a hand of a woman and a man with engagement rings on their fingers.


    "Getting married¡­."

 Chapter 183 - The Issues Toward Vince

    <h4>Chapter 183 - The Issues Toward Vince</h4>


    From the moment they saw her post, everyone from entertainment news, either from Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and other tforms, would like to repost her engagement rings photo, but Hailey didn''t allow it yet.


    But since the world of media saw it, they tried to reach out to her for exclusive interviews.


    The world suddenly went into chaos to find more information about her post. It was the first time she posted about her love life. Yes, it''s the first time.


    Even with her engagement with Bryan, she keeps it silent and ns to post it after their wedding. Good thing she posted nothing about it beforehand. Now she sees how it would create hype.


    Hailey''s hundreds of million followers, including the fashion world, were ecstatic and couldn''t stopmenting and tagging someone else on her post.


    Hailey was followed not only by ordinary people or small-time fashion stores but also by most celebrities, fashion icons, famous couture houses globally, etc. Even those in the car industry that built her sports cars are curious about her post.


    Everyone is asking, who is the lucky guy?


    Just a few minutes since she posted the photo, famous designers have already reached out to her to design her wedding dress. Some offer to tailor her bridesmaid''s gowns and some to make her wedding shoes.


    Even carpanies propose to build a personalized white car just for her wedding. Also, the best wedding nners in the worldpete to pick out and be her helper to n their wedding.


    They now flooded her ount with thousands of messages, including her family and friends around the globe.


    But at the moment, she stays away from her phone when it keeps ringing from anyone. Even the boys are calling her! And a call from her cousins, and even the elders, the royal families from Europe!


    Ah! She doesn''t know who she''s going to talk to first! Hailey covered her head with the giant pillow. She doesn''t want to hear her phone keep ringing!


    It is one of many reasons she doesn''t want to publicize her rtionship. It looks like she needs her PR team to take care of her publicity.


    Ugh! From now on, she needs to be careful to publicize her rtionship with Vince. The press and paparazzi will do everything to know who her boyfriend is.


    It''s a good thing that she could continue living as Hailey Hillson until she reveals her true identity to the world. For now, everyone wouldn''t know that it was her and Vince on that post, except the rings! Thedies at the event saw it.


    But she doesn''t want to take it down. She loves to see her hand intertwine with Vince with their rings on. However, it would be best if she will hide the engagement rings in the meantime.


    Her life at the moment is controversial enough here in P Country. When they learn she was in Metro City, it would be a pain in the ass to deal with hundreds of paparazzi all over the world!


    She''s always curious what will happen if she posts something a personal story, such as her love life. Now she proves that it''s not a good idea to tell the world she has a boyfriend!


    From here on, she has to be prepared at all times, not only mentally but to protect Vince from the controversy they will throw at him. Once they learn her fiance is a married man, it would be a big issue, and he hadn''t had his divorce yet!


    Because of what she''d done, she put Vince into a more intriguing life. She knew Vince was living a peaceful life before she arrived. Now the entire world was stirred by the bomb she dropped!


    And she could not take back her post, which she doesn''t want to deny her rtionship with Vince. Even though she will delete her post, many people have already seen it.


    It will only raise more questions if she hides it. Ah! She''s still na?ve and careless! But she posted it out of happiness overwhelms her heart.


    It delighted her that Vince didn''t get angry at her. Well, maybe he is. But Vince acts like a grown man; she''s grateful about that, but her? It looks like she won''t hit adulthood until she does not act aspletely a mature woman!


    This is not about everyone pampering her, whatever she would do or how she acted. But between her and Vince? This time, she must help him work their rtionship on the right path, no more creating issues and secrets between them.


    Then, she must clear her head and think carefully, now that she tells the world about her boyfriend.


    The issue would not focus on her, but it will be about Vince. The press will dig into his life, his family, his career. And once they know he is one of her architects and contractors; possibly they will make an issue about it, a huge one that will cause ill-feeling from other construction firms.


    She must prepare herself to defend Vince once the press made up stories about the contract she offered him. Her dad and the boys were necessary to know nothing about it initially, to think no fuss about Vince.


    She doesn''t want them to use him of crawling his way toward her to get projects more than anyone she offered since.


    Vince didn''t know her real identity when he signed those contracts, that''s her first step in protecting him, but it won''t end there. There are more issues to bring up soon.


    And the first people to stir up issues regarding Vince''s love for her are the media. Once the media is uncontroble, their made-up stories will stain the supposed good rtionship after introducing him to her father.


    She had to think that her dad will ept Vince without doubts about what he''s after in this rtionship.


    Hailey continues contemting as her phone also keeps ringing. This time it was Kelly. When she didn''t answer her call, Kelly sent a message.


    "How dare you! Are you my sister? Why are you doing this to me? I can''t believe the engagement ring I designed and crafted is for you! I should make it extra beautiful!"


    Hailey could imagine Kelly pouting at this moment. Tears are trailing down her cheeks as she reads Kelly''s message. This girl is too cute! She wants to hug her and cry together.


    She is sure that Kelly is also crying right now. They will both cry either out of happiness or loneliness likest time over her broken heart.


    "Sissy, how could I tell you it was my engagement ring if I, myself, also didn''t know it was for me? Obviously, Vince would keep it a secret, right?"


    "I agree, sissy. Even so¡­ How are you going to make me wait for your exnation, huh? I can''t wait for you to tell me what''s going on!? Then when you told me that the next certificate you will show to me is actually true! You''re going to p me with your marriage license!"


    She rolled on the bed,ughing. So this girl still remembers it. She was only joking with Kelly about it. Who would have thought? It will truly happen!


    "I will go home to Australia in a few days. Why don''t you visit so that we can talk in person? Gigi will be there too!"


    "Is it going to be your bridal shower?" Kelly asked excitedly.


    "Silly. Not too soon. I have a few things to take care of first." She answered Kelly. ''Besides Liam, I have to take care of Eva and your cousin Bryan.'' Hailey mused, but she didn''t share that thought with Kelly as their chat continues about other stuff. "You had nothing to be upset about. If you really would like to make me a beautiful ring, then how about my wedding ring?"


    "That''s it! I will design a wedding ring that is only in this world! Since I already knew your size and Mr. Shen, it will be easy!"


    Hailey smiled. She just knew how to cheer up this girl. But then, she realized the most important thing about getting married. "Oh, my gosh, Kelly!"


    "What is it?"


    "I didn''t consider it at first!" She fretted while texting Kelly.


    "About what?"


    Someone knocks on her door. That surely be Bruce. When she went to open the door, it was Gigi.


    "Oh, my gosh, Princess! What was that post? They also bombarded me with questions when they could not reach you!" Gigi walks inside the suite and drops her bottom on the couch. "I need coffee."


    Hailey remained to stare at Gigi. She smiled and said, "Are you just woken up, too?"


    Gigi blushed and nodded. "We were too busyst night. Until now, I''m still exhausted."


    "Hmm¡­ Of course." Hailey nodded. A silly smile is ying on her lips.


    "Stop!" Gigi rolled her eyes. She knew what was running inside Hailey''s head like she''s not sleeping with her boyfriend¡­ Ah, correction, her fiance from now on since this girl is showing off their engagement rings to the world. "Don''t look at me like that. Your beloved future husband just came home to give that engagement ring and make love, and then he left before the sun rose?"


    "Not. There was an emergency, so he had to fly to the US," she told Gigi with sadness in her eyes.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "I had a bad feeling about the problem in Las Vegas."

 Chapter 184 - What It Takes To Be With Hailee Davies

    <h4>Chapter 184 - What It Takes To Be With Hailee Davies</h4>


    "What happens in Las Vegas?" asked Gigi.


    "I don''t want to think of any conclusions yet. But my perception is telling me something, and I don''t like it," she replied. "Something happens in one of Vince''s investments, so he needs to fly to Nevada. Someone bombed the Hotel and Casino he redesigned and constructed a year ago."


    "Oh! That isn''t good! Are there any casualties?" Gigi waited for her to answer, and she nodded as a response. "Is Vincent going to help with the investigation or just being there as the architect?"


    "I think both," she guessed.


    Somehow she had known Vince a lot now. He definitely won''t leave his friend to face this crisis alone. And while Vince helps to resolve the problems he faces right now, this is the best opportunity to do her ns of settling things between her and Liam.


    "Alright. Now, how are you going to answer all those questions? Everyone in Entertainment, from Business World and Royals, was asking you the same question. Who is this guy?" Gigi queried afterward.


    "Yeah. I began reflecting on my post. The media and press will dig everything to know who my boyfriend is. The business world will be interested as well. Anyway, I have no more say as Forbes Asia recognizes Vince as one of the youngest CEOs in the world that seeded since stepping in, but the Royals..." she looked at Gigi with worry.


    "They will call Vince amoner." Gigi finished her sentence. She added, "And it will be more of an issue to them because Vince is still married. When will they know about this?"


    "That''s another problem of mine. But I don''t care. They don''t need to attend my wedding if they are against me marrying amoner. I don''t know how many greats I should mention, but my grandfather''s great-great-grandfather fought for themoner he loves. He chooses love over the throne."


    "That is a wonderful love story. But I''m sure of one thing, even without your wealth, Vince can feed you."


    "And I can wear cheap clothes," she says.


    Gigi red at her. "Do you think Vincent would allow you to buy cheap clothes? Isn''t he willing to work hard to give you a good life?"


    "I know he will work hard. Right now, he''s not only working for me, but he also had other projects, his old clients, and his other businesses he had to take care of at the same time. But..."


    "But? Why do you think Vincent couldn''t afford you?"


    "That''s the point in there! We have to talk about our wedding ns!" she eximed. Hailey rolled on the sofa, then covered her face with a pillow.


    "Hmm... It will be the wedding of the century. I am sure of that. So what did you worry about?" Gigi asked.


    "Gigi, after our wedding, I might make Vince poor," she told Gigi worriedly.


    Hailey waited for her reaction, but it seems like she had no idea what she was talking about.


    "Gigi, it''s not just our friends and family I must invite. It includes our business partners, delegates from every country, the Royal families I am friends with and name them! My royal rtives! Not only that, the Lords in every country! I''m going to empty Vince''s pocket!" she shrieked. It made Gigiugh hard. She frowned.


    "Now I can understand what you are talking about, Princess. Dream City Pce is already perfect for your wedding. But, everything in your wedding would cost Vincent billions because of your guests!"


    "I could imagine Vince working his ass hard to earn again for what he''d spent for us to get back on track."


    "But I''m sure your dad would help with the expenses." She tries her best to console and encourage this princess.


    But she would have endless worries. "How would Vince ept that? I''m not sure if he''ll lose his pride."


    "It will hurt his ego," Gigi quoted.


    "Yeah. Even though the Lopez family will help Vince with the expenses, still..." Hailey hurls a long breath. "What if we will only have a secret wedding and donate our supposed expenses to charities?"


    Gigi gaped at her for a long moment. She shook her head afterward then said, "I don''t think your dad would agree, nor Vince."


    "I have to convince him then." She mouthed helplessly.


    Gigi shrieked. "I''m sure your dad would love to see you walking in the aisle wearing your wedding dress!"


    "I''m just practical." She asserted.


    "Stop! Vincent surely wants to take you in front of an altar! It would be best if you had a long talk with him first. I''m sure he has his different thoughts for your wedding. As you said, he''s been in love with you for many years already! Then he will go to throw whatever amount as long as he could tie you down to him in a special way, such as spending billions on your wedding."


    "Well, he says he will give me a grand wedding after Eva signs the divorce agreement. Anyway, I have my money. I will convince him I will contribute with the expenses; probably, I will pay half of everything."


    "Stop! Don''t be ridiculous!" Gigi reached for her head and knocked on it.


    "Vince hasn''t realized yet what it takes to be with Hailee Davies," she mumbled.


    "Then you must consult him about his ns. You both need to talk about it thoroughly." Gigi suggested.


    "Yeah, we need a heart-to-heart talk to discuss this matter." She concurred. She went on, "I can''t wait to build a family with him. n our first house as married. Making love for me to bear our first child and how many kids we should have."


    Hailey said it dreamily, and Gigi could see how she''s madly in love. She''s never like this when she''s about to marry Bryan, nor showing interest when Liam makes his promises to her. She''s just ecstatic when ites to Vince.


    "Then why are you worried about it? How many mansions and vis do you have? Yeah, owned by your dad, but who will inherit them? What businesses Vince had? Even if you both spend so much on your wedding, it won''t affect anything when you start life as a married couple. I''m sure your dad would not just stand in the corner. You''re the only child of Lord Jacob Davies!"


    "Yeah. I know dad won''t be. And before I worry about all of this, I should worry first about setting up a meeting for dad and Vince. Anyway, ording to Kris, dad likes Vince. But of course, it''s different after I introduce him as my boyfriend."


    "And Vince divorced," Gigi echoed.


    "Yes, above all. That should be first. Well, I''m only waiting for Vince toe back, then we fly back to Australia together. Eva finally would sign the divorce agreement. I don''t understand why she has to make things hard for her and Vince when she is in love with Bryan."


    "But you have your suspicion, right?" Gigi inquiry.


    "Yes. And I need to make a phone call now before I forget about it." She told Gigi while tapping on her phone to search for a name on her contacts.


    Later, Gigi dropped her mouth while listening to her. She gives her a questioning stare, but Hailey only makes azy motion.


    "Hello, Bryan?"

 Chapter 185 - Dig Your Secret

    <h4>Chapter 185 - Dig Your Secret</h4>


    It took a long moment before the other line speak. It surprised Hailey after she noticed Bryan''s voice; it was shaking.


    "Bryan?" Is he crying? She asked herself, wondering if her guess was correct.


    But why does Bryan do that? Is it because of what she posted? Bryan told her before; he''s genuinely in love with her. Now, thinking it over, she could not return that kind of love, but still a brotherly love she felt for Bryan.


    d that he broke her heart. Otherwise, they will end up in an unhappy rtionship. How long would they stay married? Two years? Five years? What if she meets Vince after she gets married to Bryan? Might that she could sin? Not to mention that they are both married by then.


    Gosh! Fortunately, it didn''t happen!


    "Hi! What can I do for the Princess?" Bryan tried to sound cheerful, but he failed to do that. Hailey could still sense how he''s about to cry any time soon.


    "I have a request from you."


    The other line fell silent. Later on, Bryan heaves a long sigh, then he asks, "Are you serious about it, Hail?"


    "Are you referring to my post? Then, yes. I am serious about it, Bryan," she replied.


    "Then, you are noting back to me."


    "I''m sorry, Bryan. It won''t happen. I''ve already talked to you. But we need to talk, yes. I''m going home in a few days. Let''s meet in Sydney for a talk."


    "Really? Do you mean that? I mean, can we meet at our favorite restaurant? I haven''t been there for a long time since..." He could not say it as it was his fault why they broke up.


    "Okay. Let''s meet there. But first, I have something for you to do for me."


    "Sure! What is it? Anything! I''m always here for you. You know that I''ll do everything for you, even the impossible."


    "Are you serious, Bryan?"


    "I am, Hail," Bryan answered with the determination that in this way, Hailey finally would forgive him.


    "Even if I ask you to kill someone?" she said with a serious tone.


    Bryan fell silent for a brief moment. He answered, "I''m not doing it because you are not this kind of person."


    "How if I change a lot now?"


    "You always told us that LIFE IS PRECIOUS... Hail, I know you never like the idea of killing someone."


    "Then save one!" she shrieked from the other line.


    "I will."


    "Then save mine." She told Bryan with a low voice. "Bryan, I know Eva is in Australia. But she ns to go home. Bryan, I want you to stop Eva. Please, Bryan, until I can go back there. Never allow Eva to leave Australia. Can you do that for me?"


    It confused him why. He knew it would be a piece of cake for Hailey to know that Eva was in Australia. But why is she asking this kind of request?


    "What''s going on, Hail?"


    "I can''t tell you now, but soon. Let''s have a good talk about everything. But I want to trust you with this. Please, Bryan?"


    "I don''t understand, Hail. I don''t want to see her again. I want to end everything about us."


    "But Bryan... Okay. Can I just exinter?"


    "Okay. I''ll do it. But I was hoping you could tell me why."


    "Soon... You will know everything."


    He agreed. "Okay. I''ll wait when youe back."


    She now hangs up the call, but Bryan remains to stare at his phone. Later, he took a half-day off and flew to Sydney that day.


    *


    Sydney, Australia


    Bryan step inside his apartment. He swept his eyes to the living room, it was empty, but only suitcases he saw in the living corner room.


    "Bryan, you''re here!" Suddenly Eva appeared and jumped on him. Her arms were clutching around his waist while she tiptoed to kiss him.


    He didn''t avoid it, and even he doesn''t like to be kissed by her. But for the sake of Hailey''s request, he''ll try to y along with Eva. He doesn''t want to see Eva again. But he''s curious why Hailey wanted him to watch Eva closely.


    After Hailey makes that call, he phones his men and picks up Eva from the hotel she''s staying in. And he realized one thing. Eva is having financial problems because of her family. Then how can she afford a five-star hotel?


    A year ago, Eva begged him to help her because someone wants to kill her because her family has an enormous debt. To salvage her so-called family financial issues, he gave her all the amount she needed. It cost millions.


    But Eva promises to leave him alone after then. Since Hailey''s dad shoulder all the wedding expenses, he helps Eva because he knew how ruthless the person her family had debt from¡­


    The Huo family.


    But after he meets with Eva to give her the money. Things went wrong. And Hailey misunderstands everything. Of course, she will feel betrayed because of the video she receives.


    "I''m sorry, Bryan. But I want you back."


    It is what Eva said afterward. And the rest is history; he wants to bury everything.


    And now? Something is not correct. It seems like he needs to do some investigation.


    "What are you doing?" he asked, using his tender voice. Of course, Eva should not notice that everything is just a pretense.


    "I cooked your favorite soup!" Eva replied with a massive smile on her face. "Come here and have a taste if I need to add more salt or pepper? You are a better cook than me."


    Eva holds his arm and drags him toward the kitchen. Bryan just followed in silence.


    He ns to lock her up in his apartment. So then, whatever is going on in here, he could monitor her movements. ording to his men, Eva is leaving the hotel, and she arranges a car to bring her to the airport. Not only that, she booked a flight for P Country.


    She''s really in a hurry to go back home. If Hailey didn''t make a suspicious request, he would find nothing.


    And he''s still confused. What''s going on here? He wants to ask Hailey, but for now, he''ll wait for her return.


    "What do you think?" Eva asks him with hopeful eyes that he would like her cooking.


    He took the soupdle from Eva''s hand. He blows before he draws the spoon to his mouth. "Hmm¡­ It''s almost perfect. All it needs is more pepper."


    "Really?" Eva''s eyes twinkle with delight. She throws herself into his arms and embraces him tight. "I''m really happy, Bryan."


    He felt disgusted. But he has to bear it until Hailey arrives. It will be in a few days.


    "I''m thinking of ending my life as the man I love is only ignoring me. But you''re here now! Thank you!"


    Bryan darkened his face and gritted his teeth. ''She''s such a liar! Ending her life? Not! I''m going to dig your secret, Eva!''

 Chapter 186 - Keep His Identity Secret

    <h4>Chapter 186 - Keep His Identity Secret</h4>


    Las Vegas, NEVADA


    Just after theynded, Vincent hurriedly got off the ne and headed for the waiting vehicle.


    "Good to see you again, Mr. Shen!"


    "Good to see you too, Rnd." Vince greeted back, tapping the man''s back before he got into the car.


    "Hey, Tim!" Rnd helped him put their luggage in the vehicle''s trunk.


    "Yo, Rnd!" Tim throws a knuckle at Rnd. After they ced the bags in the car, both men went to the front. Tim took the passenger seat while Rnd slid in front of the wheels. The two guys were chatting on their way out of the airport. "You sure enjoy your married life, huh?"


    "Why would I not? My wife already gave birth to our second child. Finally, for several months I have to hold up. It''s time for some action!"


    "I can''t believe you!" Tim throws a punch to his shoulder. Both the guys cracked up.


    At the back of the car, Vincent shook his head, listening to these men. It sounds like a joke, but it was the reality. He grew curious about their topic, and it surprised him that his assistant, who has no love life his entire life, casually talks about the intimate issues between a married couple.


    But the topic is truly interesting, though. It made him ponder if ever he was in the same situation. Indeed, he won''tin if he and Hailey could not have done that for several months. He would be even more worried when Hailey was pregnant.


    As everyone says, pregnancy has a different situation. Some are having no problems with pregnancies, while others have difficult conditions. And so, he has to pay attention when Hailey is pregnant.


    Thinking about it now, he actually couldn''t wait! It excites him! A warm feeling fills his chest every time he imagines having his children and holds them in his arms.


    Besides, he needs something to hold on to his rtionship with Hailey. He hasn''t had his divorce yet, and now he found out that Hailey is someone who isn''t simply to win over.


    She''s not just the moon he would watch in the sky, which he could reach out if he wishes to touch it. But she''s a big star shining brightly farther than the moon. She is someone who is surrounded by other stars. The gap was there.


    Vincent pulled out his phone from his coat pocket to look at Hailee''s Instagram post one more time. Now it has millions of likes and hundreds of thousands ofments and almost reached a million!


    Famous stars, famous couture houses, popr magazines, even the Instagram official ount give their congrattions. It means they are sending wishes also to him, which his identity remains a mystery to them.


    From this day onwards, being Hailee Davies'' fiance, they must keep his identity secret until she releases their official photo.


    By then, how could he face these famous and notable people in High Society?


    True that the World Business Association recognized him and received countless awards from different institutions he could be proud of as his achievement. However, the woman he has loved for a long time is someone everyone desires in secret because no one can reach her.


    If he hadn''t made her sign the agreement he created, can he possibly stand by her side?


    Oh, he should not forget that he''s now working for Hailey. Even though he began questioning if things are coincidental about how he got the contract so quickly, it is his chance to stay close to her.


    He wants to confront her. But he chooses to listen to all of her reasons, although he''s not ready to hear her exnation.


    But he already waited for four years. He doesn''t want to waste time by feeling betrayed or being tricked whatsoever. He wants a life with Hailey.


    "Boss, we''re here," said Tim, ncing at him through the rearview mirror when he didn''t move, even after Rnd already parked the car outside the hotel.


    Vincent lifted his head and looked outside the window. The ce indeed was in a mess. He found police agents, and he guessed special task force personnel investigating the bombing incident. He reaches for the handle and pushes the door open when Tim reacts.


    "Boss, are you sure to disy your engagement ring?"


    Vince curled his forehead. He nced at Tim with confusion written on his face. He questions his assistant, "What is wrong with it?"


    Tim scratched his head when his boss had forgotten that the situation is different now. "Boss, Miss Hailey Hillson or Miss Davies have already announced she''s engaged and showed her engagement rings. The entire world has seen it. The couple rings you personalized made are the only designed in the world. If people see your couple ring, they will recognize it. By then, they will know it was you. It means¡­"


    "Does it mean?"


    "Boss, not only ordinary people will storm you to question or take your photo. Everyone will chase you," Tim exined further.


    "And Paparazzi would never stop following you around, Mr. Shen," Rnd echoed. "You have no idea, but everyone would like to get a piece of you."


    "People now want to peel your skin before they cut you in tiny slices, boss!"


    "That''s insane!" Heins. ''That is absorbing!'' But he realizes this already. If the mass media found out that he was the mysterious fiance, he''ll only make things hard for Hailey.


    Hailey may already announce her engagement, but she hadn''t revealed their faces to have protection against the paparazzi and to avoid mobbing by the public.


    Vince removes the ring from his fourth finger, even against his will, but it is necessary. It is only for the time being until he''s divorced.


    "Vincent!"


    "Theo, how''s it going?" He asked while they shook hands.


    "We have very little information from the investigation. But we are looking at every factor and motive," Theo Shang replied.


    "Why does it happen? Is this some personal reason?" It would be his first guess.


    "I''m looking at that angle as the higher possibility is. You know, in these passing years, we are now living a peaceful life. But there are people among in the n who would not be happy for us all."


    "Hm. That is indeed possible." Vince concurred.


    The High Society acknowledges the Shang family as one of the wealthiest families in the world, and years ago, an issue did happen and was publicized by the mass media. Vince thought while following Theo around the hotel building.


    "They surely studied the whole ce with no one noticing anything about their ns," Vince stated after his long observation of the bombed site. The hotel has a high-security system that runs the entire ce.


    "Yeah. It will be someone very familiar with the blueprint of the hotel."


    "But I renovated most of the ce and..." Vince nced at Theo standing behind him.


    Theo smirked. "Don''t look at me like that. What you were thinking is ridiculous. It never came to my mind that it was your doing."


    "I don''t have the intention," Vince rifies to Theo.


    "I know that. So stop giving me that face." Theo smacks his back.


    "I''m not worried that you will suspect me or others who would have the suspicion. What I''m thinking now is the possibility that someone in my firm works for the mastermind."


    "Are you telling me now that one of your engineers or architects?" asked Theo.


    He thinks that if it was the fact, then they could solve the case soon. Vincent has a vast influence because of his mom''s family. If his intuition is correct, then he made the right decision to ask for Vincent''s help.


    "Let''s have some coffee. You are still from a long flight, then rush here."


    "Yeah. I only fell asleep on the flight and had no dinner and breakfast."


    "Wait¡­ Don''t tell me?" Theo pursed his lips with a teasing smile that caused Vincent to roll her eyes.


    "Heh. So, your assistant didn''t share the news?"


    "Hm?"


    "I''m officially engaged. It''s a real one this time."


    "I see. Congrats, bro!" Theo patted Vince''s back as he continued, "It looks like Rnd didn''t gossip other than about the bombing incident these days."


    "Oh, well. Our assistants have countless gossip we didn''t know, and they talk behind our backs."


    "Or, they''re ndering us inside their heads," Theo echoed, and both chuckled. "Rnd''s expression always tells me what he''s thinking."


    "Yeah. Timothy does that too. It was written all over his face when he''s having a weird thought and presumption about me."


    "Right! They''re also nosy about our love life!" Theoughed as he remembers those crazy days he''s stalking his wife. "And what''s scary is when they run to our wives andin about how we enve them."


    Vincent shook his head in amusement after agreeing to Theo''s statement. "I get jealous because sometimes, Hailey and Tim have a longer conversation than me. I know it was because she''s instructing Tim how to make my favorite dishes. But that guy is always reporting to Hailey if I won''t eat more vegetables or I don''t eat on time."


    "See? They got our wive''s sentiment!" Theo eximed.


    Meanwhile, Tim and Rnd have been trying to eavesdrop on their boss. The two guys were casually looking around, but actually, they were watching their boss.


    "Look! Our boss is gossiping about our work performance," Tim tattled.


    Rnd concurred. "Yeah. I''m sure of that."


    And the two assistants continue gossiping, following their bosses toward the hotel''s dining hall.

 Chapter 187 - His Great Friends

    <h4>Chapter 187 - His Great Friends</h4>


    In the meantime, the Shang Hotel and Casino were closed after the bombing incident. And because the employees were on vacation, Theo sent his men to buy food for their guests and ordered a coffee from a nearby coffee shop.


    Sat across from each other, Vincent and Theo having a serious talk regarding the incident as it was something they must work on without dy.


    "Since the hotel was under investigation, it is safer to close it down so then we can start the renovation after the case solves," said Theo.


    Vincent nodded while he was sipping on his coffee; his brain started doing several changes in his previous design for the hotel. He stated, "This time, it''s better that only you and I will know the secret passages."


    "Sounds great to me!" Theo approved immediately. He likes the idea, of course. After what had happened, they needed to be extra careful about everything than before. "I think I need to assign a more trusted director to oversee this hotel."


    "Who''s in your mind?" Vincent had just asked Theo, but speaking of the devil, that man had just arrived.


    "Yo! Two CEOs seated in an empty fancy dining hall seem off at this angle."mented a man at the door of that hall. Both men turned their heads to look in his direction.


    "Rubin, good to see you." It was Vincent who greeted him first.


    Several years ago, he met Rubin Lim when Jeremy Shang, Theo''s older brother, was a patient at William Medical Research Facility like him. They were in the rehab together, and Rubin was often in the facility to report everything that happens in their branchpany at Maind City.


    "Great to see you, Vincent Shen! Congrats, by the way! Rnd told me just now when I am on my way here," said Rubin.


    "Hm. Rnd has leisure time to gossip to you, but he said nothing to me." Theo grumbled.


    "Dang. So it means you didn''t know that it was Miss Hailee he was engaged to?" Rubin asked Theo like he was making fun of his young master. He was beaming from excitement to gossip.


    Theo was confused; he nces at Vincent with curiosity in his eyes. It seemed like he could not follow the conversation that Rubin opens up out of the blue.


    "What did I miss? Hailey who? Or are we talking the same, Hailee?" Theo was asking Rubin, but his eyes remained to stare at Vincent.


    "Master Shun''s cousin," Rubin answered Theo, who widened his eyes in surprise.


    "Do you mean Hailee Davies? Oh, shot! It was Hailee who were you searching back then?" Theo eximed out of shock. "You''re looking for the princess?"


    He nodded. "I didn''t know she had this identity untilst night."


    "Seriously?" Theo and Rubin asked at once.


    Vincent nodded. He does not know that the girl he''s looking for is someone so important in this world.


    He did some research about Davies Group, of course. It is better to be prepared, and at the least, he has little knowledge about his future bosses. But he didn''t find the heiress''s photo, but only her worth of several trillion dors. That is an amount in US dors.


    "I was shocked like¡­ What the fuck!? Am I sleeping with my boss? How would I exin it to her dad? And to her executives?" Vincent stressed out.


    "And to her cousin, Master Shun Crow." Rubin sniggers at him. The guy was amused, watching his face twitching from shock.


    "Seriously!? Chairman Crow is her cousin?" Who didn''t know him? He''s not only the William Medical Research Facility owner, where he stayed for months for his operation and rehab.


    Shun Crow is amongst the most influential men in the business world. He is running a business everywhere. Now to think that Hailee could throw a hundred billion US dors to him is not impossible. She was indeed from the Royal family!


    "Hey! Don''t feel gloomy. Shun is a great person. He won''t judge you, nor will he be against his cousin''s love life. As long as you truly love her, you don''t need to migrate to another. Otherwise, Shun will hunt you down with his agents." Theo did his best tofort him.


    Vincent flinched with a realization. Now,e to think of it, Shun is also the Mafia Emperor. Wait, could it be that Hailey''s dad is? Vincent gulped. He confirmed, "You mean, Section 14? A group of men in the Mafia Association?"


    "I think the ones to chase you are Section 15 agents," Rubin corrected him; it sounded like he was threatening Vincent for real.


    Vincent fell silent as he mused, ''This underground world is really something.''


    "Are you a member of Section 14, Vincent?" Theo asked him with curiosity afterward.


    "I attended a few summers back then," he replied, pondering over something.


    "Then, nothing you have to worry about!" said Rubin to pacify Vincent while patting his back.


    "But I didn''t finish the training nor receive the ceremony to be MAS-14¡­ I focused on taking Architecture inter years, so I didn''t go back to Italy." Now he wished he were on the same ground as Hailey.


    She''s getting beyond his reach.


    "Well, even if you didn''t finish it, as they invite you to the Camp, someone in your family is a member of MAS-15," Theomented.


    "Or Section 10? Your forefathers must be." Rubin echoed. Even he is not from a wealthy family. He received the chance to join because of Theo as his attendant until he bes his bodyguard and assistant before he works for Jeremy, and the rest is a long story. The Shang can be rmended because of their standing in the Mafia Association.


    "Hmm..." Vincent hummed. He didn''t answer Rubin directly but averted his eyes.


    "Wait¡­ It might be confidential, but are you a Mafia Lord, President Shen?" Rubin scrutinizes Vincent''s face as he waits for his response. His tone is solemn this time.


    "I wished I had the leisure time running around in the Underground World. But I have no interest, to be honest." His response to Rubin. Even though he would get the invitation to join the underworld, he has no interest in that world. But he wants to stay at Hailey''s side.


    "I know he isn''t, Rubin. If Vincent is a Mafia member, he would know that Hailey is Hailee Davies," Theo concluded; he paused after he realized something. "Wait, a minute... I know now why you didn''t find her back then!"


    "Oh¡­" Vince fell silent to contemte.


    "Maybe you came across to people that know Miss Hailee, and that''s put an rm to the whole Mafia Association."


    "So, all the people that I tried to ask were a few of them possibly lying to me. That makes sense why I can''t search for her," said Vincent after a long thought. "Now I am curious why she came to Metro City."


    "What I know, she is in a hurry to finish her city," said Theo. "I heard it from Shun. She is looking for the best architect in the world. She is traveling around to study these ces and search for the best designs. I am certain she set her eyes on Metro City of what you''ve done so far. You are now working on a project for her, right?"


    "Yes. So, she came to the city to study my work?"


    "You said that it is a little wonderment that you win a contract so easily. They offered you a project without seeing your presentation."


    Vincent couldn''t agree more with Theo''s conclusion. That is possibly true. Hailey probably meant to offer him a contract at the very beginning.


    And with the status that she has, there''s no way she would reveal herself to the public, which is why she has to lie to him and didn''t approach him directly.


    Maybe it''s not her intention to keep a secret from him. It''s just that because of their agreement; she has to y along, which she has no idea that he ns to tie her down to him.


    That agreement is just a beginning that she could not get away with this time. But he didn''t know Hailey ns to tie him with her offered projects.


    There is a smile ying on his lips as his eyes glowed. He muttered, "I think this trip is so worth it."


    "And what are you thinking now while smiling like an idiot?" Rubin raises a brow, staring at him, having this expression on his face that it was his first time to be in love. Anyway, he learns from Tim that his boss has never had a girlfriend before.


    Vincent rolled his eyes, ring at Rubin. But maybe true that being in love makes you feel like an idiot thinking about the woman you are in love with.


    "To be honest, Hailey and I haven''t talked yet about the truth I learned regarding her true identity. Well, she wants to exin her side, but I was in a hurry toe here."


    "So the two of you need a heart-to-heart talk," Theo advises him.


    "Yeah. It always works!" Rubin echoed with a huge smile across his face. Honestly, he is also madly in love with his wife and was once on a roller coaster courting in the past.


    "Hm. Comes from men who get through such situations, huh?" Vincent teases the two men in front of him.


    "That is how we won over our wife, duh!" Rubin rolled his eyes, punching Theo''s shoulder. "Especially this man, here. You should ask for his advice."


    Vincent chuckled. "It''s really nice to have friends who are men with experience." Vincent gestured a salute to them.


    "I''m not good at exining. I''m just following what my heart says."


    "See? I told ya!" Rubin pointed his thumb in Theo''s direction.


    Vincent smiled. It''s really great to have a few friends who are great men in their own ways. Not to mention they have a wonderful marriage as well.


    "Honestly, if I didn''t meet Theo three years ago, I would probably give up now and stop hoping that one day I will meet her again. He inspires me, really."


    "President Shen is making us cry!" said Rubin humorously.


    "Shut up, Rubin!" Both Vincent and Theo eximed.


    *


    Next on:


    Metro City, P Country


    Looking at his phone, Liam darkened his face, gritting his teeth from rage. Hailee had just announced that she''s getting married!


    "Huh. When are you going to take care of her?"


    Liam throws a dagger look at the woman standing at the doorway. He shouted, "What are you doing here? I didn''t call you toe!"


    Zenaida has taken a back step forward. But she has important things to report to Liam Huo.


    Biting her lip, she uttered, "Eva, canceled her flight."


    "What!?" Liam screamed.

 Chapter 188 - Not His Child

    <h4>Chapter 188 - Not His Child</h4>


    METRO CITY, P COUNTRY


    Liam Huo was seated in the living room at the vi he bought at Northern Real Estate. Although the name registered wasn''t his, it was his method to hide his actions in Metro City in these passing months. He has been cautious. However, he has to step up to take Hailee back.


    This morning, while sipping his coffee, he read all the news about DV Gem''s sessfulunchst night. And this news mentioned that President Vincent Shen''s girlfriend was appointed as Director of DV Inc. Asia Branch.


    Liam''s crispughter suddenly filled the living room. It was a piece of ridiculous news. "So, is this their way to hide her true identity? DV Inc. owner acting as branch office director? You always thrill me."


    But his broad smile disappears after he receives an Instagram notification. It was a post that Hailee made.


    Staring at his phone, Liam darkened his face and gritted his teeth from rage. Hailee had announced that she''s getting married! Not only that, she''s showing off her diamond engagement rings!


    "Ahhhhh!" Liam kicked the coffee table and screamed. His men rush inside to see what happens, but all they see is a mess in the living room¡ªthings scattered on the floor.


    They all silently went back to their post. They are not used to his behavior. He is alwaysposed even when he''s irritated or annoyed by someone because all he does is pointed his gun to that person''s head and pull the trigger without blinking.?And so, they were cautious not to provoke him.


    However, there is one person who constantly stirred his patience. It was the woman he could not win over. He is always throwing a fret because of her.


    "F*ck! Sh*t!" Liam threw his phone on the floor. It tumbled toward the entry hall andnded at the woman''s feet, who appeared at the door.


    The woman bends her body and picks up the phone, then looks at the screen.


    "It surprised me that she was Hailee Davies. Then? When are you going to take care of her?"


    Liam throws a dagger look at the woman standing at the doorway. He shouted, "What are you doing here? I didn''t call you toe here!"


    Zenaida has taken aback to take another step forward. But she has important things to report to Liam Huo. Biting her lip, she uttered, "Eva, canceled her flight."


    "What!?" Liam yelled at her. "What did you say?"


    "Eva texted me. She said she''s noting back." Nervously, Zenaida told Liam. She has no n toe, but Liam must know.


    "Bullshit! It seems like she forgot something!"


    "Liam, what will happen to us now? My family¡­" she stuttered her words. Though, the Shen''s is helping to run their business. However, her father has a massive debt from the Huo family.


    Liam Huo would not collect the payment; in exchange, they have to do everything that he will order them, including Eva, not giving Vincent''s divorce.


    In the beginning, she didn''t understand. But then, she learned that Liam is madly in love with someone named Hailee Davies. She thinks he''s jealous because Vincent is now working with her. What she didn''t know, Hailey Hillson and Hailee Davies are the same women.


    Liam ordered her parents to orchestrate Vince''s death. But miraculously, he was alive and did not even have any injuries, ording to her parents.


    Now Eva is backing out. She won''t listen to Liam anymore after getting what she wants, which is to win over her ex-boyfriend.


    She wanted to get angry at Eva, to love that guy blindly. However, they were sisters. Until now, she''s still in love with Vincent even though she knows her feelings would never return.


    "Why is Eva noting back!?" Liam yank at Zenaida. The woman flinched and began quivering under his hold.


    "I¡­ I don''t know!" she lied, and she needs to get out of here. She heard Liam is a silent type of person. He won''t say much, but he is taking action instantly. "Let me go, Liam."


    Zenaida begged the guy, but this was her unlucky day. Liam was in a terrible mood because of Hailey''s announcement.


    "Tell me why is she provoking me now?" he asked Zenaida in a hostile tone.


    Zenaida shook her head; she begs and cries. Liam shoves her on the floor and kicks the nearby antique vase. She covered her mouth, not to let out her weep.


    He turned around to give her a sideways gaze while his finger pointed at the door. "Get out of here! But tell Eva to get her ass back in P Country!"


    Zenaida got up quickly and ran to the door. After the woman disappears, Liam walks toward the bar area and gets a ss, pours some wine, and emptied it in one go.


    The people that he puts up with to y his game are all useless! He has no other choice but to do it himself to end this bullshit and take Hailee to V Country.


    He''s been nning all along how to take her away. But in these passing years, she was cautious in all her trips. Aside from that, she gathered more knights to protect her. He kills a few of them, but the rest are difficult to deal with, like Pitt Cha and even Bryan Anderson.


    They have loyal men who he could not buy with money to betray them and kill their bosses. It took him a year because of that. And his only choice after then is to y slowly and use women''s help.


    Since he could not kill Bryan, but he destroys his rtionship with Hailee. However, because of that, Hailee had freedom, and she suddenly came to P Country!


    It waste when he learned she was in Asia. And by then, she''s already with someone else! He witnessed how she''s attached to Bryan, and that guy is so clingy to her as well.


    But why does she move on so quickly?! Now she''s getting married to somebody else who has the life of a cat! He''s not even in aa after the ident! If that happens, it''s easy for him to kill him again.


    Liam continues drinking that morning with full resentment in his heart.


    Meanwhile, Zenaida was shivering while driving her car. She immediately left Liam''s Vi before the guy changed his mind to let her go.


    Zenaida pulls over on the sideroad after she gets out of North Real Estate. She took out her phone from her bag and dialed Eva''s contact. She tried to make a video call on Facebook or ring her Instagram ount. She also tried FaceTime, but Eva didn''t answer!


    "Come on, Eva! Answer it!" She tried several times but failed to reach Eva. "Sh*t! That girl thinks this is just a game!"


    After a few more attempts finally, Eva answered her phone.


    "Why are you not answering!" Zenaida immediately blurts out even before Eva could speak from the other line.


    "How if I don''t want to answer any of your calls!" Eva replied annoyingly. "Don''t call me ever again! Just wait when I am the one to make the call!"


    "Sh*t, Eva! This is not just a childish game! Our life is at stake!"


    "I don''t care! Then leave Metro City or P Country!"


    "F**k! You don''t know who you are ying with, Eva! Liam won''t let us all get away!"


    "Bryan will protect me."


    "You''re impossible! I know how he''s rejecting you. That is why you are bugging him, not because Liam ordered you!"


    "He''s happy to know that he''d be a father soon. That is why he''s protecting our child and me," Eva said proudly.


    "It''s not his child!"


    "Don''t you ever say that!" Eva shrieked so suddenly from the other line.


    Zenaida felt like her right eardrum would explode. She cusses from what Eva did. "Damn it! Stop yelling!"


    "Then don''t call me ever again! And don''t you dare tell Bryan about anything!" she warned her older sister.


    Zenaida was stunned for a moment. She ponders, thenughs afterward. "You''re crazy. I know it was Howie''s child."


    "Shut up! If you want to save our family, then don''t you dare tell him anything!" she hissed at Zenaida, but she immediately keeps silent when Bryan''s footsteps are approaching.


    "Eva? There you are! Hey, why is your face red? What happens? Are you upset?"


    "I¡­ Ah, I''m not upset. I''m just worried."


    "Who are you talking to?" asked Bryan, staring at the phone in her hand.


    "It''s my sister. I asked her if everything is okay now in thepany. You know¡­ It was one reason I wanted to go home. Thepany keeps failing."


    "Hmm¡­ Do you need my help?" Bryan put effort into ying along. He reached for Eva''s face and brushed her cheek. "Let me help you. It''s not good for you to stress yourself now that you are carrying my child."


    Eva''s eyes flickered with joy. She puts her arms around Bryan''s neck and brushes her lips on top of his.


    "I know you will be the best dad in the world! Don''t worry about it. My dad and sister already have the help they need. So I don''t need to go home. Besides, I am with you. That is all that matters to me."


    Eva ced her head on Bryan''s chest, and her lips parted with an enormous smile. Bryan could still not resist her! He may ignore her and be cold in these passing months, but now, he shows how he''s worried about her!


    "I love you, Bryan."


    If Eva smiled like a winner when Bryan could not see her face, the guy darkened his face. He felt disgusted how Eva clung to him. But he needs to stay calm and be patient until Haileees back.


    Meanwhile, Zenaida heard everything. She has gone furious listening to Eva mumbling from the other line. Not only that, Eva ends the call, and now her phone does not ring. It means either she blocked her or turned off her phone.


    "That selfish b*tch!"


    Now, what is she going to do? Liam will kill them all! She needs to ask for someone''s help! But whom?

 Chapter 189 - Half Truth Revealed

    <h4>Chapter 189 - Half Truth Revealed</h4>


    METRO PALACE HOTEL


    At the grand dining hall of this hotel, Hailey made her entrance at the door, and her stiletto creates a soft click sound to the onyx tile, which everyone could not help turn their heads to look in her direction.


    She is on her way to her table to dining with Gigi. She is wearing a formal fitted dress, which she pony-tailed her long hair, now emphasizing her beautiful long neck. Thanks to the miracle of concealers, she able to hide Vince''s bites. And the usual, she doesn''t wear much makeup but putting light one tonight.


    Being the famous mistress of the city, she got used to the strange look throwing at her. She was constantly scrutinized from her head down to her shoes and judge if she dresses up poorly.


    But after theunch''s sessst night, it has now known that she will be the DV Inc. branch office director. Starting today, they recognized her as an executive in one of the leading jewelerpanies in the world.


    That is why she needs to put a little effort into wearing more jewelry tonight. But not to gain much attention after her announcement on Instagram, she has to hide the engagement rings underneath her clothes.


    Though of her new status, some people still question her capability because, for them, she is simply a paid woman.


    "I am certain that President Shen invested enormous amounts in DV Inc. to appoint his girlfriend as the branch director."


    "That''s for sure! Who is she, by the way?"


    A gossip began rising on that side of the restaurant. They forget that Gigi Chan was nearby, and she could hear everything that they''ve talked about.


    They had only realized it when Hailey arrived at the table. Gigi was already waiting for her arrival, and her other knights were there as well.


    Pitt, Tom, and Keith were at the nearby table. Bruce, who was standing on the corner to watch Hailey from possible attacks, the men called him to join them. They pour wine on an empty ss and offer it to the guy.


    "I should not drink tonight, Seniors," he tried to refuse.


    "Who are you calling a senior? Do you think we are very old already because we''re in ourte 30s, huh?" Pitt joke on him.


    "I didn''t mean that! You were a friend of the princess when she''s younger, so¡­" Bruce gulped; he''s stammering while exining himself to Pitt.


    Honestly, he was still nervous about being around them. Of course, he looked up to them not only as of the princess''s first knights, but they were her childhood friends.


    "You need not be so polite to us. We are older than you by a few years, but we are all equal as the princess knights." Tom chimed in, patting Bruce on the shoulder.


    Bruce breathed. He''s d that Tom and Keith are calmer than Pitt. Otherwise, he would choose to stay away from him.


    "Anyway, we haven''t officially weed you to our Guild," said Keith, pouring Bruce''s ss with another wine. "Don''t worry. We only ordered a low alcohol wine. We are just unwinding while watching the princess and Gigi from the Huo cousins."


    "Okay. Thanks!" At this moment, he''s already rxed being around them.


    Tom raised his ss and dered, "I decree that Bruce is officially the Metro City Knight from this day onwards!"


    "Cheers!" Four sses clinking, the four men emptied their sses.


    *


    When Hailey sat down in her chair, Gigi threw a sharp re at the two nearby tables.


    "Miss Hillson, I heard some rumors that there are people who question your credentials and presume that you are not qualified as branch director. Do you think I made a mistake in appointing you for that position?"


    "Oh. So, my Economics and Business diploma from Oxford University is not enough? Should I take more courses?"


    "Silly! You graduated as Cum Laude, and you got your master''s degree. In fact, you are overqualified. You should work in the main branch instead!"


    "The reason I am only an acting director, right? Oh, my gosh! I didn''t tell Vincent about it yet!" Hailey covered her mouth upon realizing it.


    "Then tell him it''s just temporary." Gigi winked. It satisfied her with Hailey''s answers and reactions.


    "Ah, yeah. I should exin to him about my part-time job. I have a few sses toplete this semester."


    "Dang! You''ve already taken five courses! How many degrees are you nning toplete?" Gigimented. She assures that her voice is loud to be heard by other guests dining at the neighboring table.


    She was still upset. These women love to gossip about other lives, even though they don''t know that person''s true identity.


    Hailey, on the other hand, only shrugs her right shoulder. She was drinking some water to answer that question.


    But Gigi had another n. She called a waiter. "Can I talk to your manager?"


    Although the waiter suddenly felt nervous staring at Gigi''s solemn facial expression, he still smiled and replied politely. "I''ll call him right away, ma''am!"


    The waiter rushed toward the manager, and it took just three minutes; the manager approached their table in a sh.


    "Good evening, Miss Chan and Miss Hillson. What can I do for you?" The restaurant manager politely greeted them.


    Manager Lee was sweating to find out that President Shen''s girlfriend is Gigi Chan''spany tonight. He is particrly nervous about her as a guest in this hotel. Of course, by all means, they have to satisfy her with their service. They must provide any request she asks them, and that includes serving well whoever she''s with.


    "Manager Lee, good evening. I have an important request to ask you." Gigi began with a smile on her face, but her tone is stern.


    "Yes, Miss Chan! Whatever it is, I will do everything I can." Manager Lee assures. Although he grows wary about this request. He must please these very important guests among everyone else.


    "I want to rent these three tables near us. Also, I will pay for everything that they''ve ordered tonight. So, I want to clear out these tables ASAP."


    "I¡­" Manager Lee was dumbfounded upon hearing such a request. He would be in trouble if he didn''t handle this matter properly.


    The people who dined in this restaurant were all VIP members. He could not just drive them away to leave the restaurant.


    On the other hand, Hailey was stunned by what Gigi had asked. She stared at her with unbelievable facial expressions written on her face. She was never ustomed to using her power and influence publicly.


    "Why would you do that?" she asked Gigi. Hailey looked at the manager and said, "It''s alright. That is unnecessary, Manager Lee."


    The manager is about to sigh with relief, but Gigi refutes. "Do you want me to contact Vincent and report to him that his soon-to-be-wife was insulted? Or I will sue these people for nder?"


    What Gigi had said got the Knights'' attention. It was Bruce who rushed to their table and queried.


    "What happens, Miss Hailey?"


    "Good thing that you are here, Bruce. Why don''t you call your boss and tell him that people are spreading false news? I am sure that Vincent would not be happy once he read a news article." Gigi could not stay quiet, and she has no n now to remain silent watching Hailey nder by these people. She then went on,


    "PRESIDENT VINCENT SHEN''S GIRLFRIEND WAS APPOINTED AS BRANCH DIRECTOR BECAUSE HE INVESTED A HANDSOME AMOUNT IN THE COMPANY!"


    "What humor, Miss Chan. So what if Miss Hillson stands as director of the branch office? I am certain that Miss Hillson was capable of managing the office as President Shen trusts his girl¡ª, I mean his soon-to-be-wife."


    "President Shen has no investment in ourpany! I hate when people make assumptions about other people''s lives! So I want these tables to be clean!"


    "Enough! You don''t need to make a scene with a minor matter."


    "It''s not a minor matter, Hail! It was ourpany! You also owned thispany! How dare these people to gossip about you with baseless proof!"


    Hailey widened her eyes. She gives Gigi warning stares to stop before she deres to the world that she is Hailee Davies. Her true identity should remain a secret even if people learned that Hailey Hillson is a rich woman.


    "Why don''t you announce you invested One Billion US Dors to Metro City Group of Companies to save this mall and hotel from sinking?"


    Everyone was shocked. They were thinking how bad the Metro City Garden''s standing was at the moment? But President Shen''s girlfriend is this wealthy?


    "Is that true?"


    "Are they going bankrupt soon?"


    "That won''t happen, but they have been doing a lot of renovationtely." Questions are now arising in the restaurant.


    "That''s right! Miss Hillson is indeed invested in MCGC through Cole Holdings, and she is my business partner. We recently invested a billion US dors, and with this investment, all the projects they''ve started have now proceeded, including the expansion of Metro City Garden and this hotel," Keith attests.


    With his statement, everyone would believe him as Congressman Vasquez''s son-inw.


    "And on behalf of Miss Hillson, I am her representative of taking care of her business affairs to MCGC, the reason I was here in P Country." Pitt chimed in.


    "Technically, she owns a huge percentage of this hotel." Gigi echoed. She added, "I''m just asking a few tables, not to empty the entire restaurant. What do you think, Manager Lee?"


    Hailey dropped her mouth open. She wants to p her forehead from shock because Gigi doesn''t want to stop, and the boys certify the ims.


    Now there is no turning back. So much mess to settle from here on!

 Chapter 190 - Want To Puke Remembering His Face

    <h4>Chapter 190 - Want To Puke Remembering His Face</h4>


    What happened this evening causes things drastically changed, and she could not stop the news from spreading. She was d she indirectly confessed to Vince about her true identity the other night.


    Whenever the news reaches him, he wouldn''t be shocked anymore, or else it will be a long exnation, and he might have misunderstood everything then.


    At the moment, she looks at the bright side instead. This evening''s revtion is a huge advantage on her part. She didn''t need to be cautious whenever she wanted to meet up with her knights and work things for her ownpany.


    She may still need to be careful because of Liam, but she no longer has to hide moving around as everyone in the city keeps an eye on her actions. This time people would stop giving her a judgment look¡ªwho they prayed she made a mistake to fire the issue and destroy her name in front of Vincent''s eyes.


    But people don''t know that Vincent has been in love with her for a long time already. Whatever rumor they did before, Vincent overlooked it. The reason all women hate her, including Zenaida Lan.


    After the scene a while ago, the people Gigi wished to disappear were voluntarily leaving the restaurant. Not only that, more tables are now empty after they feel guilty. They were one of these people who loved to nder Vincent''s girlfriend in the past.


    Most of these guests at that restaurant judge Hailey ever since the gossip broke out that she is Vincent Shen''s mistress. Openly or in secret gatherings, they would love to talk about this foreign ESCORT, who suddenly appeared in Metro City.


    She was always a dessert at every party''s gossip she attended when Vincent took her as his date.


    And now it revealed the truth. They felt embarrassed to even look in her direction. Those stern nces and arrogant gazes have gone but feeling shame to themselves.


    "Finally, the air is cleaner this time than before." Gigi sighs with satisfaction.


    Hailey could only shake her head. Sipping some wine in her ss, she swallowed the liquor and pursed her lips. "You should not do that."


    She''s pointing out the part Gigi wanted everyone to leave the restaurant. Although these people constantly throw judgment at her, she never cares about their opinion.


    "I can''t stand it anymore!" Gigi stressed out. She''s frowning at Hailey for not doing anything about these people. They need a p on their faces!


    She went on, "Since I arrived in this city, all I heard are people spreading false gossip about you! I wanted to do this during theunch, but I know it will be a bad image for our store. But this time, I don''t care anymore!"


    "Alright! Calm down. Thank you for being my voice." She told Gigi. She knew Gigi would stand up as a reliable older sister to her, and she felt lucky about that.


    "That at least I could do," Gigi exined. "You know, these people''s wrong assumptions must end. They don''t know who they were insulting! They were worms, but you are a butterfly! Let the bird eat them!"


    She giggled at Gigi''s phrase. That was sweet of her and funny at the same time. "So you are the bird, then?"


    "Not, but your boyfriend. He should be the one taking care of these worms."


    "He''s protecting me from them. It was my choice not to give a big deal about them."


    "Humph! Not anymore!"


    "Yeah. So thank you for being my big sister."


    "Of course! And I''m not doing this because I owe you my life. I consider you a genuine friend and my little sister. I wished you happiness, and I could see you find it with Vince. People should stop misjudging you."


    "Don''t make me cry now." Suddenly, a warm feeling surging in her chest connected to her eyes.


    Gigi is the same as well. Those painful memories suddenly flooded in her head that made her emotional. And so, before they both cry, they change their topic. It''s a good thing that their food now serves; they began eating.


    "I already ordered something for you. It was your favoritemb steak and vegetable sds, so add other dishes you would like as well."


    "Thank you." She told Gigi with a timid smile across her face.


    Later on, Gigi notices that she''s not eating at all. "What''s wrong? Don''t you like what I order? Do you prefer Italian cuisine?"


    "Hm? Oh, I''m fine! It probably exhausted me from answering calls and exining to some people before I came here," she reason''s out.


    "How about Uncle Jacob? What did he say about your announcement?" Gigi asked curiously. She mused, ''If Hailey is having a hard time exining to her dad, I would love to help her.''


    "Dad and I haven''t talked yet. But I told Kris, let dad find my post."


    "What do you think his reaction would be?"


    "Honestly? I don''t know. But I''m hoping he will give me a chance to exin." Hailey heaves a long sigh. Suddenly, her head was throbbing.


    "I think as long as you are honest with him, he''ll understand. And possibly, he will ept Vincent without a problem."


    "I''m praying so," said Hailey.


    They continued chatting, and this time, they were discussing tomorrow''s first day opening of the DV Gem Store at Metro City Garden mall. And tomorrow is also the first day for them to take office at one of the Shen Tower in the central city.


    But Gigi could see that Hailey was only pinching her sd. She only set aside all the meat she saw on her te.


    "What''s the matter? Aren''t you eating that? It was your favorite, right?" She grew worried about this girl. "Does what I did earlier bother you? I''m sorry if I¡­."


    "No! It''s fine. Besides, the food tastes good. I love mayo and... But I don''t want to eat the tomato. I think it''s good if it has bacon and ham in it. Also pineapple with a lot of cheese, but I hate this avocado."


    "You are weird. You love avocado. Are you sick?"


    "Or maybe I''m just stressedtely because of Liam. Now I''m craving other food to think about him. I felt like I want to puke remembering his face." Hailey pursed her lips.


    "Hm. I want to puke as well, seeing Galvin''s face. But I am enjoying the food!" Gigi tried to lighten the mood, but Hailey''s energy seems to get lower.


    "Yeah." Hailey continued ying on her te. She pinches the corn with her fork and puts it to her mouth, munching the food slowly.


    Gigi continues observing her behavior. She thinks something is wrong with her. "You know what? You aren''t eating at all. You are only ying with your food."


    "I''m just thinking a lot. That''s why I don''t have the appetite." She tried to make excuses because she truly has no appetite.


    "Okay. But so, not like you. I know that you have never been saying no to food."


    "Maybe one reason is that I''m missing Vince. You know. We haven''t talked about my true identity yet. Even though he showed no resentment toward my lies, I must not take it lightly. I need to exin everything to him, including Eva, that the guy she''s living with after getting married is my best friend, now my ex-fiance. And Liam, who is a threat to him. Liam is ready to kill anyone that is a love interest of mine." Hailey''s litany and she felt out of breath.


    "I know that. So it is even the reason you have to eat rather than stressing yourself thinking about anything."


    "Yeah. I have to force myself to eat. I nagged Vince when he missed eating on time. But then I''m the one not eating properly."


    "Yeah. So stop ying with your food."


    Hailey giggles. "You sounded like a mom."


    "I would discipline my children, yes!"


    "That''s a wonderful feeling..." Hailey paused when her eyes caught something, and she blurted out suddenly.


    "Oh, my gosh! That''s yummy!"


    Gigi saw how her eyes twinkled with excitement. She followed the direction where Hailey set sights at.

 Chapter 191 - Black Forest Cake

    <h4>Chapter 191 - ck Forest Cake</h4>


    Gigi turned her head and searched which one Hailey was talking about. She saw a family of five that seemed to celebrate someone''s birthday tonight.


    "Are you talking about that cake?" she asked Hailey, looking at the table at four o''clock behind her. Hailey nodded, drooling at the cake for real.


    "I want a slice of that," she uttered like a little girl.


    "Then why don''t we order ayer of that?" Gigi suggested. However, Hailey shook her head.


    "No. I want to ask for a slice." She insisted on Gigi.


    "Seriously? Why would you ask for a slice from someone if we can buy a lot of it?"


    "But I want to be given to me. I mean, for free." She smiled sweetly with the sparks of her innocent eyes.


    "You''re showing your charming behavior, dammit." Gigi cusses, averting her gaze from meeting her eyes. If Hailey acted like this, she couldn''t resist! "Hail, we don''t know these people! I don''t think it is proper to ask for a share if we can buy one. Why would we ask for a slice if we can order?"


    "I told you I don''t want to eat if I''m going to pay for it."


    "What does that mean? Why are you acting so weird tonight? I don''t know what is happening to you. I mean it, Hail." Gigi sighs helplessly, watching her mouth twitching like a spoiled brat who didn''t get what she wants.


    "I wanted to eat some of it." Hailey even pointed her lips at the food.


    "How about if I paid for it, then I will give it to you?"


    Hailey pondered about it. She weighed if she liked that idea. Later, she finally agreed. Gigi called a waiter to order a ck Forest Cake.


    "Can you add a strawberry on top of it? And maybe caramel syrup?" Hailey told the waiter.


    Gigi, we''re shocked listening to her request. "That was too sweet already! Do you wish to have diabetes? And strawberries are not usual to top a ck forest. And caramel syrup?"


    Gigi continued toin, but she saw that Hailey''s eyes began watering. It stunned her why this girl is such a baby tonight.


    "Okay, fine! But they sure don''t have a ck forest with caramel syrup and strawberries as toppings instead of cherries."


    "Yay!" Hailey cheered. She looked at the waiter, who was stunned for a second. Her eyes are hopeful of granting her request.


    The waiter is trying to figure out how to exin that they don''t have that sort of ck forest chocte cake. But he could not reject the order because the customer is someone he should not offend or mess up with. Everyone just learned a while back she is a big investor in this hotel!


    "Well... Ahem! We don''t have the one you order, madam. But maybe the chef can do something about it. I will ask the pastry chefs if that can be possible."


    "Really? Then I''ll be waiting!"


    The waiter couldn''t refuse at all. He nodded and excused himself. He runs to the manager and exins the situation he''s gotten into.


    "Manager, I''m very sorry! I cannot say no! She is President Vincent Shen''s girlfriend!"


    "You did wrong. However, we can''t reject her order." The manager rushed to the kitchen, where the waiter was tailing him. "Listen, people! We have a situation!"


    The manager announced, and all the chefs and kitchen workers stopped whatever they were doing.


    *


    Hailey has been ncing at her wristwatch. She''s waiting for the waiter toe back with her cake.


    "Stop looking at your watch. It''s been just like ten minutes since the waiter left."


    "But he shoulde back now."


    "Silly! Your order is not on their menu book! The chefs are just trying to prepare your cake, so be patient."


    After another ten minutes, the waiter served the ck forest cake to their table. Hailey instantly drooled, staring at the dessert.


    "Here¡­ this is all for you. I''m not having fond of sweets." Gigi pushed the cake toward Hailey, but she frowned.


    "I only wanted a slice."


    Gigi tried to figure out what was going on with Hailey as her moods seem off. This girl is pretty spoiled. But she is weirder this time.


    "Alright! I''m going to slice it!" She gives up studying Hailey''s behavior.


    Gigi picked up the cake server that also uses as a slicer. She did a diagonal slice, but before she could slice the other side, Hailey coughs.


    "You want bigger?" she asked the girl.


    Hailey smiled and nodded. Gigi rolled her eyes and moved the cake server to make a one-fourth-sized slice of cake. But Hailey coughs again.


    "You want me to slice bigger than this?" She asked softly, trying to keep her patience and understand this girl acting like she wanted to be pampered tonight. She can''t get upset when her eyes canpare to a cute white Siberian husky pup! She owned one when she is little, so she knew how pretty it was.


    Gigi made a big slice and ced the cake on Hailey''s te, and dumped all the strawberries on the side.


    She watched how Hailey excitedly scooped a portion of cake and put it in her mouth. She looks like an angel, pping wings of how bright her face and her eyes twinkling from delight.


    Gigi shrugs any thought at the back of her head. She''s now satisfied to see Hailey was in a good mood. She then texted Tom, and the guy turned in her direction.


    He leaned over, and she whispered to him. "I don''t want to eat any sweets tonight. You finish it."


    Tom looks at her with sad eyes. He muttered, "So it means it''s a no tonight?"


    Gigi didn''t understand Tom. But she had a feeling that his head had a silly thought at the moment. ring at the guy, she mouthed, "What are you talking about?"


    Tom grins and whispers, "I am sweeter than any food on this. You can have a taste of me for free. Even for life, I am yours forever."


    Gigi smacks Tom''s shoulder. "Don''t start with me! We havepany!"


    She was flushing red from embarrassment! It worries her that the other men heard Tom. This guy''s shamelessness has no restraints!


    But it flutters her heart hearing him saying those sweet quotes. It sounded his confession like a joke, but Tom said that he is serious, and her heart believes him.


    While the two of them are flirting, Pitt nced at the princess, who is now happily eating a big slice of cake. Like it''s the entire cake. Gigi actually only had a small portion. Hailey was just having a tantrum and wanted to see she sliced the cake. She thinks it was weird, and this still leaves a mystery to her.


    Realizing what is happening, Pitt widened his eyes and blurted out. "Holy shot! When does she like ck forest cake?"


    "Yeah. I remember she''s not too fond with a moist cake." Tom chimed in.


    "Why does she suddenly like to eat a whole ck forest cake?" asked Pitt one more time like it was a huge mystery of the history. The men on the table just shrug their shoulders for not understanding what is going on either.


    *


    Next on:


    Before Hilda went to bed, she went inside to her walk-in closet, halted to where she keeps her jewelry. She opens a drawer and takes out the purple velvet box. She ces it on the table and opens the lid.


    One more time, she scanned the pieces of jewelry that she received from her son. Vincent''s girlfriend designed these pieces, but she''s still touched that her son thought of something special for her birthday.


    In these passing months, they have a terrible rtionship because she was against his affair. Now she could feel that her son tried to reconcile with her.


    Hilda put back the box on her jewelry drawers when she heard a knock.


    "Hilda, your phone doesn''t stop ringing, and messages keeping. What''s going on? I can''t sleep because of the noise!"


    Hilda red at Fred. She snatches her phone and checks the call history. She wondered why her friends contacted herte at night. And even her assistant.


    Hilda selects one message and reads it.


    "Hilda, do you know that your son''s mistress is wealthier than you?"


    Hilda typically would be shocked by this kind of news. She wondered where these women get the story or if this is new gossip, spreading false information. She dialed Crissa''s phone number to query.


    "What''s going on? What are they talking about!?"

 Chapter 192 - Paid With My Body

    <h4>Chapter 192 - Paid With My Body</h4>


    After the sessfulunchst night, Hilda is one of the highlights in the news the following day. It was all over in the social media regarding Vincent''s birthday gift in advance.


    He gave his mom a personalized emerald and diamond set of jewelry. They praised him as a good and generous son.


    With that, the critique also gives their guesses of how much it cost him. One review says that the ne alone cost a million dors, and that is in US currency.


    Furtherments, they studied the ne. Its chain was made of emeralds and diamonds in a cushion cut linking to one another. And its pendant is a one and a half-inch size emerald in a pear cut with diamonds around it.


    Hilda was one of the favorite public figures in all Entertainment news on TV, magazines, and tabloids when she was younger until recent years. And since social media tforms appeared, such as websites, FB pages, Instagram ounts, etc... She again proves that she is the queen of media.


    All the information consistently earns high ratings and views on all tforms every time an article releases about Madam Hilda Lopez Shen.


    And that morning, after Hilda read all the articles about her, she made a phone call to her son. However, at the moment, Vincent is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.


    "Hello, mom?" He answered.


    If it weren''t for his mom, who phoned him at the moment, he would not realize that he didn''t tell his parents he was in the country, but then, now he rushes to the US for emergency matters.


    It disappears in his mind after he learns that Hailey is Hailee Davies, his boss. After that revtion, his mind was flooded with many thoughts, and then the bombing at the Shang Hotel and Casino added to his concerns.


    "Where are you? I can''t reach your mobile number. I tried your Instagram, and it looks like it is working."


    "Oh. I switched it into a roaming number. What''s the matter?"


    "Are you going back to Australia now? Your dad didn''t know, isn''t he?" Hilda''s voice is sulking.


    "Ah, not yet, mom. There is an emergency I must attend to. I will be somewhere in a few days."


    Hilda heaves a sigh. She was happy that her son gives her a beautiful gift, but hepletely forgets to contact her once in a while. Now she would learn that he''s out of the country. Unlike before, she knew all of his whereabouts.


    It all began since he was in a rtionship with that girl. She bes a viin to his love life because she was against the affair. And because she opposes it, Vincent stopsmunicating with her, and it hurts her that her son is ready to cut his rtionship with his mother.


    She felt defeated. The reason she tried to drive that girl away. But despite how much she offered, that girl never epts it nor feels threatened. She never showed interest in money at all.


    She offered money to stay away from Vincent, but only this girl was never frightened of her. What happened instead, this girl would tell her son! Of course, she''ll grow angry. How dare she tell Vincent that she offered his girlfriend some check to leave the city or the country?


    She bes the terrible mother in Vincent''s eyes because of what she''d done. But of course, her son is married! At least if he wants to remarry, it should be someone who could save him the time things went wrong!


    She may be the head of the Lopez family for the time being, but she knew that family members would snatch everything if they see Vincent is not fit and easy to destroy.


    "Okay, son. Everything is fine here. I''m just trying to reach out to invite you for dinner here in the mansion. I want to thank you in person for giving me such a gift."


    "Um..."


    "Of course! You can bring her with you." Hilda added before her son could reply to her. She knew Vincent would reject her invitation if she insisted she wanted him alone toe. Her son would choose that girl over her.


    On the other line, it surprised Vincent for a moment. If he isn''t mistaken and heard it clearly, his mom wants him to bring Hailey along.


    He pursed his lips into a smile. "We love to, mom. Hailey and I wille by and visit you guys. Right now, I''m on my way to the US."


    "Huh? Is she not with you?"


    "No, mom. Hailey was still in the hotel. I left before the morning broke out."


    "What''s the matter? Is everything okay?" What could be a problem that her son has to go to the US that early?


    "Mom, the Shangs have a huge problem, so I''m going to check out."


    "Oh, right! The casino was bombed the other day. I heard about it. I thought you were still in Australia, so we didn''t bother you about that news. Then, they were asking for your present."


    "Yeah. Theo wants me to look at it to see what work needs to be done. He doesn''t want to dy the restoration after the investigation. The operation must resume soon. They have a lot of workers that are out of a job at the moment. The hotel earns very well in the passing year."


    Hilda hummed from the other line. Her son had invested in the hotel, and he is also a Board Member, so he must take part in it.


    "Alright. I understand that you have to rush. But how about your work in Australia?" Hilda asked with curiosity and worry.


    Vincent''s projects are left and right now, which her son never forgets to give time for his girlfriend. He is undoubtedly in love with this girl. Probably she is also the reason he works too hard. Well, he always does, but something is differenttely. There are so many things that are happening.


    Hilda fell into thoughts. She came back to her senses after she heard Vincent speak on the other line.


    "Mom, are you still there?"


    "Ah, yes. I''m sorry. What did you say?"


    "I said the senior engineers could take care of the preparation for the groundbreaking, and I think for dad to be there."


    "Oh, great! I will tell your dad about it." Hilda eximed from the other line.


    "Thanks, mom. I''lle back soon, then let us have a nice dinner."


    "Okay. Come back home soon, yes. I''ll look forward to it."


    Vincent fell into a moment of silence. He''s happy that his mom is slowly epting Hailey. That is all he wishes from his parents. To give their blessings because it''s only Hailey he wants to spend his life with forever. She is the only wife he wanted to have, who then to mother his children.


    "Mom, do you have other things to tell me?" he asked afterward, breaking out the silence between them.


    "Oh, well. I also made this call to ask you about something. Afterst night, everyone is curious about your gift to me. There are several international entertainment news and fashion editors who want to set an interview with me. They brief me ahead that one question will be about the cost of your gift. They wanted to feature the jewelry, so I have to answer how much the jewelry set is."


    "Oh, really?"


    "Yes. The funny thing is, everyone had guessed already regarding the amount. Now it made me curious as well. Is it true that it is worth two million US dors?"


    Vincent had just realized it. He didn''t know how much it cost him. He entrusted Hailey to ess his bank ount to pay for everything. Still, he didn''t receive a notification that he purchases two million US dors except for the couple rings he ordered.


    It didn''t cost like the set of jewelry Hailey gave to his mom, but it was also worth so much. However, it does not matter the cost; either Hailey or his mom deserves more.


    But now his mom asks about it. Could it be possible that Hailey didn''t make any transaction of payment from his bank ount? Instead, was it her gift alone?


    Oh, and he could not tell his mom about it yet that Hailee is actually the owner of DV Inc.pany, so it was a piece of cake if she''ll give his mom a set of jewelry.


    That''s right. He could not tell his mom the truth because Hailee Davies hasn''t revealed to the public that he is her fiance. Now it made him curious if what will be his mom''s reaction if he''ll tell her the truth like this¡ª


    ''Mom, Hailey didn''t charge me any amount because she was the owner of DV Gem.''


    Ah, he has another idea!


    ''Mom, actually, I don''t know how much that set of jewelry is because your son paid for it with his body. Hailey is the DV Inc. owner.''


    Or,...


    ''Mom, your son paid for it with his body. How much do you think your son''s worth? You know I am not cheap!''


    Vincent chuckled at the silly thoughts inside his head, and thest one is terrible. If he actually told his mom with these crazy thoughts he had, either before she passes out, she would smack him on the head for being a naughty son babbling about sensual stuff.


    Meanwhile, at the other line, Hilda was wondering why her son suddenlyughs at her query. ''What''s funny with my query? Why is heughing now?''


    "Ahem!" Vincent clears his throat. "Well, mom. I will ask Hailey how much she purchased the jewelry set. Honestly, I do not know either. I haven''t received a bank statement yet."


    It was what Vincent came up with. He could not tell her that, possibly; it was Hailey''s gift alone. Of course, no one knew yet that his mistress is the owner of DV Inc., so first, he needs to consult Hailey from now on.

 Chapter 193 - Because Her Son Is Married?

    <h4>Chapter 193 - Because Her Son Is Married?</h4>


    Hilda did not prolong the conversation; she ended the call since Vincent was on a trip. She turned off her phone and headed back to the indoor pool where she had breakfast with Fred, who was leisurely sitting on the sofa while having coffee. Now, Carl joins them.


    She sat down across from the two men; she poured tea on an empty teacup, but she only stared at it with a nk expression on her face.


    Fred and Carl exchange a nce after watching her heaving a long sigh. The two men both knew how the media was hype in publishing an article about herst night.


    Carl, who is in the mood to make fun of his aunt, winks at his uncle. On his way into the corridor a while ago, he heard his aunt talking on the phone; he found out it was Vincent, which she mentioned having dinner or something.


    "Uncle!"


    Fred, who was carefully sipping on the newly served brewed coffee, almost had a burn.


    "What the¡­ Can you stop causing me a heart attack, Carl!?" he blurted out, ring at his nephew, who was only grinning at him. "What''s gotten into you?"


    "Guess what, uncle! Aunt Hilda is inviting Vincent for dinner!"


    "And? What makes you so excited about it?" Fred sounded like he wanted to dropped off the topic in an instant.


    Honestly, it surprises him to see his son taking part in the red carpetst night; he didn''t know Vincent came home. His son made the distance like he was only in the neighboring province and then returned home whenever he wanted to see his girlfriend.


    ''That man is burning fuel real good.'' But he understood him. He wants to bnce his work and love life, ying his role as a supportive boyfriend.


    The announcementst night indeed surprised not only him but everyone. Vincent''s girlfriend was appointed as a branch office director.


    "Uncle, are you listening to what I said? Aunt Hilda invited not only Vincent but also his girlfriend!"


    "Ah. She should be," said Fred after he came back to his senses. He added, "Vincent''s girlfriend, who designs that set of jewelry. She should feel gratitude to the girl."


    "Hmm¡­ Do you think aunt changes her mind now?" asked Carl afterward. A new interesting happening in this family.


    Fred replied, "She already did. She wants Vincent to have an heir now."


    "Oh!"


    Carl came back to reality after a sh of recollection. He grins, then asks his aunt.


    "What''s the matter, Auntie? Are you not happy? You were the starst night! Well, Vincent and his girlfriend were number one in the search engine, but you have more articles than them!"


    "Yeah. Everyone is interested in your gift." Fred chimed in, but she acted like she wasn''t interested at all.


    "I''m trying to contact Vincent, but then I learn he''s out of the country again."


    "Why do you want to talk to our son?" asked Fred. "Are you going to thank him?"


    "Of course! That is why I want to invite them for dinner. He said some other time. He''ll be back after a few days."


    "Then, let''s have a wonderful dinner once Vincentes back."


    "Yeah." she concurred timidly.


    Fred and Carl shared a nce; then, both pursed their lips into a meaningful smile.


    Later in the day, Hilda busied herself replying to messages. Instead of her day off, Hilda summoned her assistant to the mansion to assist her by answering important phone calls and taking notes.


    Everyone wants a few minutes of her time to schedule a FaceTime meeting and request a physical interview with a photoshoot wearing Vincent''s gift.


    Thesepanies are not just local publishing houses but famous fashion firms throughout the globe. They want to feature her on their websites and multiple social media ounts such as Instagram and Facebook pages.


    Crissa sorted out all the invitations and then discussed with Hilda if she would let them interview her.


    It''s been a while since she received such hype. But she had to pick out more reliable entertainmentpanies to feature her. She is cautious that these publications and fashion firms will ask about her family, particrly Vincent, and highlight his affair since the person who picks out the gift is his girlfriend.


    How could she answer if she were to ask about her son''s mistress? She doesn''t know who and where she came from. It is hard to get a piece of information about that girl, except the announcementst night. She is now an executive of a famous jewelrypany.


    Now that her standing has changed, it won''t drag her son''s reputation down anymore. Maybe things would turn out better from now on?


    Hilda couldn''t sleep yet, even though she''s drained from sorting out her schedules in the next week''s appointments; it looks like she had insomnia tonight. She sat up from the sofa, strode toward her walk-in closet, then halted in front of her jewelry dressers.


    She opens a drawer and takes out the purple velvet box. She ces it on the top dresser and opens the lid.


    One more time, she scanned the pieces of jewelry she received from Vincent. Although his girlfriend designed these pieces, she was still touched by how her son thought of something special for her birthday.


    In these passing months, they have an unpleasant rtionship because she was against his affair. With this gift, she could feel that her son sought to reconcile, making her happy. She also wanted to fix their mother and son rtionship.


    Hilda put the box in the drawer with a smile; she heard a constant knock on the door. She opened it and saw Fred standing in front of the closet, waving her cellphone whileining at her.


    "Hilda, your phone doesn''t stop ringing, and messages keeping. What''s going on? I can''t sleep because of the noise!"


    Hilda red at Fred. She snatches her phone and checks the call history. She wondered why her friends contacted herte at night, and even her assistant rang her several times.


    Hilda selects one message and reads it.


    Hilda typically would be shocked by the news. She wondered where these women got the story or new gossip in the city, spreading false information.


    To have an answer, she returns Crissa''s call to query. "What''s going on here? What are they talking about!?"


    "Madam Shen, it was a news story that just came in a half-hour ago," Crissa answered.


    "What kind of news? Is that even a legit one?" suspiciously, she asked her assistant.


    "I sent the link, Madam, for you to read the post on Facebook shared for almost a hundred thousand now!"


    "What? A post on FB that was shared for almost a hundred thousand now just half an hour had passed?"


    "Yes, Madam Shen! There are also posts on Instagram by several people! Even Jessie May posted on her Instagram!"


    Hilda grew interested in what post this is. Jessie May is a famous actress that did a few Hollywood movies, and all were blockbuster hits.


    She hung up the call and checked Crissa''s messages. She presses the link; she''s brought to the original post on FB.


    *


    Guess what? My sister-inw invited me to dine at this hotel restaurant where I am staying for a week. Then, a beautiful woman walks in. But to my surprise, the tables next to ours started gossiping about her. They imed her only as a mistress and criticized that she only got an executive position at DV Inc. because her boyfriend invested enormously in thepany.


    Yes. I met herst night. During the event, she was appointed as Asia Branch Office Director. The boyfriend they were talking about is none other than is President Vincent Shen of SHEN GROUP, an international construction firm to those who didn''t know whatpany Shen Group is.


    Furthermore¡­ No one noticed that Gigi Chan was just at the nearby table, and she seemed to hear everything.


    Who didn''t know Gigi Chan? She''s upset and starts throwing a fuss. She wanted to empty the three tables near us. I know why. They ndered Miss Hillson, so Gigi wanted these people to leave the restaurant because they were spreading false information! President Shen did not invest, ording to Gigi Chan.


    Well, read this first¡­ The moment Miss Hillson sat down at their table, Gigi Chan questioned her college credentials. And guess what? Miss Hillson answered. She graduated andpleted her master''s degree at Oxford University in the UK!


    And what course did she take? It''s Economics and Business! Not only that, she graduated as Cum Laude! And that''s not the only course she took! She had five different courses! Imagine that? Now I''m not surprised why Vincent Shen set his eyes on her!


    Only someone like Hailey Hillson could captivate Vincent Shen''s heart! And let''s admit, we witnessedst night, he is head over heels to his girlfriend! But wait! There''s more!


    Recently, Miss Hailey Hillson invested ONE BILLION US DOLLARS in Metro City Group of Companies! I mean, she is a part-owner of this hotel! Like, oh my gosh! My family owns apany with a worth of several billion in P Country currency, and my husband is doing business for a million US dors a year. And topare? I am still considered a peasant as to how wealthy she is!


    If she has a sister or a twin sister, I would love to meet her and set a blind date with my CEO brother! LoL!


    I jumped inside my head after Gigi Chan pped thosedies on their faces with the truth! dly they volunteered to leave the restaurant! They should feel shame! LMAO!


    *


    Hilda copsed on the footbed. What is this girl talking about? The new investor is Hailey?


    She is trying to process everything she learns at the moment. There is another post saying that Hailey is also the co-owner of DV Inc.pany.


    ''What is going on here? Does it mean Vincent''s mistress is not just simply an international student here in Metro City as they called her an International ESCORT Girl! Then taking a course in Hotel and Restaurant Management is just another course she wanted toplete?''


    Meaning she isn''t just an ordinary girl!


    Hilda is trying to recall all of their encounters. She first met her in a restaurant doing a waitress job. Then, she must only help out that night. Then why is she even working in a coffee shop that her sister owns? And even ying chef!


    So, why is she hiding her identity? Is it because her son is married?


    Hilda breathed deeply. Her head is suddenly throbbing from all the information she learned tonight!

 Chapter 194 - Why Hailey Hillson Was Born?

    <h4>Chapter 194 - Why Hailey Hillson Was Born?</h4>


    The following day, since they had only invited limited guests during theunching party, now the store had hundreds of customers waiting outside on its first day of opening.


    Metro City Garden Police have to guard the area against media reporters and paparazzi trying to enter the store. To have a peaceful business flow in the store, they limit how many customers can get inside and look around.


    The store offers 35% for wedding rings. Clients from around Asia came here today to avail themselves of a great deal and ce an order. Although it was avable online, the couples came personally to give specific designs of their wedding rings.


    And to control the crowd in today''s opening, Hailey''s knights help by guiding the customers to fall in line and announcing for the next group to enter the store.


    "Hello, everyone! My name is Hansen Park! If you are a walk-in customer, please fall in line on the right side. While for clients who registered online, please take the line on the left side. We will assist you with all of our best. We are offering a cup of brewed coffee, espresso, and a cafette in this area. Please, help yourself. Thank you for your patience." Hansen bowed.


    "Oh, nice!" Everyone rejoices with this news. Free coffee and a Krisp Donut disyed on a long table.


    "Hey. Have you noticed? Today''s store assistants are all handsome?"


    "Oh, my gosh! Are they models hired by DV Gem?"


    "Why are they all so handsome!?"


    "I never see them on TV or in social media! So then, which entertainment do theye from?"


    "Maybe they were fitness influencers!"


    "You are right! But maybe they were also models from Calvin Klein!"


    "Or from Burberry and Hugo Boss! Those suits are expensive!"


    "That must be!"


    Soon the words spread through social media. Shoppers came in front of the DV Gem store not to fall in line or get a free coffee but to take a picture with Hailey''s Knights. Soon the crowd went crazy that the mall police had to do something with it, especially since the grand opening turned into a star-studded event.


    Local actors and celebrities from other Asian countries showed up at today''s opening. The media can''t get enough pictures of these celebrities waiting outside of the store, falling in line patiently.


    As artists, their smiles remain on their lips, pose for a couple of pictures when asked, and ept a brief interview.


    "Sure, thispany brought a lot of celebrities into one ce!" said one paparazzo.


    "You said it! I interviewed several actors a while back!" another journalist chimed in. They were happy to gather several resources for a write-up in the next few days.


    Now that the store opening went well, Hailey was preparing to head at DV Inc. Asia Branch Office at one o''clockter today. She moves the schedule to the afternoon to not make everyone''s schedule chaotic for the entire day.


    Dana and Leticia were helping Fraine with the store opening in the morning. Later, the twodies will join her and Gigi for the branch office opening in the afternoon.


    "Pitt, how are things going?" Hailey constantly asks her knights as she wants to monitor the happening in the mall. She trusts the safety within the mall vicinity, but she won''t take a rest knowing Liam was roaming around the city, waiting for a chance to get to her.


    On the other line, Pitt replied, "It''s a little chaotic out here, Princess. The store is now crowded because of the knights assisting with the opening. They all came to see my handsomeness."


    Haileyughed out loud when someone acted like puking in the other line, following Pitt''s stressing voice.


    "Hansen Park! How dare you!"


    Hailey shook her head. These two cousins indeed are very close. They always joke around with each other. However, it looks like Hansen came close to the phone and made a sound of vomiting from disgust after Pitt carried his chair, praising his handsomeness.


    "Alright. Both of you stop! My stomach hurts!" Haileyins from the other end of the call. She tried to stopughing and talk in a serious tone afterward. Finally, she dered, "Pitt, we need to pull them out soon. Can you tell Keith to rece them with his men? I''m going out to visit the store before I head to the Shen Tower. I need you all in the office then."


    "Copy, Princess."


    Hailey ended the call; she then dialed another phone number. "Fraine? I have something for you to announce..."


    *


    Pitt put back his phone in his coat pocket after making a call to Keith and contacting the other knights.


    "Hanz, I''m going to pick up the Princess. But, first, make sure that the ce is clear of Liam''s men."


    "Yes, sir!" Hanz salutes.


    Pitt red at the guy and twitched his mouth. This cousin of his is so stiff if he is not in the mood to bug him. "Can''t you smile? You should smile today, Hanz!"


    "I''m not like you who flirt everywhere." Hansen frowned.


    Pitt stressed out. Honestly, this cousin of his is a killjoy. "This is the opening of the Princess''s branch store. You are driving the customers away!"


    Hansen signs. He then purses his lips into a forced smile that makes Pitt dig a pit out of frustration.


    "The hell! Smile genuinely! Like you see your crush! Not like a dog sweating!"


    Hansen''s forehead ckened from hisments. He wishes to smack Pitt''s head for making fun of him. Does he look like a dog hanging out his tongue? What kind of facial expression is that? He could not imagine what it looked like!


    "I don''t have a crush," Hansen said, raising a brow as he felt ridiculous about how Pitt is acting childish suddenly.


    "Dammit, Hanz! The reason you have no girlfriends!"


    "Really? Said who?" Honestly, Hanz just wanted to poke fun with Pitt. He could smile adequately, but he''s messing up with his cousin all the time. Besides, he doesn''t find the girl who deserves his smile except for his close friends like the princess.


    Giving up, Pitt waves his hand, dismissing him. "Go, pick up the Princess. I will be the one to watch the store. Maybe Liam will use another way to send someone to get near the Princess today."


    Hanz nodded. He turned around and called another two knights to apany him picking up the Princess.


    "Brother Hanz!" Hailey hugged the guy. It surprised her to hear this morning that the guy arrived in Metro City. "Thank you foring! But you don''t need to. I know you have a lot of work now that the Park Electronics annual celebration is approaching. Is it okay for the CEO to disguise as my bodyguard?"


    "Silly. What are you talking about? I am your Knight. Besides, we are dealing with Liam here. So I won''t just sit around inside my office. I''m worried about you, of course."


    Hanz lifted his arms and reached for Hailey''s head. Later on, he realized that he was making a mistake. He apologized.


    "Ah... " he chuckled. "I''m sorry. It seems like a habit of mine."


    Hailey smiled. She shook her head and said, "I''m always your little Hailey, of course!"


    "But knowing you grew this tall." Hansen motioned his hand.


    Hailey giggled. She then noticed that Hansen''s eyes kept staring at the rings on her fourth finger.


    "And you are getting married soon, huh? So you''re not little anymore!"


    "Not too soon yet!" she said andughed. But then she noticed something on Hansen''s suit. There is lipstick on it. "Oh, gosh! Do you have a girlfriend now, and you bring her along, brother Hanz?"


    Hailey asked excitedly. Not only that, her eyes twinkled with excitement. Hanz scratched his temple. How could he exin this to the Princess, who looks like a cute pup now?


    Well, it all happened a while ago. But he needs toe up with a lie. ''I''m sorry if I can''t tell the truth, Hail!''


    "Ahem! Well, on my way here, I went to the restroom. And when I was going out, I was trying to avoid the crowd, but one girl tripped in front of me, and I caught her."


    "Ah! That was too romantic!" Hailey eximed cheerfully, sping both of her hands. She had known that Hanz is a bachelor like Pitt.


    At first, she does wonder why her Knights have no girlfriends. If there is, they break up so quickly. And whates about next every time that happens, those girls marching toward her and attacking her. She didn''t understand at the beginning.


    Later on, Kelly exined to her why the boys don''t have a girlfriend. They were always used of cheating on their girlfriends, and the girl they pointed out is her.


    It all begins when she''s in Senior High, and the boys take turns to send her to school or pick her up after school with their sports car, then treat her to a coffee shop or ice cream store. She was always called out as the third party.


    How ironic. She was still called the third party until the present. And to think about it now, her disguise started when she''s in Senior High. She began to hide Hailee Davies'' face and identity until it became a habit when she goes out to the public or her dad''s business affairs.


    Hailee Davies better hide, stay reserved, to not judge, but then Hailey Hillson was born¡­


    Her adventure began during college.

 Chapter 195 - He Is Too High Maintenance

    <h4>Chapter 195 - He Is Too High Maintenance</h4>


    Hailey was chatting with Hansen when her phone rang. It was Vincent. She excused herself; she strides toward the floor-ceiling window to answer the call.


    "Hubby?"


    "Hi! How are you? Did you get lunch already?" asked Vince from the other line.


    "I''m fine! Um, I haven''t eaten lunch yet, but I had my snack half an hour ago!" she replied cheerfully. It made her happy that Vince remained thoughtful as before since they were in an actual rtionship.


    "I''m d. Don''t forget to eat soon," he reminded her, which she returned the reminder.


    "Yes, I will. And you too! Don''t forget to have dinner on time."


    "I will," Vince replied¡ªhe went on. "Congrattions on the sess of the store opening. Janise told me how grand it was."


    "Thank you! I wished you were here with me," To share my sess!


    "I always wished that I''ll be by your side all the time." Vince groaned. His voice is too husky, grumbling lovingly from the other line.


    Who would have thought that it was an answered prayer? She is his boss!


    He would have less worry that he could not bring Hailey while working in Dream City. Now, they could be together anytime they wanted.


    "Wifey, tell me if you need anything. Although I asked Zayn to add more Metro City Police around your store, let me know if you face any problems. I heard the store was flooded with clients on its first day."


    Hailey replied, "I will, hubby. Thank you. I am dropping off at the store before I head to Shen Tower for the branch office opening. I''ll see what help we need." It flutters her heart.


    From now on, she could share her daily life with Vince without worrying that identally he would uncover her true identity one day. She feels so great that she has no more secrets from him.


    "Okay, Wifey. I know you were busy for the entire day. Please, message me tonight. I want to hear your voice again."


    Hailey wipes the tears that escape from her eyes. Why is she bing emotional? Is it because she''s too stressedtely? Maybe it was the reason. All she wanted now was to be with Vince. Soon after Vince is done in Las Vegas, it is time to go back to Australia and settle things with Eva.


    Well, Vincent should have got his divorce a long time ago if Liam didn''t meddle in between them! That guy messes up with everything!


    "I would love to, hubby. But isn''t your bedtime by then?" she queried Vince with worry in her voice. She then heard his sexyughs, which cause her heart to beat wildly inside her chest. So this must be what it feels like to be in love.


    "It doesn''t matter. I don''t care to stay all night waiting for your call."


    Ah, she would love to reward this man soon! From the bottom of her heart, she conveyed her feelings.


    "I love you, Vincent Shen."


    "I love you, too. Hailee Hillson Davies."


    A smile parted her lips as tears flooded her eyes.


    *


    After the call, Hailey fixed herself to leave the hotel suite. She announced, "Let''s go, brother Hanz!"


    Hanz smiled, nodding at her. He was only listening to her conversation with her boyfriend. And to his observation, they have a good bond. If he is a reliable man? Then maybe he isn''t so bad at all.


    Walking down the hotel aisle, Bruce and two other knights follow them. In the lobby of that same floor, Keith meets them, and together, they take the elevator.


    "I have two handsome CEOs on my side," Hailey jokes. Both Keith and Hansenugh, along with the other five knights tailing them.


    In the lobby, people could not help gaping at Hailey with awe. Recently, the city was bombarded with a revtion about this famous mistress in Metro City. It shocked everyone that this girl, insulted by many personally or publicly, was wealthier than most families in P Country High Society.


    And even as they learned the truth, she would always be a mysterious girl in their eyes. Then, so suddenly, several gorgeous bodyguards appeared from nowhere in Metro City, which they had never seen before!


    So in their mind is a question, ''Can there be another bomb of truth she''ll throw at them?''


    She sure ps everyone on their faces. That she isn''t just an ordinary woman, but why does she only be someone''s mistress?


    "Is it because Vincent Shen married the reason she hides her identity?" The rumor has been spreading all over the city like wildfire that didn''t make Hilda happy.


    *


    On the fifth floor of Metro City Garden, everyone stops breathing when a beautiful woman wearing an elegant office outfit of the day steps out of the lift.


    Outside the elevator are handsome men lining up on both sides, escorting this stunning woman. They walk in sync, protecting her from all situations that would happen. But, after news came out of how wealthy she is, it does not surprise them anymore to see several bodyguards surrounding her.


    Hailey walks straight to the store, but the media blocked their way. Instead, everyone wanted to throw questions at her.


    "Miss Hillson, can you answer our question? Why did you hide your true identity?"


    "Miss Hillson, how much is the jewelry set you designed for Madam Hilda Shen?"


    "Can you tell us how much its prices are?" asked one reporter.


    "Everyone would love to own the jewelry you designed. But, is it true that it costs two million US dors?"


    "Miss Hillson, please choose my question!"


    Hailey sweeps her eyes to all the cameras pointed at her. She turned her head toward the direction where thest person she heard speak and gave her permission that made everyone shut up immediately to listen.


    "Yes, go on."


    This person came over and spoke.


    "Miss Hillson, this question is regarding the set of jewelry you designed for President Shen''s mother. Someone went to ask Mr. Shen''s financial agent, but he denied that his boss spent two million US dors to pay for the jewelry. So then it means that you did not charge Mr. Shen any amount. Is it because you are one of the DV Inc. owners?"


    Everyone cannot take their eyes off her, waiting eagerly for her answer. They were all wondering what her response would be. Then, suddenly, that part of the mall fell silent, that they were holding even their breaths.


    Soon Hailey smiled and looked at the reporters'' faces. Then, full of cheer, she answered¡­


    "That set of jewelry had only cost me 3.5 Million US Dors. It will take only one night for Mr. Shen to warm my bed. Have a good day, everyone."


    Everyone dropped their mouth upon hearing her answer. They were trying to process its entire meaning; they believe that was not sarcasm nor a joke.


    Indeed, 3.5 Million US Dors is not something to joke around!


    The media wanted to persuade Hailey, who was now entering the store, but the mall police blocked them. They have several questions, but from here on, they have to knock at heaven''s door to get a piece of her with the status that she has.


    *


    M RESORT


    Meanwhile, having lunch at the resort''s Courtyard Restaurant, Jake, Lloyd, and most of Vincent''s close friends glued their eyes to the big screen on the wall where the present happening in the city aired live.


    The news also shocked them like everyone else. No wonder that woman is elegant and always looks stunning in any dresses she wore when Vincent brought her along with him.


    They already have been noticing how ssy and intelligent she is. Now the mysteries unravel! She''s wealthy as hell!


    "Dammit! You need 3.5 million US dors to sleep with someone like Vincent Shen? No wonder he remained a virgin until this rich girl arrived! He''s as expensive as this!" Jake blurted out.


    "Take note, that was only for one night, bro!" one of their friends echoed. And the rest burst outughing and continue gossiping about their friend of how lucky a man he is.


    On the other side of the world, Vincent was astounded, gaping at Rubin, who burst outughing in front of him. They were having a dinner meeting with Theo and the other men when Tim showed Rubin the current news from Metro City.


    He knitted between his eyebrows as he red at his assistant. "What is that, Timothy Cheng!?"


    Instead of answering his boss, Tim lowered his head and continued to eat silently, suppressing hisughter.


    "Damn! Someone like Vincent Shen is too high maintenance!" Rubin eximed amusingly.


    "What is going on, Rubin?" It was Theo who queried. Then someone arrived and joined Rubin tough. "And even you, Matt?"


    "Hey, Vincent Shen! Long time no see!"


    "Agent Matthew Lawrence, nice to see you again." Vincent rose from his chair.


    "Hey, congrats, Vincent!" said Matt as they were shaking hands and giving each other''s back a pat. Then, Matt whispered, "Brother Shun is still deciding whether he will kill you with his own hands, or will I take the honor of beating you to death?"


    Vincent gulped. He started bathing in a cold sweat. Soon after, Mattughed on his stomach and said,


    "That was only a joke, man! Brother Shun wanted to poke fun with you."


    He knew it was! But he would not take that only as a joke! Not when the words are from the Mafia Emperor.


    Hailey''s cousin!

 Chapter 196 - Set An Appointment In Her Office

    <h4>Chapter 196 - Set An Appointment In Her Office</h4>


    After Hailey had the interview, she posted a statement at DV Gem Asia Branch official Instagram ount after half an hour. In her post, with the photo of the jewelry she gave to Hilda Shen, she rifies her response to the interview.


    *Hello everybody, this is Hailey Hillson. I made this post to give some rification in my answer half an hour ago. I felt that my response wasn''t proper, to begin with.


    The night Vincent asked me to help him pick a gift for his mom, it made me truly happy, although I am concerned about whether his mom would like the birthday present I will choose. Nevertheless, I love to help him.


    After Vincent and I talked on the phone, I asked myself. If my mom is still alive, what gift should I give her? What present do I want to receive that I would feel special and loved?


    I grew up receiving a personalized gift from people that are dear to me. And yes, they are expensive. But as I see they were custom made, I was extremely pleased that they prepared a birthday present made just for me.


    So, an idea came to me. How about jewelry, particrly a ne?


    That same night, I worked on my MacBook, and within that night¡ªI finished the design before I went to bed. With the help of an artisan friend who crafted these pieces, my simple design shines.


    And even though Vincent permitted me ess to his bank ount, I did notpensate him with any amount but gave the jewelry out of my love for him.


    How much the jewelry set costs me does not matter, but the person who will receive this gift.


    My love for Vincent is unconditional, and there should be no price to put on it.


    He is sincere in making his mom''s birthday as special as these passing years. And I, to choose a gift for the first woman in his life is such an honor.


    Thank you.*


    With the statement she posted,izens and social media reporters are now storming her post,menting, and hitting the heart button.


    Everyone is praising Hailey and others,menting on how lucky Vincent is to have such a wonderful and thoughtful girlfriend, and so his mom, Hilda Shen, should feel grateful.


    * * *


    It has been days had passed since the DV Gem store opened, Hailey started taking office at Shen Tower.


    Things are running smoothly so far even they were so busy with the orders they''ve received each day. She is grateful that the general store managers from other branches stayed for more days to help amodate more clients in the passing days.


    And since they keep receiving reservations, Hailey extended the promo sale to five days instead of three days only, so as not for the people rushing to the store to ce their orders which barely they could attend all of them in one day.


    Metro City suddenly flooded with more tourists in the country because of Hailey''s promotional announcement. As a result, more guests continue to arrive in the city in the passing days, which most of the? DV Gem clients from neighboring countries came personally to discuss their orders. After then, several of these clients traveled to local towns and inds to visit beaches while waiting for their demands after a week or two.


    While on the wait, they''ve discovered several ces that are perfect spots to do a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot.


    This morning, the city''s official website published an article sending its gratitude to DV Inc. for attracting many tourists by opening an Asia branch store branch in Metro City. In addition, the city mayor is honoring thepany owners for choosing Metro City as its new home.


    At the moment, Gigi, Dana, Leticia, Fraine, and the head of every department of the branch office were currently at the long table inside Hailey''s office.


    "Hail, what are we going to do?" Gigi asked; she then brought up the problem they were facing at the opening of the new branch. "Maybe we should ask our other artisans to help the Asia branch to speed the orders?"


    Since the opening,tely, they were doing three meetings every day to monitor all the orders, sort out things, and then update their sales in the passing days.


    Checking the reports on her hand, Hailey lifted her gaze from the folders.


    "I''ve been thinking about that, too," she agreed immediately. "We have to ask each one crafter from our other branches and an artist to help amodate more clients for their desired designs."


    The other women concurred with the idea. That day, Hailey made several phone calls to their branch stores. She then instructed the HR Chief Officer to amodate the new teams arriving the next day.


    Hailey was typing a report when a knock on her office door followed Gigi''s delicate voice.


    "Hail? Fraine and I will go back to the store now. I might note back to the officeter."


    "Okay." she nodded with a smile. "Thank you for today. Take care on your way back."


    "You''re wee, silly." Gigi giggled. She nted a kiss on her cheek before she left. "Bye!"


    *


    It is past lunch. She has been busytely, and it''s rare for her to talk to Vince longer because of herte meetings before she headed home at night.


    Hailey nced at her wristwatch. Vince was still up this time around. Indeed he was working on his designs for the Shang Hotel and Casino renovation, so she decided to message Vince and wait for his call.


    "Wifey?"


    "Hubby! How was your day?" she asked cheerfully. Suddenly, she felt recharged hearing his sexy voice.


    "It''s fine. How about you? You have been too busytely." Vinceined from the other line. In the passing days, he can''t talk to her longer, but often just quick calls.


    "Yeah. We are flooded with orders. So I need to sort everything out and make sure that the production does not dy." She exined; she heard Vince heaving a sigh from the other line. "What''s wrong, hubby?"


    "Nothing. I just realized that Hailee Davies was busy as this... Is it hard to reach her out during the day unless she needs something from me¡­ Hmm?" Vince''s voice is a little teasing, causing Hailey to burst intoughter.


    "Haha! Yes, I have! I called you because I have some business to talk with you about."


    "Ouch. Only for business, huh? Well, if you have forgotten, I want you to remember that I''m offering an extra service. As you know, my body is avable anytime to serve you. How was that? You''re not going to ask how are my musclestely?"


    He appears to talk tenderly, but it sounded like a joke, and it made Haileyughs aloud, listening to his corny but sweet mumbling.


    "Yes, hubby. Don''t worry. Hailey Hillson will do the job with your body during the night. How was that?" she answered with her flirty voice.


    And because of her statement, Vince filled her ears with his exyughs since she''s wearing wireless headphones. She then mumbled on the other line, "Hubby, I need a massage and someone to cuddle me each night."


    She heard Vince groan, then expressed, "I would love to be your ve, my darling."


    She squeals like she''s gone back to being a teenager. So then, she returned a tease. "I''m going to bite you so hard soon youe back, hubby."


    "Ugh! Don''t say that. Might I fly there now to strip in front of you... How was that?"


    "Hm¡­ Inside my office?" she muttered hoarsely, challenging his resistance.


    Vince''s eyes flickered at how flirty she sounded was. But, of course, there is no way he would back down. "That''s a promise, hm?"


    ''Oh, my gosh!'' Did they just set an appointment to make love inside her office!? Even though she was alone in her office, her face turned scarlet red as Vince excites her whole being.


    "Hubby¡­ Do you know I can fly anytime to see you?"


    "Don''t tease me, Wifey. Or I will spank you hard for being a teaser."


    "What if I want to be spank?" she teased Vince further; both areughing so hard. Later, it was Hailey whoined. "Hubby, enough. My tummy hurts now."


    "Hm¡­ I''m going back soon. I will spank you hard. Makes sure to remember that."


    Hailey bites her lower lip. This man is making her crazy in the middle of the day. But she knew Vince also could feel her effect on him.


    "Ahem. So, what can I do for my boss?" Vince asked after they settled down fromughing.


    Hailey smiles at how extra flirty Vince is today. "Hubby, I need more apartments for my employees. I added more artisan to help the Asia branch craft workers. We received thousands of orders just in three days since our opening. I will send Mr. Cha to talk to your caretaker."


    Vince fell silent for a moment before he replied. "Boss, have you forgotten how you amodate us in Australia?"


    "Oh¡­ Um¡­" Hailey is a little confused. She can''t follow what Vince is talking about now, so she listens.


    "Are you serious about paying rent on your owned property?" he then asked.


    "Huh?" Hailey tried to process Vince''s statement as she still doesn''t understand.


    "Silly. Of course, everything I have and everything I own is yours. I told you, tell me whatever you need. I may not be there, but I will move mountains and seas to be at your service."


    "Hubby, you are bing so sweet and corny. Tell me more, please!"


    Vinceughed out loud. He''s thankful he''s alone in the room or else? There''s no way he could be this flirty! But this is how a person in love behaved was like, right?


    "Wifey, you can use any of our buildings. Even the Shen Tower where you had your office is yours too. Please do what you need. If you want any renovation of the floors and spaces for the crafters, you must send Mr. Cha to talk to my architects and engineers."


    "Hubby, you are the best!"


    "Whatever you need, call thepany to do it asap, okay?"


    "Thank you so much, hubby!" she eximed happily from the other line.


    Now, this is how it feels when a power couple works together. She could openly discuss with Vince about herpany and things she would need to do.


    "I love you, Vincent Shen."


    "I love you too, Hailee Hillson Davies."


    She giggles every time she hears Vince muttering her full name.


    "Let''s go back to Australia together soon," she told Vince.


    "I would love to, boss."


    Hailey parted her lips with a sweet smile. Vincent had several endearments he is using toward hertely, and she loves it. Well, they had the agreement that she will be his everything.


    She was still in the middle of flirting with Vince when another call came in on her phone screen.


    "Hubby, Gigi is calling me. I have to answer this. It must be important."


    "Okay, wifey. Talk to you againter."


    She hangs up on Vince after a few exchanges of words; then, she answers Gigi''s call. She had just left not long ago, so she wondered if Gigi forgot something.


    "Hello, Gigi?"


    "Hello, sweetheart?"


    Hailey widened her eyes upon recognizing the man at the end of the call.


    "Why did you have Gigi''s phone? Where is she, Liam!?"

 Chapter 197 - Only Ten Minutes

    <h4>Chapter 197 - Only Ten Minutes</h4>


    "Do you want to know where they are?" Liam asked her.


    "Don''t you dare to hurt Gigi!" she warned the guy; she then asked him a series of questions afterward. "Where''s Fraine? Did you take her too? And Tom? What did you do to him!?"


    Hailey was sure that Liam would not hurt the girls, but he wouldn''t think twice to pull the trigger of his gun to shoot Tom on the head.


    Liam replied, "Well, if you will listen to my instructions, nothing will happen to them. Their safety is in your hands, sweetheart."


    "Why are you doing this, Liam!?"


    "You know why I am doing this, sweetheart. I want to bring home my queen to my castle."


    "Then why don''t you find someone else who is willing to be your queen!?" she could not help stressing out. Liam is her nightmare even in the daytime because he has a bad temper.


    "Be careful with your mouth if you don''t want me to smash Tom''s head! Or how about the other girl in here? I don''t need her. She''s only baggage to me. But I will free her if you take her ce. How about it?" Liam threatens her further.


    Hailey gritted her teeth. She hissed, "Don''t hurt Fraine! She has nothing to do in our fights!"


    Liam clicked his tongue, then said, "Don''t forget, it was only you who choose to fight with me. What I wanted for you to do is simple, sweetheart."


    While Liam spoke on the other line, Hailey typed a quick message on herputer; she sent it to Sandy. She instructed the guy to bring ATHENA around and monitor the movement inside the Shen Tower, where she had her office. Sandy already knew her location, but first, she needs to know which floor Liam is on this building.


    Hailey opens the wall on the right side of her office, where she kept a monitoring screen. It has a double purpose why she hangs it in there; it will be helpful at times like this.


    She waited until Sandy sessfully linked herputer to ATHENA. Later on, the monitor screen started disying the view of her location.


    "Answer me!" All of a sudden, Liam yelled from the other line.


    Hailey takes a deep sigh, then exins to the guy, "You can''t force someone to love you, Liam. That won''t lead to a happy life."


    Hailey calmed down and spoke softly this time. She needs to know which floor Liam is hiding inside this building.


    On the other side of the call, Liam fretted. "It''s only you who thinks it was! You know how much I love you. I will do anything for you! So what''s wrong with that? Is it not enough?"


    Hailey fell silent. How she could exin to Liam that love is not only about one person being happy in a rtionship but two people whose hearts beat as one. This is one of many things she learned after her heartbreak with Bryan.


    A rtionship without romantic love from two people would neverst long. She started believing that.


    What kind of marriage for two people who would only treat each other as friends? Well, may they feel either pure or selfish love for Bryan and Liam, but what about her?


    She wanted to be with the man who not only loves her, but she could also return the feelings, and she could not do that to either Liam or even Bryan. She could not imagine herself being intimate with them. Well, she was with Bryan in the past when she was still na?ve and knew nothing about a man''s need.


    She never thought it was bad. But for a man who has feelings for you, they are hopeful to have some intimacy with you. Fortunately, Bryan has control over himself. Or maybe it was what she wanted to think?


    Bryan admits he battled to kill his physical attraction for her through sleeping with another woman. But through the years, as time passed, he could not remove this feeling. So instead, he''s falling deeper in love even more with her, which she could not return the same way.


    And that would be the same situation as Liam. So the rtionship they were asking from her is a sad life.


    Hailey shook her head then shrugs these thoughts. She muttered, "Liam, why don''t you understand I can''t return your love? You are asking for an impossible thing from me."


    "I told you before. All you need to do is stay by my side, I''ll assure you, I will love you the rest of our lives, so you don''t need another man to love you."


    "But Liam, that''s not what marriage is supposed to be! Two people should love each other!"


    "I don''t want to take this long! If you want them to stay alive, you will get here immediately! Or do you want me to show you an example, huh?"


    Hailey clenched her hands into a fist. Liam is always ready to go too far for hurting her friends! Unfortunately, this is not the first or the second time that it happens. She lost a few lives because she didn''t listen to him.


    Although her knights voluntarily give their lives to save hers, but not this time! It should not involve innocent people like Gigi and Fraine in her issues with Liam!


    "Where are you?" Hailey asked the guy after her long silence.


    Liam contorted the corner of his mouth into a smirk as he replied, "Make it sure that youe alone. I know there is someone who never left your side. Make sure not to let him know where you are going."


    "No. Bruce wille with me!" Hailey asserted, but Liam is firm about what he demanded.


    "Don''t make things hard for us, sweetheart. The more you let things dy, the little time left for your friends. Try to provoke me. You know the consequences. So I want you toe down on the 16th floor ASAP!"


    Hailey pondered while she gave information to Sandy. What was on the 16th floor? It is where the coffee shop and two restaurants are.


    "What are you nning to do, Liam!?" She could tell that Liam had some dangerous tricks under his sleeves. ''Is he trying to bargain for the safety of all the people in this building?''


    On the 16th-floor, the executives usually gather to have lunch, treat a client with a meal, or have coffee. Since most renters in this building are foreign headquarters, Liam knew she would be his puppet.


    Shen Tower has 30 floors, and she rented the top four floors: from the 27th floor up to the 30th floor. She is paying the highest rent among the offices, but DV Gem can afford it.


    Actually, Vince insisted she didn''t need to pay the rent. But she insisted on settling at least in half. She knew that there would be a lot of expenses for building maintenance and other stuff.


    "I''m giving you only ten minutes to get here." It was what Liam said before he hung up on her.


    Hailey tried to calm down to think about what best to do at times like this. She told Sandy which floor Liam was on; the guy hacked the security cameras, and Hailey could see where Liam was seated. But Gigi or Frained wasn''t in the cafe! So where did Liam keep them!?


    She dialed Gigi''s phone number, but Liam didn''t pick it up. Later, the guy sent her a message.


    "There are bombs on this building. So don''t think about making me wait, sweetheart."

 Chapter 198 - Uncomfortable

    <h4>Chapter 198 - Ufortable</h4>


    Hailey wanted to scream. Why does it happen when the rest of her knights aren''t here?


    Maybe few were on the ground floor, guarding the entrance and the back door of this building, along with Keith''s men. She only has Bruce and two other knights on her office floor. It means it was bad timing!


    Keith apanied Hansen to the police station because someone filed a case against him, and now they were trying to solve the misunderstanding.


    Not only that, she sent Pitt to MCGC Headquarters for a corporate meeting. The stakeholders voted to appoint her as a board member since she is a major investor, so Pitt represents her today.


    It seems like Liam waited for his moment when her knights spread out in the city. But how did Liam manage to enter the building? Aside from the tight security at the entrance door, he will first encounter her knights and Keith''s men.


    Did something happen on the ground floor? She needs to ask Bruce. But then she remembered that Liam warned her already.


    Hailey halted from taking another step; Liam is only giving her ten minutes. She rushed outside and asked her secretary.


    "Where is Bruce?"


    "Miss Hailey, Bruce is in the pantry. Should I fetch him?"


    "Ah, no need. I will go see him myself." Hailey stepped out from the executive lounge and went to the left-wing of this floor, where themon pantry is located.


    She was marching in the hallway when her phone received a text message. It was Hazel.


    "Hey, Miss Billionaire! We know you are still busy. So, we''ll stay here in the cafe doing our lessons instead of bothering you in your office! You cane by when you are free."


    Hailey widened her eyes, reading Hailey''s message. She tried to member what day it was today. She forgets she invited Hazel, Nadia, and Liza toe over to her office to give the nes she bought in the auction.


    Why is it that today Liam executed his n!? Things got even messier! She has no choice, but she needs to talk to Bruce.


    This time Hailey ran. She forcibly pushed open the pantry door and called out to the guy, "Bruce!"


    Inside the pantry, Bruce was sipping a coffee. When Hailey suddenly entered the door, it startled him, which burned his tongue from the hot liquid.


    "Pri... Princess? What''s the matter?" He stuttered his words as his tongue tingled from pain. It made him concerned rather than worrying his tongue to see Hailey''s pale face. It must have happened.


    "Liam is here!" she told Bruce with a rush, ncing at her phone.


    "What? Where?" Bruce was about to get out of the pantry, Hailey stopped him.


    "He''s not on this floor. But we need to make a careful move. This building was in danger." She informed him, sharing Liam''s demands.


    "What? A bomb, Princess?"


    "Yes."


    "What are you going to do now, Princess?" asked Bruce.


    Before Hailey can answer, her phone chimed with her message tone. It was Liam reminding her. "Only five minutes left, sweetheart."


    "Sh*t!" she cusses. "Bruce, have you heard anything from the knights below?"


    "Everything is normal. They haven''t spotted Liam in the area. Wait... How was he able toe inside?"


    "That''s what I want to know because he held Gigi and Fraine as his hostage. I wonder what will happen to Tom. He would fight them till death, so I''m worried if Liam..." She could not finish her words. She''s praying that her assumption is wrong.


    "What a cowardly guy to use this outdated tactic!" Bruce


    "But it is always effective, Bruce," she said meaningfully. "And Liam wanted you to stay here in the office. He wanted me to go alone."


    "No way, Princess? I will never leave your side! I promised to catch a bullet for you!"


    She shook her head. "No. I will go alone. I''m worried he will do something to Hazel, Nadia, and Liza. He has been investigating my stay and activities here in Metro City. Then he knew those girls in the cafe were my friends as well."


    "But Princess, I wanted to go with you!"


    "I want you to stay here and contact Keith and Pitt. Go to my office and monitor the happenings in the cafe!"


    "But, Princess?" Agh! He''s more afraid of Vincent Shen than this Liam guy! He promised his male boss he will protect the princess with his life! But he only hides in her office? No way!


    "I insisted, Bruce. Besides, we should not show we''re panicking¡­." Because she already is! "Liam wants me to see him alone. I should go now before he hurts any of my friends."


    "But Princess..."


    "He will use any person who is close to me. I don''t want to keep things repeating, Bruce. No one will cost a life this time." Hailey phrased meaningfully. If there is¡­ It should be hers.


    Hailey took the lift and pressed the 16th-floor button. She texted Liam that she was already on the left, and she''s alone.


    Upon arriving on the 16th-floor, she immediately noticed the men in the lobby and every corner of that floor. They''re wearing a business suit, which is even suspicious that they were in the building for a business meeting.


    Hailey went inside the cafe; one guy shut the door and put the closed sign. She took a deep breath before she put on a smile. She walks toward the girls seated at the corner of this cafe.


    dly, Liam was inside in one of the private rooms upstairs. Although he could still see them, no one would hear them if she and Liam shouted at each other.


    "Miss Hillson, you''re fast!"


    "Of course. I will always make time for you girls!" she said, remaining stering her fake smile.


    She wished to tell these girls to leave the building. But there was no way after Liam''s men were guarding the door. And she could not stay chatting with them either.


    "Anyway, I have a client I need to meet now. So, I will catch up with you after this meeting." She had to lie.


    "Okay, Hail! Don''t worry about us! You''re a busy businesswoman! We won''t trouble you!"


    Hailey tried so hard not to well up. These girls are adorable. They were her little sisters since she stayed in P Country. She must do something and hope Liam would listen to her.


    "You girls would never trouble me. In fact, that''s what I want you to do every time you need help or someone to hang out with. That''s right! Let''s do that soon once things in the office are not that hectic."


    "Sure! We''re one call away!"


    Hailey hugged the girls. She''s d that they didn''t find her weird today. Anyway, she didn''t talk to them in a while after all the revtions the other week.


    "I''m waiting."


    She sighed, reading Liam''s message. She bid goodbye to the girls, then headed upstairs to this cafe.


    "I''m here, Liam." Hailey red at the guy and gave him the cold shoulder. Liam, on the other hand, stered a broad smile across his face. He seemed to don''t mind her coldness but feel thrilled at how she treated him.


    "Hello, sweetheart. Why don''t you take a seat?"


    Hailey sat down on the couch across from Liam. She wishes to p him on the face, but few customers below will see her doing such an action.


    "Where are Gigi and Fraine?"


    "Don''t worry. They are fine. But of course, I won''t let them go yet."


    "But you promise to let Fraine go if Ie here!" she imed.


    "Ah-uh. Not so fast, sweetheart. I have to make sure that you will obediently agree to my conditions."


    Hailey sharpened her gaze at the guy. She really wanted to puke seeing Liam''s face. She could feel how ufortable her stomach is now. Maybe she needs to use the powder room.

 Chapter 199 - Outsmart Vincent

    <h4>Chapter 199 - Outsmart Vincent</h4>


    Hailey leaned back on the couch and pressed her eyelids as she took a deep breath. Although Bruce already notified Pitt, Keith, and the other knights about the situation inside Shen Tower, she needs to find out where Liam hides Gigi and Fraine. Moreover, she wants to know if Tom is still alive.


    "Where is Tom?" she asked Liam afterward.


    The guy replied, "My men only beat him up. I won''t kill him yet."


    Hailey shrunk her pupils, pressing her lips from anger. If she disliked Liam before, now she hates him even more.


    "What are your conditions for freeing Gigi and Fraine? And it includes all customers on this floor. They should leave as well."


    Liam is not happy at all with her requests. "You are demanding too much, sweetheart. So I''m going to tell you now. Each lifees with hugepensation."


    "Then what do you want me to do so that you will free them all?"


    "My ne is already waiting for us. All it needs is for you toe with me," said Liam, with a smirk contorted in the corner of his mouth.


    ''ne!?'' Upon listening carefully, Hailey found a piece of helpful information. ''That''s it! Liam has no n to let Gigi go. She is with Galvin now! And possibly Tom was there too.''


    However, even she badly wanted to instruct her knights to search Liam''s private jet in the Metro City International Airport. But, knowing the Huo cousins, they will show no signs of the ne.


    They are possibly hiding the ne in one of the hangars within the airport. And they have Senator Gu on their side who can do a cover-up for them. He has the power to make such requests and ordered the airport not to give their location. Besides, Liam''s background is enough to get the government''s side.


    Maybe Liam shows less royal activities to the media, but he is the first in line to inherit the throne as the future king of V Country. Therefore, the government won''t harm him or will try not to offend him.


    However, she will also use her own background to fight Liam and defeat him with her influence.


    But at this moment, she was praying to heaven, hoping that Bruce would figure out what she caught onto Liam''s statement. She prayed Bruce would realize where they took Gigi.


    Galvin and Liam''s best ce would be to keep Gigi is inside the V Royal Airlines, a private jet for the V Country''s royal family. So no one will ever dare suspect if something is happening inside that ne.


    Now, she needs to contact Bruce to instruct Pitt and Keith to look for Liam''s private ne. But, first, they should stop the Huo cousins'' flight and then save Gigi and Tom.


    And as for Fraine, Liam made a huge mistake. He didn''t know who he was fighting against. Once Rodney learned someone kidnapped Fraine, that guy would not just sit around. He''s going to search for her.


    Liam is only waging war against the Southeast Asia Lords.


    Now, she needs to buy more time. First, she needs to know where Fraine was held captive. Then, Bruce can hear of her conversation with Liam. So then, she needs to interact with him until his mouth slips out and he mentions the possible location of Fraine. She wondered if Fraine was in this building.


    But which floor? She wants to contact Sandy and hack all the security cameras in this building. Sandy can do that so quickly because Crow Technology developed Shen''s security system. It means a piece of cake for ATHENA.


    ''Bruce, did you figure it out already? It''s the ne!''


    Hailey had high hopes that Bruce would immediately figure out the possible ces. And that is for sure. Bruce went to intensive training for two years to be a Government Special Agent. He specializes in how to be the best asset and agent to solve a situation.


    He picks up the hint the moment Liam mentions his ne to leave soon. Liam will make sure that he can leave the country whenever he wants because he is holding several lives.


    Immediately, Bruce sent a message to Pitt and Keith about the possibilities that Liam brought Gigi and Tom to his private jet. Also, he contacted someone who could help him determine if a Royal Airlines bound to V Country was preparing to take off anytime soon.


    Within a few minutes, Sandy informed Bruce that there are no records that the V Royal Airlines was in Metro City International Airport. So it means Liam hides his ne either in the neighboring province or somewhere.


    "I''m sorry to report it to you, Princess. Bruce reported to her through a special device. Liam''s ne is nowhere in the airport."


    Then, where are Gigi and Tom?


    Hailey reached her forehead and pressed her fingers to the part where it throbs. It looks like stress has stricken her¡ªshe needs to calm down and think properly.


    "Tell me, Liam. How did you manage to enter this building? My knights guarding the whole grounds of Shen Tower?" She asked Liam to distract herself and the guy until Bruce had time to search for them. Besides, this remains a mystery to her.


    Liam broadens his smile after he hears her question. He muttered, "I thought you would never ask me."


    He seems excited to discuss this, which Hailey couldn''t help to raise a brow. ''Is my question really that exciting?''


    "They said your boyfriend is a genius. But of course, it''s easy for me to outsmart him."


    "Oh, really?" Hailey gives Liam an indifferent look.


    "I admit how tight the security in this building is, including the Crow Technology system well protected. I can''t hack anything. So I need to think of another way. I noticed you forgot to watch the rooftop. So it was easy for me tond without noticing me."


    "So, are you saying that you went inside this building riding a helicopter?" And he''s right! Why did she forget to watch the air?


    "Liam, I need to go to the powder room." She wanted to excuse herself to respond to Bruce. However, Liam also sat up from the couch across from hers.


    "Do you think I can escape from here?" She reasons out, which she felt ridiculous. "We are on the 16th floor. How could I jump that high? I could not leave. Besides, you held my friends. I would never abandon them!"


    ''I will leave no one behind this time!'' Hailey mumbled into her head.


    "I''m not worried that you are trying to escape, sweetheart," said Liam with an amusing smile stering on his face. He tried to reach for her face, but she quickly stepped back, which made Liam frowned.


    "I know you can''t do that to your friends. Also, I know you have your ways to contact and give your knights an instruction. Crow Technology is developing devices you can use at times like this."


    Liam scanned her from the head down to her clothes. He went on, "I don''t know which one you are wearing is a jewelry spy device. That is why I will apany you to the restroom and make sure you won''t talk to anyone over a piece of gadget."


    Hailey soured her facial expression. Isn''t that a scandalous scene? Everyone recognized her. What would the people think if they saw her going into the powder room with Liam? It will be a st of gossip if they''ve seen her in a restroom with another man.


    ''Dammit! Liam is too cautious now!'' Hailey frets inwardly. But she really needs to use the power room.


    Hailey sat back on the couch and sighed inwardly. But then, she had to think about how she could convince Liam to go alone in thedies'' room.


    "Liam, I really need to go to the powder room. Don''t you have a female assistant to apany me? Do you know it is inappropriate if people saw us together in thedies'' room?"


    "What''s wrong with that? Are you afraid that a scandal woulde out that you are cheating on Mr. Shen?"


    Hailey shoots a dagger look at Liam. She felt more disgust staring at his face this close. Why is she feeling unwell every time she sees him? Now her head keeps pounding, and it seems to get severe as the minute passes.


    In the next several seconds, Hailey remained silent, in which Liam seized the opportunity to continue bbing.


    "I would be honest; I was excited to orchestrate a scandal with you. But the damn knights'' and that person tailing you around are pests, and I can''t get a perfect opportunity. So I think this is the ideal chance for me to begin."


    "What are you nning, Liam? Scandal, what? Do you think Vince would believe it? Are you serious about destroying my reputation? And you are saying I will be the queen of V Country? How would your ministers ept me? You are talking nonsense at all." Hailey spoke coldly that even her eyes have no light at all.


    Suddenly, she felt timid. What''s wrong with her moodstely? Is she just too stressed?

 Chapter 200 - Playing Royal Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 200 - ying Royal Marriage</h4>


    "Yeah. I paid those smallpanies to post scandalous articles about you. I paid posters to nder you until it will break your heart, one more time. However, it never happens! I don''t understand why you turn a blind eye! He is married; then he could not marry you! But why were you protecting and a**hole like him instead!? You were even deleting those posts and wiping out those malicious websites!"


    Hailey remained silent. She need not answer any of that, and there is no way she will expose to Liam the contract she and Vincent signed on at the beginning. Those malicious articles do not affect her because she is only a fake mistress by then.


    She doesn''t realize yet that she likes Vince, that turns to love as days pass. And Liam believes she''s already in love with Vincent since the start.


    "Sweetheart, you are not listening, are you?"


    Hailey came back to her senses when Liam spoke and reached for her chin. She moves her head, ps his hand, then looks away. She''s only embracing herself to bear being in the same room with him.


    "I am thrilled to give Mr. Shen the shock of his life. So if you wanted to save your friends and every person in this building, you would follow everything I said."


    Hailey looked up to meet Liam''s eyes. "What now?" She raised her voice, but her tone remained cold.


    It displeases Liam how she continues treating him indifferently. But to hurt her is one thing he could not do. She may constantly measure his patience, but he would nevery a hand on her, even how upset he is.


    He could only break her emotionally and make her feel vulnerable and alone until she''ll realize that she needs only him.


    "Reveal it to your official Instagram ount that your mysterious fiance is me."


    "Are you kidding me?" Hailey sneered at Liam as to how she felt ridiculous.


    "You will announce to the world that we are getting married soon this summer. But of course, we should have a photo together."


    Hailey was stunned. She stood on her feet and shouted at him. "Over my dead body! I''d rather die than to do that or marry you!"


    In what she says, he darkened his face from irritation. She was stubborn; he knew this. Liam breathes in, then sighs to calm himself down.


    "I will decide if you stay alive or not!" Liam utterly asserted¡ªthere is a firmness in his tone. ''Tsk! It looks like I need to hide every sharp object disy and scattered around Lamandi Castle, or she''llmit suicide like sister Gigi wanted to do in the past.'' He thoughts inwardly,


    Liam grabs her elbow and pushes her to the sofa. He then sat next to her, but she put a long gap between them and moved to the end of the couch. Again, he looked straight into her eyes, but this time, his gaze is softer; however, Hailey remains disgusted even by how he stares at her with sincerity.


    "Don''t get near me, Liam!" That was a warning instead of pleading. She frowned and continued treating him indifferently.


    ''Please, Bruce¡­ Have you found any progress? Did you contact Rodney? Did Sandy find Fraine was inside this building?'' She has too many questions running inside her head. She wanted to give instructions to all the knights, but she could never do that in front of Liam.


    Hailey tries to focus, listening to her earpiece. It was so tiny, injected in her ear. Liam keeps babbling on her side, but she''s not listening to him but engrossed in her thoughts. She just came back to her senses when Liam eximed and said,


    "If you will not do it, then I will do it myself!"


    Liam ced his arm around her shoulder, then focused his phone on taking a selfie. Hailey did her best to get away and free from his hold. But he is stronger than her, adding to that she''s not feeling well today.


    "Stay still!"


    "Stop it, Liam! Don''t you dare to make a false announcement!" Hailey tried her best to remain tough. She needs to fight him, at least. "If you did that, you would only inform all my knights from all over the world that you held me captive. Even if you sessfully bring me to V Country, my knights will hunt you down."


    "Ah, bullshit! Don''t threaten me with this bunch of juniors! I am the first man you told to be your knight! I should be the only one in the first ce! But why do you keep adding more men! You don''t need them!"


    Hailey reached her forehead and rubbed it down to her temple. She felt worn out today. She tried to recall the past, but it only causes her to feel exhausted listening to Liam''s outburst.


    To be honest, she doesn''t want to think about anything now because it only exhausts her even more.


    Without sparing a nce at Liam, Hailey spoke with closed eyes. "That was too long ago, Liam. How old was I by then?"


    ''If I''m not mistaken, that time around, I was only watching Barbie movies, enchanting fairy tales, musical princess-like movies, and adventures.'' She was entirely innocent and carefree because her family spoiled and pampered her.


    "Liam, I was barely 12 years old at that time. In my mind, we were only ying Royal..." Hailey fell silent. It seems like she has to me, somehow.


    They were ying Royal Marriage, and Liam is her husband. But she''s damn brat by that time! Liam takes it to heart, which she never promised him to get married for real when she''sing of age.


    Hailey sps her palms. She ced them on top of herp, squeezing tighter. Now to think about it, maybe she was to me for why Liam became obsessed. But that was like a yhouse or something, out of her innocent heart.


    Besides, Liam is already a teenager by then. He was in Senior High already. Liam may be reaching adulthood, and she is just damn starting her period. But that wasn''t a real wedding at all!


    Hailey heaves a long sigh. She felt even worn out of remembering the past.


    "Liam, you aren''t allowed to marry a foreign wife. You had already engaged to someone else a long time ago. Even if you persuade me for marriage over again, the V Country Parliament would never consider this." She badly wanted to make excuses for Liam, to change his mind and stop his obsession.


    However, Liam only scoffs at her reasoning. Then, finally, he snaps, "They may not refuse or object! Our family has been good friends since before, and they knew the history of friendship between our forefathers! Therefore, they are in no position to oppose my decisions once I be king!"


    It made her rendered speechless. Liam is bringing up their forefathers. That was true. The Davies and Lamandi families are great friends. However¡­


    "That wonderful friendship ended in you, Liam. Your uncle, the current King of V Country, is a gentle person. But look at you? You tainted your hands with blood. My family''s blood."


    "Gentle person? You know nothing of this world we are living in, sweetheart. Do you think your dad''s hand has not stained people''s blood all these years? You''re still na?ve. Those who hold power do not get it quickly in clean ways. Why don''t you ask your dad what he must do to remain in his position? He''s a Mafia Lord like me. We always spilled blood on the ground to solidify our territories."


    "Don''tpare dad to yourself!" Damn it! She wanted to run to the powder room and puke. But, instead, she felt like her surroundings were spinning. Liam bringing up about blood makes her even sicker; she doesn''t want to imagine such scenarios.


    Meanwhile, outside the coffee shop, Liam''s men suddenly alerted when the elevator chimed and opened. They quickly blocked the men who came out of the lift.


    "Where are you headed? Unfortunately, this floor is closed for the day."


    "Is that so? I didn''t tell my employees to close my coffee shop today. Then who the fuck has the thick face to order it?"


    Liam''s men nced at each other; they could not decide what to do in this situation. If the man tells the truth that he is the owner, they must do something about it. However, before they could make a move, someone spoke from the coffee shop owner''spany.


    "You Asian Mafia are always a pain to our asses. So why do you always seek trouble?"


    "And who are you?"

 Chapter 201 - You Were Here

    <h4>Chapter 201 - You Were Here</h4>


    "Well, you don''t know me, but my friend here surely you know him very well."


    The guy who spoke took off his sunsses and hat. Now it disys his blue eyes and blond hair.


    He went on, "I was the newly appointed Mafia Lord in the Northeastern States. And my first job is to clean someone''s mess, and that is your Lord."


    Liam''s men could not decide. They weighed things among themselves. They were uncertain whether their boss had prepared to fight against the U Continent Mafia Association when they haven''t secured more territories yet.


    So it means they were doomed, and their ns fail. Moreover, if it''s true that someone ordered these people to check on them, that possibly be the Mafia Emperor.


    Avoid resistance, Liam''s men choose to step back and open the door in the cafe. Upstairs, it upset Liam when his assistant rushed inside the room and made a stressed report.


    "What did you say?"


    "Boss, someone from the U Continent is here!"


    "What are you saying!? Why did you let them get inside!?" he stressed out.


    "But, boss¡­"


    Not long, someone appeared at the door and greeted them cheerfully. "Hello!"


    "It was you?" Liam raised an eyebrow upon recognizing who it was. The guy walked toward the couch across from them and sat down without invitation.


    "Don''t mind me, your highness. I''m only here to treat my friends with coffee."


    "Is that so? A bunch of U Continent Mafia visiting you at this timing? Is it you retire from the association a long time ago, Mr. Carl Johnson? How sweet of you then." Contorting his lips into a mocking smile, Liam''s voice is full of sarcasm.


    However, Carl just curled his mouth into an amusing smile about how Liam is well informed about him. He leaned back andfortably lounging on the couch.


    "Actually, I am also here to pick up my students." Carl paused; he then nced at Hailey and smiled warmly. "Go ahead, Miss Hillson. You can join your ssmates downstairs and get out of this building along with everyone."


    Liam didn''t like how Carl acted in front of him. He snaps. "What are you up to? Telling each employee and employers to vacate the building because there is a bomb?"


    Carlughs. He answered back, "Never think that you outsmart my cousin. He has his in control of this building, and his rules were executed smoothly at the moment. Why don''t you check it down below? I guess most of the employees are about to clear the building."


    "What!?" Liam creases his forehead. He gestures at his assistant to check out the window. Not long after, his assistant came back and confirmed it.


    "Boss, it was true! The employees now gathered outside the building!"


    Liam clenched his jaw. He was pondering how they managed to warn all the employees that the building is not safe at this moment?


    "Are you wondering, your highness? Let me exin, then! My cousin, Vincent Shen, not only constructed his building with strong foundations and installed a heavy security system, but he always performs mandatory emergency demos. There are days that they performed this demo in the middle of the day or during lunchtime, and even at night. Vincent makes sure all the employees and employers who took office in his building were knowledgeable enough to act calmly during emergencies. And we sent these warnings in a coded way."


    Carl went on, "And the floors where you sent your men to stand by, the employees leave casually, in which your men have no idea what is going on at the moment."


    Liam remained silent. He admitted it caught him off guard. He was confident that everything would go smoothly because he will take Hailey by helicopter.


    Little did he know, Vincent has more tricks hid on his sleeves! But still, he has a card in his hand!


    "Don''t you think I will let her go? Her friends'' lives are in her hands. It''s up to her if she''ll repeat the past and choose her own safety, then abandon her friends." Liam said with a threat.


    Hailey gritted her teeth, she clenched her palms into fists. Liam is bing a monster in her eyes. No. He is already a monster! He will do everything she losses her sanity! He wants her to suffer emotionally by ming herself for the tragic incident her friends got into! That''s why he''s doing all of this!


    "Please, Liam. Enough already! Let them go and just leave P Country in silence! I don''t want any dispute among the Lords or between my friends!" she begged.


    When he isn''t listening to her plea, Hailey sat up, took a step, but Liam held her arm. Carl pulled out his gun and aimed it at him. However, he only beams at Carl.


    "Wow. So the rumors are wrong? I thought Lord Carl Johnson had the anxiety to hold a gun after the death of his fiancee. Then, what is this?"


    As Liam sounded insulting, Carl sharpened his gaze. "Stop assuming that you know everything, Liam Huo." He ordered Liam, "Let her go, now!"


    "Is this really true?" Liamughed. "It does surprise me, really... You left the Underground World and became a professor. Tell me... Is it because you didn''t save your fiancee back then? Ah! She''s a university professor. So? Is it the reason why you showed up here is to try saving your students as you did not protect your fiancee? That was sweet! But what''s more shocking, you can hold a gun again! Is this because of the sake of your so-called students?"


    Amused by Liam''s conclusion, Carl could not hold himself to snort. "Mr. Huo, I guess being a Mafia Lord isn''t suitable for you. Why don''t you change your career into a Talk Show host? You were too interested in gossip."


    Liam retorted, "I''m just interested to know the life of those people who I need to remove in my path, and that includes you, Carl Johnson. Putting your nose in my business is a huge consequence."


    "Is that so? Then I should pull the trigger of this gun before you could," he warned.


    "Can you really do that? Don''t fool me. I know you lost that will a long time ago, Carl Johnson."


    Liam scoffs that only made Carl challenged his capability. He clenched his jaw and said,


    "You are wrong, Liam Huo. My will is to protect the person who is dear to someone important to me. I am determined to pull this trigger if necessary. I could not take watching Vincent would follow in my footsteps, mourning for so many years which until now, still so hard to ept the truth of losing someone. Now, let Hailey go."


    Liam remained to stare at Carl with a dagger look. He didn''t notice that his grip on Hailey''s arm got tighter this time.


    "Liam, my arm," Hailey begged the guy with a hoarse voice. She grabs her arm, the pain is unbearable.


    "Are you really going to abandon your friends?" Liam hissed to her. He pulled her closer to used her as a shield.


    "You are a coward, Liam Huo!" Carl shouted while Liam only smiled at him. The guy''s behavior truly annoys him.


    "You just did say you wouldn''t allow anyone harming the person who is important to someone dear to you. Tsk! I know you have not fully recovered yet. So, you will only fail your aim. You can''t shoot properly yet. And if you miss it? Then ny percent that you can''t hit me, and ny percent you will shot someone else."


    However, after he asserted this, he felt the mouth of a gun pointing at the back of his head.


    "How dare you hide behind in a woman''s body?" said the man behind him.


    Liam moved his pupils to the corner of his eyes. He shrunk them after to see the man he hated the most that are now standing behind him.


    "So? You were here all this time, huh? Vincent Shen?"

 Chapter 202 - Plan To Trap Him (One)

    <h4>Chapter 202 - n To Trap Him (One)</h4>


    A few days ago...


    While the women had their regr meeting in the evening, the knights had their discussion in the private lounge.


    Sitting across from each other: Pitt, Bruce, Tom, Keith, Hansen, and this time, Gigi''s brother, Maynard Chan, joined them.


    "I think we have to do something soon," Keith began the discussion.


    Pitt ced his mug on the coffee table and sat upright. He swept his eyes to the five men in front of him before he gave his opinion.


    "I''m thinking the same as well. We are too tight in watching the Princess and Gigi against the Huo cousin. To settle the problem between the Princess and Liam, we have to make a n to stop Liam from persuading the princess. We have to end his obsession, and so, we had to set a trap for him."


    "You suggest that we should let Liam get near the princess?" Maynard guessed, and Pitt nodded.


    "If we didn''t introduce her to the Underground World, Liam wouldn''t meet her again." Tom expressed his thoughts as he remembers the past.


    On the sideline, Bruce is only listening to their conversation. He became a knight just recently. He only knew little about the Princess. Even so, he''s ready to give his life to protect her. The princess has a pure heart. She''s sweet, and she''s willing to protect the people that are dear to her.


    This passing week, they''ve sessfully ensured her safety. However, it will take a while to settle between Liam''s case if they would not do something. And he wants to end it as well as soon as possible. He''s been witnessing how it affects the Princess. He could not bear the sadness in her eyes he caught sometimes.


    The princess shows that she''s fine all this time, but the truth is she was too bothered because of Liam. In fact, she has been restlesstely.


    Thinking about it, Bruce heaves a long sigh. Then, he shrugs his worries to focus on listening further to the meeting.


    "We have to do something, and it should be sooner," Hansen suggested. "The princess is slowly revealing her identity to the world. Fortunately, only a few people know who Hailee Davies is."


    "I will talk to someone to help us trap Liam," Pitt announced; he nced at Bruce with meaningful stares. Then, he swept his gaze to the other men to meet their eyes. "I need to meet someone. I''ll go talk to him tomorrow morning after the Princess arrives here safely."


    "So? What is our initial n?" Hansen queried curiously. He wanted to end this as well, so he has peace of mind going back to Korea soon.


    "Starting tomorrow, we will reduce the security that escorts the princess. We do that for days to make Liam believe we are cking on watching the princess. We must show the Huo cousins that we are busy with many things," Pitt exined.


    "Then that means you have to prepare yourself, Bruce," Keith advises him.


    The guy nodded and assured them, "I am always ready."


    "That''s great." Pitt is satisfied with his reply. However, he needs to trust him and rely on his strength. "You and the princess will leave the penthouse to head to the office, like usual. It will be less of a convoy, but we will monitor her through the CCTVs in the street."


    Pitt then moved his attention to his cousin. He went on, "It will be your job to set up all theputers we need, Hansen."


    "No problem," Hansen responded with confidence. It was what he was good at, so this is his moment to share his ideas. "We need a ce to set up theputer. It''s better if we could set up a room on one of these floors, but it would be best if we could directly have ess to the Security Monitoring Room."


    "What do you think, Keith?" Pitt asked his opinion. He knew better around here in Metro City among them.


    "I guess we should borrow this building''s monitoring room. As well, we should set up ourputers to connect to the security cameras around the city, particrly in this area."


    "That''s a brilliant n, but who''s going to talk to Mr. Shen?" Tom asked. "I mean, he already knows about the princess''s real identity but not about Liam, right?"


    "That is what I''m going to do starting tonight. We need someone''s help. So everyone must be prepared." Pitt dered, they all nodded at him.


    *


    The following morning, Pitt drove his bronze Zenas Aventador toward Western Bay to meet the person he phonedst night. He gives his name to the vicinity entrance gate, the security guards pass him through. He already notices that there is a car that follows him since he left the penthouse. But the vehicle stopped by the guards at the gate.


    Last night, he requested this person to meet where no one can spy on them. Pitt parked his car at the ce he was told to go. He stepped out of the car and walked toward the yacht docked nearby.


    He didn''t expect this person would ask him to meet in here, but it was indeed a perfect ce to have a meeting. At the boardingdder, few men weed him; one of them asked to follow him inside.


    Pitt scanned the interior of the yacht on their way inside. He could tell how incredible it was.


    He owns a yacht, and it was a luxury one. However, this yacht was grand. He likes how it was well thought. Now he has no doubt why the princess was ecstatic to offer that person several projects in Dream City. He is a great architect.


    Not long after, they arrived at the pool area. He could not help chuckling as he scans the manfortably lounging on the long sofa; he looks like a professor wearing a ck wing cor tuxedo.


    "Hey! How are you doin'' man! Or should I address you, Professor?" Pitt greeted the man, whoughed and shook his head.


    "Hey, long time no see, Pitt."


    They hugged and gave each other''s back a pat.


    "Yeah. It''s been a while." Pitt replied. The guy gestured at him to take a seat; he sat down on the couch across from him. After he settled in, he teases the guy. "So? You''re a professor now, huh?"


    "What news you heard around the association, huh?" The man only shrugged his shoulders¡ªnone other than Carl. Then, he stood on his feet and offered some drinks to Pitt. "What can I offer to you? Coffee? Or champagne?"


    "Nah. I need not drink any liquor yet. Coffee would do."


    Carl smirked. He strode toward the countertop and took the pot with him with a mug in his other hand. He ced the mug on the table and poured brewed coffee on it. "For you, big brother."


    "I could help myself." Pitt frowned. The hair on his nape rose as he felt creep to see Carl serving him.


    "Nah. I was like the host in this meeting so, let me pour your drink. Still, you are my senior, and I am your junior even after we both became Lords in the association."


    "Hmm¡­ Thanks. Anyway, when do you n to return to the association?" asked Pitt after he sipped from his mug.


    Carl fell in thought for a moment, then shrugged his shoulders. Then, finally, he answered, "I don''t know. Somehow, I grew to like to teach in the university."


    Pitt stares at Carl, who avoids meeting his eyes. Then, after a long silence, he gathers his courage to ask Carl. He may be noisy and short-tempered, but he is sensible enough toward his friends who encounter a sad fact of their life.


    "Are you still thinking about Celestine?"


    "I guess I can''t forget her yet because my heart has beat no one yet." His answer, he then looked away, watching the seagulls flying around the port.


    "You sounded like you were ready to open your heart for someone new. Am I right?" Pitt wink at Carl as he grinned.


    The guy rolled his eyes and said, "And where have you be a love expert? Stop making up a story. Let''s talk business now! You didn''t contact me just to hang out and gossip about me."


    "Come on! It''s been a long time since we hung out! But, yeah... I''m here to ask for your help."


    "What kind of help? You know I''m not in the association anymore."


    "But you can still borrow the U Continent members, right? So you still have a voice in the association."


    "Maybe you can talk to your uncle, who is currently a mayor in Metro City."


    "What are you trying to do? If this is rted to the association, my uncle doesn''t want any hype in his city."


    "That is why I am talking to you now. Maybe you can talk to him. He is the present mayor of Metro City. We nned to set a trap for this person who is bothering the princess."


    "Are you talking about the Huo cousins?"


    Pit smiled meaningfully. "I know you already knew about this."


    "They had disturbing activity around. They were following Vincent''s girlfriend."


    "Yes, I am speaking about the princess''s safety. We wanted to get rid of them, so then, the princess will live a peaceful life with your cousin."


    After a long thought, Carl heaves a long sigh. "No wonder she is familiar to me. But I only met her when I was about to leave the association."


    "The princess was in grave danger. Until now, her first knight persuaded her, Liam Huo. He is only waiting for the perfect time to kidnap the princess. I''m sure your cousin would not allow that."


    "Vincent would allow no one to steal his girlfriend," Carl asserted with firmness in his tone.

 Chapter 203 - Plan To Trap Him (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 203 - n To Trap Him (Two)</h4>


    "The princess has been dealing with him for the past couple of years. She once traveled to the IN Country, but Liam learned her whereabouts. She lost her freedom and had to limit her visits to most parts of Asia. The only safer ces for her are the Northern countries... Maind City, or Seoul. There are parts in IN Country that were allied to the Huo n."


    "So, her life was in danger because of Liam Huo? And this man is pursuing her for marriage, huh?" Carl contemted; he wants to be enlightened further. "So, tell me more about Liam Huo."


    "Liam Huo is the Princess''s first knight. Like me, he is the princess''s childhood friend. In his belief, he is the only man the Princess thinks of as a knight. But to his horror, every guy she was close to bes her knight, and Liam threw a fret about it."


    "But because of some matters, they have to separate ways, and we''re happy because he''s a pain in the a*s... Well, Liam''s uncle, King Lamandi, adopted him. The king has no son to be his heir, and Liam is the most qualified as his cousin''s son. Liam became busy with his training, doing royal duties, and pursued his college degree; then, he got involved in Underground Worldter," Pitt went on.


    "And because of the association, Liam meets the Princess again. In the beginning, things were fine. He is protecting the princess, and we all travel together. But on one of our trips, Liam killed someone he caught that has an ulterior motive with the princess. The princess couldn''t ept his violent behavior. She wants Liam to stay away from her since then. But what happened instead?"


    "He asked the Princess''s hand for marriage, but the princess rejected him. When he tried to abduct the princess, they encountered a bloody fight against Liam''s men, as it cost lives. We lost a few knights. After that, it banned Liam not only from Australia but the entire Oceania Continent."


    Listening to the story the entire time, Carl lifted his right hand and scratched his chin. "The first knight, huh? Then a future king? Later on, he killed everyone that is threatening his chances to win over Hailey''s love? I guess Vincent would not like it. So, if Liam is a jealous man, and so Vincent does. Now Liam has begun a war toward Vincent."


    "The princess wanted to keep Mr. Shen to stay in Australia to ensure his safety," Pitt said. "But he keeps visiting his girlfriend now and then."


    "Yeah. You can''t keep him away from Hailey," Carl nodded in agreement.


    "The princess has no interest in having a boyfriend, honestly. She thinks of everyone as only her brother. And what''s only in her mind is to start her ownpany, travel the world, and build her city. To make the story short, the Princess came to Metro City to search for Vincent Shen, your cousin, to offer him a project. Then she finds out he is Eva''s husband. She didn''t tell me about this. Just recently, I learned everything."


    "Hold up there! Are you saying that Hailey already knew about Eva even before she came to Metro City?"


    Pitt replied, "Yes, we know Eva as Bryan''s long-time girlfriend. But we didn''t know that she got married, and we don''t know that his nominal husband is Vincent Shen, in which the princess falls in love with your cousin even he''s a married man." Pitt curled his lips, showing how it upset him.


    "My cousin was already in love with her even before he got married," Carl exins. He is prepared to defend Vincent, of course. He was only forced into that marriage because he is an obedient son. But not anymore after he meets Hailey once again.


    "What do you mean by that, Carl?" Pitt asked as it confused him regarding his statement.


    "Vincent is against this arranged marriage, the reason he searches the world to find her. But he failed. Now I could tell why he didn''t see her. Then the association hid her away and assured Vincent didn''t find any trace of her¡­ I am, right?" Carl concluded. He just learned about that story, and now it makes sense.


    "Well, you probably are right. Possibly it reached his cousin''s knowledge, Shun Crow. I could imagine how Shun Crow yed your cousin not to find the princess."


    "It looks like that was what happened three years ago," Carl concurred. He asked, "So, what is your n regarding Liam Huo?"


    "We want to trap him, and we need help to seed in our ns."


    "Then are you saying that?"


    "Bruce will exin to Mr. Shen regarding what we came up with. So, about your uncle... We need ess to all the traffic surveince cameras around the city."


    "Alright. I''ll talk to Rodney and Zaijan. I need their help to convince Uncle Samuel. It would be best if Rodney who talk to uncle. He could make an excuse that we have a critical case to solve. That''s why the Mafia Association has to be involved in this."


    "Thank you for listening to my proposition. I''m sure Mr. Shen won''t allow anyone to steal his fiance. He needs our help; we need him as well, including your family connections."


    "This is our gain. Liam Huo is the one who orchestrated Vincent''s ident. We investigate what his ulterior motive is. Vincent didn''t offend him. But learning all this? Then he wants Vincent dead as he is the princess''s lover?"


    "That''s right. And the princess should not deal with this alone." Pitt uttered with the hope that it will be over soon.


    "Hm¡­ everything that I heard this morning overwhelms me. We are about to y chess. The Knights, the Queen, and a King in opponent pieces. So, who is my cousin among the pieces? Hailey and Liam both from the line of royals. So my cousin is the bishop? I think Vincent isn''t the King yet until he defeats the acimed King."


    "I will agree with that. He has to prove himself first that he is a rightful king for our queen," says Pitt meaningfully.


    On that morning, Carl set up Pitt, Rodney, and Zaijan to meet at lunch. He invited his cousins to join them in Vincent''s yacht for a talk.


    After that, the knights received the approval to use the Shen Tower''s Security Room. Hansen immediately set up the system and connected it to the city''s surveince cameras.


    "Yo!"


    The knights turned their heads to the door, and it surprised them to recognize the person who entered the room. But Pitt knew him, of course.


    "Lord Rodney James Lopez," Pitt smirked. However, it displeased the guy.


    "Stop mentioning my full name, d*mba*s!"


    "Who you called d*mba*s!" Pitt blurted out. All the nerves on his forehead appeared from irritation. He took a step forward and then lifted his right leg¡ªa flying kick straightway toward Rodney''s face.


    But he dodges it easily and throws his right punch as a counterattack; after a few exchanges of punches that none hit on their bodies¡ªthe two men stopped ying around.


    "Ah. I never had a great spar for a while. The idiots that give me a headachetely are all chickens. I''m just about to open my mouth. They''ve already peed on their pants," Rodneyins; he continued¡­ "Vincent has been busy. He''s the only one who could beat me except you."


    "Oh. I look forward to inviting Mr. Shen for one on one. How many rounds would hest?" Pitt grins excitedly. He looked forward to that day toe.


    However, Rodney just snorted at Pitt''s query. "Are you serious about challenging him?"


    Pitt''s eyes glimmered from Rodney''s meaningful smirks. It means Vincent Shen is a perfect spar. Of course, he will invite him for a friendly fight. But he has an ulterior motive.


    ''I''m going to beat him up for took a move to our princess without our permission!''


    Observing Pitt''s ugly facial expression, the other men guess what he has been thinking. He has a n to beat up Vincent Shen.


    "I will bet on Mr. Shen," Tom whispered to Hansen.


    The guy pondered for a moment before he decided. "I think my cousin wants me to bet on him."


    Tom and Hansen clench their palm into a fist and throw their knuckles at each other to seal their bet. Both are grinning. They wanted to witness Pitt get beaten up once in a while.


    *


    LAS VEGAS, NEVADA


    As the investigation progressed with Matthew Lawrence''s help, the employees who nted the bomb are now apprehended and confessed to the authorities. They pointed out who the mastermind of the bombings was, and they confirmed that Vincent''s engineer is a part of the job.


    However, Vincent has mixed feelings about it. Somehow, he had known all of his engineers and architects. He trusted them all.


    Recently, one older engineer quit his job. He approved it as the main reason he will migrate to the U Continent to be with his daughter. Now, ording to the investigation. He wasn''t living with his daughter but in Nevada.


    Not only that, he owns a cabin somewhere, then a boat, and drives a nice car. Vincent felt devastated being betrayed like this. He racked his head to look at every angle of the reason, and his engineer betrayed him.


    At a round table, Theo and Vince had a dinner meeting with Matt, Rubin, Tim, and Rnd. Matt shared the result of his investigation.


    "I think we should all fly to P Country," said Matt in a serious tone as he is sweeping his eyes to the table.


    Creasing his forehead, Vincent queried Matt.


    "P Country? Is the mastermind living in my country? Or is he in Metro City?" Vincent asked with a panic in his voice. The first person who came to his mind is Hailey and her safety. "Can it be this person after me other than the motive to take revenge against the Shangs?"


    "You are correct, Vincent. This man is after the princess, and he is also responsible for your recent ident."


    "Liam Huo..." Vincent clenches his fists. He wanted to fly at this very moment, to be with Hailey. "Then what are we waiting for?"


    "We have to fly tonight, yes. But I received a report. The princess''s knights are preparing to trap him, and they wanted to ask as much help from you and your cousins. The Lopez family runs Metro City, and they need all the ess to the surveince cameras around the city to monitor every move of Liam''s men."


    "I''ll call Rodney to work on it," said Vince, he mused afterward.


    ''For once, I''m going to settle this with you, Liam Huo!''

 Chapter 204 - Plan To Trap Him (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 204 - n To Trap Him (Three)</h4>


    L.V. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT


    Tim drove the car toward the hangar where hidden the Shen and Shang private ne inside. They saw a bunch of men guarding outside. They are the well-trained bodyguards from He-Li Academy, owned by Theo''s stepmother. His family arrived earlier along with his parents, the reason there are so many Shang men tonight.


    Until they haven''t apprehended the mastermind of the bombing, the Shang would not care less and wander around cautiously.


    "Hey, Vincent!" Matt called out, waving at him.


    Vincent stepped out of the car, then strode toward Matt, who talked to a group of men in the hangar''s corner. It seems like important matters they''ve discussed at the moment.


    "Vincent, meet my Senior Officer Carlos Rodriguez from the Interpol Special Investigations Unit. He will apany us to arrest Liam Huo."


    "Good evening, Officer Rodriguez. A pleasure to meet you." Vincent stretched his arm to shake Carlos''s hand.


    "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Shen. In my hand is Liam Huo''s warrant of arrest. So you can assure that he will no longer threaten you and, most especially, Miss Davies."


    "I''m d to hear that. It surprised me that Interpol immediately took action against him when he was a future king," hemented, which was true. He''s happy that International Law is taking action regarding Liam Huo''s threat to him and Hailee and the Shangs.


    Carlos stated, "Liam Huo was on the list of International Illegal Organization as financier to the group. He didn''t take part in any activities, but he is supporting them through funds. Liam Huo wants to have powerful allies who are giving a lot of headaches to Interpol and the Emperor. We were in pursuit of the other members three years ago along with Lawrence''s brothers, Theo, and the Emperor''s right hand."


    "The group looks persistent, as you needed a full force to apprehend a member of the organization. Like Liam Huo, huh?" They were nning very well to trap him. And he hopes that Liam Huo will be in prison for his entire life. And soon answered his prayer.


    "Yes. He will be in prison for his entire life. With all the evidence and crimes hemits, we will send him to South Prison Ind."


    "South Prison Ind, huh? I''d be d if that would happen."


    That prison has a heavy security system and is guarded severely because all the prisoners are the most notorious criminals in the world. Being sent there means he cannot get an appeal nor a pardon.


    "He harms celebrities and known people in the business world. They will sue him soon, and he will face multiple cases. Added to that, his attempts to kill you and several killings in the past will include the trial," Carlos added.


    "That''s great then." Hearing all of this, he is satisfied. Now, all that matters is to trap Liam sessfully, thought Vincent. He will do all means for Liam Huo to fall into his very own hands.


    "By the way, Vincent. I forgot to introduce you to Brent Morris. He is the new Lord in the North and South-Eastern U States Mafia Association."


    Vincent shook hands with Brent, a guy who has blond hair and blue eyes. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Morris."


    "Nice to meet you too, Mr. Shen. Well, we aren''t that strangers to each other." Brent gives him a friendly smile.


    "You are Carl''s friend, right?" He remembers the guy back then.


    Brent replied, "I am his junior when he was a Lord before. I was under his wing until he left the association."


    "I see¡­ Good to know. Carl is working with my other cousins and my fiancees'' men to trap Liam Huo. They were preparing everything by now." said Vince.


    "That is great to hear. Carl asked for help, and so I asked the Emperor''s permission," Brent told Vincent. "So, you are the mystery fiance of the princess, Hailee Davies."


    Vincent has rendered speechless. He already knew that the woman he loves is not just the ordinary girl he met years ago. On the contrary, she is precious in this world, so he should not get jealous if many men knew her very well.


    "Hey, Vincent!" Theo is walking toward them. He carries a beautiful little girl in one arm and then a little boy holding his fingers, hiding behind him.


    "Hey, Theo! Are these your twins?" Vincent was ted to ask this question because he has been dreaming of having children of his own soon, and it was apparent as how he can''t hide feeling thrilled.


    "Yes! Meet Violet and Seth. Kids say hi to Uncle Vincent." Theo introduced them to each other. However, it was only Violet who greeted him cheerily.


    "Hello, Uncle Vincent!"


    "Hi, Violet! I''m happy to meet you atst!" Then Vincent lowered his gaze. "And Seth! Hello, little guy!" Vincent picks up Seth and carries him. Hemented, "You''re heavy!"


    Seth seemed shy. He only blushed instead of answering Vincent''s question. Theo chuckled and exined, "He got my genes, of course! That''s no doubt. Haha! I speak little, I tell you. But I''m a rebel to my parents."


    "Hope Seth wouldn''t. But I am certain he''ll be a loyal lover in the future like his dad." Vincent sounded like teasing Theo, which the twins didn''t understand what they were talking about.


    "Are you telling me now for my son to court your future daughter?" Theo had a grin on his face. "My father-inw has the craze about pairing me to his future daughter, and it happened in the end. But, take note, my father has no girlfriend yet, so be careful of what your mouth says."


    "Ah, right! In the end, it was our kids'' decision who they will marry in the future," said Vincent with confidence as an experienced adult. Then he said in a low voice. "Look at me now? My life is in a mess because of this arranged marriage thing. It''s a new century."


    "Yeah. You are right." Theo cannot agree more. He once arranged to meet someone, and he deliberately rejected it. Then, dly, because of his life project, he meets the mother of his children.


    "You know what¡­ I did not fully believe in destiny or fate. But when I met you and heard your story, it overwhelmed me every time I remembered it."


    "Even I still couldn''t believe it. But every time I look at this twin, especially Violet. I know I am not dreaming." Theo said it with proudness as his eyes gleaming from joy. It also shows how he was in love with his wife, the mother of his children.


    "Now that you''ve mentioned it. You name your daughter after your life project." Vincent brought it up. Theo stered an enormous smile on his face now that Vincent mentioned it.


    "Yes. If it wasn''t for this project, I don''t know if I would have a Violet now." Theo stared at his daughter with a loving gaze.


    Violet is the symbol of his love for his wife, as violet color means to LOVE.


    Theo and Vincent continued chatting when Seth spoke. He isining. "Papa, why is Violet only the one that is often mentioned. Also, Violet''s name was on the billboards wherever we went. She even has her name on a lot of bottles!"


    Theo and Vincent shared a nce. At this moment, Theo doesn''t know how to exin it to his son. It was true that there is a special meaning to why he chose Violet to name his Life Project in the past. That until now, they continue putting up this name everywhere as amercial of their top product.


    Just recently, they released a new wine under Violet''s brand name. This time, it has no alcohol in it, but as a sparkling grape juice¡ªso then, typically, Violet Sparkling Wine''smercial is seen everywhere.


    "So, how are you going to exin that?" Vincent asked Theo with a grin.


    Theo chuckled, rubbing his temple as he was trying to look for an answer. "Well, I didn''t know I would have twins. And it looks like I have to start a new project to name it after Seth."


    "Oh. That''s it!" Vincent''s eyes gleamed upon eximing excitedly as an idea came up to his head.


    "Hm? What is it?" Theo asked and was curious to know what made Vincent excited all of a sudden.


    "I was racking my head about what I should name the tower I am building for Hailey. Now I have an idea. I would propose it to Hailey if she agreed. Then, we will name the tower for our firstborn!"


    "Oh, that was nice! You''ve mentioned it will be the tallest building in the world. It should sound mighty."


    "Yeah. You inspired me again," said Vincent with a smile.


    "Ah. What a pleasure of mine, then. But consider preparing abined name. Might you get a twin in the end?" Theo''s advice, as he is patting his shoulder.


    "You are right. Vincent shared it with honesty. He is working harder to get Hailey pregnant soon. Not only to have an heir, but it is his best weapon that her dad won''t reject him. Besides, Hailey and I are just working to have our first child."


    Theo shook his head upon listening to him, and as a friend, he would like to cheer him. "Good luck, man! You should work harder!"


    Listening to the sideline, Tim and Rnd were grinning. It was fresh in their ears that their bosses speak so much about their love life.


    That night, Vincent prepared to leave the airport, the same as Theo and his family. First, Vincent makes a quick talk with Theo''s wife. He learned they were actually good friends, as Hailey often visited Maind City and stayed at Shun Crow''s mansion, where Theo''s mansion was nearby.


    "Hailey and I will visit you soon after everything is over. I want to talk to his cousin after I spoke to her dad."


    "Well then, ring me right away. And good luck!" said Theo.


    "Thank you."


    The Shang family is the first to take off. They were visiting Theo''s parent''s mansion in Hawaii, where his father spent his retirement.


    Meanwhile, Vincent and Matt arranged for another ne. They have to make believe that he was still in Las Vegas. He had a feeling that Liam Huo still has his men following him around. And that night, taking a chartered ne, Vincent left Las Vegas, Matt, Carlos, and Brent with the Mafia and Interpol agents.

 Chapter 205 - Plan To Trap Him (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 205 - n To Trap Him (Four)</h4>


    METRO CITY


    Walking toward the conference room, Zaijan was stopped by his uncle, Samuel Lopez, Mayor of Metro City.


    In this passing decade that Samuel Lopez remains as mayor of the city, the Lopez men, including Vincent, never took advantage of their family''s power even to see they were the longest hierarchy in the politics.


    Instead, they prove their sess by achieving everything with hard work in the career they''ve chosen to win over the business world.


    They were less to rely on what their family can do and what they can provide. They were trained to solve their issues if it was only a minor, and less to solve it with their family influences.


    But because of the history that their forefathers have written, people have been respecting their families. The people already perceived what would happen to them if they offend a Lopez member.


    However, despite that, some people seek a way for their downfall, both from politics and the business world, which these people are often failed. Lopezes always aim higher for the country''s progression, and it is not only for their gain but a nationwide reformation.


    They were always five steps ahead, especially with the Lopez new generations'' who aimed for advanced technology andpeted with neighboring nations for how progressive they were in the passing years.


    With the support of the entire n, they achieve great reformation of the whole Metro City, followed by the other cities throughout the country. And one person who has a massive contribution to the ideas is Vincent.


    The modernization and using advanced technology brought more foreign investors to Metro City. In addition, the government''s support of the nationwide infrastructure projects also attracts more tourists to the country.


    And Vincent, as building condominiums,mercial towers, high-end apartments, malls, and supermarkets in everyrger province brought more jobs and potential capitalists to start a franchise business.


    dly, Vincent and Zaijan are not alone dreaming of a new era for P Country. With the help of their cousins'' mindset in modern business, they brought substantial progress to the country. That is why even the elders show respect for Vincent.


    "Zayn, how was the preparation going?" Samuel Lopez queried his nephew when they reached the fifth floor and found an empty lounge.


    "Things are going smoothly, Uncle Samuel."


    The man in his early sixties was nodding as listening to Zaijan''s exnation about the progress of the entrapment operation against Liam Huo.


    He is the future king of V Country. Samuel couldn''t avoid feeling worried even though he already reached out to the President of P Country. Fortunately, they coborated with Interpol. They have nothing to do much but cooperate with the International Law Enforces ns to arrest Liam Huo.


    "Then good luck," said Samuel Lopez.


    "Thank you, Uncle Sam."


    Samuel and Zaijan are standing near the floor-ceiling window, gazing out at the city. From where they stand, they could observe the ongoing constructions of countless modern condos andmercial buildings that will stand as headquarters by some foreignpanies soon.


    Of course, the contractor of these projects is the Shen Group. And this is all thanks to Vincent''s persistence to aplish in the International Commerce along with Zaijan. And Samuel was proud of his nephews.


    When they ask for his help, there is no way he could say no. They were only asking for a small favor, which, even if it is huge support they need, he will offer his hand without a second thought.


    After their talk, both proceed to the Conference Hall.


    Today is the MCGC weekly meeting. First, one by one, the Chief of every Departments gave their reports; after that, the Chairman spoke in front of the Board and stakeholders representatives.


    "Well, as we''ve heard recently. We have our newest investor joining us. So now I would like to open the table for each of your perspectives about appointing her as a member of the Board."


    The conference hall suddenly filled with whispers and murmurs.


    "Are we allowing this?"


    "Why not? Although she is a foreigner, she had a higher investment than you."


    "What do you mean by that? And you just said it. She is just a foreign. We have foreign investors, but they aren''t requesting to be part of the Board!"


    "Have you forgotten? She is Vincent''s girlfriend. There is no difference with that. If I am his parents. I have already beaten him up for the reason that he hasn''t got a divorce yet! He should marry that girl as soon as possible!"


    "That''s right!"


    "If Vicent Shen married her, she will be a permanent citizen in P Country. There is no difference anymore."


    "I object to this!"


    The conference room now turns into a debate room. Few are opposed to the idea because they have ulterior motives all this time. They were afraid that Vincent Shen gained more power, and there was no chance for them to bring him down if that happens.


    Of course, they were those impatient to see how the Lopez hierarchy falls one by one. And it should start with the man who has a great influence on the majority of stakeholders.


    These investors were here because of Vincent Shen. If he were forever silent, gone and sleeping inside his expensive coffin, they would gain voice again.


    Well, they were confident to choose the opposition party because they have a strong backer, and it''s just a matter of time for them to taste their victory.


    However, nothing they knew about, Vincent is not alone. The knights of the woman who they strongly objected to earn aplete voice and gain position in the corporation have already prepared a trap for the man they think highly of.


    They were putting all of their hopes that this man could help them win against the Lopez family.


    Meanwhile, listening in his seat, Zaijan darkened his face. He hates how these old geezers'' brains work! All in their mind are only to things that would favor their interest!


    Besides, how if Hailey heard all of this discussion? Not only her family and friends, but all the people in the world would assume that Vincent is only after in her fortune if these words came out!


    What would she think if it reached her of how the board and stakeholders'' had opinions about her?


    "Group of scoundrels, old geezers!" Rodney hissed next to Zaijan. "I''m heading first before I punch these old men''s faces!"


    Zaijan shook his head. His head is pounding, listening to this nonsense discussion.


    "Don''t go yet. We have to end this meeting soon." He stopped Rodney from leaving.


    Zaijan had a better solution to determine this issue. He stood from his seat and walked toward the small stage of that conference hall.


    "Excuse me,dies and gentlemen. I think we bettere up with an easy way to determine everyone''s opinion rather than continue arguing for meaningless reasons."


    "And what do you mean, meaningless reasons?" asked the opposition party.


    Zaijan pursed his lips. Soon, he smiled and bluntly said, "You were afraid that Vincent would gain more control in this corporation. I know this is what you were thinking not only at this moment but all the time. However, is it Vincent you have to fear?"


    Everyone fell silent and pondered. Whispers grew for a moment, then fell silent again; this time, everyone looked at Zaijan with anticipation.


    "So? Who should we fear, President Lopez?" one member of the board asked Zaijan with a stern voice. He always hated how these young men take over power in themerce world than those in business for decades already!


    "I''m d that you brought up this question, Mr. Lim. Since we are into this. I want to remind each of you. Vincent has never had the interest to lead the group of old geezers like you."


    "You ungracious child!" one board member blurted out and stood from his chair then, followed by another member of the board that siding the opposition, cursing Zaijan for his remarks.


    "Like what I''ve mentioned, Vincent is not the one who you should fear..."


    Zaijan didn''t feel threatened at all. Instead, he widened his smile and went on.


    "It was me who you should fear because I would like to elect myself as the new Chairman of this corporation."


    Everyone dropped their mouths open except for Rodney, whoughed hard at what Zaijan did.


    "I will be the first one to vote!" Rodney raises his hand. Unexpectedly, the majority of the board and present stakeholders voted as well, including the current chairman.


    After the meeting, Zaijan heads to his suite in the hotel. Tailing him is Rodney, who wasughing until now.


    "Did you see those old geezers'' faces? They were like eating a rotten rat!"


    "Yeah, you said it ten times already." Zaijan shook his head. Sometimes Rodney acted childishly.


    Zaijan opens his suite and steps inside. He copsed on the single couch and leaned back to take a rest. He heaves a long sigh afterward.


    "That''s deep. What happened?" asked the man seated across from him. Actually, this man was already in his suite sincest night.


    "I just did a huge favor for the sake of your love life, and so, you should give me a mansion as a payment." He groaned, rubbing his temple.


    "Is that how expensive you are?" teased by the man who is none other than Vincent.


    "And what do you think of me?" Zaijan frowned at his tease.


    "Rodney, what happened?" Snap by Zaijan; Vincent asks Rodney when Zaijan in a real foul mood after the board meeting.


    "Well, we should celebrate!" Rodney brought three sses and a bottle of red wine. "For the new Chairman of MCGC!"


    "Huh? Who is the new chairman?" asked Vince with confusion. He waited for his cousins to share it with him.


    "It was me..." Zaijan replied Vincent. "Those old geezers have been working hard to kick us out on the board. But, of course, they could never do that."


    "It looks like they really work harder this time that it leads to how pissed you are," Vincent smirked.


    "I think you will do the same if you heard how they attempt to nder you. They were bolder this time because they have a backing. Like I didn''t know that they were having secret meetings with Huo cousins!" Zaijan blurt out.

 Chapter 206 - Plan To Trap Him (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 206 - n To Trap Him (Five)</h4>


    "What happens with the board meeting?" Vincent asked again. "I thought you had no interest in taking over this corporation?"


    "You are right, and you already knew about it. MCGC is a pain on the a** because of those close-minded old men. Honestly, Lopez Corporation is enough pain for me. So howe I would have an interest in leading those old geezers? But they have ns to sink this city."


    He added, "There is no way I would let them do that! I give my whole life to get as far as where this city stands right now, in which, because of my stupid dream and ambition, I turned my back on the woman I love. So now, I will allow no one to waste all of my efforts that cost me my life and my happiness."


    Vincent stared at Zayn with pity. TLikeCarl, this guy is also living in the pain that the past has caused it.


    In the eyes of society, they are sessful and powerful men who haven''t through vulnerability. But none of them knew that they were all trapped and dwelling in that secret ce until now.


    dly, he already has Hailey on his side. If he never meets her again, he would be in the same state as his cousins.


    Even though Zaijan graduallyes back to life when he meets Frained again, however, he could not take back what he has lost already in the past. But he is happy to see Zaijan is in better shape now than before.


    "Zaijan, since you have Raine, maybe it is time to look ahead?" Vincent attempts tofort him.


    He knew his words were not enough to enlighten him. But he truly wished he could someday return the favor to everything Zaijan did for him and Hailey.


    On the other hand, Zayn smiles faintly. The truth is, Vincent''s words somehow give him a little hope that he badly needs at this moment when the past keeps shing in his mind.


    Them, as cousins, are always in pursuit of their happiness. That is why he would lend a hand to Vincent not to lose the woman he dear to him.


    No one should live in misery as he is already, and Carl, who couldn''t move on yet even though it''s been five years, had passed.


    "Thank you for reminding me." Zaijan patted Vincent''s shoulder. "That should be what I do for the sake of Raine. She should have a happy life in the future and live to the fullest."


    On the sideline, Rodney is only listening to his cousins. And when the course of the talk went serious, he groaned andins.


    "Can we stop this drama? Why don''t we have a toast? That from this day onward. Let''s only look forward and defeat our enemies?"


    Rodney raises his ss, waiting for Vincent and Zaijan to do the same. Instead, while both shared a nce, they shook their heads and spat on Rodney''s back.


    This guy seemed not growing up yet. But he will be once he falls in love.


    After his back was struck, Rodney frowned and whined. "That hurts, you know!"


    "Don''t kill the moods!" Vincent retorts; he picks up the ss of wine Rodney pushed toward him, and the three of them nk their sses.


    After drinking half of the wine in his ss, Zaijan reported to Vincent about the board meeting.


    "I asked everyone to have an early meeting tomorrow morning. The majority voted for Hailey to be a member of the Board. I called Fraine to notify Hailey about it. She ns to send a representative instead. What do you think?"


    Vince put down his ss and pondered. Maybe it was the best thing to do, rather than Hailey traveling around a lot this time.


    They may n to trap Liam Huo by letting him get near her, but her safety is still the most important for him than ce her as bait.


    "I think that would be best. She better remain in Shen Tower, and let''s see what Liam Huo would do to get near her."


    He grew restless as days passed. He wants to end this as soon as possible to go back to Australia to talk with Eva. He wants to clear out everything in his past before he faces Hailey''s family, especially her father.


    Vincent hurls a deep sighed. He nced at Rodney. "How was the preparation going?"


    "All the men that are involved in this operation are on standby. It''s just a matter of time. Once Liam Huo gets near to our Queen? It''s checkmate!"


    Rodney exined further, pointing out the two sides of the chessboard. The other side is them, and the opposite side, of course, was Liam Huo.


    "When the rival king gets close to our queen, it is time for OUR KING to show up and protect his Queen. Am I right?" Rodney was looking at Vincent while he''s telling thest two sentences.


    Vincent grinned and muttered, "It seems like you want a fifty percent discount on the yacht that I am building for you."


    "Only fifty percent?" Rodney pouted. "Can I have it for free? Zaijan asked for a mansion, then just gave me the yacht for free!"


    "Both of you had a thick face. Instead of turning me into a beggar, help me earn more before I marry Hailey. Have you imagined how much I should spend to invite everyone to our wedding?" Vincent mouthed.


    Zaijan and Rodney shared a nce. Later, both are bursting intoughter. Then, finally, Rodney said, "Don''t worry, cousin! I will send you an E-cart so that you don''t need to push it but ride on it!"


    Vincent frowned. How dare Rodney joke on him when he is serious? E-cart? That still needed electricity! If he was living on the streets, then where the hell could he find an electrical outlet? Rodney is not thinking!


    "Alright, fine! There is no way I would allow myself to be poor. I should provide most for my family even though Hailey earns more than mine."


    "It looks like both of you need to talk regarding that," Zaijanmented. He then suggested, "You should do a Premarital Counselling or do a Pre-Marriage survey with each other on your own."


    "Huh? Is that necessary?" Rodney asked curiously. He seemed interested more than Vincent.


    Zaijan, who is less interested in this matter, shrugs his shoulders.


    "Some people do that to know each other''s perspective, especially if it involves assets and properties. So prepare some questions, and the couple should see what their viewpoint is regarding some matters once they are a married couple."


    "Then how about you?" Rodney asked Zaijan afterward. He is curious about what would be his answers now that he is arranged to someone else.


    "I will see what would be that woman is after from me. Of course, if I don''t love her, I willpensate her. But if I marry the woman dear to me, then of course. I will shower her with everything," Zaijan answered.


    Rodney lowered his gaze to the table and pondered what Zaijan had said.


    "If it is about money, as long as I marry the woman I love, I don''t mind giving her what''s mine and everything I have."


    Rodney shared his perspective, which he is more likely talking to himself. Zaijan didn''t expect to hear this from him. He is a bad-tempered guy and doesn''t like to associate with women a lot, just like him. Well, Vincent is not different from them.


    They had more fun with an all-boys out only like a yacht party rather than showing off to high-end clubs who could bring the most beautiful girlfriend to the party.


    "So, how about you?" Zaijan asked Vincent afterward.


    He shrugged his shoulders and then made a serious remark. "I will do the same. But in Hailey''s case, I am willing to sign a Prenup Agreement stating that I would receive a zero penny from all of her assets and none of her properties I can im in case of ...."


    Vincent didn''t mention the words that ''if ever he''ll live longer than Hailey'' as in his mind, he wishes to die together with her rather than being left alone.


    "Whatever I have is hers. I need to talk to mywyers once we''re legally married," he added.


    "Right! Because you made that stupid LAST WILL to threaten your parents." Rodney snaps his fingers whileughing.


    But then he pondered. Most of their elders are strict, especially Vincent''s mom. They want to control their children''s lives which were they were living in 2026 already. For them, there is no such thing as arranged marriage. Rodney swears to marry the woman he loves, whoever she is.


    Vincent had another ss of wine with Rodney and Zaijan. Later on, he deres. "I shouldn''t be here hiding. Rodney, find me some disguised clothes."


    "Disguise what?" Rodney chokes his liquor, and Zaijan looks at Vince with a perplexed expression. Both wonder if he is serious about roaming outside when he pretends to be still in Las Vegas.


    However, he is determined to protect Hailey with his own hands. "Yes, I am serious. I need to disguise myself and get near to my Queen."


    "Hm. Maybe you need to do that," said Rodney while staring at his phone. "Carl texted me. Liam Huo chartered two helicopters, and his ne flew to D City, but Liam and Galvin were still in Metro City and keep it low."


    "Hm¡­ looks like the Huo cousin is preparing tomence their ns and then leave P Country through the back door," Zaijan concluded.


    Vincent sharpened his gaze, staring at his ss. He was actually grinning as something was ying on his mind.


    "Then, I should be at the Shen Tower starting tonight. If he ns to enter my building through the rooftop, I will open the doors wide open and let him in. I would be happy to greet him."

 Chapter 207 - Plan To Trap Him (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 207 - n To Trap Him (Six)</h4>


    That evening, disguised as someone else, Vincent went to the Shen Tower with Rodney. He knew Hailey was still in the office and had meetings with her business partners and branch office executives.


    So then, while the girls were busy, it was the best opportunity for the knights to gather and discuss their agendas regarding the trap they set for Liam Huo.


    And this time, someone is joining them. The knights fell silent when they recognized thest man who entered the Security Room. He was wearing a hat and a beard under his nose, and everyone tried hard not tough.


    A while back, Rodney was already mockinglyughing hard at his cousin. In which was his idea of what disguise Vincent should wear.


    "Keepughing, and I will charge you the full price of your yacht."


    Vincent threatens him with eyes glinting in evilness, so now he has to seal his mouth shut. However, Rodney sometimes purses his lips into a grin, and then he quickly wipes it out before Vincent catches him.


    He''s a monster, honestly, especially now that he is saving a lot of money; he wants to audit every penny that goes to his bank. So now he''s using his yacht to threaten him. His cousin is actually cruel!


    When does Vincent worry about money? He is always generous toward his family and rtives. But now, he is suddenly meticulous in his expenditure!


    Rodney heaves a sigh, thinking about that. He shrugs any unnecessary thought before it will depress him one day.


    "Hey, everyone! We''re here!" he greeted the men seated around the long table.


    "Hey, Rodney!" Pitt waves at them.


    Following Rodney behind, his eyes swept to the entire room. Vincent closes the door and leans on it. He scanned the faces of the men that were said to be Hailey''s knights.


    Until now, he could not believe that Keith Cole was one of Hailey''s knights. And to his surprise, Hansen Park, CEO of Park Electronics, is also here.


    Park Electronics is Lopez Tech co-partnered in developing thetest gadgets for P Country. However, they never meet the CEO but the Park Electronics representatives. On several asions, either the annual celebration of their partnership or invited him to Lopez''s big parties, he often turned them down. Instead, he would only send an executive representative.


    But when Hailey was in danger, the CEO suddenly appeared in Metro City, and that is a big WOW under his breath. So now, whose other CEO would shock him he is Hailey''s knight?


    He''s already surprised to learn that Brent Morris is not only Carl''s friend and a mafia lord, but he is also Hailey''s knight! So can it be that all the Davies Group executives are Hailey''s knights?


    Wait! Vincent paused from contemting when he recognized another CEO among Hailey''s knights. It was Maynard Chan! CEO of Chan Logistics!


    Vincent reached for his forehead. Everyone around her is not just ordinary bodyguards you can hire anywhere or anytime. They were multimillionaire bachelors in the business world!


    No wonder Liam Huo felt threatened. These men are not just your average neighbor next door. He began having the urge to kidnap Hailey and bring her somewhere these men cannot follow her.


    But he willpromise the entrapment they were carefully preparing if he does that. Besides, Liam Huo will continue to trouble them if they do not put him behind bars. If only he could exile him from civilization.


    Ah! Why does he think that he is a powerful king who has the power to throw someone into a ck hole and transmigrate a person into another gxy?


    This doesn''t seem right. He is thinking about fantasy. He must be stressed thinking over a lot of thingstely. How funny for him to imagine these things.


    It looks like it is resulting from his jealousy, thinking that countless men are surrounding Hailey. If it happens in ancient times and he is the king. He has a feeling that he would order for these men to be executed.


    Can it be Liam Huo feeling the same way? It made him think of his grandmother''s bedtime story. It was a story passed down by the Shen elders, and he will also pass it down to his children in the near future.


    And the story goes like this¡­


    A long time ago, in the Ancient Continent. There are three neighboring kingdoms, which were never defeated in any battles. But there is a difference between these three kingdoms. One has only had a princess as an heir. So the king is looking for a suitable husband for the princess and then inherits the throne.


    When the princesses of age, the King invites the neighboring kingdoms for a fair and friendly fight. Whoever wins will have the princess and the kingdom as a reward.


    Instantly, the neighboring kingdom sent their princes'' to win over the princess''s heart. Not only that, even those kingdoms far across the continent joined the tournament. And among these suitors is the Good Prince and the Ruthless Prince of the neighbor kingdom.


    When it reaches thest round, these two princes in the neighboring kingdom are left topete for the princess''s hand. However, the princess already knew who she wanted to marry.


    But they must follow the rules. The winner would be thest man standing in the Arena, in which the Ruthless Prince is full of tricks. However, the Good Prince has no n to lose the battle.


    Now Vincent is back in reality. He couldn''t help thinking about why the story seems familiar to him and the urrences in the present time.


    The story does leave a mysterious impression. What he knew is this story written by his Shen ancestors from Ancient Continents. And if ever it urs in the past. They are now living in modern times where the winner is determined by power and money. And to defeat your enemy, you need to n it out well.


    On the one hand, while Liam Huo uses violence, he knows how to win over Hailey''s heart. And that is to offer his pure love, and that is what he is doing.


    Although he honestly gets jealous every time he thinks that there are numerous men involved in her, he must ept that these men were her childhood friends.


    They were already protecting her, even before he meets Hailey. Besides, they have the same goal¡­


    Not to win the Princess''s hand for marriage... but together to protect her against a Ruthless Prince.

 Chapter 208 - Plan To Trap Him (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 208 - n To Trap Him (Seven)</h4>


    "We are d that you can join us today, Mr. Shen!" said Pitt as he approached Vincent. He stretched his arm for a handshake.


    "My pleasure to join you. I want to face Liam Huo myself," Vincent replied with firmness in his voice.


    Hearing him muttering this, the knights shared a nce at each other. They could see the determination in his eyes that left a good impression on them.


    ''Is this the man, their princess, fell in love with?'' They could not help pondering over again, scrutinizing him now they met him in person.


    "Mr. Shen, regarding the preparation. We got to talk to someone from Senator Gu''s men. Liam Huo is nning to infiltrate this building to get the princess." Keith reported.


    Nodding, he asked Keith. "Can we trust this man?"


    "Yes, Mr. Shen. It was Bruce who introduced him to me. He is also a secret agent that has a crucial mission. The government is eyeing Senator Gu and gathering evidence in this passing year."


    "Hm. That''s good then..." Speaking of the bodyguard and driver he hired to protect Hailey. It shocks him to learn that Bruce is also her knight.


    "Mr. Shen, please forgive me. The princess has no ill intention. She wants to do a separate investigation of who wants to murder you. When you need someone to protect the princess, I squeeze in to be selected by my superior. In this way, I could closely work and guard the princess."


    This is what Bruce told him when the guy phoned him and confessed the truth.


    "Let Liam Huo step inside this building without sweating," he smirked.


    The knights were ncing at each other. They could tell that Vincent Shen is also a cunning man. Could it be that he only tricks their princess?


    *


    The following day, everyone was on standby, as usual. Hailey is preparing to leave the penthouse when some police officers appear at Pitt''s doorsteps to invite Hansen to the Police Station.


    That morning, Hansen was detained in the Central Police Station the entire morning. Keith used his connections to settle the case filed against Hansen. But, since the man who sued himes from an influential family, it will be a battle the entire day.


    "What''s going on?" On the other line, Hailey asked Keith worriedly. It shocked her after receiving the bad news¡ªno wonder she didn''t see Hansen in her convoy.


    "Don''t worry, princess. I will do everything to help solve Hansen''s problem."


    "But why does something happen like this?" she asked further. She racked her head, thinking how Hansen could offend someone when he is with her most of the time.


    If she was in the office, Hansen was in the conference room, working since he owns a bigpany back in Seoul.


    "Who filed a case against Hansen, and why? Maybe I should be there?"


    "This is just a minor matter, Princess. It was just a misunderstanding." Keith interrupted whatever this princess was nning. She should stay in the office. It will jeopardize everything they''ve prepared.


    "What kind of misunderstanding?" She could not stay calm when she knew that it happened because of her. In the first ce, Hansen shouldn''t be here if it weren''t because of her.


    Hailey couldn''t avoid ming herself. And Hansen knew what she was thinking.


    "Let me talk to her," said Hansen, taking the phone from Keith. "Hello, Princess?"


    "Brother Hansen? What''s going on? Who is this man that files a case against you? How dare he!" It upset her, and because of what had happened, she wanted to throw an outburst. Honestly, she wanted to stay calm, but somehow, it''s hard to control her moodstely.


    "Rx. It will be fine. Like what Keith already has mentioned. It was only a misunderstanding."


    "Can you tell me what happened?" she asked curiously. And Hansen knew very well that she wouldn''t stop if she didn''t hear the story.


    Before he begins, Hansen clears his throat. Afterward, he then shares what happened.


    "Well, during the opening of the DV Gem, I visited the Lopez Collection store when I spotted vibrant business suit disys in the store windows. So I looked for the designer who tailored it. I ordered several suits from Janise Lopez. And the person who sued me is her fiance."


    Hansen paused for a moment to cough. "Well¡­ Um, he suddenly appeared in Miss Lopez''s office, and he thought something was going on."


    "Something going on like?" Somehow, Hailey started getting a clear picture inside her head. This time, instead of worrying, a silly smile is ying on her lips. "So, what happens in the office?"


    Hansen rolled his eyes. He is perfectly familiar with this girl''s mood. A while back, she was fretting. Now she was teasing him!


    "Ahem! Well, I was half-naked, and Janise took my measurement. Ahem! You know¡­ My body size and her boyfriend misunderstand everything."


    "Janise has no boyfriend, and she didn''t agree to the arranged marriage with that guy!" Hailey couldn''t stop reacting. In fact, she sounded like assuring Hansen that Janise is single. Now she could connect the lipstick on Hansen''s suit and themotion between Hansen and Janise!


    Meanwhile, Hansen shook his head. He knew it! This silly princess would think this way, and now she''s ying cupid! Of course, she didn''t directly say it, but it was what was ying inside her head.


    "Well, I will admit that I punched him. He deserves it. How dare he humiliated a woman? They were just in an arranged marriage. Janise should not marry that kind of man. I''m willing to beat him up again."


    Hailey believes Hansen would not beat up someone without reason. While she''s talking to Hansen, she hears Janise speak in the background. Hailey hangs up the call. Since Janise sided with Hansen, then nothing she must worry about.


    Indeed, the Lopez family would look at this issue somewhat. Besides, Hansen is their foreign investor. She wondered if Janise''s fiance even knew that.


    Hailey had a good mood the entire morning until afternoon. Then Vince called her, and they were flirting over the phone until Liam Huo ruined her day.


    "How are you, sweetheart?"


    "Liam Huo!" Hailey darkened her face; she''s shooting a sharp look at the guy. Then, she asked, "Where is Gigi?"


    "Why do you worry about others but not about yourself?" said Liam with a huge smile stering on his face.


    "Answer my question." Hailey pursued Liam for an answer, her gaze full of threats as well. Seeing him now, she felt like she wanted to throw up.


    Liamughs, amused at how she doesn''t change at all. Hemented, "You''re still the na?ve and stubborn princess I used to know."


    "So what? I don''t care about your opinion. Tell me where Gigi and Fraine are!" Hailey even darkened her gaze, to which Liam responded with a smirk contorted in the corner of his mouth.


    "Not so fast, sweetheart. Before we talk about your dearest friends, why don''t we call someone first?" said Liam.


    "What now, Liam? I have no time to y with you," she muttered nonchntly.


    "Is it?" Liam curled his lips into a victorious grin as he dialed someone''s contact. "Hello, Eva, dear. How is Australia? Are you enjoying your stay?"


    Hailey shrunk her pupil, listening to Liam chatting with Eva as scenarios flooding into her head. All the puzzles that she tried to connect finally arepleted.


    "So it was really you who hid Eva from Vincent. You manipted her not to give Vincent a divorce. Am I right?"


    "Yes! Vincent Shen will never be going to marry you!" Liam eximed as he admitted it.


    Hailey clenches her palm into a fist. "You are crazy, Liam Huo!"


    Meanwhile, inside the Security Room, which monitors all the happenings on that floor, Vincent tightens his jaw in anger. He already has a feeling that Eva''s disappearance is not just her own will.


    He could never locate her in these passing months. Then the agent he hired got data that Eva is often traveling and staying at V Country and S Country. These ces are the Huo cousin''s territory!


    "What are they talking about? This man is married?" Someone from the knights raises this question.


    Everyone''s attention turned to Maynard Chan, then moved in Vincent''s direction.

 Chapter 209 - CHECKMATE: Game Over

    <h4>Chapter 209 - CHECKMATE: Game Over</h4>


    Vincent turned his gaze to every man in that room. He knew that sooner, he must exin himself to Hailey''s family and friends, especially to her knights.


    But today is not a good day to do any exnation. However, he could not avoid it if one of Hailey''s knights questioned him after hearing that fact from Liam and Hailey''s conversation.


    The least he must do now is assure these men that his intention to their princess is true. Vincent pursed his lips and opened them.


    "I won''t deny the fact that I got married to another woman. However, we never live as husband and wife. The only wife I consider is the woman I have been searching for many years. Suppose the association didn''t hide her from me. I probably found her a long time ago and could court her and ask her hand for marriage before I am forced to marry someone else."


    "So you are ming the Mafia if we protect the princess, Mr. Shen? Are you serious with your usation?"


    "No, I didn''t mean that. It''s just that I never wanted to marry another girl because I already love someone else, even though I don''t know her. And now that I see her again after four long years, I did my best to get the divorce we agreed with my nominal wife and make things right. But she is hiding from me. So it surprised me that there is someone who maniptes Eva to make mine and Hailey''s life miserable."


    "Still! I can''t ept the fact that this man is married and living with the princess! How did she let herself fall for him? She may be na?ve, but it''s because she is spoiled! Even so, I know she''s smart enough not to get involved herself with someone like him!"


    "Calm down, Maynard." The other knights try to ease the atmosphere.


    "He only had a nominal wife. I know, is that all." Then, finally, someone from the knights chimed in. It was Brent Morris.


    "And so? Aren''t you siding with Mr. Shen because Mr. Carl Johnson is your senior?"


    "That may be true. But I could say this because I witnessed how Mr. Shen was forced to marry someone else. And as what we hear now¡­ Mr. Shen should have his divorce a long time ago if Liam didn''t interfere."


    Maynard fell silent, and the rest of the knights inside that room. Brent added, "Besides, that woman is living with someone after their wedding. The cheater here is that woman."


    "Is that true?" They murmured.


    Now that one knight brought up the issue, Vincent took the opportunity to express himself.


    "I understand you couldn''t ept me yet. And I am willing to prove how much I love Hailey. My intention is real. I have been in love with her for a long time. So I don''t want to waste any more time." Vincent paused and waited if the present knight had an objection. Then, when no one speaks, he went on.


    "You guys can beat me upter. But at this moment, I want to focus on our mission. I want to save her as soon as possible. And I think this is the right time to show up and confront Liam Huo. Look at her."


    Vincent pointed out the screen, and he exined his observation. "She seemed restless and ufortable. She is sweating a lot as well."


    "And Liam Huo doesn''t allow her to go to the restroom."


    The knights quickly studied Hailey''s face and body movement. She is sweating a lot, and she looks paler. However, she only applied light makeup; now, it couldpare her skin tone to a sick person who runs out of blood.


    They could also hear how she begged Liam to go to the powder room. She looks like she really needs it.


    "Dammit! I''m going to kill this man!"


    "We should notify the Interpol agents to standby," Brent Morris suggested.


    Immediately, everyone prepared for the show. Not long after, Carl, who was only hiding in the other room with the Interpol agents, bid goodbye to join Brent and the rest of the U Continent Mafia representatives.


    They were just on the fifteenth floor, below the restaurants and cafe. Still, they took a lift to get to the upper floor.


    "Who are you?" asked Liam''s men after they stepped out of the lift.


    Carl''s eyebrow rose upward after someone told them this floor is close. He snorted and said, "Is that so? I didn''t tell my employees to be closed for the day."


    These fool men! Carl only controls himself not to kick the man who stood as the group leader guarding the lobby. The cafe is his partnership with Vincent so that he could also im it as his own.


    Meanwhile, Vincent took a secret passage that will lead him directly to the Coffee Shop. Of course, he ces secret doors, stairs, and secret rooms that no one knows but only him.


    If Liam Huo thinks he could escape, Vincent makes sure that Liam Huo could not do that.


    *


    PRESENT TIME


    Hailey''s eyes could not believe what she''s seeing. She was just talking with Vincent over the phone a while back. But now he''s here! It was really him! Not only that, the situation has changed. Vincent is pointing a gun at Liam which his men can do nothing in the presence of other mafia groups.


    This is not a dream, right? She couldn''t stop wondering. At that moment, Hailey didn''t hold back the tears to flood her eyes. She didn''t know how it happened or what was going on, but it made her happy to see Vincent.


    Now that Vincent appeared and pointed a gun at Liam, Carl took the gun in Liam''s hand.


    Meanwhile, Liam tightened his jaw. Then, after he recovered from the shock, he pushed the corner of his mouth into a grin.


    "Vincent Shen, I admire you." He scoffs. "You are not only the man with the life of a cat. Howe you didn''t get any injuries after the ident? I started to believe you were like Batman, who recovers instantly but shows up today when I least expected you to appear? You are neither a cat who has nine lives nor Batman who is persistent. I should name your act like Superman. Did you fly to get here? I was impressed!"


    Vincent raised an eyebrow. He snorted after Liam bbered. "Mr. Huo, you sure talk a lot. Anyway, I am not sorry that I disappointed you. But you are right. I flew here to tell you that the game is over."


    Liam gritted his teeth upon realizing that Vincent Shen set a trap for him. "Have you waited for me to step into your trap, huh?"


    "To tell you the truth? It was Hailey''s knights who orchestrated the trap for you. However, I am more impressed that you have the guts tomence your n to kidnap Hailey from my building. Do you think I will let you leave just like that? The biggest mistake you made is to forget that I designed and built this building. I know every secret room and passageway. Lure you inside is your end, Mr. Huo. Or should I say in the chess game, CHECKMATE!"


    Liam pushes Hailey to the sofa. He made an abrupt turn to steal the gun from Vincent.


    But Vincent is quick. He took a few steps backward, and he is cautious not to pull the trigger, might miss his shot, and hits Hailey by ident. He knew how to use multiple guns, including long-range rifles, but it is rare for him to have practice. So he won''t take any chances.


    Now that Liam let go of Hailey, Vincent sent Carl a signal. He immediately understood it. Carl gestured at Hailey.


    "Come here, Miss Hillson!"


    Hailey quickly moves her feet. She runs toward Carl, who grabbed her arm and hid her behind him. He is using his body to shield her.


    "Carl, take Hailey out of here!" Vincent requested.


    "Let''s go, Miss Hillson." Carl holds her wrist to pull her away and runs outside. But Hailey is hesitant to leave Vincent.


    "But Vincent is¡­"


    "You''re only making things hard for Vincent if you are in the same room. You''ll only distract him."


    "Vincent! Please, be careful!" She''s too worried for Vincent. But Carl is right. Although she worries about Vincent, she will be only a burden if she lingers around.


    In the corner of his eyes, Vincent cast a nce at Hailey. His gaze softens; as he dares to show his affection. "I love you, Wifey..."


    "I love you too, hubby!" she replied before the door swallowed her.


    Left inside the private room, Liam clenched his teeth in anger. It displeases him how this guy and Hailee disyed affection in front of him. However, Hailee loves to provoke him.


    "I''m going to kill you, Vincent Shen!" Furiously, he roared at him.


    Vincent only pushes the corner of his mouth into a smirk. Then, he gives his gun to Brent.


    "Don''t think that we outnumbered you and have no weapon, Mr. Huo. We can settle this with our fists." Upon saying it, Vincent took off his jacket and posed into a boxing posture.


    Liam did the same. He took off his coat and rolled the sleeves of his shirt and pose. He takes the first step to throw a punch, but Vincent easily dodges it. Then Liam continued throwing punches at Vincent until he was also using his leg.


    Liam lifts his right leg and kicks Vincent. But using his arm, he fends off the blow and kicks back at Liam, whichnded on his stomach; the guy took a few steps backward.

 Chapter 210 - It Ends Here

    <h4>Chapter 210 - It Ends Here</h4>


    Liam shrunk the pupils in his eyes, reaching for his abdomen after Vincent''s kicknded on his body. He got him good. Now he wants to beat him up!


    "Vincent Shen!" Liam shoots Vincent a ferocious stare, clenches his palm into a fist, and prepares to throw heavy punches at him.


    "You messed up the wrong city, Liam Huo." Vincent pursed his lips into a smirk that annoys Liam even more.


    Soon, the two men resume punching each other, even after a few of themnded well on their faces; however, Vincent mostly dodged Liam''s blows. He proved how strong it is, so he has to avoid hitting it, or else his face is probably swelling for sure by now.


    Downstairs... They were halfway down the staircase; she stops and leans on the wall, heaving a long sigh. Hailey tried to calm herself down. Then she reached her forehead and rubbed her temple.


    "Thank you, Professor Carl. I''m fine from here. I can''t let Liam harm Vincent. Can you help Vincent fight, Liam, instead?" she begged Carl.


    "I promised Vincent that I would keep you safe once he and Liam Huo face each other. Now, we must leave the coffee shop."


    Hailey looks at Carl and scrutinizes him. It seems like Vincent knows about Liam, who is after her. Why does she have a feeling that everything is not a coincidence? She looks downstairs. Half of her knights are now gathering in the coffee shop.


    "Princess, are you alright?" Pitt queried the moment he approached them. He scanned Hailey and breathed with a sigh of relief after he saw that she looked fine.


    After he received a report that Liamnded on the Shen Tower rooftop, even though he was attending the MCGC meeting, he quickly left the HQ and drove back to thepany.


    "Pitt, I''m d you''re here! Where are Gigi and Tom? What happened to them?" Hailey asked worriedly. She failed to make Liam confess where Galvin took Gigi. Bruce reported to her that Liam''s ne wasn''t in Metro City. She began panicking, thinking how she could help Gigi.


    "Keith and Hansen are in pursuit of Galvin. Fraine is safe now. Rodney kept an eye on her when Galvin took Gigi, and she brought in a different ce."


    Hailey sighed with relief. She mumbled, "I''m d. I prayed they would safely save Gigi and Tom."


    "Don''t worry, Princess. The city SWAT Team is helping in pursuit." Pitt assures her.


    "The city police knew?" It surprised her. The mayor of this city. But seeing that Vincent and Carl were here, then it''s possible they ask their uncle''s help.


    Pitt nodded. So many things happened today. He knew that Liam Huo would make a move anytime. dly, Vincent Shen and his cousins got involved in keeping Hailey''s safe.


    They''re also lucky that Carl Johnson is Vincent''s cousin, and he was around in the same city. If ever, it will be a bloody fight between them and Liam. Probably, things would just keep repeating.


    "The Interpol and CIA are here as well. Matt ising in soon, Princess. The operation today is a secret. So then, the customers must escort out." Upon saying this, Pitt nced at Carl.


    "Matt? Do you mean brother Matthew is here?" It surprised her. Then, what Shun meant when he phoned her is about capturing Liam soon.


    "In these passing years, Liam has been involved in an organization that does illegal activities for a decade already. Inter years, Liam funded this organization to strengthen his control in many countries. So then, the International Law and Mafia Association have been eyeing him for a couple of years now. Since Liam appears in Metro City and still after you, Shun gives to Interpol all the information and evidence the Mafia Association has kept all these years." Pitt exined.


    It rendered Hailey speechless. Now she understood why Liam is too bold in pursuing her, even doing it violently. His way is merciless.


    "Professor Carl, can you escort and exin to the girls why they have to leave now? But they must not know the real reason. Also, can you drive them back to school or drop them at their house? I''m sorry to ask you too much."


    "What are you saying? But, of course, I would be d to help. They are my precious students, after all." Carl said with pride disying on his face.


    "Tsh! I still can''t believe that being a professor is the career you will choose after you leave the association."


    "Shut up! Senior!"


    "It was you who should shut up! I still look younger than you!" Pitt growled at Carl.


    Hailey giggled, watching these two men mocked at each other. She could still not believe that Professor Carl is an ex-mafia Lord.


    "Don''t embarrass me in front of my student, Senior!" He continues taunting Pitt. And before Pitt could smack him, he descended to the stairs with a rush.


    "This ungracious junior of mine! I should have made your training harder in the past!" Pitt roared.


    Hailey tried to suppress herugh. ncing at her, Pitt sighs with relief. It made him happy that she looks better now. He heard the knights'' conversation, including Vincent.


    "Princess, I''ll escort you now, back to your office."


    "But I need some exnation here. I have a feeling that I missed something," she told Pitt, ring at him suspiciously.


    "Let''s go back to yourpany. It''s dangerous if we stay here while Matt and Carlos from Interpol will catch Liam soon. We have to be cautious; his men might resist. However, we promise to your boyfriend that we will keep you safe." Pitt persuades her.


    For a moment, Hailey ponders. In the past, her knights sessfully kept her safe. However, it always paid for life among her knights. How if something happens again, and this time is Vincent?


    "Princess... I know you were still thinking about the past. But it''s different now. We made sure that Liam would not win this time. He could harm no one, unlike before. I believe in Mr. Shen to beat him. Besides, if Liam killed someone today, Interpol and the CIA are on standby. They won''t let him go no matter what this time."


    Hailey pressed her lips. She lifted her gaze at Pitt and said, "Pitt... I don''t want to lose him."


    "Don''t worry, Princess. The Lopezes sent out more police around. The SWAT is also on standby. They''ve already taken the bombs and sessfully defused them. The SWAT took the bombs away by now."


    Upon hearing that, her face lightened up. Now she felt relieved. She''s worried that Liam still has thest card against them to threaten them and ask to let him escape with her.


    "I''m d that this building is safe now." However, it concerns her that more innocent people would die because of her. How could she forgive herself if that happens?


    "That''s right, Princess. Thanks to the Lopez family. With their influence, we are able to handle everything easily."


    Vincent''s cousin always backs him up with his fights. It always impressed her with the brotherhood they were giving to each other.


    "Pitt¡­ I''m sorry¡­." Hailey apologized¡ªthat it confused the guy.


    "Princess!"


    *


    Meanwhile, Vincent is still going on fighting with Liam. He punches back when Liam kicks him. Vincent dodges or guards up his face using his arms.


    Then, when he found a perfect moment, he jumps and gives Liam a hard punch on the front. The moment his footnded on the floor, he spun his body and stretched his leg, throwing a heavy kick at Liam''s body. The guy pushed backward and copsed on the coffee table.


    The furniture breaks its legs, and the ss shatters after Liamnds on it. Liam attempts to get up, but three gunshots echo in the room. He shrieked in pain. But what makes it even more painful is to be shot by the woman he loves his entire life.


    "Sweetheart¡­" Liam struggles to speak; his gaze softens, staring at the door.


    Hailey dropped the gun on the floor after she shot Liam both of his knees and one on his shoulder. Still, killing him is an easy punishment. Making him suffer for the rest of his life is what he deserves.


    It started with her¡­ Then things should end with her. It was what Hailey thought all this time.


    "Princess¡­" Brent found himself speechless after Hailey took Vincent''s gun from his hand.


    On the other hand, it surprised Vincent when someone shot a gun. But what shocked him more was to find out that it was Hailey who shot Liam.


    "Wifey¡­" He looked at Hailey with a loving gaze. He knew clearly that it was against her will. Still, she''s done this for him.


    Liam gritted his teeth not to scream from pain because it''s not only his body that is aching but also his heart.


    "You are too serious about getting rid of me, huh?" he smiled bitterly.


    Hailey covered her mouth as tears fell down her cheeks. It shouldn''t be this way. But Liam never epts the fact that he could never win her heart, no matter what he''ll do. Even if Liam properly pursues her, however, her heart only beats to one person.


    Knowing that he wants to harm that person, she would not just stand and hide. So she''ll end it here for good.


    Hailey meets Liam''s eyes as she makes her speech. "It has to end here, Liam. I love Vincent. I would never let you harm him or any of my friends anymore."


    She covered her mouth harder. But as she''s looking at Liam''s bloodied knees and shoulder, it makes her sick even more.


    Hailey runs toward the powder room. She throws up everything from her stomach, even though nothinges out in her mouth.


    Following her in the powder room, Vincent was too worried about watching Hailey continue vomiting in the washbasin, even though nothing came out.


    He lifted his arm, then stroked Hailey''s back.


    "Wifey? Are you okay?" he asked with too much concern in his voice.

 Chapter 211 - I Feel At Ease When You Are Around

    <h4>Chapter 211 - I Feel At Ease When You Are Around</h4>


    Vince was too worried watching Hailey keep vomiting on the washbasin even if nothing came out from her mouth.


    "Wifey, I already asked someone to get you some water. Do you want me to bring you to the hospital?" He asked worriedly. He tried his best tofort her to feel better. He still has no idea, but he only believes that Hailey felt sick seeing Liam bleeding.


    Vincent handed Hailey a paper towel. After she washed her mouth, Hailey took the paper towel from Vincent and wiped her mouth. Vincent remained to rub her back, which made her feel better.


    "Here is the water, Mr. Shen." A man from Brent''s group brought them a bottle of water.


    Vincent opens the cap and helps Hailey drink it. "Wifey, open your mouth."


    Hailey followed what Vince had asked her. But, unfortunately, she still has no strength after she throws up. Vincent brought the bottle to her mouth, she gulped the water once it touched her lips, and she almost emptied the bottle.


    "Do you feel better now?" he asked.


    Hailey nodded and thanked Vincent. Then, she asked him to go back and check how Liam was.


    "Are you sure you wanted to see him?" It worries him that she''ll throw up again.


    Hailey shook her head and said, "I''m fine now. I feel a lot better after I drink some water."


    Vincent ced his right arm on her waist and led her back to the room where everything happened. Liam, at the moment, was given first aid by someone from Interpol that has advanced training at times like this.


    Outside the private room are Matthew, Pitt, and Brent talking, discussing something they could tell was a serious matter.


    "Brother Matt!" Hailey rushed toward him; Matt met her halfway.


    "Are you okay, Princess?" Matt asked; Hailey nodded at him. He smiled and patted her head.


    He wanted to give Hailey a brotherly hug but seeing Vincent Shen standing just a meter away, the guy seemed to scrutinize him with such intent. He could tell that the guy is sending him a silent warning that he cannot make such gestures toward Hailey.


    Matt parted his lips into a grin, and he whispered to Hailey. "I could sense how your boyfriend is roaring at me. I''m afraid that if I hug you now, he''ll throw me out from this very floor."


    Hailey giggled at Matt''s hunch. She does not doubt that Vincent is behaving like that toward the men near her. She always remembered how bold he admits of how jealous he is if she smiled enormously at other men.


    "That''s my hubby, brother Matt. I knew he was a jealous man. So you have to take one step back away from me," she told Matt, that it made himugh out loud. Although it may sound like a joke. But, Matt knows there is truth in that and so, he has to follow the advice.


    "I knew someone was behaving like this. Well, I knew several men that overprotected and well-guarded their wives."


    "Don''t worry, brother Matt. This guy is pampering me a lot. So I don''t mind if he is clingy all the time."


    Mattughs once again. Meanwhile, Vince''s face was gone, flushing red. He could actually hear what Matt and Hailey have been talking about. And he would admit he''s indeed sending warning stares to everyone that Hailey''s side is his ce, and he doesn''t care if they were her knights.


    Now that Liam was given first aid. The Interpol put him on a stretcher board as he could not walk.


    "Princess, I would love to chat longer with you. However, I have to finish my job. I need to escort this man and hand him over to the U Continent Interpol."


    "Is he not handed back to V Country and punished by the king?" she asked curiously. She knew that his uncle had been put in shame now. But she worried that Liam would only punish lightly. But what Matt replied made her feel relieved.


    "He will face multiple charges soon, and the Interpol HQ gives us the go-to to imprison him in South Prison Ind after he is convicted. All his crimes are under International Law. He has no way to escape from it."


    "It would make me d to hear that. He could harm more people. Today, he threatens to bomb this building. That could be a terrorism act, right?" Hailey asked Matt.


    "You are right, Princess. It would add to his case. So, brace yourself, okay? You might have to expose yourself to the media." Matt nced at Vincent. "Also, Vincent, as this is his property. So, we probably need your cooperation soon."


    Hailey looks at Vincent with worry. He reaches her hand and squeezes her palm like he was telling him that he''ll be by her side.


    "Okay, brother Matt, I will file a case against Liam. He harmed my friends and several families still mourning because of what he did."


    Since she wants to end her connection to Liam, she must end it altogether. Putting Liam behind bars is the extreme act they must do. Or else, he could harm not only her friends and family but even innocent people.


    This time, Matt didn''t care if he''ll hug Hailey in front of Vincent. He witnessed everything since the beginning. Liam threatens this girl to follow everything he says, including his demands. He wanted to arrest him sooner, but he had to stay still and waited for the right time to show up. And after Hailey bravely shot Liam, it was the signal to arrest him.


    "I''m so proud of you," said Matt to her before he left.


    *


    Now that Liam was apprehended, Vince and Hailey went to her office. Upon stepping inside her office, Hailey suddenly hugs Vince too tight. And once again, she let her tears flood her eyes.


    This time, it was tears of happiness. Finally, finally, Liam could not harm Vincent anymore.


    On the other hand, Vincent hugged her back. Then, he quickly wrapped her body with both of his arms and let her cry.


    He ns to beat up Liam Huo to avenge her. That guy made her suffer a lot through the years. She suffers deep inside, but she only hides it on the surface.


    "He will no longer be a threat to you or able to harm your friends," Vince whispered in her ear.


    Hisforting words brought ease to what she is feeling, which she is only hiding all this time. Later on, Hailey parted a little from Vince as she remained to hold his waist tight. She stared at him lovingly as she opened her mouth.


    "Most of all, he could no longer harm my lover," she told Vince.


    Vincent lowered his head and imed her mouth. He kissed her gently until the kiss deepened like there is no tomorrow. She missed him so badly.


    But as she remembers how sneaky he is, Hailey lightly pushed Vincent and asked, "Wait a minute, President Shen. I guess you have something to tell me now. Hm?"


    "I know I must and I will, President Davies. However, I remember that I just made an appointment with you an hour ago. What do you think?"


    They were already in a rtionship for a while now. But still, Vince could always make her heart flutters, and her cheeks turn scarlet red.


    Suddenly, theirst conversation on the phone shes in her head. Now, her pinkish cheek turns crimson red from blushing.


    "Hubby¡­ Now I understand why you are so cheeky, challenging me that you''lle to my office in an instant."


    Her office filled with Vince''sughter in the next seconds. The people that were about to knock on her door froze outside after they heard them flirting.


    "Wifey, I will always fulfill my promise to you," said Vince in a teasing tone.


    "Oh¡­ Then, would you strip for me now?" And her voice is so seductive in his ears.


    An excitement shes in Vincent''s eyes at how she acted naughtily. He was worried sick after seeing her upset, then crying and vomiting after she shot Liam.


    Now she was in the mood to seduce him!


    Vince curled his lips into a smile. "Miss Davies¡­ Are you sure to make me strip right here?"


    "Can we negotiate about that first?"


    She bites her lower lip that made Vince swallowed. She changed her mind, but she still seducing him the way she acted in front of him!


    Vince shook his head andughed. "Wifey¡­ you made me so worried a while back. I''m happy to see the Hailey Hillson I know."


    Hailey leans her head on Vince''s chest. She uttered, "Because I feel at ease when you are around. I could sense security just hearing your voice. Hubby, I''m sorry if I didn''t tell you about Liam."


    Vincent nudged his head on top of hers and replied, "I made you promise me that you will tell everything about Hailee Davies when I just back from Las Vegas so it''s partly my fault."

 Chapter 212 - Let Me Buy It!

    <h4>Chapter 212 - Let Me Buy It!</h4>


    "What frustrates me is that I am almostte to discover about Liam Huo. I have been thinking now¡­ How if I never had the chance to learn that someone is pursuing you and this person is dangerous? How if I am toote and he already took you away from me? Then, he''s actually the one who messed up with my divorce!"


    It does anger him. And he would take part to med himself even if Bruce is also keeping a secret from him.


    Vince frees Hailey from his arms to look at her beautiful face that slowlyes back to its natural pinkish color. He raised one arm to rubbed her cheek.


    "However, I will probably chase you even if it''s the end of the world, nor even if it is in the depths of Hell. I will definitely take you back."


    Hailey wipes the tears that escape from her eyes. She tiptoed a little to reach Vince''s lips and ced a sweet kiss. Her eyes remained close as she breathed and immersed herself inside Vince''s warm embrace. She replied to that,


    "I want us to have a heart-to-heart talk. Can you take me away without my knight''s knowledge? They would keep following me around until they made sure I was out of danger and apprehended everyone. Liam is not alone. He gathers some alliances in P Country. And since they have their grudge against you, we can''t stay at ease yet."


    Vincent smiled, lovingly staring at the girl in his arms. She is undoubtedly intelligent, as well as a cunning woman if you want to measure her capability. He already witnessed that in these passing months, when they were acting as a fake couple. And ever since they were officially in a rtionship, she keeps impressing him.


    But, on the one hand, this is a red light ring up on top of his head, reminding him he must be careful not to mess up with her, or else her knight would chase him to death; moreover, she''ll handle him with her own hands.


    Now he wants to thank his mom for being so strict with him. If ever that he turned into a yboy?


    He probably has to watch his buddy. He could picture Hailey cracking it. And what''s worse is she smashes it with a sledgehammer.


    Ah, no. He believes Hailey could ideally aim the gun straight between his thighs.


    ''Mom, all of your nagging while I''m growing up has now paid off! I achieved the most precious treasure in the world! It is also worth paying the 3.5 million US dors of jewelry set with my body. From now on, I have to work even harder to please this woman! Now I could rte to dad why he never dares to look at another woman. It''s scary to imagine if my buddy saying bye-bye to the world!''


    Hailey noticed his silence, but a silly smile was ying on his lips. She need not ask. Vince has something in mind, and she knew it was amusing.


    "What were you thinking, hubby?" she asked afterward.


    Vince instead brushed his mouth on her forehead before he answered. "Hm. I''m just thinking how lucky I am to reach a distant star like you."


    "Silly. What''s the drama now?" Hailey rubbed his chest as she mumbled flirtily at him. "Are you going to run away with me?" she asked afterward.


    Vince chuckled at her seductive tone. "What are you saying? I so love to hide you from your knights. I can''t wait to run away with you. I''m not afraid if your knights will chase me to death from kidnapping you today."


    As Vince whispered huskily in her ear, she could feel the warmth of his breath on her skin that made her daze because of excitement. Looking at his deep dark brown pupils, she could not wait to be alone with him.


    "Please, let''s elope for today."


    Hailey bites Vince''s left ear; his eyes sh with excitement as she continues behaving like an alluring kitten inside his arms. So, this is definitely Hailey Hillson! The only woman who could stir his choosy heart every time she yed naughtily.


    In the past, he felt disgusted when a woman flirts with him, especially when that woman tried to touch him. He doesn''t like that kind of woman who made the first move.


    But when ites to Hailey. He doesn''t mind at all. He''s even aroused if she''s done that. She''s the only one who can make him crazily, sexually hungry.


    As he could not wait to be utterly alone with her, he gently cupped her right face.


    "I will show you a secret," Vince murmurs on top of her lips; he then pulls her toward the restroom inside her office.


    "What are we doing here?" she asked, as it confused her. How could they elope if they were hiding in the toilet room?


    "Like what I told Liam Huo. I have secret rooms and passages in this building. I will make sure to build one. And only authorized personnel knew these secret rooms and passages."


    Upon Vince saying that, he presses something on the bathroom wall inside a cab. Then, a door opens.


    "What is it?" Hailey asked curiously, staring at the small room behind the door.


    "It was more likely a panic room when a person attacked it. But it was a multi-purpose room." He closes the door, a red light automatically lit inside. "Inside, you will see a green light then. It will show you instructions on what to do."


    Vince pointed to the wall were written the instruction as he talked about. Then Vince pushes on another door. It was only small but enough to go through.


    "Let''s go!"


    There is a smile stering on his lips while pulling her to the small door. They have to crawl it, but their escape would not be real if they pass through her knights'' eyes.


    She follows Vince until they reach the twenty-fifth floor; Vince pushes the door open and gets out. After getting out, she could see a narrower staircase. Then she saw an elevator. Vince exins to her that this building terrace was solidified for many purposes. If there is an earthquake, it will hold longer. And for the escape, the elevator will serve them well.


    Vince sped her hand as they entered the lift. She realized that this lift would only take them toward the 20th, 15th, 10th floors, the Ground floor, and the parking lot.


    Hailey just followed Vince silently. She could now understand. If ever that Liam took over the entire building, Vince still has a way to get inside secretly. She bet her knights, the Interpol, and Brent''s group took this elevator. They could go in and out of the building without the knowledge of the employees in this building.


    Vince is truly a genius. This world is a blessing to have him with such talent. And she''s also blessed that she found him.


    "Hubby, you are so amazing."


    "And I''ll show youter how amazing I am." He whispered naughtily.


    Hailey, pinch him on the waist, and she pouted. "I''m serious here, hubby! Although I also look forward to it."


    She winked at him. And that yful smile on Hailey''s lips breaks the thread of restraint he''s struggling to control. He pulled Hailey into the corner and pinned her on the wall. He kissed her hungrily. His hands started traveling her waist upward to her back.


    After the long kisses they''ve shared, both are panting and catching air to breathe. "Let''s go, darling!"


    Vince pulled her away toward the ck car parked in the parking lot. She whistled upon seeing the beautiful car. She hasn''t seen this one yet. She guessed Vince designed it and ordered it as personalized made.


    "Am I thinking correctly?" she asked Vince, who nodded at her.


    "I designed it and asked Montfort Motors to install thetest engine they''ve developed recently."


    She''s right! Madison mentioned that Lewey, her husband, developed thetest motor, and they are about to test the Super Fast Car soon. Madison knew how in love she is with all the fast cars globally, so thesepanies were constantly updating her.


    And she was just thinking of purchasing one. But Vince already has it!


    Hailey ced both her arms around Vince''s neck and flirted. "Hubby, you have beaten me again!"


    "I love to have one, but I might sell my design to earn extra money and sell this one away."


    "What? Why? You aren''t out of money, right?" She knew Vince would not just go bankrupt. But that question was ying on her head. Why is this man desperate to earn money?


    Vince saw the confusion in her eyes. He chuckled, then exined to her. "I didn''t know that you are Hailee Davies. So, I think that maybe fewer guests will be invited to our wedding even if it was a grand one. So I ordered this car. However, now? I have to save up as much money for our wedding. I dreamed of giving you the grandest wedding of the century. But first, I have to work hard, Wifey."


    She could not believe that Vince was worried about that matter. Well, she does too, but she wants to help Vince to shoulder their wedding expenses. Of course, she doesn''t mind. But she is sure that Vince does.


    "Hubby¡­ If you are going to sell your car. Let me buy it!"

 Chapter 213 - Negotiation

    <h4>Chapter 213 - Negotiation</h4>


    Vince looked at Hailey with astonishment. Then, after a moment of his silence, he poked her nose and uttered, "Wifey¡­ If you like it, I would love to give it to you."


    "But, hubby¡­. You have just said you will spend it on our wedding. So, let me be the one to buy it. If you do not sell it to me, then ept my contribution for our wedding expenses..." She sounded threatening to him instead of offering help.


    "Not!" Vince snaps at her immediately. She sounded threatening to him instead of offering help. But he could tell that she is also serious about it. He promised himself that he would shower her with luxurious things. And so, there''s no way he''ll let her pay for the car.


    "It will be my responsibility to shoulder our wedding expenses," he told Hailey.


    "Okay, hubby." She won''t question if Vince acted stubbornly. However, she doesn''t want to get something for free. "How if I wanted to negotiate about that, and we made a deal. Can I be the one to offer you something this time, huh?"


    "Wifey¡­ You''ve already done a lot for me¡ªfor example, your investment in MCGC. And then, the gift for mom. That was too much already. So, I don''t want to negotiate this time," Vince said firmly. Hailey pouted at him; he mumbled to himself, ''She acted cheekily!''


    However, Hailey won''t give up. "Hubby, this is a different story. What I did.¡­ I did it with all my heart. If you wanted to repay me... Well, you canpensate me by giving yourself to me. How about that? But at least let me buy the car. Could you please?"


    "Well, it looks like that is the only choice I have." Vince sighed, feeling defeat.


    Butter on, his eyes glimmer with pleasure. How can he say no? She is purring like a kitten inside his chest. She''s using her seductive tone for him to be powerless.


    "I could tell now. Hailee Davies is as stubborn as this while Hailee Hillson is such a temptress¡­." he muttered.


    He referred to that name as she was showing off her money to him. On the one hand, he must notin. But, on the other hand, he is going to marry a billionaire woman. No, she actually has trillions.


    She has more money than him, that''s the fact. But he knew that Hailey Hillson tried not to show off as much, not to step into his pride as a man. This girl is actually considerate, giving respect to him as the man in this rtionship.


    Never leaving her eyes at his intense gaze, Hailey could not bring herself tough. But of course, this isn''t the moment to do that.


    Vince is serious about giving her a grand wedding, and she is very pleased about that.


    In fact, there''s nothing she couldin about, even his divorce, because someone is meddling in between them. But that person can no longer trouble them. So, Vince''s divorce is just a matter of time.


    "Let''s settle all of our work tomorrow, then let''s go back to Australia the next day. How about that?" Hailey proposed to Vince.


    Upon Hailey mentioning the Australia n, a series of events shes in his memory. Vince sat down on the hood of his car as he wrapped his arms around Hailey''s waist. He remains to stare at Hailey as likely scenarios ying inside his head.


    "Tell me, boss. How did you sign the contract you offered me when I was in Australia, but you were in Metro City? Did you do it by sneaking around?"


    Hailey did not retort to him. But the glow in her eyes, and that grin she tried to conceal, is evident. This girl needs to reveal more things to him!


    "Can you tell me with details, please?" Vince lifted one eyebrow as his facial expression turned solemn.


    However, Hailey could not hold it anymore; she wasughing so hard as guilt hit her. "Don''t worry, Hubby. I will confess to you everything. But for now, we have to leave before my knights'' notice I''m gone. And since you sold the car to me. Care if I drive?"


    ''Damn. I''m going to marry this girl. Why do I have to ask her knight''s permission to be alone with her?'' he grumbled on his head.


    "Alright, Wifey. But be prepared¡­." Vince lifted his right hand, ced it around Hailey''s nape, and gently pulled her head for him to whisper in her ear. "I''m going to spank you hardter."


    She bites her lip when Vince''s left palm is gripping tight on her ass cheek. His sexy voice causes her knees to be out of strength. Hailey closed her eyes as she lowered her face to taste those lips that now have be a sweet talker.


    If they weren''t in the parking lot, they probably already made love. However, as of this moment, the SWAT TEAM and Metro City Police have surrounded the Shen Tower. Actually, it should be a peaceful operation. But suddenly, more police and agents arrive in the area, including the city mayor, Samuel Lopez, to exin the current happenings in Shen Tower.


    *


    Meanwhile, back at Hailey''s office, Pitt has been knocking on the door. However, Hailey isn''t responding nor opening the door. "Should we leave them alone?"


    "Maybe it''s best if we don''t bother them yet," Bruce suggested.


    "But I want the princess to be checked since Paramedic is here." Pitt turned around and spoke to Brent and Bruce, whom both the guy only shrugged their shoulders.


    Pitt heaves a sigh. He turned around and faced the door once again and knocked while he shouted, "Princess! There is a doctor here. Please let us in to check on you! Or else, I will kick this door open!"


    However, still, no one is answering. Pitt pressed his ear on the door. But there''s no movement he could hear.


    "I guess I have to kick this damn door now!"


    "Then, lemme do the honor." Brent offered; he prepared to kick the door. But before he could lift his foot, Bruce stops him, and they listen to their earphones.


    Bruce is currentlymunicating with the knights that were watching the Security Room. "What? Did you spot the princess and Mr. Shen in the parking lot?"


    "Yes. They were in the emergency corridor." The emergency corridor is a separate room in the parking lot. More likely a secret zone just made for emergencies.


    "Alright. Thanks." Bruce responded. He then nced at Pitt and Brent.


    Pitt immediately takes out his phone from his coat pocket to check the surveince camera in that room. Now they were seeing the couple making out at the moment.


    "Damn. They sure are carefree," said Pitt; he gestures at Bruce to borrow his phone.


    Bruce handed his phone and watched Pitt searching his contact. When he saw a familiar number under the name Princess, he pressed the call sign and waited for Hailey to answer.


    "Dammit! Like we didn''t see them!" Pitt grumbled while impatiently waiting for the call to connect. ''I''m going to beat this guy! He should have priority for the Princess to get a check-up!''

 Chapter 214 - Forever Yours

    <h4>Chapter 214 - Forever Yours</h4>


    Hailey could feel that something was vibrating inside her coat. She pushes Vince by the shoulder gently and parted her lips from his. She pulled out the phone; it was Putt who rang her.


    She looked at Vince and showed him her phone screen. He raised an eyebrow; then he nced at the surveince camera hidden in this parking lot.


    ''Damn. They should have left sooner instead of making out!'' Vince mumbled inwardly.


    "Let''s leave now," he told Hailey; he sat up and walked toward the car and opened the driver''s seat. "It''s all yours, Wifey."


    Hailey had a big smile; she rushed toward Vince and kissed him before she slid inside the car.


    "Dammit! She''s not answering! Like we didn''t see them!" Pittined after Hailey just ignored his call.


    Meanwhile, Vince made a phone call to someone. "We are going out." The person in the other line replied before hanging up.


    At the moment, Hailey was like a little child while she listened to the engine making a low but incredible noise. She could no longer wait to drive this car out on the road. Tapping her fingers on the wheel, she''s waiting for Vince to finish his call and climb into the passenger seat.


    Pitt made another phone call, and this time, she answered her phone but didn''t talk.


    "What the heck, princess!?"


    Hailey knew Pitt would yell on the other line; she already put the phone away from her ear. She heaved a sigh and then spoke, "Vince and I have a lot of things to talk about. But, first, I need to tell him more truth about me."


    Pitt rolled his eyes. Can he object? Well, he must ept now that the Princess has someone she relies on more than them.


    It''s more like it was the time to let her go.


    Pitt sighed. "Alright, Princess. But please call us if you need us. Remember, Liam''s allegiance is still roaming around the city."


    "I know. But don''t worry, okay? Vince is with me," she told Pitt. It was then the moment Vince got in the car and sat down in the passenger seat. "We''re leaving now, Pitt."


    "Okay."


    Hailey hangs up the call after Pitt replied; she put down her phone and drove the car out of the parking lot.


    Outside, a few SWAT men she saw guided the traffic. After seeing them out of the building, they made way for them. Hailey drove slowly until she reached the main road and joined the traffic. She looks around to search for a shortcut.


    Vince is browsing his phone to check the traffic status. "We should take a turn on the next avenue. There''s no traffic jam on 18th West Avenue."


    "Perfect! Thanks, Hubby!"


    Hailey followed what Vince told her. After they reached 18th West Avenue, the traffic was then smooth until they arrived at West Bay. She stopped in front of the Security Check, rolled down her window, and smiled at the Security guards on duty that day.


    "Mr. Shen! Good evening, sir! Good evening, ma''am..." The three guards saluted and greeted them.


    "Hi! Good evening!" Hailey returned the greetings with a smile. The three guards blushed.


    "Ahem!" Vince steals the security guards'' attention when they only look at Hailey instead of him. He frowned, then spoke to them with a serious tone.


    "Make sure not to let outsiders enter the premises. Only those residents on these towers and owners of the yachts," he ordered.


    "Copy, Mr. Shen!"


    Vince waves his hand to diminish them. Hailey resumed driving, a yful smile ying on her lips. It amuses her to witness Vince changing moods. Now he acts like a little kid because he is jealous.


    "I''m going to ship this car tomorrow. I want to drive it to its full speed." But, unfortunately, she could only do it in the countryside of Australia. To a city as busy as Metro City, she has to mind the traffic all the time.


    Hailey nced in Vince''s direction, who remained silent in his seat. She wondered if their encounter with security guards still triggered this man. It looks like she must prepare a long exnation regarding her knights.


    She is naturally close to them, which Vince possibly got jealous of because of her intimate rtionship with most of her knights. Not to mention that Vince is working with them, in which these men are working closely with her.


    Not long, they arrived at the parking lot, Hailey parked the car on the spot reserved for Vince. Then they''ve quickly taken the lift before any of his tenants notice them.


    The moment they enter the penthouse, Vince picks up Hailey and takes her to their bedroom.


    "Wait! I want to take a shower." Hailey pushes Vince, who groaned when she sat up and got down from the bed. But Vince didn''t hold her back. Instead, he follows her silently when both of them are stripping while striding toward the bathroom.


    Hailey nced over her shoulder. She watched when Vince pulled his in ck T-shirt off over his head and threw it on the floor. She did the same in her dress.


    Vince pushes down his pants, kicks them off his feet while Hailey unhooks her brassiere and drops it on the floor. She''s only wearing tiny undies, and he has his boxer around his waist.


    Hailey reaches for the knob on the bathroom, pushes the door open, and steps inside. Vince is still silent behind her, feasting his eyes on her almost bare body. Then he joined her under the running water.


    Vince stood behind her. He ces both of his palms on her waist. He then lowered his head and kissed her shoulder, moving toward her neck and earlobe.


    "I remembered Hailee Davies promised me¡­ That Hailey Hillson will take responsibility for my body."


    Hailey let out augh. She shut up when Vince covered her mouth. Vince reaches for her shoulder and helps her turn around to face him. She put her arms around his neck and rubbed her breasts into his chest.


    She moaned when Vince pped her left ass cheek. She parted her lips to look at Vince. Both of their eyes exhibit the affection they felt for each other.


    "I love you, Hailey Hillson, even you are Hailee Davies. I don''t care anymore as long as you are mine."


    Vince brushing his lips on tops of hers, his words turn erotic into her ears. She opens her mouth and licks Vince''s mouth.


    "I am yours forever, Vincent Shen."

 Chapter 215 - It Isnt My Fault, Right?

    <h4>Chapter 215 - It Isn''t My Fault, Right?</h4>


    She responded to Vince''s kisses; no one wanted to separate from each other if it weren''t for the need to breathe some air. Hailey traveled her eyes over Vince''s body; now, she noticed the bruises he has on his arms, not to mention on his face. But he still is damn handsome and hot.


    "Aren''t they painful?" She asked, concerns shown in her eyes.


    "Not really. Don''t worry about this. It will disappear soon," Vince answered, rubbing her cheek to assure her.


    "I think we need to treat it." She insisted as she isn''t convinced. She attempts to persuade Vince to apply some ointment on them, but he refuses. So instead, he''s murmuring mischievously in her ear.


    "It''s okay. I''m fine. If you really want to treat me. Someone needs your attention." Upon saying it, a smile curled his lips. He grabbed Hailey''s bottom and pressed on his groins, which made her eyes widened.


    Shepletely understands what Vince meant that he wanted to be treated by her. Of course, they were sharing a bed now and touching each other''s naked bodies. Despite that, she blushes from time to time when this man is behaving naughtily.


    And at that moment, Vince''s hardness jostled between her legs. Yet, somehow, she''s grateful for this man''s shamelessness. It eases her shyness instead and teaches her to be honest with her body and desires.


    His one arm clutching around her waist, he reached her right breast, massaging it and ying with her ni*ple with his thumb.


    She bit her lower lip when Vince lowered his head to im her other breast. He is taunting it as well, squeezing its fullness, then bit the ni*ple. The sensation tickles her core. She let out a moan and sighed. "Vince¡­"


    While he immersed himself in nipping her ears and neck, his mouth moved toward her shoulders; then his hand began pleasuring her entire body. He was caressing her back upward to her neck down to her bottom; she returned the favor.


    Hailey grabbed Vince''s hardness and gently stroked his shaft. He clenched his jaw, letting out a heavy sigh as he felt a building up in his groin sooner erupt.


    His eyes filled with affection, hungrily, he imed her mouth once again. Vince pinned her on the bathroom wall; he poured a liquid soap at her body as she did the same to him.


    They both rubbed each other''s bodies until Vince entered her core. Even though it was damp, her warmth is inviting him to push his finger deep inside.


    She grabbed his neck, clinging to it as Vince added another finger, and this time, he increased his speed. She closed her eyes when he made constant thrusts in the next minute.


    "You''re not going just to please me with your fingers, isn''t it?" she pants, whispering hoarsely in his left ear.


    Vince''s ears rang from her seductive invites. This girl knows how to snap his control. It was his thought. Since she was at the height of her craving, he guided her to turn around and bend her body. He grabs her hips and positions himself behind her.


    And for Hailey, she ced her palms on the bathroom wall; using her strength, she supported her body not to m her head to the tiles with every rough thrust Vince was doing to her.


    In the next minutes, she was moaning in pleasure cries. Her cries are getting even louder every time Vince is speeding his pace. Soon, he''s making steady thrusts; her body shudders with pleasure as Vince pushes deeper inside her.


    The bathroom filled with her pleasurable cry and Vince''s heavy breaths. Then, finally, they both are reaching their climax. Vince grabbed her shoulder and carried her, letting her bounce on his hips.


    Hailey''s legs fastened tight around his waist, her arms holding onto his shoulders not to slide down from his body; he buried his fingers in both of her ass cheeks, gripping them tightly, giving her a more sensual feeling.


    She kissed him. Vince pinned her on the wall as his thrusts got rougher. He is reaching the peak, and she ising too.


    "Let''s finish our bath," Vince mumbled huskily between his sighs.


    *


    On the bed, Vince leaves light kisses and bites, both on her shoulders. She''s heaving heavy breaths after Vince makes a deep thrust behind her. She pressed her eyelids as waves of pleasure red out inside her core, followed by white liquid oozing down both of her legs; this is their second climax on the bed.


    Hailey gasping for air, she nced at Vince, who remains inside of her. She then fell into thoughts.


    They weren''ting here to make love intensely. Even though she was still at the height of pleasure, she remembered well that they came here to talk sincerely.


    So, how could she exin herself to this man if he keeps pinning her to the bed every time they n to have a heart-to-heart talk?


    She begins to think that this man only wanted their body tomunicate rather than talk!


    But this is better than having a misunderstanding and intense fight. She just learned how to coax a man. However, her best solution is to work her body.


    Other than that, her cooking skills are the only thing she could offer him. So, in the end, body talk is the best choice for both of them, and that feels not totally right. They still need to talk!


    Finally, Vince copses beside her to take some rest. She was still lying on her stomach; she turned on her right side to face Vince. He moves closer to kiss her lips passionately, then whispered on top of her mouth,


    "I love you, Wifey."


    "I love you, Hubby," she replied. ying her fingers on his ear, she thinks it''s a perfect time. She asked him, "Can we talk now?"


    "Aren''t you hungry?" Vince returned the question instead of answering her. "First, I''ll call the restaurant to prepare some dishes. Then, I''ll listen to you while we are having a meal."


    "Okay." she nodded.


    Vince kissed her forehead. He sat up and picked up his cellphone to make a call. Not long, Vince began instructing a chef what dishes he wanted for them to prepare.


    "Hubby, tell them I don''t like avocado on the sd." She made a request that surprised him.


    "Huh? Isn''t your favorite?" He has no idea, but he didn''t ask Hailey further. He notified the chef about that, but then Hailey made another request again.


    "Hubby, I want caramel cake with berries on top."


    It rendered him speechless. He tried to rack his head as if caramel usually has fruits on top. ''Did I overdo it, and she''s craving another food now?'' Even so, Vince didn''t ask. He instructed the chef what food he wanted to be delivered in the penthouse, including all the food Hailey requested.


    It was a little weird. But maybe it''s not bad to try another cuisine. Vince shrugs these thoughts; he carries Hailey to the bathroom and washes their bodies. He helped her put some clothes on and dried her hair. After an hour, Vince''s bodyguard finally came back with the food.


    In the living room, she and Vince enjoyed the food. But Vince notices something about her eating behavior. She was pushing her tomatoes on the side of her te. It was strange to him since he knew how she is food conscious. She always ate healthy foods, and that includes tomatoes and avocados.


    So, what is going on now? It''s not his fault, right?


    Hailey enjoyed her dessert when she noticed that Vince was giving her a perplexed expression on his face.


    "Um, nothing." he smiled. He was curious, but he isn''t sure what particr question he must ask her. Maybe her appetite changed as summer is just around the corner.


    She ordered some pineapple milkshakes. Not only that, instead of a banana, she requested a pineapple to pair the ice cream on the side. He wondered what it tastes like. It looks weird, but he didn''t say a word.


    Since Hailey was stuffing her stomach with pineapple juice, pineapple milkshakes, and dessert with many pineapples, he enjoyed the wine alone. He finished eating; now, he just suits himself, watching Hailey eating the caramel cake. When she offered him a small portion of the cake, he opened his mouth and let her stuff him with it.


    But he was dumbfounded after he realized Hailey was making a big slice for herself, but she only gave him a smaller portion of the cake. Also, she eats all the berries. She never shared it with him. He wondered if this was her usual eating behavior.


    They said, when you date a girl, they will never let you find out how they eat. They behaved with ss, putting food on their mouth delicately and sip on the wine ss or teacup with elegance. But once they be your girlfriend, slowly you will see their true self.


    However, in Hailey''s case, that was impossible. It was the opposite case, actually. She grew up as a princess. So what is it then?

 Chapter 216 - Would You Seduce Me?

    <h4>Chapter 216 - Would You Seduce Me?</h4>


    After dinner, Vince helps Hailey wash the dishes. When they''re done cleaning the tes and utensils, she made two cups of coffee and brought them over to the living room.


    She sat down on the chaise lounge sofa where Vince isfortably leaning on the backrest. She handed him the mug; then began narrating why Hailee Davies came to Metro City as Hailey Hillson.


    "I always ask my grandpa to tell me the story of his great grandparents. I was still a little girl by then, but I love the story of where my forefathers got our wealth. His family removed him as a sessor of the throne after he eloped with hismoner girlfriend, so he became penniless. But he never stops there; instead, he dreams of building his own kingdom. So I grew up dreaming as well when no one fulfills this dream. But the question then troubled me. How will I make it?"


    "So, I began searching the inte until Geoffrey helped me print out beautiful designs of hotels, resorts, and mansions. Also, apartments and condos. I sorted them out and created a photo album. When Bryan waspleting his engineering course, we discussed putting up mypany when I graduated college. I want to build a city to fulfill my forefathers'' dream, and I was happy that my friends wanted to take part. Um..."


    Hailey turns her head and looks at Vince. She asked him, "You meet my executives. They were the ones who helped me founded mypany even before I graduated from Oxford University. Bryan and Geoffrey, who designed and oversaw the construction of the first buildings in Dream City."


    Listening to Hailey''s story, Vince blinks his eyes. He is looking back at the day he meets her executives. ording to the gossip Tim heard from his girlfriend, most of them are all single. It means they were in their prime career but stayed bachelor. Not to mention they are all rich men from prominent families, which they''ve invested in Davies Group.


    But they were all a bunch of men, handsome men. Now that he meets their boss. He could not stop feeling jealous.


    "Wifey... Your executives are all handsome and single."


    Hailey looked at Vince with confusion. She blinks her eyes several times as it rendered her speechless of how straightforward he is. But then she understood why Vincemented on this. He is jealous, and she must coax him not to feel threatened by her knights.


    She ced her mug on the coffee table. She climbed on hisp and sat down. "Hubby, you have nothing to get jealous of. They are my great friends, and they are so nice to me. So, I love them. But they were all just like a brother to me."


    Vince dropped his jaw. This girl deliberately admits to him how she loves other men! Undeniably, after hearing this fact, now, he would get jealous his whole life! What would he feel about it? Of course, he would feel threatened!


    "Wifey, you''re making me too jealous right now." he sounded like sulking all of a sudden.


    "But you are the only man I fall in love with!" Hailey snapped at him. Then she looks at him like a cute kitten.


    Once more, it rendered him speechless. It looks like he has a bunch ofpetitors in her attention. What would happen if he forbade her to go back to Australia?


    Ah, no. He wishes for them to be together. It would be best if he were by Hailey''s side than with her other knights if he asked her to stay in Metro City. Besides, it isn''t right. But he could not avoid feeling insecure!


    Right? Ah! He felt helpless! But it is normal for him to feel these emotions.


    As she notices his silence, Hailey grinds her hips and rubs her body to Vince. She asked, "What should I do to prove you are the only man for me, and I am madly in love with you?"


    Vince lowered his gaze to meet Hailey''s eyes. She was leaning on his chest, look seductive. Once again, he felt weak. How could he seriously express his issues if this girl rubbed her lower body on his groin and purred like a kitten?


    ''She perfectly knew of my weakness.'' Vince mumbled inwardly. He caressed her cheek and muttered to her, "I believe you. It''s just that¡­ I would honestly get jealous all the time. However, I trust you, Wifey."


    "Thank you, Hubby. It''s the reason I love you so much! You always stood as the adult one in this rtionship. I am still childish sometimes. But I promised you. I will work on that."


    Vince lifted her chin and brushed his lips on top of hers as he mumbled. "I love everything about you, even your stubbornness. So then, I don''t want you to change your personality as you think it will please me. But if you believe that it''s necessary? Then please do it as long as you arefortable with the changes within yourself."


    "It is necessary, hubby! I should start making adjustments when I am a married woman soon. I want to be your wife and the mother of your children. So then, I must act properly! It doesn''t mean that I have a bunch of people who would utterly pamper and spoil me; I should remain that way. No. When we got married, things would not be the same anymore. And being honest with you is the start."


    Vince took Hailey''s hand and nted a tiny kiss on the back of her palm.


    "Thank you. I am so pleased to hear that. To tell you the truth, I made adjustments too. I beat myself up to act like a man and open my mind to any possibilities in our rtionship. So, I will try my best not to get jealous when you are with your knights, especially your executives. But I probably feel down from time to time. You know¡­ Men love to express their feelings to other men through our punches."


    Hailey curled her lips into a smile. She understands what Vince meant to say. He already proved to her there''s truth in that, and that is when he beat up Liam. Instead of letting Interpol arrest him. He instead challenged him. Men indeed love to show off who had solid punches amongst others.


    And between Liam and Vince. It was Liam who had a swollen face and ck eyes than Vince. It appears he only dodges most of Liam''s punches.


    "Liam''s uncle and dad are good friends. We visited V Country when the former king died. It was the time I met him. Then after a few years, we went back to attend the funeral of the present king''s wife and Liam''s parents. It was the moment he and I got close. But I''m still in elementary that time around. I do not know the meaning of marriage or rtionship yet. All I know, everyone is my brother."


    Vince remained silent. He blinked twice but didn''t make ament, which made Hailey worried for a moment.


    "Hubby¡­ You were only silent most of the time. You can share your thoughts, you know." She encourages him as his silence made her nervous.


    She doesn''t want any misunderstanding between her and Vince. Although Liam cannot trouble them any more, Vince is the only man she would fight for till death. She''s madly in love with him, and so no man or woman can separate them together. Yes, even his mom.


    And if Eva would not grant the divorce, she would do everything to force her to sign the divorce agreement. She''ll definitely do that even if someone calls her coveting a sin.


    While she was in her own thoughts, she felt light but warm kiss ced on her forehead, then on her nose.


    "I''m happy that you meet meter than sooner," said Vince, which confused her. He then exined. "Now it made me wonder. I realized it was scary if you were only going to love me as one of your brothers."


    Hailey tried to process his statement. It takes a long moment before she understands what Vince was saying. She cracked up, bouncing on hisp.


    "Wifey¡­ What you were doing was dangerous." Vince pursed his lips upon saying this. He''s only controlling his desire not to eat her again.


    Soon Hailey stopsughing and sits still on top of Vince''s thighs after she feels his hard-on. She curled her lips as she slid her palms on his chest above the fabric of his long sleeves. She remains to stare at him with her alluring gaze.


    "Hm¡­ That was really interesting, hubby." Her hands reached his shoulders. She ces them behind his neck. "I wonder if we meet after I got married and then, you''ll work for me. Would you seduce me?"


    Vince''s eyes flickered with excitement. Although the red warning is ring at the back of his head, he could not help to wonder if he is ready to sin for the sake of his love for this woman.


    What if her fiance didn''t get back together with his ex-girlfriend? Then Hailey and her best friend get married, and that''s the end of him. He isn''t sure if he could kill his feelings for her.


    But Hailey maybe is right. Probably he could not stop himself from dreaming of being close to her. Or possibly he will continue loving her in silence while he is watching her from a distance.


    There would be so many things to happen by then if he meets Hailey when she is also married because he could not promise that he could hide his feelings for her.


    Definitely, he covets a sin.


    "Wifey¡­ Can I ask a question?" he asked Hailey after he fell from deep thoughts.


    "Sure! What is it?" she nodded and smiled.


    Vince held his breath for a moment before he released them. When she began sharing about her knights, there is one thing he notices. There is a perplexing expression shing on her face every time she brings up someone''s name. Besides, it was the name she often mentioned.


    Vince yed with Hailey''s hair as he asked, "Could it be that Bryan Anderson is your ex-fiance?"

 Chapter 217 - Confession

    <h4>Chapter 217 - Confession</h4>


    "So, you figured it out?" she asked; Vince nodded as his response.


    When Vince offered her a contract to be his fake mistress, she told him about her broken engagement. Vince only asked a little about it, which she was d about that. And to return the respect he gave her, she didn''t ask about his marriage as well.


    Now to look back. Vince probably thinks that she asked little about his marriage because she isn''t interested. But the truth is, she didn''t ask him because she already knew a few things about Eva even before she is engaged to Bryan.


    Anyway, she''s happy that Vince didn''t ask for a detailed story about her broken engagement.


    But now, he is showing interest in knowing that since she brought up the past, and they were in a real rtionship. She needs to be honest. It is necessary for their rtionship to avoid any misunderstanding.


    And this is the right time to tell him the truth, that she has a connection with Eva and her boyfriend, Bryan, her ex-fiance.


    "How did you guess it was him?" she asked Vince after her brief silence.


    Vince replied, "Well¡­ During my stay in Australia. I learned that all the executives are close to Bryan''s ex-fiance. In fact, they were indifferent toward him because he broke the heart of this girl. Then, after I learned you are Hailee Davies, your knights appeared in the city. I began thinking about something. I''m uncertain, but a hunch telling me that you are possibly Bryan''s ex-fiancee. Besides, when you made a short story about your broken engagement, you mentioned he reunited with his girlfriend. Among your executives, only Bryan has a girlfriend."


    "I see¡­" It is what she could only utter.


    "Well, I wonder if you''ve heard already. His girlfriend seems pregnant now."


    Hailee nodded. Vince seems to invest time to know more about Bryan after he suspects him as her ex-fiance. He isn''t showing much jealousy about it because Bryan is still with Eva. But how if Vince will learn that Bryan wants her back? What would he do about that?


    She cupped Vince''s face. "Yes, I know. She is pregnant. But I have a feeling that it wasn''t Bryan''s child. Actually, I was investigating this girl."


    She waited for Vince''s reaction. She then saw when he tightened his jaw and darkened his face. She knew it displeases him as he misunderstands what she said.


    "I was investigating this girl because she is hiding from her husband." She smiled, amused at his ration, so she ced a quick kiss on his lips.


    This time, Vince''s forehead wrinkled from confusion with her statement. He asked curiously, "That girl has a husband?"


    She nodded. "Yes. She has a husband, but she did her best to destroy someone''s engagement. However, I have to thank her in the end because I met you."


    She leaned over and brushed her lips on top of his mouth one more time. She parted from him to continue narrating. While she does her speech, at times, she would rub at Vince''s chest, which she could feel his shaft getting even harder, and throbs from time to time.


    Her lips curved into a naughty smile when he is pretending that he doesn''t mind at all. His self-control over his lust always impresses her. This man deserves to be rewarded every night. She has this alluring smile curling her lips as she goes on.


    "If I didn''t break off from Bryan. I think I have no chance toe here to P Country and personally search for this genius architect I badly needed. But I didn''t prepare myself for the day I met him. I didn''t know he was too damn hot and gorgeous. If ever I got married to Bryan, I probably just sent Pitt here to offer the project. But thank God, I came here after my heartbreak¡­."


    Hailey whispered thest sentence close to Vince''s ear. "Now, I''m madly in love with this man."


    She bites his earlobe and ces kisses on his neck afterward. With the boldness she''s behaving, Vince reached for her ass cheeks and squeezed them tight.


    She moaned when Vince pressed her bottom into his hardness. She''s only wearing tiny lower lingerie underneath his white long sleeves polo; she could feel his burning palms on her skin. Before Vince moved his fingers down her ass to reach her damp core, she held his arms and stopped him from doing so.


    "After I signed a contract with this incredibly hot architect, I began investigating his nominal wife because she''s hiding from him, and I want to help him free from their arranged marriage. I believe that this woman doesn''t deserve him¡­ unh¡­ Vincent Shen¡­"


    She cried in pleasure¡­ Vince is ying with her womanhood while she is confessing to him. Now, how could she decently exin herself when Vince pleasurably punished her?


    "What are you doing, Vincent Shen!?" she screams.


    "Please go on, darling. I''m listening keenly." He curled a grin on those tempting lips of his. She wanted to kiss him, but he reached her nape to hold her body still.


    ''Listening, my ass!'' she muttered inwardly. She was frowning at how Vince was punishing her this way.


    How can he possibly pay attention to whatever she would say when he''s putting in his rock-hard shaft inside her!?


    Vince lifted her ass and guided her hips down. Now he wants her to continue confessing while he''s inside her!? Is this the new Lie Detector Test? She doesn''t see any relevance at all!


    "Please, I seriously want to rify myself, Hubby¡­ Hmm..." she let out a hungry sigh.


    "Go on¡­ You should tell me everything, or else, you may not move your hips."


    Her eyes widened as her mouth dropped open upon listening to his threats. She mused, ''Is this man serious? How about him? Can he control his desire not to move inside and out of me? Does he want them to die together in dissatisfaction?''


    "Hubby¡­ are you not in serious pain if you will not release it? I can help, you know..." she purred, grinding her hips on top of hisp.


    However, Vince only ps her left ass cheek. She gasps in pleasure after she felt that tingling sensation created by the sudden movement of her bottom.


    "Why don''t you continue to talk now? So then, I''ll pound you hard after?" Vince pushes a smirk on the corner of his mouth.


    He seemed to enjoy this! She swallowed hard. Vince was talking dirty, and it made her even wetter.


    "Hubby¡­" she sounded begging, but Vince only pretended to be deaf to her plea.


    "Don''t dare to tighten your muscles," he warned.


    Vince is talking about her insides. She couldn''t stop her body''s cravings. Lately, she''s more and more lusting over his body. She''ll just think about him; she''s almost wet her undies.


    Honestly, it felt strange. She wanted to suppress her desires, but why was it too hardtely? She knew that she''s even behaving shamelessly in front of him. But she is just honest about what she is feeling with her body cravings.


    Is that wrong? If all she wanted each day was to be cuddled by him, especially when he''s inside her.


    Is this even normal? Vince is her first man, and he wanted him to be herst. So, she couldn''tpare this emotion lingering in the deepest part of her chest.


    All she knew. She badly wanted Vince''s body at this moment. But he warned her not to act naughty. Then, she''ll bear it until she finishes confessing to him.


    "Alright, hubby. I''ll continue now."


    She bit her lower lip and hurled a long breath from her chest. She needs to calm her body.


    "Okay. Well, as I mentioned, I investigated Bryan''s girlfriend? It was because she was from Metro City, and so is her nominal husband. I am curious if he knew about his nominal wife coveting a sin in their marriage."


    Hailey studied Vince''s expression. When he was truly listening to her, she then continued.


    "But to my surprise, her husband knew she had a boyfriend. And he actually has no care what she is doing to her life or who she''s with. However, I am so sorry that I lied to him and pretended that I didn''t know about his nominal wife¡­ It''s just that¡­ I didn''t know that I would fall in love with him."


    Tears began escaping her eyes as her voice cracked from emotion flooding her chest. "I''m so sorry. I know all along about Eva. She and Bryan have been in a rtionship for so long already. I didn''t bring it up as I don''t want to meddle much about your marriage. Besides, you didn''t care, so maybe I will just let you get that divorce. So when you offered me an agreement. I epted it because I also wanted to know you better. But I honestly didn''t know that you are Eva''s husband at first. I''m so sorry, Vince."


    She sobs; despite that, she continues. "But I honestly only cared for Bryan as my best friend once. I loved him, but it was only a brotherly love like everyone else. I thought of Liam as one of my reliable big brothers. But he wants something from me I could not give. And then, he messed up with your divorce. He manipted Eva not to sign the divorce agreement and even used the Lan family to kill you. They orchestrated the ident. I think you already know this...."


    Vince nodded. He dried her eyes, wiping the tears that wetted her cheeks. "I heard Liam confessing about it."


    "Vince¡­" She wasn''t able to finish her words when Vince put two of his fingers to her mouth.


    "I heard enough. And I know Eva is in Australia."


    "Then, have you already known that Bryan is her boyfriend?"


    Vince nodded. "I just learned about it, too. I was just figuring out these passing days until I gathered the courage to ask Pitt this morning. But I didn''t know yet that it was Bryan, who is your ex-fiance. So, I was the one to make him confess to me. But I still wanted to hear from you. Of course, I am curious about the entire story."


    Hailey blinks. She was a little surprised but staring at this cheeky man ying with a naughty smile. She began having the feeling that somehow, he tricked her again!

 Chapter 218 - You Are Mine As I Am Yours

    <h4>Chapter 218 - You Are Mine As I Am Yours</h4>


    "Recently, I contacted Bryan. I asked for his help to watch Eva for me. I didn''t exin to him the reason, so he does not know what I want from Eva. I want her to stay in Australia so that both of you can meet and have a talk. Also, I want to ask her why she is hiding from you and refusing to sign the divorce agreement when she is still madly in love with Bryan."


    "It was already my original n after I found her. But then, things have changed when you confess to me, and it happens that I am also falling in love with you. So I made a n to fly to Sydney after the store opened. Liam then entered the picture."


    "Hubby¡­ I''m sorry if I was sneaky behind your back. I thought you could deal with Eva as soon as possible, and I will be free from you. So then, I didn''t mention that I knew her, and her boyfriend happens to be my ex-fiance."


    "But then it turns out Liam is keeping her to make things hard for you and me as well. Moreover, Liam hurt you because he thought our rtionship was real back then, just recently making it real and official. I was the one who put your life in danger. That is why I want to deal with him myself. But my effort is not enough. Besides, in what I''ve seen, you took part in the n to apprehend him. Now, it was your turn to tell me everything. Who told you about the trap?"


    Vince smiled. He reached her chin and rubbed her lips using his thumb. He leaned over to brush his lips on top of hers; his fingers caress her arm, which tickles her, sending an electrifying sensation throughout her body. His action turns her even wetter while he''s inside her.


    He curled his lips after he felt her walls tightening around his rock-hard shaft. "What did I tell you, huh? I forbid you to do that, darling."


    His voice is husky, nibbling her earlobe to tease her further. Hailey gasps for what he did; she smashed his chest and mouthed. "That is unfair! Why can you flirt with me, but I can''t flirt back?"


    Heughs at her amusingint, but then he stops not long, as his body shakes, and he could casually thrust his lower body into her insides. That was dangerous torture for both of them.


    Hailey looked at him with her alluring eyes when that happened. Her eyes appear to urge him tough more instead as she was enjoying the pleasure it offers.


    ''She''s such a temptress. There''s no doubt about that.'' He mumbled inwardly.


    Vince heaves a sigh to calm himself. Being inside her is a great battle for him. He just pretended to be tough and in control. But the truth is, her dampness was like fire sending him to hell. It has been tempting to move his hips and pound her hard until both of them scream in pleasure as they reach the peak of their heat.


    But he has to stand in his way of punishing her. Then, he started to narrate. It begins with Bruce when he calls him to confess that he is her knight and asks forgiveness for lying to him and hiding the truth. He is the one who is giving them solid evidence regarding the Lan family''s crime involving his ident. The Lan''s took allegiance with Liam Huo because of massive debts. If they don''t do it, Liam Huo will kill them all.


    "And Zenaida certifies it was true."


    "Zenaida?" It surprised her.


    Vince nodded. He went on. "Zenaida contacted Carl to ask for help. So, they met in secret, and Zenaida confessed. So now, if Zenaida testified, her punishment will be lesser. But her parents? I don''t know. Probably they will serve in prison for more years. We have all the evidence we need. And Eva as well. They will also ount for her crime of involvement with Liam Huo''s ns."


    "Oh, so Eva will also be in prison?" She is already thinking about the possibilities but still different to hear it from Vince.


    "If they prove she takes part in Liam''s ns, her name will drag with an attempt to assassinate me. Including the Gu family as they supported Liam to do the ns. This evening, Senator Gu will be arrested. The secret agent, who pretends to be his men, gathers many documents regarding all the anomalies he did to his projects."


    Then Carl called him to notify him about the entrapment Hailey''s knight prepared for Liam.


    "I didn''t know that something like this was going on like this. At first, it blew my mind. Shen has been helping the Lan family, but this is how they return to our kindness. At first, I suspect it has to do with my projects. But I have fought to win my projects in the past. I assured, it was all done in a fair fight. So I wonder who I offended?"


    "Ironically, those who were once troubling the Shang family are connected to Liam Huo. If it weren''t for agent Matthew Lawrence to exin a detailed n, I probably returned and exposed my arrival. But since your knights have been working already with something. So, I came back in secret with the help of my cousins."


    "I have been only hiding in Zaijan''s hotel suite while Rodney keeps me updated regarding the entrapment operation. And thankfully, Liam quickly took the bait."


    "Took the bait, huh?" She raised an eyebrow. "So? The reason you are teasing me to fly to my office and strip in front of me is actually you can do it without sweating, huh? It was because you were in the same building as me!"


    Vince chuckled, watching her face pouting at him. "But I am serious about doing that! If your knights weren''t there, I would have already stripped the moment we entered your office and given Hailee Davies a special service."


    Haileyughs hard. Vince winked at her that caused her to crack down afterward. "Extra service, huh? Watch out. Hailee Davies will im thatter. But tonight, Hailey Hillson will do an extra job for you."


    After she says it, she gets up from crouching on hisp. But Vince pulled her arm and ended up dropping her bottom back on his thighs. She hasn''t totally freed Vince from her insides; it causes her to let out a loud moan while Vince groans from pleasure.


    Their eyes meet and make love. "Hubby, this is not a wise idea¡­ Can we end this first so that we can talk properly after?"


    "I think I have to agree on that proposal. But I can actually do both."


    "What? Ah!"


    Vincent flips her body. Now she is at the bottom, and his weight is crashing into her. He imed her mouth to kiss her passionately. Slowly, he moves his hip, thrusting her inside. Hailey moans between their kisses. She pushes him by his chest to gasp some air and breath out pleasurably. Vince is doing it gently, which made her crave for him to move faster.


    He was pushing his hardness so sensually, and it dazed her in the next moment. She was engulfed at the pleasure Vince let her experience tonight. As she couldn''t take it anymore, she began moving her hips faster, meeting his gradual thrust.


    Along with the gentle beating of their hearts is the movement of their bodies. Later on, Vince pushed it with force. She arched her body to receive him ultimately. She bit her lower lip when the tension was building up in her lower abdomen.


    "Vince¡­ do it faster¡­" she cried, her legs wrapped around his waist, tightly hanging onto him while her hands, grabbing the sofa''s armrest.


    "Like this, huh?" Vince whispered hoarsely into her ear. He increased the speed of his pace, pounding his lower body into her.


    "Yes!" she screamed after his constant thrusting to her insides.


    Vince gave her a fervor kiss after they reached the climax. He brought her upstairs to wash their bodies, then tucked themselves under the quilt.


    At the moment, they were content to embrace each other, whispering sweet words.


    "Hubby... I need to call Bryan tomorrow to set up a meeting ce. I have to exin to him a few things before meeting Eva."


    "Okay..." Vince''s short response.


    Hailey wanted to tell him ahead of her ns to avoid Vince getting jealous. It may not be necessary for others to say to the spouse or partner about all of one''s ns. But she wanted Vince to know everything to avoid having a misunderstanding.


    "I will ask Tom to prepare the ne."


    Vince kissed the tip of her nose; he whispered, "I love you, Wifey."


    "I love you, Hubby. Thank you for listening and understanding me all the time. Despite my secrets. You weren''t pressured to ask me further."


    "I have no n to throw away my chances of having you all to myself forever. You are mine as I am yours."


    "Forever¡­" she said; they sealed their love promise with a passionate kiss.


    The following morning, the loud ring of his phone woke Vince up.


    "Who''s that, hubby?"

 Chapter 219 - His Moms Fury

    <h4>Chapter 219 - His Mom''s Fury</h4>


    When Vince heard his phone ringing, he nced at the nightstand to check out the time. The digital clock showed him it was quarter to six in the morning.


    Although he usually got up at five, he wanted to stay another hour on the bed to cuddle with Hailey. But now, because of the call, they are both awake.


    Still feeling sluggish, she looked at Vince with questioning eyes. She wondered if it was Tim who was calling him this early in the morning. It must be important or an emergency. Hailey watched him pick up his phone and studied his phone. When Vince remained unmoved, she asked with curiosity. "Who is it, hubby?"


    "It was dad," Vince replied to her, ncing in her direction.


    "Oh. It must be important. You should answer it now." She urges Vince while she crawls the slight distance between them to hug him.


    Vince was amused by what she did. It tickled him at how she keeps sniffing on his body. Now he was thinking if when does she turn into a pup from being a kitten.


    With a smile on his lips, he swiped the green button and greeted the person in the other line. "Hello, dad?"


    Then he leaned over to brushed his mouth on top of Hailey''s enticing lips.


    "Good morning, son. Have you just woken up?" asked Fred from the other line?


    "Ah, yes, dad!" Vince answered immediately, not to make his dad wait and have a suspicion.


    Anyway, Fred knew that Vincent is an early person; that''s why he dares to ring him this early, but discovering that he was still in bed at this hour is a bit new to him. So now, he realized that he should remind himself from time to time. His son is with someone now. He should expect a few changes.


    So then, Fred apologized to Vincent. "I''m sorry, son. I''m used to having a coffee with you this time around, so I thought you were up already."


    "It''s okay, dad. I have a n to go to thepany today, so I should be up and prepare to go to the office soon." Vince made this immediate reasoning not to make the atmosphere awkward between him and his dad.


    "I see. By the way, how are you?"


    "I''m fine, dad. Nothing to worry about."


    "How about her?"


    Vince need not guess that his dad is referring to Hailey. He answered, "She is fine as well, dad."


    "I''m d to hear that. Carl just got home not long ago, and he told me about everything that had happened yesterday. It made me happy that the entrapment operation was sessful. Anyway, your mom also got worried when she heard about it. She was infuriated at first, so I have to tell her everything, and why do you have to face him yourself."


    "Oh. Mom knows already?"


    "I was worried about you and even for Carl, and your mom notices how restless I am. I can''t lie to her, so I told her what was going on. She''s the one who bugged me to go to the Supreme Court to file a case against Senator Gu. And then, to sue the Lan family as well."


    "I see..."


    It''s all that Vincent could say. He knew his mom''s temperament. It''s not surprising if she pursues awsuit against the people that threaten his life.


    "Should I be there as well?" He asked his dad afterward. He and Hailey have a n to fly to Australia tomorrow. His dad''s news made him wonder if they should have dy for a few days. But he badly wanted to see Eva and get his long-awaited divorce.


    Vincent came back to his senses when his dad replied.


    "I think you don''t need to be there since we were filing a case. So you can go ahead to the office. I will meet you there."


    "Okay, dad. There are a few things I want to talk about with you."


    "Sure, son. Then, I will hang up now. I need to talk to ourwyers first and discuss these matters."


    "Alright, dad. Thank you for letting me know."


    "You''re wee, son. We must do this to give an example that we are not easy to mess with."


    "Of course. I understand, dad." He put down the gadget after his dad ended the call.


    Vince looked at Hailey, who is patiently waiting for him to finish his conversation. He rakes her hair, then ces a kiss on her forehead.


    "Is everything okay?" Hailey asked.


    "Yes. Dad just notified me that mom would file awsuit against Lan and Senator Gu."


    "Oh. I ordered Bruce to hand the evidence he was able to gather to your dad. It states there that Lan was involved in your ident."


    "It was solid evidence against them, yes. They must face the punishment, and I know that mom won''t let this go. They will taste mom''s fury. And, of course, they also got to taste what Hailee Davies can do. Suppose you didn''t call your knights in here. Things would be a little difficult for us."


    "I have to thank everyone for their efforts to protect me. By the way, I never thought that Professor Carl was a Mafia Lord in the past."


    "Yes, he is. And I think he was qualified since his grandfather is a lord, and Carl made him an heir."


    "Hmm¡­ On his father''s side then."


    "Yes. Besides, he''s the one whopleted the training. I only attended the camp once. How about you? Did you attend it during summer?"


    "Well, I didn''t. But the boys do. And when they were back. It was then the time they gave me a private lesson. I learn Martial Arts, andter on, Shun wants me to learn how to shoot."


    "It was Liam who taught me how to aim the vital parts of a human body. I¡­ I never thought I was going to use what he taught me to defeat him."


    Vince keeps stroking her long hair while she remains to hug his waist.


    We don''t need to talk about him if you feel ufortable."


    "Yes. I don''t want to think about him anymore. All I want now is to spend my time with you." She cupped Vince''s face and kissed him.


    Vince got off the bed as their lips pressed together, carrying Hailey in her arms; he brought her to the bathroom and took a shower together. They were both dressed for the office; Hailey made a quick breakfast for them before leaving the penthouse.


    "I have been thinking of a scenario as our future married life. But I never imagined that one day, I would drop you off in your office as Hailee Davies," he whispered in her ear.


    Vince always feels ted every time he realizes that the woman sitting next to him in the backseat of his Lambo is not just the girl he has been dreaming of all these years but someone whose desire by the entire world to meet her in person.

 Chapter 220 - Forever Offer: Take Advantage Of My Body

    <h4>Chapter 220 - Forever Offer: Take Advantage Of My Body</h4>


    Today, Tim picked them up driving one of Vince''s expensive cars that he rarely uses it. Following their vehicle are Vince''s bodyguards and Hailey''s knights. The media has been looking for an opportunity to ambush them to ask several questions about yesterday''s events.


    Last night, it shocked everyone after they heard the news that the Lan family, Vincent Shen''s inws, are the ones who orchestrated his ident recently, with the help of Senator Gu, who carry out the entire n.


    By that National news, it covered the real happenings yesterday, and no reporters have discovered the actual incident after Mayor Samuel Lopez personally exined why the city SWAT TEAM gathered around the SHEN TOWER.


    Samuel Lopez boasted to the media that Vincent Shen, as the CEO of Shen Group, demonstrates how safe and effective every SHEN building with its heavy security system runs by the Lopez Tech when ites to Emergency Protocol during fire and earthquakes incidents including terrorist attacks.


    To cover up the actual incident yesterday, Mayor Samuel told the public what they''ve witnessed is a silent drill demonstration. So then, he encourages the otherpanies, establishments, and school buildings to train their employees and students in the proper response to avoid massive casualties during an actual incident.


    Everyone quickly epted the drama show with that information since they were already ustomed to how the Shen Group and Lopezes usually run a drill in theirpanies and establishments twice a year.


    So then, today, the Shen Tower resume its usual business like there''s nothing happens that someone threatens to blow up the whole building.


    *


    DV Inc. Asia Branch Headquarter


    Meanwhile, at the office of the DV Inc. Branch Director, Vince won''t let Hailey go after the countless kisses they''ve already shared after arriving at her office.


    "President Shen, don''t you have a meeting at eight o''clock? It''s past the time now," she reminded him afterward.


    "I still have more time," Vince said. A silly smile curved his thin lips. "Before we left the penthouse, I told Tim to announce that the meeting was rescheduled to nine."


    Vince winked at her. She was speechless at how this man became a cker. And it started when their rtionship bes real. Now it worries her if they''ll me her as responsible for his changes.


    "Hubby¡­ Your executives will curse me for always keeping youte."


    "If they do that, I will demote them all."


    She was rendered speechless again. Vince had a serious expression on his face when he said that. It means he isn''t joking. She wanted to remark on his statement, but he imed her lips again and kissed her passionately.


    After then, he groaned pitifully.


    "Wifey¡­ Do you think Hailee Davies would ept my proposal?" Vince opens up suddenly.


    Hailey creases her forehead. She bes intrigued by what game Vince has on his hands at the moment.


    "Hm... And what proposal is this? Let me hear it."


    Vince smiled. "I want to offer her a job as my personal secretary."


    "Oh." Her eyes were twinkling from excitement. She could already sense that it was going to be a thrill some. "And what particr job does she have to do for you, huh?"


    "Well, I love Hailey Hillson''s coffee andttes. Also the meals she made for me. But outside, I want someone to apany me anywhere, flirt with me anytime, and above all. I want her to take advantage of my body as a bonus every day."


    Hailey dropped her mouth at how flirty this man was today.


    "Would she stay by my side 24/7? Would she epts my other proposal because it will be a forever offers..." He brushes his lips into her ear, then nibbles it when she remains silent.


    "That taking advantage of this body, huh?" she muttered under her breath.


    "Yeah. So, would she take the job even if I could only pay her a few hundred million US dors each year? Sorry, Wifey¡­ This CEO is poor."


    He looks pitiful when he says that, and it made her speechless again. After a few moments that have passed, she stroked his jawline then cupped his face.


    "Don''t say that, hubby. She isn''t that expensive, actually. In fact, she could do it for free! As long as you are willing to be bound to her, as you said forever, she would be d at your service!" Then she rubbed her body against his and whispered into his ear. "You promised she could take advantage of your body anytime, anywhere?"


    A loudugh filled her office. She and Vince cracked up at their flirty conversation. They both know that it is dangerous to be together always, which will happen in the near future.


    They would surely make love when they found a perfect time being alone in one room. Like at this moment, she and Vince were in the mood to make out. His one palm is rubbing her back while his other hand is massaging her leg as their eyes make love.


    She opened her mouth to utter a word, but she quickly swallowed some saliva after noticing that the door in her office was wide open. She was sitting above her desk while her legs wrapped around Vince''s waist.


    Actually, she was about to reach for his semi-hard thing to tease it further. But now, her knights caught her flirting around with him. Although she should not feel embarrassed as he is her boyfriend and soon-to-be-husband, still, their position isn''t proper at all!


    Office hours had just begun, but she was already flirting inside her office!


    Hailey bites her lower lip. She could tell that Pitt and Hansen were in a grim mood. Most especially Pitt.


    He is ring at Vincent, disying his desire to kick out or drop him from this floor. It was how the other boys look at their prey. She came across several men, who have an ulterior motive to take advantage of her, so she knows how the boys teach those men a lesson.


    But it''s different now as Vincent is her lover. These men should ept himpletely.


    Indeed, Pitt doesn''t like the scene he caught. He knew very well that Vincent Shen was the princess''s lover. However, he still could not ept that she has a boyfriend now!


    It seems like it was just yesterday that she is the crying girl who always followed them around in secret! The same little girl bothered them with her capriciousness and always taught her skateboarding or surfing.


    But that girl is now flirting around with a man! Not to mention that he heard what they were talking about!


    On the other hand, Vincent frowned. He nced over his shoulder after noticing Hailey froze and staring at the door. He finds out; her knights were standing outside her office! Someone opens the door without knocking.


    ''Where''s our privacy, dammit! Some respect, men!'' Vince is cursing in his head.


    He regretted that he dropped Hailey at her office. Instead, he should have taken her to his office, where no one can interrupt them and barge in just like that!


    "Do you want to sneak out again?" Vince curled his lips, whispering in Hailey''s ear.

 Chapter 221 - Coax Her Knights

    <h4>Chapter 221 - Coax Her Knights</h4>


    "And where would you bring me, then?" she whispered back.


    "To my office... I will tell my Security Guards not to let your knightse in."


    Hailey giggled at how Vince sounded childish, muttering that; it amused her to see this kind of side of him. If only they were alone. She already rewarded him with a feverish kiss and extra service.


    However, despite their flirtatious conversation, she''s also praying that Pitt would not hear them gossiping about him. As she blushed, she smacks Vince on the chest and muttered,


    "How silly you are! It would be best if you courted my knights instead, especially that guy over there!" She pointed her mouth to his back, where the door was wide open. "How about treating them to dinner, hm?"


    Vince and her knights must get along, no matter what. And with what she suggested, Vince thought about it.


    "That''s a good idea. I should make a reservation at La Fleur. Let''s have a fine dinner tonight."


    "I love that!" What Vince had said made her happy.


    She ced a quick kiss on his lips that made Pitt roll his eyes. ''They were showing off a lot.'' heined, but he didn''t voice it out.


    Now that Pitt, Hansen, and her other knights were here, she had to make Vince leave. She knew he had a lot of things to work on in hispany.


    "Alright, hubby. Before you get stuck in traffic, how about heading out now? I''m sure all of your executives are waiting for you. Don''t you have something to discuss with your dad as well?"


    Although she only heard Vince mention it over the phone earlier, she has to find an excuse. This guy was in the mood to flirt, so she must urge him to leave now!


    However, it hurts him when she wants to get rid of him. So, he acts pitifully. "Are you chasing me away?"


    She holds herself not to burst outughing. dly, his back facing at the door, everyone didn''t see hisme act. Still, he looks handsome.


    She brushed her lips on top of him to coax him, and then she muttered, "I''m not. I''m just reminding you about your meeting. Hm?"


    "Okay." He has no n to leave yet. It irritates him that her knights keep interrupting them, so he better go now before he could dig a pit for her knights. "But you have topensate me."


    ''They have forgotten that I owned this building! I''m the boss here!'' he thought inwardly.


    Before he left, he brushed his lips into her ear to whisper, "I can''t wait for you to be Mrs. Shen. By then, all the men that want to approach you will have to go through me first."


    "Hubby¡­." She was out of words. She isn''t sure whether tough or cry.


    But one thing she knew. Vince is serious when he says that, and it fills her heart with delight. She wants his possessiveness. She wanted him to show to the world that she was his as he was hers. And soon, she''ll definitely shout it to the world.


    But then, as she nced over Vince''s shoulder, she almost burst outughing when Pitt''s face contorted a grim expression. He seemed displeased at how they kept whispering, which obviously could still hear whatever they were murmuring about.


    "Call me if you are on break," Vince said afterward, then ced a kiss on her left cheek.


    She pouted, "Seriously? It''s you who have multiple meetings today. Text me if you are free, then I will bother you just then."


    Hailey revealed a broad, beautiful smile across her face. Staring at her with tenderness, he couldn''t control the urge to im her lips. He leans over, then kisses her passionately in front of everyone.


    Standing in the doorway, Pitt contorted his mouth. This couple seems to have no n to work today as they''ve continued to make out in front of them!


    "Ahem! Princess, we have to discuss something regarding your n to go home to Australia tomorrow. Also, about the incidents yesterday."


    Pitt interrupts their lovey-dovey moments, but he doesn''t care if it displeases Vincent Shen. He just simply went on. Even Vincent is frowning.


    "This is a serious matter, so we have to n out how you would exin to your dad, most especially about your boyfriend, who recently is the contractor you hired to work in Dream City."


    Hailey heaves a sigh inwardly. She could see that Pitt is showing a stern attitude toward Vince. She thought Pitt would be nicer now after what Vince had done to trap Liam and protect her himself.


    But the way the other boys behave, Vince has to work hard to coax them until they ept himpletely.


    After Vincent left, Hailey immediately talked to Pitt regarding his manner toward Vincent. She wanted them to understand that she would marry Vincent after he had divorced.


    "Pitt, can''t you be nicer to him? Vincent could feel that you are fierce toward him. Can''t you consider him already?"


    Pitt had known that Vincent is the one that was used in this marriage. But


    "Princess, he may have impressed us when he protected you himself. However, he was still a married man. Of course, I could not brag to your father because of his marital status. Let''s say that it was only an arranged marriage, and then, Liam meddled in so that he could not get his divorce."


    Hailey pouted at first, but then a smile appeared on her face. Pitt had known that Vincent was the one that was being used in that marriage.


    The Lan''s milk them with resources to salvage their business. And despite being married to Vince, Eva is cocky to continue her rtionship with another man, who is Bryan. And so she can see through that Pitt was only saying this. But he only acted like an overprotective big brother to her when she will turn twenty-five years old soon.


    Hailey got up from her seat and moved next to Pitt. She took his arm as she tilted her head into his shoulder. If Vince saw this, that guy would definitely throw a tantrum.


    "I know you guys are only concerned with me ever since. But I really love Vincent. And I know he was true to me. I want to marry him as soon as he gets his divorce."


    Pitt hurls a deep breath. Literally, he could not counter her words. Of course, he wanted her to be happy. Indeed, Vincent Shen did nothing harm to her.


    However¡­ ''Would their love be enough?''

 Chapter 222 - Summoned By The Elders

    <h4>Chapter 222 - Summoned By The Elders</h4>


    After discussing Liam''s arrest, which she has less interest in talking about, she began working that morning.


    She needed to brief her executives and then talk to Dana and Leticia regarding the new branch office arrangement since it will take a while before her return.


    She has to appoint an acting director in her absence or possibly assign this person permanently. Although she already had someone on her mind, she still wanted to ask her business partner''s opinion.


    "Ladies, I am thinking of appointing someone as a Deputy Director," she began.


    "That is a great idea." Dana concurred immediately.


    "I have someone in mind already. But we also need an acting Director in my absence. I am going to stay in Australia for a longer time. So, I''m just going to visit the headquarter in Dubai and other branches as scheduled."


    "I think Leticia is suitable to be an acting Director," Dana suggested without a second thought. She exined, "I have more kids, so I can''t do much work in the office."


    "I second that." Hailey smiled, looking at Leticia.


    "Well, if you think I am fit for the job, I''m happy to ept it. But who will you appoint as Deputy Director? That is a moreplicated responsibility than mine. It would be Fraine?"


    "I''m thinking of assigning her, yes. Fraine has a long experience in managerial operations, so she is the most suitable to have this position. So, I want your opinion."


    "I have no objection to that," said Dana. She is more likely only an investor and a part of the Board of Executives as an Advisor.


    "I have no objection as well," Leticia seconded. As an acting Director, she needed a more experienced one to help her run the Asia Branch.


    "Perfect! I would be at peace then, even though I will be away. Now, I should contact the Shen Group to put up more office rooms for the three of you."


    And she has the perfect man to talk about it. She doesn''t need to request another architect to discuss her business. This man is just one call and text away.


    *


    Vince had multiple meetings all morning. Tim drove him around the city to attend three meetings outside, and he did it just within three hours, including the traffic-jammed.


    "Hubby... Can I have you for lunch?"


    His fatigue immediately disappears after he read the text Hailey sent to him. Immediately, his lips parted for a massive smile.


    It was the moment Tim nced at the rearview mirror, and he saw his boss widened his smile. There is only one person who can make him smile like this. So then, after his boss ordered him to turn around and drive toward the Shen Tower, Tim guessed right.


    Tim drove the car toward the private parking lot and stopped the vehicle in front of the elevator.


    Before Vince got out of the car, he handed his card to Tim. "Go, have lunch."


    Immediately, Tim took the card before his boss changed his mind. With a broad smile across his face, he thanked his boss.


    Tim even salutes while watching his boss walking toward the elevator.


    "Thanks, boss!"


    *


    On the top floor of this building, Hailey was leisurely lounging on the sofa, waiting for Vince''s arrival, when someone was calling her through FaceTime.


    "Hey, cousin! What''s up?"


    Lately, every time Shun contacts her, it makes her a little anxious. She couldn''t avoid wondering if she has done something that displeases Shun.


    "Hey, princess! I''m d you are fine. Matt told me everything that happens. I am proud of your bravery."


    Hailey breathes with a sigh of relief. She thought that Shun would scold her again. But Shun is praising her, actually. It must be the part when she shot Liam to end his craziness.


    She smiled at Shun, then expressed her gratitude. "Thank you for the help you sent, cousin."


    "Nah. Matt only did their job to investigate the bombing in Las Vegas, then arrest the mastermind of the terrorist attack. CIA and Interpol concluded that it was a terrorism act as Liam Huo were from another country."


    "I see. Pitt exins to me, Liam will be convicted with heavy punishment."


    Shun replies, "Yes, he is. He will face life imprisonment. Don''t worry. I will make sure he is sent to South Prison Ind."


    "I''m d to hear that." She felt relieved not because Liam couldn''t bother her again, but it was because he no longer could harm Vince. From here on, they could live in peace.


    Hailey and Shun were in the middle of a serious discussion when someone appeared on the screen to greet her.


    "Beautiful princess!"


    "Hey, handsome prince! Oh, my gosh! You grow up so big now!" she eximed, happy to see her nephew, Shun''s eldest son. "Hello, Allen! How was your mama?"


    "Mama is resting. Aunt ire said my baby sister would be born soon!"


    "Oh. That was wonderful! I need to visit you guys soon!"


    "Please, beautiful princess! You have to visit us to see my baby sister!"


    "Sure! I promise to visit you." She assured, showing her sweetest smile to Allen.


    Honestly, she has been envious now. Many of her friends are already having children. There are times she couldn''t help but wish to get pregnant now and give birth to Vince''s children. And to imagine those scenarios, happiness filled her heart.


    Hailey chatted with Allen further; Shun was talking to someone who entered his office. Later, this person greeted her.


    "Princess, hello!"


    "Brother Daichi! Long time no see. It cannot be denied how you are getting older now." She joked at the man.


    "Ouch. Princess, you are so heartless!" Daichi twisted his mouth to show how hurt he was. On the other hand, Hailey could onlyugh at Daichi''sme acting. "Princess, don''t forget to visit us soon, okay?"


    "Sure, brother Daichi."


    "That''s good! Don''t forget to bring your boyfriend. I would love to challenge him for a spar!"


    Haileyughs nervously. She had a suspicion that everyone just wanted to get a piece of him; that''s why everyone loves to challenge Vincent for a match!


    She nodded and said, "Okay, brother Daichi. I will tell Vincent about your invitation."


    "Alright! Well, then, I have to go now. I will drive Allen home."


    "Okay, brother Daichi. Have a safe drive. Bye Allen!" Hailey waves in front of herputer screen then throw a flying kiss at mini-Shun.


    The young man is a carbon copy of his father.? Now it excites her to imagine what would be her children look like. But she is certain, all of her sons would be look exactly like Vincent.


    Now that Allen and Daichi left, Shun opens up another matter he wanted to discuss the reason he did a video call with her.


    Hailey asked, "What''s the matter? Is there any problem out there, cousin?"


    "Yeah. Kind of¡­." Shun replied.


    The way he looks at her, Hailey could tell that something is going on and it''s not good news. "Why do I have a feeling that this is rted to me?" said Hailey.


    "You are right, Princess." At the other end of the video call, Shun smiled faintly. You have to make a trip to Hungary as soon as possible. The Elders summons you."


    Hailey remained silent after listening to Shun. Somehow, she guesses already why the Elders wanted to see her. From here on, she already could tell that it won''t be a peaceful talk.


    Soon, she has to visit Budapest. And speaking of it... She and Vincent have a beautiful memory in that city, although they both were strangers to each other at the time. It was their first meeting Vince ever remembered.


    With the worries that began lingering in her heart, she needs someone she could at least lean on. "Cousin, you are taking my side, right? You will help me no matter what?"


    "Of course, I will," Shun nodded, he is looking at her with a soft gaze. "Princess, Vincent Shen must prepare to face reality."


    She knew that. It''s a question hanging on top of her head in these passing days.


    Is Vincent ready to step into her world?

 Chapter 223 - Hes Here Again

    <h4>Chapter 223 - He''s Here Again</h4>


    "Princess, I''m going to hang up now. I have a lunch meeting with the foreign investors."


    "Sure, cousin."


    "I''m hoping that one day, you could join us." Shun urged her.


    "Maybe that day wille," she answered.


    In the past, it was always her dad who would only join the International Corporate meetings that happened quarterly. Even though she already has her ownpany, either Bryan or Geoffrey, who would attend the corporate meetings abroad.


    Not long after the video call indeed, Vince arrived.


    She lifted her head when someone knocked on the door. Immediately, her eyes twinkle to see Vince appeared in the door, now striding toward her.


    The talk she had with Shun just now left an amount of worry in her heart. But she would not let Vince notice the gloom lingering in her chest.


    They just dealt with one problem yesterday, but then a new challenge app would measure how strong their love for each other is.


    But as long as Vince will stand by her side. She won''t give up on him. She rather gives up everything she had than lose him.


    Looking at him, she could tell he''s exhausted, but it didn''t lessen how handsome he was.


    When Vince gets near her, she immediately throws her arms around his neck and kisses him passionately. After the kiss they''ve shared, both are chasing air to breathe.


    The moment he entered the office, his eyes instantly searched for her. Hailey was sitting on the sofa; there are different dishes finely arranged on the coffee table.


    However, even though he was hungry, looking at that beautiful woman staring back at him, he craved for her more than the delicious food waiting on the table.


    Now that she''s inside his arms, he couldn''t stop teasing her, brushing his lips on top of hers, and his hoarse voice pleaded.


    "Miss Davies, should I strip now?"


    "I would love to!" she replied yfully, biting his lower lip. "However, I know you have another meeting and another one after that and one moreter in the evening..." she added and sighed helplessly.


    Vince chuckles. "Did my nosy assistant tell you that? Hmm... I should not reward him if I only ever knew his betrayal."


    Upon Vince nibbling her ear, his hand is rubbing her back, and soon she''s rxed from what he did.


    "Silly¡­" She loves how Vince massages her on the back. "I asked him about your schedule for the entire day so that I could arrange our flight at the most convenient time for both of us. Are you okay with leaving in the evening?"


    "Hmm¡­ You are amazing. Thank you for being so thoughtful, darling." Vince muttered between his kisses on her forehead, next at the tip of her nose, then on her neck.


    "I should say the same thing to you, hubby." Hailey gasps when Vince lifts her body and ces her on hisp.


    His hands traveled down her foot, massaging her ankle up to her thighs. When Vince''s palm slowly trails inside her skirt, she reaches for his ear and bites it.


    "President Shen, isn''t I who prefers you for my lunch? It''s not the other way around!"


    "Hmm¡­ But don''t we have an agreement? That I will strip in front of you to give you an extra service? It looks like I need to prepare a document for you to sign with the arrangement we came up with for the day, so then I have evidence. Next time, if you want me for lunch, you cane to my office and take advantage of me."


    Haileyughed out loud. Vincent never fails to amuse her. All the time, he was able to thrill her to where she would burst out crying about how charming he was.


    She opened her mouth and weed his tempting lips covering hers. She moaned as he deepened his kisses, pushing his tongue inside her mouth to y with hers; she was delighted to amodate him, conveying how the love she was with him.


    "I love you, Hubby."


    "I love you, Wifey."


    "Hmm¡­ I do crave to see you strip now. However, we only have a little time," she muttered, feeling regretful.


    But Vince has something in mind.


    "Who says we only have a little time? Isn''t that exciting? We could have a quick¡­." He was about to say, ''quick s*x'', but someone is knocking on the door. It forced him to stand and head to the door.


    The person who was standing outside froze on his feet after he saw his gloomy face.


    "Bo¡­ boss! You''re here already!" Bruce eximed in fear.


    Instead of replying to Bruce, who he bathed with cold sweat, Vince shifted his attention to Bruce''s hands holding a box. He could tell that it came from the cafe of this building.


    "Is that a cake?" he asked.


    "Ah. Yes, they are, boss! The princess asks me to order at your coffee shop downstairs."


    "Alright. Thank you." Vince took the box, then shut the door and locked it.


    Left dumbfounded in front of the door, Bruce is sure that he didn''t offend his boss. Then why does he seem irritated?


    Men don''t have periods like women. But he is sure his boss was getting through such moods today.


    "Hey, Bruce, what''s the matter? Has your other boss scolded you?" asked Pitt, who just came back from visiting the DV Gem store. He was walking toward the lounge when he saw Bruce knocking on the princess''s office.


    Bruce was pulled back to his senses upon hearing Pitt speak behind him. "He didn''t, but he seemed gloomy." He replied to the guy, then he mused afterward.


    ''I think I came at the wrong time.''


    "He''s here again. Pitt could not help butment after he saw Vincent was here again. It looks like he has a lot of time in his hands."


    "Ah! That''s right! I met Tim downstairs, and he invited me to have lunch. Why don''t you join us?"


    Pitt queried, "Tim? Mr. Shen''s assistant?"


    "Yes, he is! He told me that the boss gave his card to him, so we can eat all we want!"


    "Really?" Pitt reached his chin and smiled evilly. He nced at the other knight who was lounging in the lobby. "Hey, guys! Mr. Shen is treating us to lunch!"


    Bruce dropped his jaw on the floor.

 Chapter 224 - My Queen

    <h4>Chapter 224 - My Queen</h4>


    He isn''t sure if the idea is okay with his other boss. It looks like he is putting himself in an ugly situation. He brought it up, hoping they''ll join them having a meal, but they who will pay for their food as these men are rich people unlike him.


    "Let''s go, Bruce!"


    He had no choice but to follow them when Pitt was already dragging him toward the elevator. All he could do was cry in silence.


    ''Boss, please spare my life!''


    Meanwhile, Vince is pressing his ear to the door. The reason he immediately closed the door is that he saw Pitt walking toward them.


    Listening to the conversation outside made him happy that Bruce mentioned the card he gave Tim to pay for his meal.


    Finally, he sessfully gets rid of Hailey''s knights at least for an hour.


    Now he could have Hailey to himself without a bother who would barge in just like that whenever they feel so.


    "What are you doing?" Hailey asked with curiosity in her eyes. It made her wonder what was happening, and Vince is eavesdropping on the door. Now he had a massive grin on his face.


    Vince headed back; he ced the box on the coffee table, then opened it. Inside are smaller sizes of cakes with different toppings.


    One is caramel cake with berries on top. Another cake has strawberries filled with chocte syrup on top of them, and the other cake has sprinkled with nuts and M&M.


    He looked at Hailey with aplex expression on his face. She loves to bake, but she isn''t this fond of super sweet stuff. Hailey is health conscious. She rather bakes a carrot cake and pies than prepares chocte foodstuffs for them.


    "Let''s eat now!" Upon saying it, Hailey avoided meeting Vince''s eyes. She knew he is wondering why she suddenly likes these kind of cakes. However, even she doesn''t understand why she starts craving for them. All she knows, she enjoyed eating them.


    "Are we the ones to eat these cakes?" He wanted to make sure if the cakes were truly for them and not for her knights.


    But one thing is sure, if it were for the others, then Hailey would not request Bruce to deliver it to her office.


    Hailey glowed as she nodded at his query. Not only that, she had that broad smile while she arranged the cakes on the empty cake stand.


    He was trying to process what was going on with this girl when his phone rang. He pulled out the gadget from the back of his pants to check the caller.


    Vince gestures at Hailey to answer the call; he then took her hand and brought it to hisp, their fingers intertwining while he''s talking on the phone.


    "Hello, dad?"


    "Son¡­ your mom and I are in thepany. We thought you were back now."


    "Oh¡­" Damn. He forgot he wanted to talk to his dad over a lunch meal. "I''m sorry, dad. I forgot about it. After my meetings outside, I dropped by at Hailey''spany."


    "Oh, I see. Alright, no problem." Fred reached for his chin and rubbed it. This is one of few things that had changed. He must first reconsider that Vincent''s girlfriend is also managing her ownpany. And he was still not used to it.


    Just recently, he found out who she was. If it weren''t for someone plotting Vince''s death and someone wanting to abduct his girlfriend, the secrets would not unveil and reveal her true identity. And thanks to Carl for telling him the truth.


    Someone tugged his coat. Fred nced at Hilda, who is silent, sitting next to him. He gestured his hand in the air to stop Hilda from bothering him.


    "Can''t you wait? Don''t worry. I will mention it to your son."


    On the other line, Vincent heard his dad talking to someone, and he need not guess it''s his mom. "Dad? What is it?"


    "Ah. It''s just your mom." Fred replied. He waves his hand again to shoo Hilda.


    "Is everything okay?" Vincent asked.


    "Yes, it was! Everything will go smoothly from here. We have solid evidence, and ourwyers will make sure things get done sooner."


    "I''m d to hear that, dad. That''s good news. Anyway, does mom have something to tell me?"


    "Well¡­ your mom asked if you both were avable tonight to have dinner in the mansion."


    "Oh¡­ Is it tonight?" He pondered for a moment. Although he wanted to spend time with Hailey''s knights, he also wanted to seize this opportunity to bring Hailey into the mansion. "Sure, we would love to."


    "Then, let''s talk at home. I will apany your mom to the supermarket. Ouch!"


    Vince raised one eyebrow. It looks like his mom smacked his dad. Probably, she didn''t want to reveal that she would personally pick out the ingredients for the dishes tonight. So, he pretended he heard nothing unusual from the other line.


    "Ahem. Well, son. You''ve mentioned that you were with Hailey. Then, I will hang up now."


    "Okay, dad. You and mom should have lunch too. See you bothter tonight. Bye, dad."


    Vince put down the phone on the table with a huge smile on his lips. It showed in his eyes how happy he was. And because of that, he hugged Hailey so tight.


    "President Shen, I can''t breathe." Although she doesn''t want to end the joy he was feeling at this moment. But she wanted to hear why he''s as happy as this.


    "Wifey, I''m just too happy. Mom invited us to have dinner at the mansion tonight."


    "Oh. Really? I am truly invited too?" She asked with happiness in her heart that Vince''s mom, slowly reconsidering her as the woman who her son wanted to be with in his entire life.


    "Yes. Mom invited us herself over the phone the following day after the Launching party. She thought I was still in Metro City, but I was on the ne, going to Las Vegas."


    "Oh, justst week."


    "Yes. Don''t worry. Everything will be alright with you and mom."


    "She doesn''t know who I truly am, right?"


    Vince shook his head; he revealed a handsome smile across his lips. "She hasn''t yet."


    "I''m d. I want us to build our rtionship in my current identity. Although I dream she will ept me when I am just nobody in her eyes, things get out of hand."


    Vince didn''t like the words she says. He cupped her face and said,


    "Never say that you are just nobody before you reveal your identity to me. Always remember, you are the woman who is dear to my heart... my Queen."


    Tears threaten to wet her eyes. Before they could escape, she closed her eyes as she reached Vince''s lips. He warmly epted her kiss, which ended in passionate lovemaking inside her office, on that very sofa.


    "Next time, let''s do this in my office," Vince whispered to her ear while his hand is stroking her hair.


    Hailey extends her arm to reach Vince''s bare waist and ce a sweet pinch on his body. He chuckles to see she blushed.


    She pouted. "You dare to invite me to your office when your dad is also using it when you''re away?"


    "Is that a problem? I have a secret room, remember?"


    It stunned her for a moment, followed by her giggles after Vince winked at her full of mischief. She smashed his shoulder, then bit his neck.


    Honestly, she is not only craving food. But she craves to touch Vince like this. Every time her nostril caught his natural scent, she couldn''t help but bite her lip when she began drooling over his body.


    Is she turning into something? But why with change?

 Chapter 225 - Visiting The Shen Mansion

    <h4>Chapter 225 - Visiting The Shen Mansion</h4>


    SHEN MANSION


    This was the first time she had been to Shen''s mansion. In the past, she never dared toe unless Vince would bring her to meet his parents.


    However, it never happens because his mom has been digging a pit for them instead of this forbidden affair. Of course, she understood his mom''s feelings. Even she would never side with a sinful affair.


    But both Eva and Vince had someone they love. After they got married, they went separate ways and didn''t care about each other. And if the situation is that they were living on the same roof and doing the duty of husband and wife, she would never ept Vince''s proposal to be his fake mistress.


    But because she knew what Eva had been doing in recent years, she married Vincent. She signed the agreement without a second thought.


    And in the eyes of all the people in this world, she was just a mistressmitting a mortal sin. Although they love each other, it is still wrong, to begin with. Just by then, she will feel reassurance after Vince and Eva had divorced.


    Moreover, she could finally reveal to the world that Vince is the man she is engaged to. For now, she must live up to this identity and create a good rtionship with Vince''s mom.


    Hailey heaves a nervous sigh after Vince parked his Lambo at the Shen mansion''s patio entrance. He noticed she was nervous. He reached out for her hand, squeezed her fingers to calm her, and assure her that everything is fine.


    Vince got out of the vehicle to open Hailey''s door; he helped her get down from the car. "Thank you," said Hailey.


    He nodded and smiled at her. They held hands as they climbed the stairs; the Butler weed them.


    "Good evening, Mr. Shen."


    "Hello, Roberto. How are you doing these days?"


    "I am healthy despite my age, Mr. Shen." the butler boasted, which indeed is true. Then his gaze shifted to the beautiful woman Vincent brought over. Although he has been seeing her photos on the inte, she was indeed lovely in person.


    Butler Roberto blushed when Hailey smiled at him sweetly. He almost cried because she suddenly missed the youngdies of the family who choose to live in Europe to avoid their mom''s anger when they decide to marry a non-business person as a husband.


    "Good evening, Miss." Butler Roberto bowed.


    "Good evening, Mr. Roberto. Nice to meet you."


    "Ah! The pleasure is mine, to meet you, miss!"


    Roberto is even enthusiastic to great Hailey. Vince had noticed that.


    Then, Roberto moved back his gaze to his young master. "Mr. Shen, your parents are now waiting in the Greenhouse. The madam chose the garden to hold tonight''s dinner."


    "Hmm¡­" Vince was a little surprised to hear that. He looked at Hailey with happiness.


    The Shen Greenhouse is a special ce for his mom, as his dad especially built it for her, and nobody coulde in unless his mom permitted it or she personally invited someone.


    And to think his mom opened the door for Hailey means his mom is already epting her to be part of the family soon after they got married.


    "You''re going to like it there," he told Hailey.


    She replied, "I''m sure the ce is lovely."


    Vince led her inside the mansion. Even though she grew up living a luxurious lifestyle, she admires how carefully put the Shen mansion''s interior designs together with its fancy ornaments and exquisite crystal chandelier in the grand hall.


    On the walls, a few paintings hang that she knows are valuable.


    Vince brought her to the courtyard mansion; from there, they walked a trail where it leads them toward the Greenhouse, and she could see it was huge. Just from outside, she could already notice the beautiful lighting of the entire building.


    "I will tour you around after dinner," said Vince to her when they were about to reach the greenhouse entrance door.


    She nodded at him and smiled. He must have noticed when she scanned the maze garden. And as Vince mentioned, it looks like they will stay longer tonight.


    At the moment, they were now entering the greenhouse. They only walk a short distance, reach the fountain in the middle, and ce the long table on the right side. And on the side are long sofas where Vince''s parents are lounging.


    Hailey sighed with relief when she saw familiar faces. She thought it would be only Vince''s parents and the other people she could think of is Professor Carl, to join them.


    "Vincent!" Zaijan raised his hand with a ss of champagne. Besides him is Carl, who talks to Janise on the single couch seated across the Lopez men.


    On the other hand, Vincent raises a brow to see Zayn already drinking. Now that they got everyone''s attention, Janis rushed toward them.


    "Hailey! I''m happy to see you well!"


    "Hi, Janise." Hailey returns to hug the woman. She looked at Carl, who called out to her.


    "Hello, Princess! It was nice to have you tonight with us!"


    "Good evening, Carl." Hailey smiled. She could see in the corner of her eyes that Madam Shen turned her head toward Carl, gazing at him with a confused look.


    Madam Shen would remain to wonder why Carl addressed her that way. Of course, she didn''t know the entire story yet about who she is. However, Janise appeared to know it already.


    "Hail, you are so great! I was so shocked to learn that even before you came here, you were already our business partner!"


    Hailey guessed Janise was talking about Lopez Tech and Park Electronics'' partnership. She nodded at the girl, then smiled. "Did Hansen tell you about that?"


    "Yes! We''ve talked about the partnership of our family, and then he mentioned that your family is the major investor in Park Electronics. That was really amazing! Davies Group is one of the most sessful conglomerates in the world even these days! It''s not a wonder if you are also a huge investor in Cole Holdings, not to mention Chan Logistics. By the way, I was their client to ship bulk orders to my Global customers. Now, you are the major foreign investor of Metro City Group of Companies. You are richer than Vince!"


    Hailey has rendered speechless to everything that this girl is bbing about. She isn''t sure whether she would feel ttered by Janise''spliments, or she would wish that Janise weren''t here so that it wouldn''t reveal her true identity yet in front of Vince''s mom.

 Chapter 226 - Her Identity Revealed

    <h4>Chapter 226 - Her Identity Revealed</h4>


    Hailey smiled awkwardly at Janise; then, she nced at Vince to convey meaningful stares that she needs his help to exin things to his mom. Thankfully, he understood immediately.


    Vince ced his arm around Hailey''s shoulder. He looks at his mom. It visibly disyed the shock on her face.


    And that is true. Listening to Janise announcing that Hailey is also a co-owner of Park Electronics and otherpanies shocks her. But now, to learn that she is Hailee Davies? The self-made billionaire in the world of jewelry and her family is one of the wealthiest in the world.


    "Mom, I want to introduce Hailee Davies, my fiancee."


    Hilda has rendered speechless. She knew it had been not a long time since she wanted to meet Hailee. Just the other week, she wished to meet the DV Gem founder. But not knowing that they have already met in these passing months.


    In fact, she even offered her a few million in P Country currency, which was just a cent for her in reality.


    That was clearly a p to her face. In the past, she has been judging her as an impure woman, not knowing her real identity.


    "Good evening, Madam Shen, Mr. Shen." Hailey politely greeted Vince''s parents.


    It doesn''t mean that her background is from the line of royalty. It is not her character to embarrass someone unless she were personally and directly to nder. On the other hand, Hilda Shen never does that to her, so she has no grudge against Vince''s mom.


    Instead, she understood why Hilda Shen was furious at their fake rtionship in the past. But mom''s Vince never attempted tosh her out in public nor made her the hot topic on the inte with lies information.


    In fact, Hilda is the one who cleans up with that kind of a mess. She doesn''t want anyone to drag Vince''s name. She knew that as she has ess to the inte portal.


    "Good evening, Miss Davies." Fred pushes his lips into a thin smile. He then shifted his gaze to his son and said, "I''m d both of you are here now. Let''s eat! The food is waiting! Your mom makes sure that the chef prepares all of your favorites, and they were done properly!"


    Fred sounded boastful, which Hilda elbowed him. Until now, Hilda remained silent next to him. She hasn''t even greeted back when Vice''s girlfriend greeted her politely. Fred could only re at his wife and make secret gestures.


    Sat on the rectangr table, Hailey could tell that they intended this ce to be set this way just for tonight''s dinner.


    The long table was beautifully decorated with fresh white and pink roses. And looking at the table, everything that prepared is not only Vince''s favorites but also hers.


    Vincent was attentive at putting food on her te. Tonight, she didn''t feel picky as in the past few days. In fact, she likes how it cooked the spices. The bell paper was tasty and fried just right. She likes how spicy it turns out. There are also giant lobsters disyed in the middle, and Vince took one tter and ced it in front of her.


    "Are you going to fatten me?" sheins.


    Vince leaned over and whispered, "Not really. I''m feeding you to get more energy. Be ready tonight."


    "Silly! We are in front of your parents and cousins!" she whispered back, her cheeks blushing pink.


    She could tell that everyone only pretends deaf in front of them. She felt awkward that Vince continued flirting with her, which of course, ddens her that he never chooses a ce or time to show his affection toward her.


    "We''re making a baby, so we need a lot of energy."


    Hailey dropped her jaw on the table. She couldn''t believe that Vince would go this far to be shameless! He indeed let his family hear him!


    Carl and Zaijan just shook their heads while Vince''s dad smiled, ncing in their direction. On the other hand, Hilda remains silent in her dining chair, eating her food elegantly.


    During theunching party, Hilda Shen also remained silent for most of the time at the party. She only spoke to her cousins and a few friends at the party. But she neither showed she likes her or hates her. Instead, Hilda seemed to fall into deep thoughts the entire time.


    Hailey came back to her senses after Vince spoke close to her ear.


    "I heard that mom borrowed the best chef from M Resort and Metro Pce Hotel to prepare all of this food."


    "And I was so pleased," she answered Vincent. Then she looked at Vince''s mom with a genuine smile on her lips. "Thank you for the food, Madam Shen. They are all delicious."


    Hilda slightly lifted her head to meet Hailey''s eyes. She replied, "I''m d that you like it. Is there another particr dish you like? The chefs were still here. If you like something else, we can ask them to prepare them."


    "Ah. Everything that was prepared is enough already." She refused even though there''s another food she wanted to eat tonight.


    But she doesn''t want to be rude. Actually, her gesture touched her. May this is not the first meal she shared with Vince''s parents, but Hilda Shen''s first proper invitation to her.


    And she could tell the effort she made was just for the sake of Vince. She loves her son, and so Hailey could not doubt Hilda Shen''s sudden change.


    However, Hilda has changed after she had the suspicion about something.


    The following day after the dinner incident at the Metro Pce Hotel, she summoned the restaurant manager to ask a few questions. It was first revealed that night, her son''s girlfriend is a co-owner of DV Gem and a huge investor in MCGC.


    Then, after listening to the manager''s story of what truly happened that night, the manager mentioned another thing.


    "Madam Shen, do you also want to know what foods they ordered?"


    Hilda red at the restaurant manager. She only asks about the statements posted on social media by those who''ve dined and witnessed that incident, and so, she isn''t interested in what food they eat.


    "Nothing¡­ That''s all I want to know. You can leave now." She waves her hand to dismiss him. However, the manager is still hesitant to leave.? "What is it? Why are you not living yet?" she asked snobbishly.


    "Um¡­ well¡­ I''m just curious, Madam Shen. That night, Miss Hillson ordered an unusual dessert."


    "What unusual dessert?" Hilda began feeling irritated toward this manager. But then, she chose to listen.


    "She ordered a ck Forest cake with a lot of caramel syrup on the top and then strawberries as toppings."


    "What is unusual about that?" she snaps afterward. But it made her pondered. ''Isn''t suppose to be berries?''


    "Well, ma''am. We don''t have that sort of cake on our menu. But dly, the chef tried their best to satisfy Miss Hillson''s cravings. So, the chef had ideas if we should add another menu. Maybe a type of cake that is based on the guest''s preferences."


    "Wait, a minute¡­ What are you saying about her cravings? Do you think ck forest and strawberry is unusual to mix up?"


    The manager nodded. "Yes, madam Shen. Besides, that night, it was what she has only eaten. And she almost finishes the entire cake."


    "The entire cake?" She asked in shock, wanting to assure if she heard correctly. ''That sweet?'' Now it does a mystery to her. That kind of body had the appetite to eat a whole chocte cake? She sees no fat at all! Hailey Hillson has perfect curves and a t stomach. If she has no proper diet, impossible she would not get fat.


    Again, the restaurant manager nodded at Hilda''s query. After that conversation, Hilda started having guesses in the following days. And the day before the entrapment of Liam Huo, she already had the conclusion.


    "She probably is pregnant. She is carrying a Shen child."


    *


    NEXT ON:


    In the middle of a great dinner, two women appeared in the greenhouse. Everyone, including Hailey, lifted their heads to see the newly arrived woman, which very familiar to them.


    "Surprised!"


    It was Janise who first rush over toward them. "Sister Dee! Sheena!"


    The three women hugs happily, then Sheena and Deana look at people who were also delighted to see them.


    Then, someone caught their eyes that made them happy. They rush over and also hugged her tight.


    "Hailey!"


    Hilda frowned to witness this. She was shocked to see her two daughters appeared out of nowhere as all of a sudden they visited without telling her! But Hilda was more shocked that her daughters greeted Hailey first over her!


    She was displeased, but she could only remain silent.

 Chapter 227 - Meeting His Sisters

    <h4>Chapter 227 - Meeting His Sisters</h4>


    She had this conclusion after a few days of investigation. Now that DV Inc. has an office in one of the Shen buildings, she could easily monitor her daily activities.


    Since the Shen restaurant catered their lunch meal every office day, she ordered the restaurant manager to keep an eye on anyints or requests made by thepany.


    And in these passing days, the manager reported to her that Hailey made a special request. She wanted to make a separate meal for her, and there are few spices she doesn''t want to add to the dishes, such as tomatoes. And she wants the garlic to fry and the bell pepper.


    Added to the report, she frequently ordered berries pie and chocte cakes, especially ck forest cake and caramel cupcakes.


    This unusual craving led her to that conclusion. And to observe her son and Hailey, both seem not to understand her cravings yet.


    ''After all, she was her daughter.'' she mumbled to herself after remembering someone. She was staring at Hailey; she could not help but contemte other things.


    Later on, Hilda snaps herself back to reality.


    "What were you thinking?" Fred slightly elbowed her in the arm and gave her a meaningful stare.


    A re shed her eyes. She quickly concealed her emotion and showed her poker face. "What should I think?"


    "You were staring at her."


    "Is that long already?" she asked Fred. Her husband nodded at her. Hilda lowered her gaze, avoiding discussing his point. She told Fred, "Let''s continue to eat."


    "You don''t need to deny it. I know you were thinking about her family."


    "Our world is too small not to cross an old acquaintance. That''s what I''m thinking."


    "Then I am right. You were thinking about her family," said Fred. He was more likely mumbling to himself rather than talking to Hilda.


    On the other hand, she only red at him but then dropped the topic; however, Fred isn''t done yet. It is good that Janise keeps chatting with Hailey; she mainly paid attention to Janise and less to them.


    "She didn''t get any features from her mom." Fred casuallymented, putting a spoonful of lobster and rice on his mouth.


    Hilda has rendered speechless and didn''t respond to him. Fred is studying her moods, who soon give up on the thought that Hilda wanted to discuss.


    Well, she didn''t argue with Fred about his observation. True enough. He was right with his perception. Besides, who doesn''t know about the Davies family and their wealth?


    Sure everyone knew about them, especially Fred.


    Staring at her te, Hilda raised her head and nced at Hailey before her gaze moved to her son. Indeed. It can be seen how her son was happy when he was with this girl.


    Her daughters argued with her, pursuing her to give their big brother the happiness he deserves. Sure, Vincent has never had a girlfriend or flings in the past.


    He is an obedient son and does well in his study, pursuing two courses to help run theirpany. And then, he seeded in the career he chose.


    They acknowledged him internationally for hispetencies and achieved such recognition with his skill¡ªsomething to be enjoyed and happy with his sess.


    But they said his sess isn''tplete without a woman by his side. And when he has a wife, her son throws her away and never attempts to work on that marriage. Instead, he holds the trophy as his mistress.


    But wait¡­ She isn''t just an ordinary mistress.


    She has the power to put Vince to the pinnacle of sess or ce him to the lowest point of his career.


    Despite how she mistreated her in the past, it still allows Vince to work in Dream City.


    ording to Carl, neither Vincent nor he knew her real identity, who he was in the Mafia Association for a longer time.


    Somehow, her weakness is Vincent. That is why, after she learned that the Lan who plotted Vincent''s ident, she wanted to crush them immediately. Now, she''s praying that this girl won''t hurt Vincent to take revenge on her.


    Now, the Lan Enterprisepletely falls in their hands. If proven that Eva was part of the ns, she is going to jail as well, and she doesn''t care anymore.


    As soon as possible, she should sign the divorce papers, and much better if she wouldn''t see her for the rest of their lives.


    But what grounds could she stand if someone like Hailee Davies, who she was against? Of course, she would not back down to fight her if she hurt Vince.


    "Hilda¡­"


    She was pulled back to her senses when someone shook her shoulder. "What?" she snapped.


    "Haven''t you heard? Your daughters are here!" said Fred with enthusiasm.


    "What?"


    Hilda was stunned for a moment. She didn''t notice that everyone was already on hype after Deana and Sheena suddenly appeared.


    Not so long ago¡­ Two beautiful women entered the greenhouse and eximed.


    "Surprised!"


    Everyone, except Hilda, looked in the fountain''s direction, where two women stood there with a massive smile across their faces.


    And among the people on the table, it was Janise who first rushed to greet them. "Sister Dee! Sheena! Oh, my gosh! What a surprise!"


    The three women were now happily embracing. Soon, Deana and Sheena scanned the other people present tonight. Both were overjoyed to see another person¡ªthe one they wished to meet again.


    "Hailey!"


    Instead of greeting their parents and brother, Deana and Sheena rushed toward Hailey.


    "Hi." Hailey smiled at Vince''s beautiful sisters, who were walking toward her. "Oh¡­"


    The girls hug her, so he embraces them as well.


    "I''m happy to meet you, girls," Hailey uttered as they squeezed tightly, almost crushing her, but the smile remained on her face. She was happy that Vince''s sisters warmly greeted her.


    "Girls, don''t¡­." She wanted to warn them not to press Hailey''s body. dly, she immediately shut her mouth before she could spill out the words.


    She couldn''t help react after seeing that both of her daughters were crushing Hailey''s body; she gets worried as she has her suspicions that Hailey possibly was already carrying a child in her body.


    Sheena and Deana let go when they heard their mom''s voice. They walked toward her and greeted her with an embrace. "Hi, mom. Sorry if we didn''t greet you first."


    "I¡­ It''s okay. I just wanted to scold you for not telling us ahead." She just used that excuse because it was true, anyway. If she had known, she would have made an even huge gathering. Maybe dinner with everyone in their family.


    "It can no longer be called a surprise when we tell you," Sheena said, putting out her tongue.


    Hilda shrunk her pupils to give her youngest daughter a warning stare, and she is no longer a child to act like this. Sheena is indeed still yful until now.


    "Dad!" Sheena and Deana next to greet their dad before their brother.


    "Ah, my princesses!" Fred couldn''t be content with the joy filling his chest. Every day, he is missing his daughters.


    However, he could not persuade them toe back to Metro City because the life they prefer is away from their mom. Besides, their husbands were sessful in their careers.


    Wace is an International Ser yer, while the restaurant that Stephen and Sheena manage were doing well.


    "Hey, girls." Vince steps forward to hug his sisters. If there is someone who is too happy tonight, that is him.


    In fact, he just suppressed himself not to show how emotional he was at this moment. To see his parents, mainly his mom, is opening the door for Hailey. Now his sisters have arrived to visit them. Such a night to celebrate.


    "Brother! I missed you!" Both Sheena and Deana said.


    "I missed you both too."


    "Ah! I can''t believe this!" Later, Sheena burst out. After the girls greeted everyone, they were now continuing to eat at the long table.


    "I was really happy to meet you, Hail, I mean¡­ We already met before, but that was just like a brief encounter."


    Hailey smiled at Sheena. "I''m also happy to meet you again."


    "I will never forget that day! I still remember perfectly what kind of face my brother has while he''s staring at Hailey across the road!"


    Hailey looked at Vince, full of love. It thrilled her to hear this story from other people aside from Vince. That''s why, in the next half hour, the table filled withughter.


    "However, I could not believe that my brother is such a man! In the end, he could never ask Hailey out!" Sheena added.


    "I was afraid of being sprayed with lemonade." Vince jokes; he winked at Hailey.


    She rolled her eyes. She blushed because of that part. And probably, if Vince approached her that time and asked her out, she would think he has an ulterior motive, and that is to take advantage of her like most of the stranger men who want to get close to her.


    Sheena continued bbering over dinner. Everyone didn''t notice, but Hilda, who kept observing Hailey, saw how much dessert she had already consumed.


    ''She''s putting herself and the child in danger of overeating sweets.''


    Hilda couldn''t helpining, which she can''t voice out yet. ''Maybe I have to warn Vincent. He has to watch this girl''s diet.''


    But the problem is, Vincent has no idea yet. So then, Hilda had decided. "Vincent, are you going to stay over?" she asked Vince all of a sudden.


    Everyone at that table was a little surprised, but it made Sheena and Deena ecstatic.


    "Why are you guys going back to the penthouse?" Sheena mouthed.


    "We want to talk with Hailey all night." Deana chimed in.


    "Yes! We girls can stay in one room and chat all night!" Janise suggested, which the sisters concurred with the idea.


    "Are you girls going to steal my love tonight?" Vincent raises an eyebrow, but his tone has humor in it.


    After that, the three girls admitted, together they eximed, "Yes!"


    Vincent nced at his watch. It''s still nine o''clock at night. "Okay. You need to bring her back to me at midnight," he said.


    "Eh? Is Hailey some kind of Cindere? It''s the opposite, though!"


    Everyoneughed at Janise''s joke, which confused the sisters. Janise then exined, "Oh! No one told you yet. She is Hailee Davies!"


    The shock painted on their faces. "You¡­"

 Chapter 228 - His True Love

    <h4>Chapter 228 - His True Love</h4>


    "Oh, my god! Is that true!?" Both eximed.


    They couldn''t believe that the girl their brother had found is one of the most influential women on Earth and sessful in the business world!


    When their brother married Eva, they were firmly against it. They believe their brother deserves someone better or matches the girl he likes, and that is Hailey from four years ago.


    However, their mom is such a stubborn noblewoman.


    But after their brother met Hailey again and won her heart, they were so happy for him.


    Now to hear Hailey''s true identity? It blew their heads away!


    Why wouldn''t it?


    They have been following Hailee Davies on Instagram. They''ve seen all of her posts in these passing years, and that was incredible!


    From her adventures to her world travels? To show off her fast cars and fashion sense? She has wealth!


    But what they''ve envied more about her is when she travels either by her yacht or private ne, plus those road trips?


    She''s living a luxurious life, and they cannot question that! She is a princess!


    And having her with them tonight is like a fairy tale! She was an icon to socialites like them!


    The sisters couldn''t contain themselves, staring at Hailey.


    "Please, I''m still the same girl from the day your brother saw me." She told the girls not to feel ufortable around her, which she''s the one who starts to feel awkward.


    She knew that once the people discover she is Hailee Davies, either they would take the chance to get close to her or feel timid toward her.


    She isn''t a shy person in reality. So, she wants to stay as Hailey Hillson because she has the freedom in the world to mingle with ordinary people.


    She isn''t hard to please. She didn''t need to be treated like a queen who everyone would vow to her¡ªshe instead just wanted everyone to respect her genuinely as a human being and not because of her status.


    *


    After dinner, she was snatched from Vincent atst. The girls brought her to the third floor of the mansion.


    It surprised her to see an expansive room with six double decks inside.


    Deana is certain that Hailey is curious why they have a room in this arrangement.


    "Mom is too strict, as you see that side of her already. She never allows us to go out at night. We girl cousins could not hang out in pubs or bars unless we''re with our male cousins and brother as our chaperones when we are legal. So we mostly hang out in the clubhouse."


    "Oh. M Resort, right?" Hailey queried.


    Sheena nodded. "Yup! The name changed after my brother did a massive renovation of that clubhouse. He also added other buildings. In the past, it was the ce where the elite children gather around."


    "Dad is the same as well. He wouldn''t let me go out if I didn''t have my uncle as chaperone and the boys." Hailey somehow could rte to that.


    "Oh. Those men you''re along with during your travels?" asked Janise, excited to hear about it.


    "Yes, they are."


    "Oh, my gosh! They were so hot!" Sheena squeals; both Deana and Janise tickle her. And because she is ticklish, she ran to the bed where they caught her.


    The three of them giggling while rolling on the bed. It''s been a long time since they did this when they were teenagers.


    Hailey smiled. She enjoyed watching the girls teasing like this because she and Kelly with the other girls have also been this way.


    "I missed that ce, actually," Deana uttered afterward. She sat up and looked at Hailey.


    "Why don''t we go tomorrow?" Janise suggested.


    Hailey then remembered. "Oh. Vince and I schedule our flight to Australia for tomorrow. We forgot to mention it during dinner."


    "Eh." Sheena was the saddest one to hear it. "When will you and brothere back?"


    "Will be here one week before your mom''s birthday," Hailey replied. She reaches Sheena''s hand and squeezes it.


    "Then, that would be like in two weeks?"


    Hailey nodded. She and Vince have to fly to Budapest to meet the Elders. But she could not tell these girls after their trip to Australia and talk to Eva.


    "I have to settle many things in thepany." She reasoned out. "And dad hasn''t known yet that one of our contractors is my boyfriend, now a fianc¨¦."


    "Oh. Is he going to ept our brother?" There are worries exhibited on Deana and Sheena''s faces. Janise is also worried for Vince.


    "Dad is difficult to please, yes. Moreover, in Vince''s situation. Whose father would be happy to learn that his daughter has an affair with a married man? But don''t worry. I will exin to dad, and whatever happens, I will fight for Vince."


    "Our brother should have his divorce as soon as possible!" Sheena remarked sternly. Her annoyance is toward her mom, who arranged Eva to her brother.


    "Yeah. But we didn''t want you to marry our brother because you are Hailee Davies." Deana expressed. "We want you for our brother because you are the only woman who could make him so happy. And you are the only girl he falls in love with."


    "And even if we are his first love, you are our brother''s beloved," Sheena echoed.


    Hailey smiled and hugged the girls. She''d realized. There are family members who are jealous of their son or brother''s girlfriend. So it''s a dispute between family members against the girlfriend.


    "Of course, that would never change." She assures them. "Your mom is the first woman Vince loved in his life, and his sisters are his first love and then me¡­."


    "You are his true love!" Janise finished her words.


    The four girls giggled and then jumped. Suddenly, the door opened.


    "Mom?" Sheena smiles sheepishly. She had a guess. Her mom had been eavesdropping on them.


    Well, as usual, like in the past, her mom would check on them constantly. And when she caught themining of how she was strict, she then began recalling how the elders disciplined her and their aunts and uncles.


    And who wouldment back is Sheena. She would reason out that things aren''t the same anymore, as they lived in different times.


    It''s the new century.

 Chapter 229 - Call Mom

    <h4>Chapter 229 - Call Mom</h4>


    Back at present, Hilda coughs to clear her throat, then she warned them. "Why are you girls jumping? You aren''t little girls anymore."


    But she especially sent this message to Hailey. Until now, this girl hadn''t found out yet that she was pregnant. And so she couldn''t directly scold her and advise what a pregnant woman should work on, eat, and not.


    "You girls remember not to do such an activity once you get pregnant." When she said that, she simply nced at Hailey. She knew that pregnancy has different circumstances, and she wants healthy grandchildren.


    Hilda frowned when no one understands her indirect message. They only think that she was scolding them.


    Sheena strode closer to her mom; then hugged her tightly. Sometimes, she misses her nagging voice.


    They said, cherish your loved ones, whoever they are, before things are toote. Sometimes, we only remember them when they are gone forever, and we could not make it up to them again.


    "What got into you?" Hilda remained in her rough tone, even though she was blushing.


    "I just missed you, mom."


    "Why are you turning into a drama queen now?"


    "Mom, that was your title," said Sheena. She then giggled.


    Hilda shrunk her pupils as she red at her youngest daughter for teasing her this way. Anyway, Sheena always addressed her with this nickname because she always reprimanded her for being such a rebellious kid.


    Indeed she is so hard-headed. Every time her mom nagged her the way she dressed or her overly capricious, her mom had a litany to chide her. And her mom was in a rage after she would say,


    "Mom? Those were your days, during ancient times. It''s 2020 now!"


    "Sheena Marie Lopez Shen!"


    "Mom, I love my name." She will snicker, then she would run outside where her brother is waiting to be her chaperone.


    And the moment he sees her clothes, he is on their mom''s side. So, she has to get changed at the end, where her mom doubles her nags. She has so many things to tell her, just like a Drama Queen.


    Sheena sobs. Why is the past always a beautiful thing to remember?


    But except for those times, life knocks her down. Oppositely, it was the most meaningful part of her life too.


    She never regretted when she had Lena, her angel.


    "Alright, enough drama. I''m leaving now. The maids will bring some tea and desserts soon."


    "Aw, thanks, mom!" Sheena and Deana said at once.


    "Thank you, aunt Hilda. You''re the best!" Janise echoed.


    "Thank you, Madam Shen." Then Haileystly thanked her.


    "Madam Shen?" Both the sisters eximed, looking at their mom, as displeasure was written on their faces.


    "Mom? Hailey is now part of our family. Why does she have to address you like she is your employee?"


    Hilda rendered her silence. She couldn''t counter her daughters'' usation. She would admit she didn''t think about that yet. But now, her daughters who would have scolded her over again!


    Hilda took a deep breath. She smiled and said, "It''s up to Miss Davies how she''ll address me."


    Now Deanna and Sheena shift their gazes from Hailey to their mom, then back at Hailey.


    "You both are too formal to each other!" they growl.


    "Mom, you should be the one to initiate!" Sheena is bugging her continuously.


    Hilda fell silent once again. It tempted her to roll her eyes and re at her daughters, especially at Sheena, who is undoubtedly a nosy girl! But maybe Hailey would misunderstand this.


    Looking at Hailey, Hilda opens her mouth to mutter the words she was forming in her head.


    "Of course, she could call me mom if she would like to."


    "You hear that, Hail? From tonight and onwards, you will call our mom¡­ Mom!"


    Hailey blushed. She pushed back the tears that threatened to burst from her eyes. Since her mom died when she was ten years old, she truly longed for a mom''s love. But her dad never thought of getting married again.


    So, she was happy to call Kelly''s mother Mama or Bryan''s mom.


    But to call mom, the mother who conceives to the man she fell in love with, brought unexinable warmth in her chest.


    "Hail, don''t be shy!" Janise wink at her.


    She smiled and shook her head. "I¡­ I am just feeling sentimental at the moment," she admitted.


    "I understand," said Hilda. "Your mom died when you were ten, right?"


    Hailey nodded. This time, her eyes welled up.


    "I''m sorry. We tried our best to save her. But the impact of the two cars is great. It''s toote when no ambnce and paramedic arrive in the area where the ident took ce."


    It was the first time Hailey heard the story from the person who witnessed when her mom got into an ident that caused her death.


    By the moment Hilda embraced her, she hugged her back and cried on her shoulder.


    Janise, Sheena, and Dean were also crying to hear the tragedy Hailey''s mom was into. And witnessing such moments, they also joined Hilda and Hailey; now, they had a group hug and let tears flooded their eyes.


    The maids who were delivering the tea and desserts heard it too; this sight moved even them. It''s the first time they witnessed Madam Shen being warm to other people.


    Even to her family, she wasn''t intimate or sweet. She always wears a poker face or shows her superiority to the people around her. And they love this kind of change.


    And they prayed that this would continue. And this happens when their young master, Vincent, brings his mistress.


    Well, they already loved her even before she came to the mansion. Their sir Carl always speaks nicely about her. So they always look forward to this daying when Madam Shen opens the mansion''s door for her.


    "Okay. The tea and desserts were here. Let''s drink first." said Hilda. She gestured at the maids to ce the tray on the coffee table, then serve Hailey herself.


    "Thank you, mom Hilda." Hailey shyly thanked the woman.? She could still not believe that she and Hilda had this kind of connection.


    Hilda smiled at her. She took her hand and rubbed her face. And what she told Hailey next wet her eyes once again.


    "Your mom wanted to tell you, how much she loves you."

 Chapter 230 - Their Connection

    <h4>Chapter 230 - Their Connection</h4>


    [2011-- Fifteen Years Ago in the Province of South Ind.]


    "Madam Shen, look!"


    Hilda nced at her driver, then followed his gaze. She looked outside the window, a horrible scene that she saw.


    "Stop the car and tell the bodyguards to check those cars!" she ordered.


    Immediately, her bodyguards and driver get out of the vehicles to check the two cars that collided. Hilda could see how badly the two vehicles had formed after the ident. It threw one car on the foothill, and it looks like it exploded because there are still traces of fire and smoke.


    Not long, Hilda''s driver came back to report it to her. "Madam Shen! All the passengers in the other car are dead. But the woman in the other car is still breathing!"


    "Then what are you doing? Call a rescue!"


    "Okay, madam! I will call the city hospital!" The car driver took out his phone and dialed the emergency hotline to the City Hospital.


    Unfortunately, they were still an hour away from thergest city on the South Ind.


    "Madam Shen! The response will take a while! And the nearest hospital here is half an hour away!"


    "Dammit!" Hilda cursed. She gets out and checks the woman herself.


    The car driver hurried to get an umbre, but Hilda only shoved it away. "That is not needed now!" she yelled at her driver.


    It was pouring heavily, and the wind would only fly the umbre away. Hilda got still wet from the rain.


    "How was her situation?" she asked one of her bodyguards.


    "Madam Shen, she was stuck in her seat! It will be dangerous if we pull her out, but we don''t have first aid medicine and tools!"


    Hilda pressed her lips. Before she worked at Lopez Steel Corporation, she took a six months'' Paramedic training course. She has a little knowledge of first aid, but they have nothing here.


    "Did you call the nearest town?"


    "We called the police, and they were on their way. Unfortunately, the town that has Medical Rescue is in the next town."


    Hilda frowned. "This is ridiculous! Where is the Lopez Steel Corp. donation to these towns!"


    ''It looks like she has to look at this issue.'' she mused inwardly.


    Hilda kneels on the ground to look at the woman. She looks up and yells at her bodyguards. "Can''t you do something? Find a way that this seat is taken off from her body?"


    "We will do our best, madam!"


    Some bodyguards search around to look for a pole or metal they could use to destroy the seat. And some of them check their tools if they could use something from them.


    "Help me¡­"


    Hilda leaned over to listen to the woman''s faint voice. She could tell how the woman was suffering from pain.


    "Don''t worry! We already called for help! Hang on! Don''t close your eyes!" Hilda tried her best tofort the woman.


    "I¡­ I''m pregnant¡­."


    Hilda covered her mouth. ''She''s losing so much blood!''


    She turned around and shouted at her bodyguards. "Hurry! Do something!"


    "Madam Shen! We can''t find anything!"


    ''Dammit! Is the countryside that poor? Lopez has been donating to the government! What are they doing with the funds?'' She couldn''t stop stressing out.


    There should be a Medical Rescue in every town since this part of the ind is prone to idents, especially in terrible weather.


    "Call the Lopez Steel Corp. to get the Safety Officers'' asses here! Use the helicopter!"


    It stunned her bodyguards for a moment; then, one called the Steel nt. Hilda kneeled again and leaned over to talk to the woman. She is gasping and groaning from the pain.


    She reaches for her hand and coaxes her, "Hang on! Help ising! Don''t close your eyes!"


    The woman gripped her hand, sobbing. "I am going to die, right?" her voice was shaking, stuttering her words.


    "Don''t say that! We will do everything to get you to the hospital!"


    Hilda knew she was in great danger. But she has to show the woman that things will be okay.


    "What is your name? Do you remember your name?" Hilda watches the woman''s mouth stutter at random words. "Can you repeat that?"


    "Ma¡­ Marley Da¡­ vies¡­."


    "Marley?" Hilda repeated. Although she didn''t hear it clearly, she just presumed it was the name the woman had said.


    But then, her eyes scanned the crushed vehicle; her eyes saw the woman''s bag. He reached for it, but she couldn''t pull it out.


    Hilda stood on her foot; she turned around and looked at her driver. "Get her bag to see any information about her!"


    She pointed her finger at the bag under the seat. The driver quickly squatted on the ground and used all his might to pull the bag. After a great effort, it sessfully pulled out.


    Hilda quickly checks the woman''s bag. She saw a mobile phone, passport, and identification cards. She checked her IDs, and she found out her name is Marley Davies.


    She checks Marley''s phone; it works and is in roaming service. However, this ce has terrible reception. She tried to call some number.


    Hilda went back to her car and took out her phone from her bag. With her mobile, she dialed the contact number, stating to call if there is an emergency.


    She attempted to dial the mobile number three times to connect to her international call, but the person who owns this mobile number didn''t pick up the call.


    ''Dammit!'' Hilda reached for her head. She inhales a long breath and calms herself; again, she dials another contact number.


    This time, it was a telephone number; she waited until someone picked up the telephone.


    "Hello?"


    It surprised Hilda to hear a sweet voice from the other line. "Hello? Can I talk to Mr. Jacob Davies?"


    "My dad isn''t here!" said the little girl on the other line. "What do you want from him?"


    Hilda fell silent. She could not tell this little girl that her mom got into an ident and is probably dying.


    She pressed her mouth and thought about what she had to do.


    "Hello?" the little girl checked if she was still there. Hilda tried to sound casual while she talked to the girl.


    "Hi, sweety. Listen¡­ Can I talk to any adult in your house? Whose with you?"


    "Um¡­" The girl fell silent on the other line. "I''m sorry. But dad and mom said I should not give any information to strangers."


    Hilda has rendered speechless. She couldn''t me this little girl because she is also teaching her children about this. But she has to pursue this smart girl.


    "Listen to me, sweetie. I need to talk to an adult. This is about your mommy. Do you know where she is?"


    "Yes."


    "Okay. You don''t need to tell me. But is she in P Country?"


    "I think so¡­" the girl replied timidly from the other line.


    "Okay. Can you tell me your name? I am Hilda Shen." She introduced herself to the girl not to feel stranger toward her that she might be someone who has an ulterior motive.


    "Okay. My name is Hailee."


    "Hailee Davies?"


    "Yeah¡­"


    "Okay, Hailee. Your mom is Marley Davies. Can I talk to your nanny now? Or anyone?"


    "Do you know my mom?"


    Hilda remained silent for a moment. "Yes. And I just saw here just now. Can I talk to your nanny now? Or anyone?"


    "Okay. My grandma is here! Grandma, it''s for you!"


    "Hello?" This time, an older woman answered the phone. Hilda immediately exined what''s going on.


    "No! Oh, my god! I have to call Jacob! He was in Metro City!" said the other line.


    "Madam Shen!"


    Hilda looks at her driver, who has an ugly expression on his face. "What happened?" She asked, then followed her driver.


    She could see that the women began vomiting with blood. Then, a helicopter arrived. Finally, Lopez Steel Corp. Safety Officers arrived with tools.


    They took the woman out, but she is losing so much blood. They brought her to the nearest hospital. However, she was dered dead on arrival.


    Hilda couldn''t tell her family. And so she called Fred to look for Jacob Davies. But what breaks her heart is the woman''sst words.


    "Please¡­. Tell my daughter¡­ I''m sorry¡­ and I love her so much¡­."


    ¡­


    Tears once again flooded Hailey''s eyes after she heard the whole story from Hilda. She was grateful that Sheena and Deana were there, holding her tightly the entire time.


    "Thank you¡­ mom Hilda," she said afterward.


    Life is indeed full of mysteries. And the world they were living in was just small.


    Who would have thought that almost fifteen years ago, she talked to Hilda over the phone? Although the memories are vague, there is no doubt in her heart. And she is the person who tried to save her mom.


    Hailey sat up; she rushed toward Hilda and hugged her one more time. In this way, she let herself immersed in Hilda''s memories about saving her mom.


    On the other hand, she hugged Hailey back, rubbing her back tofort her.

 Chapter 231 - Their Connection (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 231 - Their Connection (Two)</h4>


    [Hilda and Frederick Shen]


    Thirty-three years ago...


    She thought it was just a typical family dinner with the entire Lopez n. Once in a while, Elder Lopez gathers his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in Metro City asionally to maintain a good rtionship among the n.


    But tonight, the said dinner was only between her grandfather, her parents, and their special guests, the Shen Family.


    "Don''t think I will marry you!" she told Fred when they were alone in the garden. Her parents urge her to bring Fred to the courtyard so that they could have time alone together to get to know each other.


    She has been treating him indifferently all night, but to her annoyance, Fred is too polite to the elders and her parents thought he is a gentleman.


    But now that they were alone, Fred showed his true color. He kept smirking to annoy her, then spoke to her coldly.


    "Do you think you are the only one thinking that? I am also against this arranged marriage thing!"


    His father said that they were going to meet a potential business partner. It turned out it was a marriage discussion!


    "Stop acting like you are the only one who feels forced with this setup!" Fred added.


    Now, staring at this cold and snobbish woman, he better stays bachelor his whole life!


    "I''m in no hurry to get married! I love my life being single. Marrying too soon is a pain in both my head and my ass!" Fred told Hilda sternly; he even pointed at his head.


    "That''s my line! I better stay an old maid my whole life!" Hilda replied.


    Fred rendered his silence. What this girl told him buzzed his ear. Then, he fell into deep thoughts. The girl seems telling him that he is not attractive at all.


    ''Is she serious? Or is she only stubborn and spoiled brat girl?'' Fred wanted to believe this. But this woman stepped on his ego. All the women he meets in the past are deliberately thrown themselves at him. They would willingly strip in front of him and find a way to climb on his bed. Not only that, they were pursuing him to choose one of them to be his wife. But this woman is the opposite one!


    Fred could see that Hilda is such a prideful woman. If she became his wife, they would only argue all the time. He could already see it. So then, he would never dare to get involved with her.


    "Don''t worry! I feel the same!" Fred uttered before he retreated and went back to the Lopez dining hall.


    Hilda red, watching his receding back. "Humph!"


    If only she could beat him up, she already does that! This man is such an as*! She will never marry him! She swears.


    But the meeting didn''t stop there. Even how she persuaded her parents, but her grandfather stood on his words. To his annoyance, he publicly announced her engagement to Fred Shen.


    One night¡­.


    Hilda joined her cousins to attend someone''s birthday party. And in the crowd, she saw a familiar face. Well, she should no longer be surprised. This guy was everywhere, partying almost every night.


    Whatever gossip, there is no way she couldn''t have heard about it, which she just used to ignore.


    But tonight, he brought a new girl as his date, and it happens that she witnessed this, and so, she can''t tolerate it.


    "What are you going to do now, Hilda?" Eliza Lopez asked her.


    Hilda clenched her palms and pressed her lips to calm herself. Gossips about hering from the other women at this party,shing out at her, have arisen. They were attacking her, using the fact that Fred Shen brought another girl to this party instead of her.


    She weighed whether to confront Fred or not. But he is only forced to engage with her. It''s not like she is his girlfriend.


    In the end, she marched toward him.


    "Frederick Shen!"


    Fred, who didn''t see her approaching, suddenly swallowed the whisky he drank after hearing her voice. It choked him as he was too surprised to see her all of a sudden.


    Hilda, on the other hand, was annoyed with his reaction. Witnessing how he was coughing, she smacked his back with such intent. Not tofort him but to hurt him.


    "That hurts!" heins, shooting sharp res at Hilda.


    "What?" she snapped. "I''m helping you! You should be thankful!"


    Fred felt ridiculous at her attitude. He heard how sharp and straightforward a mouth she has, the reason he is avoiding being in the same ce with her. She could only embarrass him.


    "Come here!" Before this girl made a scene, he dragged Hilda out of the party hall and brought her to the courtyard, which was empty.


    "That hurts!" Hilda withdrew her hand and shove Fred''s arm away. He gripped her arm, and it hurts her.


    "What are you doing here?" Fred asked Hilda the moment they stopped walking.


    "Why can''t I be here? Is this your party?" she countered stubbornly, which made Fred speechless.


    "Okay, fine! Then what do you want?"


    Hilda scoffs. "Can''t you be shameless? If you want to date and flirt with other women, you should persuade our grandparents first to cancel our engagement!"


    "Then why don''t you do it yourself?" Fred twitched his mouth, looking at her downward.


    Hilda raises an eyebrow. She snorted and countered, "It should be you since you are the one who always goes on dates with different women! How dare you humiliate me to the entire world!"


    Fred hissed at her. "You! How dare you use me?"


    "Then ask your grandfather to call off our engagement!"


    "You are so stubborn! You know that is impossible!" Fred reason out.


    "Then stop fooling around with other women until our engagement breaks off!"


    Fred rendered speechlessly. Hilda was right. However, it annoys him that she was using him endlessly.


    "I don''t fool around!" he insisted, which Hilda didn''t listen to.


    "Is that so? And who''s that girl you brought to this party?"


    "Are you jealous?" Fred asked; he sounded poking fun at her.


    "And why would I? You are not that great, to begin with!" she snaps at him.


    With what she had said, Fred explodes with anger. ''How dare she insult me!''


    "What''s wrong with you!?" And why am I exining to this woman! He muttered to himself inwardly, then went on, "She is someone''s girlfriend, and I have to look for her tonight!"


    "Humph." She red. "That''s easy for you to say since no one can hear you. All men are such a liar. You¡­."


    "Shut up!" Fred clenched his jaw. This woman is too noisy!


    Hilda continues bbing. She didn''t stop talking, and that pissed him off.


    Later on, Hilda froze on her feet. Suddenly, her eyes widened when all of a sudden, Fred kissed her.


    But after she came back to her senses, a loud pnded on Fred''s face.


    "You¡­. You¡­." She stuttered her words, which she could not think what she wanted to tell him.


    Fred saw how her face was blushing pink, and her ears turned red from embarrassment.


    "Oh. Don''t tell me. It was your first kiss?"


    There is a yful smile on Fred''s lips. Suddenly, the noisy woman in front of him looked cute.


    ''So this is how he could shut her up? Interesting.'' He mused inwardly; he grinned. "Then this means that I am your first kiss."


    "Who says? Stop being too full of yourself, Frederick Shen!" After saying that, Hilda turned around and marched back to the party hall.


    Fred chuckled while he followed Hilda back to the party. He had a broad smile across his face, which his friends noticed.


    *


    PRESENT TIME


    Back in the girl''s room, Hilda continued reminiscing some more memories that she had¡­


    Deana and Sheena were astounded to hear this side story of their parents.


    "So, you got jealous of Hailey''s mom because you thought dad dated her?"


    Hilda nodded timidly. She didn''t know Marley Hillson. What happened that night is their first meeting, and it never happens again in the future, until that ident.


    She sipped on her tea and put down the teacup as she exined herself.


    "Your dad and I were against this marriage. But when your dad often links to other women, a part of me is enraged. The people already knew about our engagement, so I feel ashamed that my fiance is fooling around with other girls."


    "I won''t care about it if the socialites would not bacsh me. But they were ndering my name and degrading my reputation that I''m a snob. That''s why Fred would not marry me."


    "Although our family is the most wealthy in the province, the High Society in Metro City is looking down on me because I grew up in the countryside, the South Ind where Lopez Steel Corp. is located."


    "So, I asked my uncle to transfer me from working in the office of Lopez Steel Corp to work in Lopez Corporation Headquarters in Metro City. Then, I dare those women who want to embarrass me¡ªespecially those who flirt with your dad."


    "I epted my fate as a future daughter-inw of the Shen and challenged myself to live in Capital City to take revenge on those women. So instead, I showed how snob I am, that I don''t care who they are. The families in High Society are full of hypocrisy. They make friends with me, but I know that they talk ill about me behind my back. So I didn''t show kindness and fake my smile."


    "To be honest, Julia is a good friend of mine. She helps me fight those women, but I can''t believe she''ll betray me in the end." Hilda heaves a long sigh. But there''s no regret can be seen on her face.


    "Mom, this is the first time you told uspletely new about you," Sheenamented.


    "There is nothing much to talk about me. I am strict with you, especially with your brother, because I don''t like most families to get involved with us. They are all fake and wanted to take advantage of us."


    Listening to this entire time, Hailey lifted her gaze to look at Hilda. In her thoughts, Eva had been lying to Shen. But Lan still manages to arrange Eva for Vince.


    For some reason, Hilda values her friendship with Julia Lan. However, in the end, her friend betrayed her.


    But to look at the situation, Eva was probably willing to divorce Vincent if Liam didn''t enter the picture.


    Liam sets his eyes on harming Vince when she got involves with him. For some coincidences, Vince is Eva''s husband. He used her once again to break her heart.


    Liam always has his advancement to make things hard for her, and that to keep Vince''s divorce impossible to happen.


    But can she reveal to Vince''s family that Eva had an affair with her ex-fianc¨¦?


    Hailey sip on her teacup. She straightened her back and looked at Hilda, Janise, and the two sisters. Maybe it is better to know that she knew where Eva was and knew her all these years, even before marrying Vincent.

 Chapter 232 - The Shen Ancestors (One)

    <h4>Chapter 232 - The Shen Ancestors (One)</h4>


    SHEN LIBRARY


    When the girls left to have their chit-chat, Zaijan didn''t stay longer. He left the Shen mansion for a reason, to pick up Fraine in the DV Gem Store and go home together.


    Tomorrow, Hailey will officially appoint Fraine as Deputy Director of DV Inc. Asia Branch. She will be even busier, and so Zaijan wants to meet her during the night, at least.


    And as for Carl, he went to La Fleur Restaurant to drink with Hailey''s knights. Carl knew that he could not invite Vincent to drink all night. That guy has been so clingy with his girlfriend, now a fiance, so soon his wife.


    At the moment, Vincent is putting a spoonful of coffee beans into the pot and cing it in the coffeemaker. After that, hees out from the pantry inside the library to join his dad on the long sofa.


    "What do you want to talk about with me, dad?" he asked.


    "I just wanted to ask if Mr. Jacob Davies already knew your rtionship with his daughter?"


    With a sh of guilt and sadness in his eyes, Vincent shook his head, then heaved a long sigh. "Hailey hasn''t told her dad yet. And I understand why."


    "It is about your arranged marriage," Fred need not guess. It is a hindrance to their rtionship. "If you need me to talk with him to ask for his daughter''s hand, just tell me so."


    "Thank you, dad. I will definitely need you. But first, I need to settle my divorce with Eva before I talk to Chairman Davies about my desire to marry his daughter."


    "I see¡­" Fred reaches for his chin and rubs it. He seemed deep in thought.


    "Dad, I''ll go check on the coffee," said Vincent.


    Fred nodded, watching his son''s receding back. "My ancestors¡­ Maybe it is the right time to tell Vincent the truth."


    Fred muttered to himself. Not long, Vincent came back with two mugs and a coffee pot on the wooden tray. Vince handed one mug to him.


    "Thank you, son."


    "You''re wee, dad."


    In the following seconds, the father and son took a long moment of silence to enjoy their coffee. It was Fred who spoke up first. He shared the story in the past.


    "Are you saying, dad¡­ It was mom who found Hailey''s mom when she got into a car ident?" asked Vincent afterward. He was astounded at hearing the story.


    "Yes. Your mom did everything she could do to save Marley Davies. But because of the miscarriage, Hailey''s mom lost so much blood other than her bleeding from an ident. So then, that caused her death before they arrived in the hospital."


    "That was really sad. Hailey must have missed her mom. I think I begin to understand why she was attached to her knights. They were probably the ones whoforted her during those times she was mourning. I''ve witnessed how they spoiled her. But from what I learned, mom tried to rescue my future mother-inw; she was really amazing!" Vincent expressed with amazement. "What a small world!"


    "Yeah. It was a small world indeed. The little girl that your mom has been thinking about since that day is your Hailey."


    Vincent smiled when his dad said, ''your Hailey''. ? Indeed, this is his very own Hailee!


    "But because she is hiding her true identity, mom does not know that they talked on the phone fifteen years ago," Vince''s conclusion.


    Fred nodded. "Yes. We tried to collect information about her, but nothing we could gather. Now that is her true identity revealed to us, and then, there''s no surprise why we get nothing."


    "And if you ever found out who she is, then you would learn Chairman Jacob Davies is her dad and her mother is the woman mom tried to help before," he concluded further.


    "Yes, son. And you need to know this... She is an important descendant of the High Royal families," Fred stated.


    Vince creased her forehead. "High Royal families? Is there such a thing? Like a Czar or Emperor?" he asked.


    "Yes, son. From a long line of hierarchy. In this world, some people are treasures. It means they were part of an important history that the rest of the world didn''t know anymore as the Alliance protected them."


    "Alliance? Like the Mafia Association?"


    Fred shook his head. "We could say that, but it is higher than the Association. The elders who hold the role were called The Pirs. They represent every continent. Even the presidents and prime ministers of this world bowed to them."


    "Wow. But why are you telling me all of this, dad?" Vince could tell that his dad is bothered with something. And the knowledge he holds is beyond ordinary. Besides, why did his dad know all of this?


    On the other hand, Fred prepared himself to reveal more facts to Vincent. Now that he is in this situation, his son needs all the power their family is holding.


    "Son, as you know now that your girlfriend is not just from an ordinary background, I received a call from a brother in the Alliance."


    ''My dad has a brother from Alliance?'' Curiosity grew in Vincent''s heart. It seemed like his dad was also hiding a secret.


    "Vincent, the Higher Royal Family has begun to question the bloodline of the Princess''s fiance¡­. That was you."


    "A brother from Alliance? Dad, don''t tell me you are also part of the Mafia Association? You seemed close to them somehow." Vincent couldn''t help expressing this.


    "I am not part of the Mafia Association, but in my younger years, I am not only joining the Camp. I am directly training to serve the Godfather, or known to the world as the Mafia Emperor."


    "Right hand of the Mafia Emperor?" Vincent mumbled; he pondered for a moment. "Dad, isn''t Shun Crow, Hailey''s cousin, the present Mafia Emperor?"


    "Yes, he is." Fred nodded. "And by the time I was in training, the future Mafia Emperor was Nichs Crow, Jacob''s cousin-inw."


    "Nichs Crow, former Chairman of Crow Corporation," Vincent murmurs to himself. "Dad... You are mentioning this for what connection? Is it the possibility that they will not ept me? Is this why you look restless?"


    "It was brother Nichs who informed me that the Elders would run an investigation about our family. They were bugging the present Mafia Emperor, and Chairman Shun Crow rejected their demands. He told the Elders to leave Hailee alone." Fred reached his forehead, pressed his temple.


    "Hailee''s elders, the High Royal family won''t stop investigating you behind the Emperor''s back."


    "So then, I have to prepare myself?"


    Fred nodded. He lifted his arm, patted his son''s back as he told another story.


    "Do you remember the story your grandma used to tell you?"


    *


    "Yes, dad," Vincent replied.


    "The story of the three kingdoms is real. The Shu family is one of the strongest allies of the Xing Dynasty. It is only a small kingdom, but a thousand warriors could fight against a hundred thousand enemies. To strengthen the rtionship between the Empire and our kingdom who defend the wall in South Land, and Naval ships, one of the Imperial princesses is married to the Shu prince, the strongest warrior and the future King of Shu Kingdom."


    "Now, that story of the Good Prince who wears Imperial armor won the Tournament to marry the neighboring princess. He is the son of the Imperial Princess."


    Vincent didn''t notice that he dropped his mouth open. "Dad, you''re saying that story is true, and it''s not just a book written by our ancestors but a history?"


    "It was actual history, yes. The Shu bes tied to the Emperor. After the Imperial princess conceives a Shu offspring, they be a rtive to the Emperor."


    Wait¡­ What is the relevance to Hailey and me? Shen is some kind of Keepers? Vince mused.


    "After our ancestors fled from South Land, our name was reced with Shen to hide our identity."


    "What do you mean about that, dad?"


    Instead, Fred replied to Vincent''s query, he continued his story.


    "When someone assassinated the Imperial Family, no one survived. But those who were indirect descendants survive like the Shu family. They run for their lives to escape. They sailed as a way out, and they arrived at P Country."


    Vincent couldn''t believe what he heard now. Could it be that they were the Shu family?


    "Dad, what are you talking about now?" It confused him so he was asking questions. "Is that¡­ We are the indirect descendants of Emperor Xing?"


    "You are partly correct in your conclusion, son. When our ancestors arrived in P Country, our ancestors changed our name to Shen. Since then, our ancestors have lived a low-profile life from the Wu''s who searched for all the Xing descendants. Do you know that the Wu Dynasty changed their surname into Huo after the great rebellion and fled C Nation?"


    Vincent was surprised to hear another fact about the history. He asked, "Dad, are you saying that Liam Huo and Galvin Huo''s ancestors assassinated the whole Xing Imperial family?"


    Fred nodded.

 Chapter 233 - The Shen Ancestors (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 233 - The Shen Ancestors (Two)</h4>


    "The Wu Dynasty is thest dynasty in the history of C Nation." Fred went on.


    "The Shu was a great ally to the Empire, even during the previous dynasties. The small kingdom is a great helper to build the walls. We made a great name back then before the Xing Dynasty was reced by the Wu Dynasty."


    "Come with me." Fred brought Vincent toward the secret room in the second floor''s study room. "Do you remember why I scolded you if you wanted to sneak inside this room?"


    "Yes, dad. I want to see these treasures that our family has kept for hundreds of years."


    "Well, they are not the reason I restricted you froming in," said Fred to Vincent. He walked toward the vault in this room and opened it after putting up the security code and his eye as identification. "Can you help me, son?"


    Vince rushed next to his dad, then helped him carry a big box. It was heavy as it made the box in gold, then they ced it on the long table inside that room.


    "What is this, dad?" he asked anxiously, as he was curious to know what was inside in the box. It''s been thirty years since he lived in this world, but he has never seen this box before.


    Fred rubbed his hand on the box as he narrated. "Thest Shu survivors carried these treasures when they fled from C Nation after Emperor Wu assassinated all Xing descendants."


    He continued, "They belonged to the Emperor of the Xing Dynasty. When the Emperor learns that someone ns to assassinate him and his entire family in secret, he asks his best cksmith to forge a sword. The emperor secretly sent out the swords of his daughter, the imperial first princess who married the Prince of Shu n to keep it hidden, along with the imperial youngest prince."


    "If the world forgot them one day, these words are proof they were descendants of Emperor Xing, representing the Xing Dynasty."


    "The Xing Dynasty is second to thest empire before dynastiespletely disappear in the political C Nation."


    "Galvin Huo''s ancestor and King Lamandi are indeed descendants of thest empire. After Wu sessfully annihtes the Imperial family, many kingdoms keep silent and stay low for years. But they only waited for the time to end the Wu Dynasty; it would happen if they could assassinate Emperor Wu, and indeed, they seeded. After then, the dynasty ultimately fell and began a new era. The Wu descendants fled and never came back to C Nation. As for the Shu descendants, they remained in P Country and kept the secret of the Xing Dynasty."


    "The Shu n, along with the youngest prince Xing, live peacefully under the surname Shen. When the time came, the imperial prince married a Shu maiden, and that marriage continued the bloodline of the imperial family Xing."


    Listening to his dad, Vincent tried to process everything he heard tonight.


    "Dad, are you saying now that we are not just indirect rtives of Emperor Xing but direct descendants?"


    "That''s right, son. We haven''t held the title of the wealthiest family in the world these days. But the blood that runs in your veins once belonged to the Emperor of C Nation." Fred answered, he added.


    "As you love a princess from Higher Royal family, it will be difficult for you to win her over. However, they cannot look down on the Shen if they reject you. The Alliance holds all the history of this world. They would recognize these treasures once we presented them to them."


    "Dad¡­"


    Fred looked at Vincent; he extended his hand and patted his shoulder.


    "Son, as you are my oldest. I am now passing on the secret of the past Xing Dynasty. And when the timees, you will pass it down to your oldest son. Your mom entirely takes the responsibility of raising you into a great man so that you will be worthy to carry this secret to the next Shen generation. And yes, I admitted it was a mistake to trust Lan in this lifetime."


    "The Lan family? Are they already involved with us even in the past?"


    Fred nodded, he then exined. "Shu''s most trusted General is from the Lan n. They never left Shu but protected them even from generation to generation. Our family has sworn brothers, and they also know our secret," Fred exined.


    "Wow, okay. I understand now. However, in the end, they betrayed us after they take alliance with the Huo n against you."


    "That''s right. Your mom only agreed to honor and protect the secret of the Xing family."


    ***


    After the father and son''s private talk, Vince fetched Hailey from the girl''s bonding moment to take her to his bedroom.


    Hailey swept her eyes to the entire room. It was vast and neat¡ªperfect space for a muscled man like Vincent.


    "I like your room." Herpliments. "I should order my maids to change my room curtains into metallic and white curtains. My room is pink all over. I haven''t thought about changing it since I haven''t often stayed in the mansion."


    "I don''t mind sleeping in your room with pink decorations. But metallic and white?"


    "I just like it!"


    Vince creases his forehead. "Wifey, you don''t need to change rooms because of me."


    "Nothing to worry about, hubby. I love metallic brown now!"


    "Really?"


    "Yup!" Hailey nodded in response; she walked around to scan his bedroom.


    Meanwhile, Vince is still trying to process in his head why this girl suddenly prefers new colors. She''s behaving differentlytely. And what she is doing at the moment is one of her unusual behaviors. But maybe she''s acting this way because they are not strangers anymore to each other.


    He watches Hailey pick up a pillow and sniff it.


    "Why are you sniffing my pillow? You have a real one here." He chuckled, amused by what she''s doing on his pillow.


    Hailey sat up and ran toward him. She throws her arms around his waist, then sniffs on his shirt while mumbling.


    "This one is better. It''s authentic!" she eximed; there is a massive smile on her face. She looked like achieving a great reward.


    "Why are you acting too cutetely, hm?" Vince ced a kiss on her lips, to which she immediately responded lovingly. "Let''s have a shower together."


    Before Hailey could respond, a knock on Vincent''s bedroom door. Both shared a look and wondering who it might be.

 Chapter 234 - She Recognized This Voice

    <h4>Chapter 234 - She Recognized This Voice</h4>


    "Wait here... I''ll go check who it is."


    "Let me open the door! Maybe that was the clothes for me Janise instructed her workers to bring over." She stops Vince; then rushed to open the door.


    And she is right. It was Janise and her store manager standing behind her carrying more bags.


    "Hi, Hail! Here are the clothes for you." Upon saying this, Janice handed the shopping bags to Hailey.


    "Thank you, Janise," Hailey smiled sweetly. She extended her arm to take the bags, but before she could touch them, someone already took them from Janise.


    "No problem, Hail!" Janise responded, then greeted Vince when he appeared behind Hailey. "Hi, cousin!"


    "Thank you for delivering them." Said Vincent to Janise.


    She nodded, then replied, "You''re wee, cousin! I''ll leave now for you to get some rest."


    She may say this, but then she winks at them. Vincent looked at Hailey with a grin.


    "See? It''s time for us to work on making a baby."


    Hailey ps Vince''s shoulder; she blushed upon saying this, "You are too shameless, President Shen!"


    Janise shook her head then left the couple, who began flirting in front of her.


    Vincent and Hailey''s rtionship indeed is one of the greatest she has ever known. Vince''s treatment of Hailey makes her envious.


    She wished she could also find a man who would be thoughtful and care for her feelings.


    She is afraid to fall in love, that''s why she has never had a boyfriend since birth. But since she witnessed Vince and Hailey''s rtionship, she began wishing to find her true love at how they inspired her.


    Maybe, if someone is knocking on her heart, she will probably give that man a chance.


    *


    After Janise left, Vince carried Hailey to his bathroom. He helps her undress then, both soaked in the warmed water.


    Before he fetched Hailey from the third floor, he filled the bathtub with water, then switched on the jacuzzi.


    Hailey sighs with satisfaction. The hot water rxes her body. These passing weeks are such a stressful period of her life, and being massaged by Vince, she''s moaning in pleasure.


    And, of course, his hands and fingers weren''t only kneading her back and legs, but also in her breasts and between her thighs.


    "Hubby¡­ that was so good¡­." she cried.


    In the next moment, the bathroom filled with their moans and pleasure sighs.


    After a steamy bath and drying her hair, Vince takes her to the sofa and helps her applying a body lotion on her body. He kissed her knees after he applied one leg to another.


    Now Vince is kneading her back with the body lotion, and she was pleased how he would put strength when he massaged her lower back.


    "Thanks, hubby." She ced her arms around his neck, then kissed him passionately.


    "We have a long day tomorrow. So I won''t ask for another round." He whispered while he scooped her to move to the bed.


    Hailey giggled. She nibbles Vince''s ear to tease him. Vincent frowned, then mumbled, "Don''t start with me, darling. Or I won''t let you sleep all night."


    Hailey suppressed herugh. She listens to Vince''s threat. But she still acts mischievously.


    "What are you doing?" It dumbfounded him to see that she was putting a pillow in between the bed.


    "It was embarrassing to dirty your bedsheets." She blushed, biting her lower lip while saying it.


    Vince''s sexyughs echoed to his entire bedroom. This girl is seducing him instead. Not only that, she''s wearing red lingerie, and the nightgown''s straps fell from her shoulders, exposing her breasts generously. In fact, his eyes gleamed with excitement as he found her hot with that kind of posture.


    He swallowed hard. It took him a lot of effort to fight the urge to tear her lingerie and devour her once again. Vince tried to control himself, suppressing his desire from showering her with his kisses all over.


    After a brief thought, Vince picked up the pillows and threw them on the floor. He pulled Hailey''s body closer to him and brought her into the middle of the bed. He wrapped his arms around her waist, then whispered, "Don''t worry. I''ll try to behave the entire night, Wifey."


    Hailey raised one eyebrow when she could feel Vince''s semi-hard rock poking on her ass cheek. But she knew how Vince was true to his words. She honestly feels embarrassed to make a mess on the bed because Vince is such a beast.


    Hailey turned around to meet Vince''s eyes. He brushed her cheek and ced light kisses all over her face.


    They sealed the night with I love you''s and passionate kisses¡­


    ***


    The following morning, Hailey woke up at exactly six o''clock in the morning. She nced at the man beside her; she slowly took his arm around her waist.


    Slowly, Hailey got down from the bed, picked up her phone on the nightstand, then walked toward the floor-ceiling window to check how the garden looked during the day.


    And she''s right. The mansion looks beautiful during daylight. She could see thendscapers work something in the garden, and others are cleaning the surroundings.


    While she immersed herself in watching the beautiful view outside, two muscr arms wrapped around her body.


    "You''re up already?"


    "Hum¡­ I need to make a phone call before Bryan goes to thepany," Hailey answered, taking a nce at Vince to see his reaction.


    Vince tightened his jaw. Soon, his face brightened, and he wore a pleasant smile on his lips, then kissed her cheek. "Okay."


    Although she didn''t hear Vincein or question her why she wanted to phone Bryan, she could tell that he would like to listen to whatever she wanted to talk to Bryan about.


    So she dialed Bryan''s contact and waited for him to pick up his phone. However, it only keeps ringing. Then, a female voice answered it.


    Both Hailey and Vincent shared a look. They could recognize the woman from the other line.


    "Hello?"


    The woman, who is none other than Eva, snorts at Hailey when she didn''t speak up yet. She really has a temper. Hailey thought.


    "What do you want!? Like I didn''t know it was you in the other line! Why don''t you give up that Bryan chose me! And we will have a baby soon!"


    Hailey remains silent in the other line while she''s meeting Vince''s gaze. Actually, she intentionally stayed silent to make Eva speak further. She turned the speaker on so Vincent could hear whatever Eva had been bbing about.


    "Where is Mr. Anderson?"


    On the other line, Eva froze her feet on the floor after she heard a man''s voice speak up all of a sudden.


    Somehow, she recognized this voice. So then, she prayed harder that this man isn''t the one she knew!

 Chapter 235 - Shes An Excellent Actress

    <h4>Chapter 235 - She''s An Excellent Actress</h4>


    Eva wondered why a man who spoke from the other line under this caller''s name was My Princess. She tried to figure out what was going on.


    She thought it was Hailey, Bryan''s ex-fiancee, the girl she hated most of all these years. But howe that the man on the other line sounded like Vincent, her nominal husband?


    It confused her. All the harsh words she ns to throw at Hailee disappear. She fell into deep thoughts of who is the man from the other line.


    It''s impossible it was Vincent. Besides, what are the chances that this girl could meet Vincent? Maybe he just sounded like Vincent. Some people''s voices are simr over the phone.


    Eva calmed down. She convinces herself not to panic. She better spoke nicely to this person. She already exposed herself when she suddenly exploded. Now this man would think she is having an issue with the real owner of this mobile number.


    Before she speaks up again, she coughs and clears her throat. "May I know who this is? What do you want from Bryan?"


    "I am rying a message from my girlfriend. She is arriving in Sydney tomorrow morning. She wanted to meet Bryan to talk about something."


    Upon hearing about this, Eva clenched her jaw. Her n to stay calm disappears. Instead, she was again yelling at the phone.


    "She must have lost her mind! She is crazy!"


    Eva''s voice was full of sternness. At the end of the call, Vince gritted his teeth in anger. He doesn''t like what Eva said about Hailey. If he wasn''t careful not to rm her that it was him, her nominal husband. He would already yell back at Eva.


    But he must not ruin Hailey''s n. She''d alreadye this far just for the sake of helping him with his divorce.


    And so Vincent let Eva continue screaming from the other line.


    "And are you stupid? Why do you allow your girlfriend to meet another man? Especially a man who hasmitted to someone else already!"


    Vincent darkened his face. He would never want to hurt a girl. But if Eva was in front of him at this very moment, he probably ps her. She disgusts him.


    But Eva hides the truth too perfectly, which she even acted clean. She is full of herself. She forgot she had a nominal husband, aside from her boyfriend, which he tolerated that as he didn''t care what others would say if they found out about this. He actually wishes for that to happen.


    So then, she has no right to point the finger at someone when more fingers are pointing back at her. Moreover, it was she whomitted a crime. She is ountable to be in jail once it is proven that she is indeed part of her parent''s scheme with Huo''s cousins.


    Vince stayed a cool head and ignored everything Eva had said.


    "I trusted my girlfriend," he told Eva with firmness in his voice. "Besides, Bryan is more likely a brother to her. Why are you afraid that they would meet up and have closure? Because that''s what I wanted them to do."


    Eva is a little bit panicked at what the man has said. "Na... Nothing! It''s just that you should not let your girlfriend meet someone else!"


    "And why should I not? Are you telling me that something might happen to them?" He said to Eva using a taunting tone. Honestly, he is enjoying scolding her now. After Hailey told him everything, including the night Bryan met Eva in secret, he loved to oblige in putting pressure on her.


    But the other line remained quiet. He must hit the spot, so then, he took this chance to continue his speech.


    "Somehow, you are right, Miss Eva Lan. My girlfriend trusted Bryan. But he cheated on her. Anyway, when he does that, all the pleasure goes to me. No¡­ I was blissful. Then, I must take this opportunity to thank you for seducing Bryan toe back to you."


    "Who are you!? What are you saying? Is that what she told you?" She screams. The beating in her heart was hastening in the next seconds.


    The man from the other line is not only getting sounded more like Vincent. But he appears to know a lot.


    Meanwhile, Vincent ces a kiss with soft bites on Hailey''s neck. She was staring at him with astonishment because she couldn''tin as she was avoiding not to speak and let Eva hear her moans.


    Hailey was sitting on the windowsill. Her legs wrapped around his waist as he slowly thrust inside her. She was biting her bottom lip, not letting out a pleasurable sigh. This is Vincent''s punishment to her.


    He could see the wonderful pain written all over her face as she was suppressing the excitement forming in her core.


    As she couldn''t stand it anymore, she buried her teeth on his corbone. He has to press his mouth tight, not to growl from the delightful sensation Hailey created to his body. Her bite woken up every nerve of his body, ready for an hour of exercise this morning.


    In a hoarse voice, Vincent continued speaking on the phone. "My girlfriend and I have no secret to each other. We are open with everything in our past and share all the truth between us. How about you, Miss Lan? Have you ever been honest with Bryan?"


    Listening to the man from the other line, she started to feel ridiculous. How dare he insult her!? What right this man to question her?


    "How dare you use me!? You don''t know a thing about me!" she gritted her teeth in annoyance.


    Vincent shook his head. He has proven now. Eva is an excellent actress. Why didn''t she work in the Entertainment Industry instead? Rather than working as an International Interior Designer?


    "Excuse me, Miss Lan. Which part did I use you of? I only questioned you as you doubted my girlfriend''s faithfulness in me. Why is that?" Vince let out a ridiculous chuckle.


    Then he went on. "Does Mr. Bryan Anderson don''t love you enough? That''s why you are afraid they''ll meet up? Because I trusted my girlfriend that she is faithful to me and her love for me is beyondparison."


    Eva has rendered speechless. She was in great fury at how this man judges her and the rtionship she has with Bryan.


    Who is this man? She asked inwardly. It displeased her at how this man was only mocking her.


    "Bryan and I love each other so much! No one has the right to question and doubt that!"

 Chapter 236 - Evas Act

    <h4>Chapter 236 - Eva''s Act</h4>


    Vince and Hailey shared a look; they didn''tment on that as they both know the truth.


    He knew the truth.


    Last time at the wee party, Bryan confessed to him about his ex-fiance. He deliberately admitted how he regretted he broke her heart. That until now, he still loves that girl, his ex-fiance, and that she is the only woman he ever loves.


    But after many things they got through together, like dealing with Liam Huo, he even trusted Hailey. He has nothing to feel jealous of that Bryan is a part of Hailey''s past, and they will meet up tomorrow to have a formal closure.


    Besides, it was Bryan who was helping them to restrain Eva from leaving Australia. And he would be there as Bryan is his way to see Eva. It was Hailey''s main purpose why she asked Bryan''s cooperation.


    "Miss Eva, I don''t care what your issue is. But don''t forget to tell Mr. Anderson that Hailey Hillson wanted to meet him." Vincent paused when Hailey whispered in his left ear.


    "Tell her tomorrow I will text the address of the ce I want to meet Bryan."


    Vincent ryed her message to Eva; he then hung up without saying goodbye.


    "Wait!" Eva was dumbfounded. She isn''t finished talking yet. She wanted to demand to put Hailey on the phone. But that man just hung up on her.


    She wanted to scream in anger and throw the cellphone in her hand. But she remembered it wasn''t hers. Now that she realized it was Bryan''s phone, she quickly deleted the iing call log. Bryan shouldn''t learn about that call.


    But how could she watch Hailey''s text to Bryan? She should do something about that!


    Eva got her phone and copied Hailey''s contact number. She''s a little confused at first. The phone number was actually registered as international calls. Then it was confirmed that she had been staying abroad after Hailey called the engagement off.


    But there is something that is also bothering her. It was like something fishy.


    Why does the boyfriend, who requested to meet that girl''s ex-fiance? What was that man''s purpose?


    Is Hailey truly the one to meet Bryan? Or is this man nning to do something to Bryan, and he is just using his girlfriend''s contact number so that Bryan would meet him?


    Is he going to harm Bryan? Or has a n to kill Bryan because he finds out that Bryan still cares about that girl?


    "No! I won''t let that happen!"


    Eva believes that this call was made to set Bryan up. Whatever this man''s n, she is determined to stop him.


    That day, Eva made her n. She destroyed Bryan''s phone, and it was the moment he came out of the bathroom. He was taking a shower by the time Hailey made a call on his phone.


    Wrapped in a light blue bathrobe, he walked toward Eva and queried. "Eva? What are you doing? Why are you holding my phone?"


    Even though his forehead curled up from confusion and had an ill feeling toward Eva for catching her with that kind of scene, he remained calm. Although he was already fed up and felt disgusted with her, he had to endure it.


    Eva, on the other hand, was startled when Bryan suddenly spoke behind her. She clenched her hand to the phone, slowly loosened her grip, and lifted her palm.


    "I''m sorry, Bryan! I identally hit the nightstandmp and fell on the floor along with your phone! I didn''t mean to destroy it!"


    Bryan lowered his gaze and stared at his broken phone. He scanned how damaged it was. And at the look of it, the damage was intentional. Of course, he isn''t aplete idiot. But he acts blindly and believes Eva.


    "I''m sorry, Bryan." Eva began sobbing. Of course, she was only acting to look pitiful, and that she was scared he would get angry at her.


    After he looked at his phone, he lifted his gaze and smiled at Eva. He extended his right arm and pulled Eva closed to his chest.


    "Stop crying. It''s not healthy for the baby. Forget the phone. It''s not important."


    Bryan coaxes Eva, stroking her back to calm her down. Even though deep down inside him, he was cursing Eva to hell. Of course, that phone is important to him! dly, that all his files were on special backup storage online, including his contacts.


    He sighed inwardly to calm himself. Then, he brightened his face and told Eva, "How about we go to the mall and buy whatever you like? You need things for your pregnancy. Then, after shopping, let''s have lunch at a French restaurant. How about that?"


    Eva slowly parted from him. She was still wearing a sorry look, not to show Bryan how happy and excited she was.


    "Am I really forgiven?" she was biting her lower lip, trying her best to look seductive despite tears welling up from her eyes.


    "Of course! Now go take a shower."


    Eva smiled enormously. She then rushed to the bathroom. After she was gone, Bryan rolled his eyes, cursing inwardly as his face darkened from annoyance.


    He looked at his phone helplessly. Somehow, he had guessed why Eva destroyed his cell phone. Hailee must have contacted him, and this is regarding their meeting soon.


    Bryan threw his phone in the trash can. "I have to endure this for another day¡­."


    ***


    Meanwhile, back at Shen Mansion¡­


    After he ended the call, he lowered Hailey from the windowsill and put her down. He guided Hailey to face the window, grab her waist, bend her body, and stick her ass out.


    "Vincent Shen, you beast!"


    And because she rejected himst night as she was worried about messing up the mattress and the sheets, Vince was punishing her this early morning before they could have breakfast.


    Hailey tried to close the curtains. She wondered if, from the outside, the windows were tinted. It worries her that the Shen workers below would see them in this kind of exercise.


    "Uhn¡­" she could feel the hot liquid gushing out down her legs. But Vincent isn''t done yet.


    He gently grabbed her one leg to guide it to hook on his waist. Now she is facing him, and Vince is carrying her toward the bathroom. Her arms clung onto his neck while her legs tightly wrapped around his waist while his hands were gripping her bottom tight.


    After another round of steamy exercise under the shower, she and Vince wore office suits.


    "Where''s mom and dad?" Vincent asked the butler.


    He brought Hailey to the dining hall, but they found it empty. His sisters weren''t there yet, either.


    "Young Master, your parents rush to the Police Bureau after they heard that Howie Gu confessedst night."


    Vincent and Hailey looked at each other. They anticipated what things Howie told the police. Whatever it is, it would be solid evidence against his family, Liam, and the Lan''s¡­


    "Do you want to go?" he asked Hailey afterward.


    She shook her head and replied, "Your mom and dad can handle everything. I trusted them."


    Upon hearing her response, Vince could not help not feel proud of her. He was happy that Hailey never hated his parents when they deliberately rejected her as his girlfriend in the very beginning.


    At that time, they were just pretending that, although his act is real, Hailey has no idea yet.


    "I love you, Hailee Hillson Davies."


    "I love you back, Vincent Lopez Shen."


    Vincent is brushing his lips on top of Hailey; he deepens the kiss, then three girls giggling behind them.


    Deana, Sheena, and Janise suddenly appeared, carrying a tray of breakfast in their hands.


    "It''s breakfast time! Enough serving us dog food!" They tease them.


    At the long table, the three girls didn''t stop bbing a lot of things. Vince could see that their chit-chat had no end. He has to urge Hailey to leave for work.


    "You guys can talk all day and all night after our trip to Australia."


    "You promised that, brother?"


    "Yes, I am."


    "You better be!" Sheena res at her brother.


    Anyway, they understood how busy they are. Both are CEOs of Internationalpanies. They were actually busy, and it was a miracle that they had time to spend time with them.


    That day, Vincent and Hailey finish multiple meetings before their flight to Australia. They wanted to meet with his parents during the evening; however, he didn''t want to dy his meeting with Eva, which his parents didn''t know about it yet.

 Chapter 237 - Deserve To Be Happy

    <h4>Chapter 237 - Deserve To Be Happy</h4>


    [Before Hailey and Vince visit the Shen mansion for dinner.]


    That afternoon, Gigi came to the office.


    "Gigi!" Hailey cried the moment she had a glimpse of her. She embraced Gigi tight, who hugged her back.


    She was too d that everyone rescued Gigi right away. Her brother, Maynard, has already kept an eye on her and a few trusted men of Congressman Vazquez.


    "I''m happy that you are alright," Gigi muttered between sobbing.


    Hailey nodded. "I''m d you are okay, as well. It made me worried sick to think Galvin seeds in taking you. If it ever happens that Galvin brought you back to S Country inside his territory, l will definitely take you back matter what. I will dere war against the Western S Country."


    "Silly, girl¡­ But I didn''t doubt that."


    Hailey smiled. Then she bit her lip, hesitant to utter the words forming in her head. She parted from Gigi; she brought her toward the love seat, and both sat down.


    "I was determined to kill Liam myself." Afterward, she told Gigi. "I can''t take it anymore. He''s always hurting the people I love, especially that I have Vincent as my lover. So I have to stand for myself and protect my loved ones."


    Gigi beamed. She reached for Hailey''s hand and held it with both of her palms. "I heard how brave you are. I know you will do everything to save me once Liam or Galvin harms me. So I didn''t panic when Galvin set a trap for me so that I would be obedient to follow him."


    "What did he do to you?" she asked.


    Gigi replied in a sad tone. "Galvin threatened me to set fire to the Orphanage where mom grew up."


    "Those cousins are a big piece of shit! They have no conscience for using innocent people! They are not human at all!"


    "That''s why no matter what¡­ I would never dream of going back to Galvin, even though he promised to be nicer, as long as I return to him. But I would rather die! I love Tom. He''s the only man I would like to spend the rest of my life with and grow old together."


    Hailey could see the spark in Gigi''s eyes. She knew Gigi lived in fear and a lonely world in these passing years because of Galvin Huo. Her face is even brightertely. Then she saw the ring on Gigi''s finger.


    "Oh, my gosh!" Hailey eximed happily.


    "Tom proposed to mest night, and I said yes." She shared the great news, which Hailey almost jumping on her seat.


    "I''m happy for you, sister Gigi! I''m d that you gave Tom a chance."


    "I''ll take this chance, yes. I deserve to be happy."


    "Of course, you are!"


    "And I want to live a life with no worries that maybe one day, I will cross paths with my ex-husband."


    "That won''t happen ever again." Hailey hugged Gigi again. And again, both are crying. Then, the door opens.


    "Hello, prettydies!" Tom stepped inside the office, carrying a tray. "I brought some refreshment."


    "Ah! Perfect! I have cakes here!" Hailey let go of Gigi; she pped her hands. She got up from the sofa to get the cakes she and Vince didn''t finish this lunch.


    They are too sweet, and Vince only finishes oneyer of the cakes. Vince was d that they were smallyers, or he could not finish everything.


    After Gigi and Tom see the cakes, both drop their mouths open. In their mind, this girl has had a big appetitetely.


    ***


    METRO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT


    Inside the hangar located North of the airport, several sports cars are parked inside. Ferrari, Lamborghini, and thetest Montfort Super Fast Car series Madison, named after the owner''s wife Madison Montfort, Hailee Davies''s distant cousin.


    Tim whistled upon scanning these cars from different makers.


    The real identity of Hailey was not the only one that shocked him, but it included the presence of her knights. The same as his boss, Tim is also intimidated by them.


    "Boss, madam is amazing."


    "Madam?" Vince understood who Tim was referring to. But he wants him to exin why he suddenly addresses Hailey as a madam.


    "After Miss Eva Lan signs the divorce agreement, you can finally marry Miss Davies. Then, she bes my madam!"


    Vince shook his head, looking into Tim''s dreamy eyes. He smacked his back and said, "She''s not just a madam. She is everyone''s princess. But she is my Queen."


    "Oh. You were saying, boss, that I should address you as Your Highness instead?"


    "Stop making fun of me, Timothy Cheng." he red.


    "Am not, boss!" Tim denies it, but the grin on his face is enormous.


    "Whatever¡­" he dropped the topic. Although there will be a half-truth of that, the more he wanted to live a peaceful life, not attracting too much attention from the public that his bloodline is Emperor Xing of Xing Dynasty.


    Vince left Tim; he walked toward Hailey, who talked to her other knights, saying goodbye as they took separate ways from here.


    "Mr. Park, I''m hoping to see you again." Vince extended his arm and offered a handshake with Hansen Park.


    "Surely, I will." Hansen shook Vince''s hand while replying to him. "President Harold Lopez, your cousin, wished to discuss an innovation between Lopez Tech and Park Electronics partnership. After thepany''s annual celebration, I wille back here to P Country."


    "d to hear that, Mr. Park. Mom''s birthday is next month. She is nning to send an invitation to you. Hope you''ll stay longer by that time to attend that celebration."


    "I would definitely stay for longer times. I need a tour around Lopez Tech warehouse and Lopez Steel Corp. when Ie back."


    Vince smiled. In the past, this person was too difficult to invite him to visit P Country as one of its major partners.


    With Park Electronics, the production in Lopez Steel Corp. has been faster with its advanced technology installed on their production machines. But ever since this man was involved with his cousin Janise, he is willing to personally discuss the Lopez and Park partnership and innovation for a brighter future for bothpanies.


    Not long after Hailey saying goodbyes to her knights, the rest are now heading to their Terminals to catch their flights. Everyone is now heading back to their countries and the only knights left are Tom and Pitt, to apany them back to Australia along with Johan Castillo, Tom''s co-pilot of Hailey''s jet ne. He has been there all this time, and Vince already meets him as well.


    Keith and Bruce will continue to help the Shen''s and gather more evidence against Senator Gu and the Lan family.


    As for Maynard Chan, he will make sure that Galvin Huo will be sentenced to life imprisonment. He flew to the US, personally following the case against the cousins. With the Mafia association, he won''t let Galvin have his freedom from here on.

 Chapter 238 - Vince Found Out

    <h4>Chapter 238 - Vince Found Out</h4>


    "Keith, thank you so much for everything you did for me in these passing months. I''m such a bother," said Hailey. "Instead, you were supposed to be at Daisy''s side, but you were here with me instead."


    "What are you talking about, Princess? Daisy would kill me instead if I do not help you. Besides, it was my great honor to fulfill my role as your knight." Keith answered with a smile. His gaze was of a brother who dearly protects his sister, and she could feel it.


    Hailey hugged Keith, then Bruce. She thanked him as well for being too helpful since the first day she arrived in Metro City. But they haven''t met at that time yet. But it was Bruce who became her errand to investigate, especially about Vince and the Shen Group.


    Now it''s time for their flight. Vince holds Hailey''s hand to help her climb the stairs, then both take a seat.


    On this flight, Gigi came along. Tom ns to introduce her to his family in Melbourne, Australia. And so, Tom and Gigi will have a long drive from Sydney to Melbourne.


    And because they were taking off at midnight, Hailey took a nap in Vince''s arms. The entire flight, she was only sleeping, but Vince suits himself awake and watches her sleeping, making sure she isfortable in her seat.


    "Boss, do you need a drink or coffee?" asked Tim. He was sorting out some documents that he supposed his boss would look at. But he was here and couldn''t take his eyes away from his Queen.


    "A mug of coffee, please."


    Tim right away left and headed to the pantry. Pitt already showed him around, and so he knew where it stocked the beverages and food.


    The Davies private jet and Shen private ne have vast differences, of course. While Shen could only spend a million dors on a private ne, the Davies can throw a billion on it.


    But in these passing months, he was around Hailey Hillson or Hailee Davies. He has never seen her act arrogant or superior like a spoiled brat rich girl. In fact, she is a nice and sweet person. Unless she was ndered, mostly because of the Lan family''s doing, she never backs down on those nderers.


    ***


    It was dawn when they arrived in Sydney. Tom brought the ne toward the hangar he requested yesterday. Hailey wants to keep their arrival a secret and that it is easy for him to make arrangements since he has many loyal to the princess even though they aren''t her knights.


    They were men of Kristian, personal assistant and right hand of Lord Jacob Davies.


    Instead of staying in Davies Manor in Sydney or hotels that belong to the Davies Group, they headed to Tom''s vi, located outside of Southern Sydney.


    As they arrived, they had another breakfast, as Hailey requested. Vince couldn''t help but notice that Hailey kept yawning.


    He asked, "Are you still sleepy?"


    "Yes," Hailey replied. "I think I will message Bryan to meet him this evening. I want to sleep more after breakfast."


    "Alright then." Vince kissed her forehead.


    Held hands, they were taking the stairs toward the guest room prepared for them. They will stay for a few days until Vince talks to Eva and signs the divorce agreement.


    After then, Hailey ns to move to Davies Manor to talk to her dad before she and Vince fly to Budapest, Hungary, and meet the Elders.


    One step at a time¡­ It''s getting closer. Hailey thought.


    Meanwhile, something caught Vincent''s attention. Closely, he was looking at the frames hanging on the walls.


    In each of the frames, Hailey was in the picture. There are frames where she is alone in the photo. If he didn''t witness how clingy Tom is to Gigi, and now they were engaged. He would start thinking that Tom was in love with Hailey to hang a hundred photos of her.


    Vince was in a trance for a moment. He still couldn''t fully reckon that there are men who love her so much. He knew he should not feel threatened or get jealous of them.


    Liam probably feels this way. Vince thought. And so, he will try to be understanding of all the men that Hailey is close to.


    "So this is what you look like when you are little," he mumbled.


    "I''m embarrassed!" Hailey covered her face, which Vincent pulled her closer.


    "Why would you? You were so cute back then!"


    "How about now?" Hailey peeped between her fingers; she put out her tongue that made Vince let out sexyughs.


    Tom noticed them flirting on his staircase while looking at the frames on the walls. "Would you like to keep some of these photos, Mr. Shen?"


    "Can I?" There are sparks in his eyes as he confirms if Tom was serious about saying that.


    "Sure! Take as much as you want." Tom knew already that Vincent would take all the photos that Hailey is alone in.


    Tom, as a pilot, also loves photography. He is silent and calmer among the knights because he wants to appreciate life through his camera.


    He traveled the world either alone or with Hailey and other knights. During those trips or vacations, his camera is always in his hands.


    Now that they''ve talked about the photos on the walls. Gigi has been curious to see them. She carefully looked at the frames and was shocked to find her pictures were there as well.


    "You also took a photo of me?"


    .


    "Yeah. But the rest was hidden where only I could see them." Tom smirked.


    "Seriously?" Gigi was dumbfounded to know this.


    "I hide your solo photos here in my heart."


    "You are so cheesy and corny again." Gigi pouted. But then her lips tore with a big smile.


    Tomughs at what she said, but then his expression turns solemn afterward. "They said it''s a sin to like someone''s spouse. Then how about admiring her? Then after you have divorced Galvin, finally, my admiration can turn into sinless affection."


    He winked as he continued, "I can seduce you atst."


    Gigi wasughing so hard at his shamelessness. She was happy, though, at the same time embarrassed by how Tom kept dering his love for her in front of their friends shamefully.


    She couldn''t believe that Tom had already liked her, even though she was married to Galvin back then.


    And so, when Tom kissed her, she responded passionately and forgot that they hadpany.


    Pitt rolled his eyes; he invited Tim to go in the pool yard while Hailey and Vince resumed climbing the stairs.


    "I''ll look at them againter and pick out what I wanted to bring home."


    Hailey chuckled at how excited Vince sounded. He looks like a kid who cannot wait to im his reward.


    "I will take everything that you are solo in the photo," Vince added afterward.


    Hailey had already guessed that Vince would say this. "I took a lot of photos when I was a kid. You can have them."


    "Really? How about your other knights?"


    Hailey let out a loudugh. dly, they were now inside the room Tom gave them. "Are you nning to collect all my photos from them?"


    Vince had this enormous smile when he admitted it. "Yes, I will. I''m jealous. So, I will confiscate them all."


    Hailey couldn''t stopughing at what he said. She pinched his cheek and said, "Hubby, I''m starving."


    They have already had breakfast on the ne, but Hailey isn''t satisfied with the food they brought over.


    "Okay. I''ll go check if the maids are done making breakfast."


    "Thanks!" Hailey ced a kiss on Vince''s lips before she let him go.


    On his way down the stairs, Vince mumbled on his head. ''Why does she have a huge appetite now? It was like someone also eating inside her stomach. Surely it wasn''t a worm.''


    Vince snapped himself when he arrived at the kitchen. He greeted the two maids and apologized.


    "Why are you apologizing?" said the older maid.


    "My girlfriend suddenly has a huge appetitetely. And it''s unusual food. So she''s been craving food all the time." Vince added into his head.


    The older maidughed and patted his back.


    "Of course, pregnant women have unusual cravings, especially in the first months of pregnancy. Others would continue their unusual habit of eating and cravings even when they are close to their due."


    Vince was remained surprised. He didn''t hear what the rest of the older maid''s remark when there was only one word registered in his head.


    "PREGNANT?"

 Chapter 239 - Consulting His Mom

    <h4>Chapter 239 - Consulting His Mom</h4>


    Vince is trying to process the possibility in his head.


    He and Hailey have been living for months already. He somehow figures out what food she likes and how health-conscious she is.


    It is impossible that her diet would suddenly change without any reason, especially how she consumes sweetstely. In the past, she was careful not to take too much sugar, but now, she is requesting a pancake with lots of strawberry syrup and chocte on them.


    Combining strawberry and chocte syrup seemed weird to him. But seemingly, to a pregnant woman, that is heavenly food.


    With a tray in his hands, Vince carefully looked through the food Hailey had requested. Toasted bread with peanut butter on it, a pancake she ns to top with strawberry and chocte syrup, and then a hot chocte.


    The hot chocte alone is too sweet already. Howe the peanut butter and pancakes?


    The older maid reminds him to bring Hailey to an OB-Gyne to consult about her pregnancy so that the doctor would exin how important a bnced diet is for a pregnant woman.


    Aside from Hailey''s eating disorder, he noticed nothing unusual about her. She hasn''t had her morning sickness yet, like nausea. Oh. Hailey throws up once. But that was during the time she shot Liam down.


    Can that be considered a symptom?


    What else did changes in her lifestyle''s behavior? How about their s*x drive?


    They were making love every day when they were together. If there are any changes to that, Hailey has been asking for moretely. If they confirm she is positively pregnant, they should lessen the times they would do it, and it should not be wild as they used to always.


    Vince has now arrived in front of the door. It was left open with a small space. He pushed the door using his right foot. Inside the room, he found Hailey resting on the headboard, typing on her phone.


    Upon seeing he was back, a beautiful smile appeared on her face, and her eyes twinkled to see the food in his hands. He ced the tray on the bed, reminding her to be careful of the hot chocte.


    Vince suits himself, watching Hailey eat. Witnessing how she seemed in heaven munching those peanut buttered-toasted bread, she still added strawberry syrup pairs to hot chocte.


    He could not imagine what it tastes like, but most pregnant women would undoubtedly only have these kinds of cravings.


    "Do you have any particr dishes for lunchter?" he asked afterward. He wants to know if the food she would request is something unusual again.


    "Um¡­ A steak, maybe? But I''m not too fond of tomatoes in the sd, and the bell peppers should be fried, burnt, and crispy. I want more cheese on it. And¡­" Hailey fell silent to ponder what food she would like to eat for lunch.


    Honestly, she hasn''t finished having breakfast yet. But she is already thinking about lunch. What''s wrong with her? She isn''t in her usual appetite.


    On the other hand, Vince is trying to work his head. However, he is clueless about this whole thing. He doesn''t witness during his sister''s pregnancy. He may have cousins and cousins-inw who got pregnant, but he does not know how their husband manages that throughout the pregnancy.


    Vince excused himself to make a phone call. He went to the balcony to have a secret talk with this person. He closed the ss door, not for Hailey to find out what he''s doing.


    "Hello, mom?"


    "Vincent? Did you and Hailey arrive in Sydney now?" Hilda asked. She was actually surprised that her son would phone her out of the blue.


    He replied, "Yes, we are, mom."


    "What''s wrong? Did something happen?" She''s anxious. Vincent wanted to talk to Jacob Davies regarding marriage to his only daughter, and so she is worried if Hailee''s father would reject Vincent''s proposal.


    "Um¡­ nothing, mom. But there is something I wanted to ask you. I mean¡­" On the other hand, Vincent had difficulty opening up with his mom.


    He thinks that his sister should ask. But why does it was his mom he remembered first? Is it because she was the most experienced one?


    Anyway, she conceives him and his two siblings. Seeking his mom''s help would be the best choice after all. He clears his throat then continues.


    "Mom, what do you think if a woman began craving unusual foods?"


    Hilda was a bit surprised by his query. But she needs not to ask. Clearly, Vincent began suspecting that his girlfriend is pregnant.


    "Is she pregnant?" she asked. She didn''t need to name her.


    "Well¡­ the older maid thinks so. And I guess Hailey has no idea about it yet."


    "That''s for sure. Of course, it was her first time to experience all of this," she exined.


    "What should I do, mom? The older maid told me to consult an obstetrician. She''s been craving sweets, and it''s unhealthy, right? We need to consult a doctor to advise her."


    Hilda replied to her son. "She should see a doctor soon, yes. And it would be best if you encouraged her to have control, son. And avoid not intake too much food that will cause some problems in her pregnancy. She should have a bnce about it. It''smon advice for pregnant women."


    "Alright, mom. I understand. Hailey is a very health-conscious person. She seemed to have forgotten this when she began having these cravings."


    Vince says his goodbye not long. In the end, he phoned the right person. His mom can be of much help since she''s more experienced.


    Her nagging would be helpful soon. Vince thought.


    When he went back inside the bedroom, he found Hailey lying on the bed. She already finished eating, and now she''s sleeping.


    "Is this okay? She''s full. Then she goes to sleep." Vince kept mumbling while he ced a nket on Hailey, then picked up the tray.


    He''s bing worried about her symptoms. He needs to pay attention to her from here on.

 Chapter 240 - Pregnancy Test

    <h4>Chapter 240 - Pregnancy Test</h4>


    Vince went to the kitchen to bring the dishes to be washed. Good thing that Tom was also in the kitchen instructing the maids.


    "Hey! Can I talk to you for a minute?" Vince asked Tom.


    He nodded and brought him to his mini Bar Room. The ce is spacious with a billiard table in the middle, two sofas on the corner, and a cocktail table with two couches facing each other.


    "How was Hailey?" Tom asked.


    Vince replied, "She''s sleeping now."


    "Hmm¡­ Have you noticed there are changes she is showingtely?" Tom gives hints already. Somehow, he has an idea why Vincent wants to speak with him. His maid has told him already. Indeed, Hailey''s behavior is unusualtely.


    Vince stopped scanning the room. He looked at Tom and replied. "Yeah. Your older maid guessed it pretty quick. Hailey truly has a big appetite now, and she doesn''t mind her bnced diet at all. So, to ask for some advice. I called mom, and she told me that she also suspects it."


    "That she''s pregnant, right?" Tom stated.


    Vince nodded. "Hoping it was the case. By the way, which is the closest maternity clinic in here?"


    "Hmm¡­ I advised you to do the check-up in Dream City instead. It shouldn''t be known to the public yet. You know..." he trailed his words which he knew Vincent understand already.


    "Ah. You are right." Vince agreed to that.


    The Davies family is known all over the world, and here in Australia; many knew who Hailee Davies was.


    It will be the biggest gossip in history if someone releases a hot topic that Hailee Davies is pregnant before marriage. Well, they were in 2026 but still, Hailee''s reputation is no ordinary at all.


    Everything about her should be a secret, or the media and paparazzi will feast on this news. He must be careful in making a decision and let Hailey decide about it instead.


    "Then¡­ How about her favorite steak restaurant?" asked Vince after careful thought. He wants her to at least eat some meat and vegetable sd and fruits.


    *


    Vince is waiting for Hailey to wake up. Tom helped him with the address of the Steakhouse Hailey favorite to dine in.


    He isbing the strands of hair that cover her face. She was sleeping like a baby. He can see how peaceful her expression is and calm her breathing.


    It must be now she has not to worry about Liam.


    Vince kissed her forehead. She moved a little after she felt a warm mouth brushing her skin.


    "Did I wake you?" He asked after Hailey slowly opened her eyes.


    "Hi. How long did I sleep?" she asked Vince. She still looked droopy.


    "Um¡­ over two hours, I guess," he replied while looking at his wristwatch.


    "I see¡­"


    "Are you hungry now?" asked Vince afterward.


    She nodded and replied, "Yeah. I don''t understand why I''m often hungry now."


    Thank god for it''s not a worm. Vince thought, which he wasn''t able to suppress his chuckle. Hailey nced at him, confused.


    "Are youughing now because I''m going to get fat soon?" she said, ring at Vince. She honestly noticed her eating disorderstely, and she bes afraid that she''ll get fat soon. But she can''t stop feeling too hungry all the time.


    Vince didn''t hold back any longer, and he let out a loudugh. Hailey truly would gain weight soon. But it''s not because she''s getting fat but because of the life growing inside her.


    "Don''t worry. You have had a great appetitetely because you are not alone eating now," he said with a smile.


    Hailey blinks. She''s trying to process what Vince had said. "You''re not saying I have worms in my stomach, are you?"


    Vince couldn''t hold it anymore; he wasughing on his stomach, rolling on the bed. Hailey was dumbfounded. Vince is making fun of her!? She sat up, crossing her arms across her chest.


    "Humph! Don''t you dare ask me to make love with you tonight and the next night?"


    Vince dropped his jaw. Hailey is threatening him now! Wait¡­ it''s one of her mood swings. While Hailey was sleeping, he was busy browsing the inte to study the signs of a pregnant woman, including their behavior and changes, etc.


    "Wifey¡­ you misunderstand me. It wasn''tughing at you. I''mughing at myself because I''m thinking the same thing as you at first, but¡­."


    "See! You truly think that way!" Hailey snapped.


    "That isn''t the case!" Vince is trying his best to exin and rify himself.


    But she is only ring at him. He reached for his temple and scratched it.


    He must have convinced this girl!


    "Wifey¡­ What I am trying to say is, I was wrong at first. But now I have an idea why you have a great appetitetely."


    "Really? And why is that?"


    Vince smiled. Hailey looks too cute in her new mood. He''s already used to her yful behavior. She was clingy and sweet. Now she''s showing how annoyed she was to him.


    "Wifey¡­. a possibility that someone is now growing inside you."


    Hailey gave a thought to what Vince had said. After pondering for a moment, her eyes widened, and they are now twinkling with excitement.


    "Hubby, are you saying that possibly? I¡­."


    Vince nodded. He lowered his head to ce a kiss on her lips; then, he got off the bed to get something.


    When he came back, Hailey was surprised. She''s thinking when did he buy them.


    Seeing that she''s surprised, he exined. "Tim and Pitt were out, driving around the neighborhood. Tom suggested asking those two to buy some of these on their way back."


    Hailey couldn''t imagine a day woulde that her knight would have another important role. But it made her happy that Pitt was assigned to that task¡­ to buy pregnancy test kits for her.


    Hailey''s hands were trembling from excitement when she took the three pregnancy tests in Vince''s hand. She looked at Vince; she kissed him passionately before she went to the bathroom.


    Outside the bathroom, Vince is pacing back and forth. He couldn''t wait for Hailey to get out and see the result.


    And when the bathroom door opened and Hailey stepped out, he couldn''t breathe from excitement. Like him, she also looked tense and excited at the same time.


    Vince followed Hailey to the bed. They both sat down, facing each other.


    It''s been minutes that have passed already. It means the result is already shown in the test kits. Earlier, he already read the instructions, and so he has the idea.


    After a few more moments, Hailey ced the pregnancy test kits on the bed, but her hand remained to cover the results. She meets Vince''s eyes. He also has anticipation about the results.


    Hailey slowly withdraws her hand.


    Together, they counted one, two, and three before both lowered their gazes at the three pregnancy test kits.


    Vince screamed.


    "YES!"

 Chapter 241 - The Wonderful News

    <h4>Chapter 241 - The Wonderful News</h4>


    Vince couldn''t help but cry out loud. He scooped Hailey from the bed and twirled around.


    Hailey wasughing at what he did, but at the same time, she''s also crying with so much joy in her heart. There is no room for the happiness she feels at the moment.


    She and Vince have an overwhelming emotion deep down in their hearts. To build a family is what they both dream¡­.


    And she wanted to share this news with her dad. However, it isn''t the right time yet.


    "I''m really so happy right now, Wifey! Thank you," said Vince to her before he covered her mouth and kissed her deeply.


    "I love you..." he then whispered after he parted his lips from hers.


    "I love you too, Vince."


    ~ ~ ~


    Pitt and Tim were loungingfortably with a bottle of beer in their hands in the living room. Both share a look when they hear Vince cry out suddenly. And he could tell how happy he was.


    Pitt and Tim need not guess. The couple already has used the pregnancy test kits they bought earlier, and now the result was positive.


    They both were d to know how the couple was this happy. The struggle to buy those test kits had paid off.


    Earlier, while driving around the neighborhood, Pitt received a call from Tom.


    "What? How dare you ask me to buy that? Why don''t you buy one yourself if you suspect Gigi is pregnant?"


    "Of course, I would love to buy one myself. But the case is, you are already outside. Why can''t you drop by the pharmacy and buy two or three test kits?"


    "Why would I!?" he blurted out.


    Tom answered, "It''s the princess."


    "What!?" Pitt suddenly stepped on the brake. Tim almost shoved his face on the dashboard with what he did. "Can you repeat that, Tom? The princess is pregnant?"


    "We need to confirm that, the reason you need to buy those test kits. Vincent is here on my side. Now tell his assistant to buy some of it in an instant!"


    The phone was on speaker-on; Tim heard the conversation. Pitt admires how dedicated Tim is to his boss. He urges Pitt instantly to drive him toward a pharmacy and buy it himself.


    Driving around for a while, they finally found a pharmacy, and they sigh with relief when it has only a few customers.


    Inside the store, Tim and Pitt are casually strolling around. They picked up another item before heading to the shelves, disying all the pregnancy test kits.


    However, Tim and Pitt saw different brands and the boxes even in different colors. They were confused about which one to buy.


    Standing in front of those shelves for a long time already, two pharmacy sales assistants wondered why they weren''t moving from that section yet. It was the female sales assistant who approached them to offer help.


    "Hello, sir. My name is Bea. How can I assist you?"


    Tim and Pitt shared a nce. Both did not know how to exin their situation. Studying their faces, the sales assistant could understand their trouble. So then, she began her sales talk in the next moment.


    She exined the differences between the test kits. Although they understand nothing, Pitt and Tim keep nodding their heads. ording to the sales assistant, pregnancy test kits show the result in just a minute, and some are three to five minutes.


    "Who is going to try them?"


    With the sales assistant''s question. Pitt and Tim pondered how to answer that. After giving a brief thought, both answer simultaneously.


    "It''s my sister!" said Pitt.


    On the other hand, Tim answered differently. "It''s my boss''s girlfriend."


    Then they shared a nce, and both concurred at once. "Yeah."


    The sales assistant smiled. Their answer is relevant. She could tell that it was their first time to face this kind of situation, which is why they look nervous and lost.


    After a long period of careful thought about which one they must buy, Pitt and Tim choose to buy three different pregnancy test kits.


    "Thank you, sir! Please,e back again if you need anything from our pharmacy."


    "Okay. Thank you," said Pitt, showing his beautiful white teeth.


    The sales assistant blushed, then squealed when they were gone.


    Tim, who only followed Pitt around, witnesses how intimidating this guy was to the people surrounding him. There is no surprise he is a Mafia Lord and one of the best knights to Miss Hailey.


    And while they were strolling around, the best part he could recall is when they were in the pharmacy, and a group of teenagers approached them.


    "Hi! Are you a K-pop idol!?"


    These teenage girls had those sparks in their eyes while they asked Pitt. And Tim, who was on the sideline, couldn''t stopughing when these girls wanted an autograph from Pitt.


    "Stopughing, Timothy Cheng! Why didn''t you help me get rid of those girls?" Pitt scowled. They were on their way back to the vi, and Tim continuedughing till now.


    "Mr. Cha, those girls mistook me as your bodyguard. That was brutal. You were the one who is the bodyguard here! But they think you are a celebrity!"


    Pitt raised a brow, throwing a nce at him. He said, "I am a celebrity."


    Tim has rendered speechless. He could not counter that one. It was like an arrow shot straight at his ego as a man.


    Anyway, to think it over, Pitt canpare to those celebrities. He was tall, handsome indeed, with beautiful skin. He has looks and money.


    However, his poprity could notpare to the public but the Mafia Association, the underground world. Lord Brent Morris, a cousin of Mr. Tom Morris, said Pitt is a respectable lord in the Mafia Association.


    ~ ~ ~


    Tim snapped himself back to the present. He looked up after two pairs of footstepsing down the stairs. Looking at the couple making careful steps, he sees how happy his boss is.


    The way he is holding his girlfriend is like she is the most precious crystal in the world. He need not guess, for his boss, she is the most valuable gem in the world.


    "Pitt!" Hailey ran toward where he was seated to hug him.


    "The way you look so happy, I would assume that the result is positive." Hemented, stroking Hailey''s hair gently even as Vincent was in front of them.


    "Yes! You will be an uncle now!" She happily shared this news.


    On the one hand, Pitt sighs inwardly. Now, this girl made him emotional. She just knew how to melt his heart. And so, hepletely gave up.


    "Congrattions, Princess," Pitt said wholeheartedly.


    "Thank you, Pitt!"


    Not long, Gigi joined them in the living room after she heard the wonderful news from Tom.


    "Hail, congrattions! I''m so happy for you!"


    "Thank you, Gigi. You''ll be a godmother, soon!" she told Gigi with excitement.


    Hailey didn''t know how many weeks she''s pregnant, but she could not stop herself from looking forward to this child to see the world and meet all the people who love his/her mummy.


    That''s right! She couldn''t wait for someone to call her mama. It''s been so long already since thest time she remembered what kind of face her mom showed to her every time she called out for her.


    Her mom always had that loving smile on her face and warm arms wrapping around her.


    Now that she remembered her mom, she cannot stop her eyes from welling up with fresh tears. Gigi hugged her tight.


    "You''ll be a great mom like Aunt Marly," said Gigi. She somehow guessed what she was thinking at the moment. She then asked, "When would you tell your dad?"


    "I want to tell him as soon as possible. I''m thinking of making a phone callter to set a meeting tomorrow. Vince and I will go home to the mansion tomorrow morning."


    "Good luck, Hail! Uncle Jacob loves you so much. I know he''ll understand."


    "Thank you, Gigi."


    That noon, Hailey and Vince went to a steakhouse alone. Tom and Gigi left Sydney for Melbourne, while Pitt stayed behind to apany Tim, who had documents to take care of and a few meetings to attend online.


    Suppose his boss should work on this, but as he is the Great Assistant, he considers his boss to ck off today since he is celebrating good news. Besides, he looks forward to his bonus this month. He has to save up as well for his ns in the future. Maybe he''ll be the next one to chime the church bells? Who knows?


    The couple deserves to go on a date where no one can spoil their beautiful day.


    ***


    GLIMPSE in NEXT CHAPTER:


    In the restaurant. Ray went to his office to get his cellphone. He dialed a particr phone number, patiently waiting for the person to pick up his call.


    "Hello?"


    "Bryan! Where are you?" asked Ray.


    "At home¡­ Why?" Bryan asked his friend timidly. He was still in a foul mood because of Eva.


    "Do you know that Miss Hailee is in Sydney?"


    On the other line, Bryan was surprised. "What did you say, Ray? Are you sure about that?"


    Why didn''t Hailey contact him? Bryan asked himself. Then he pondered. Maybe Hailey actually did. Is this why Eva destroyed his phone?


    Bryan tightened his jaw and clenched his palm. ''That woman!''


    "Ray, where did you see Hailee?" He then queried.


    "She''s in my restaurant. Are youing? She''s actually with someone. Do you know that she already has a boyfriend?"

 Chapter 242 - Her Mystery Fiancé

    <h4>Chapter 242 - Her Mystery Fianc¨¦</h4>


    At the moment, Vince and Hailey have now reached their table reserved by Tom. The owner, at the same time, the chef of this restaurant, is a friend of the knights. She knew him too, but she wasn''t that close to Ray.


    Tom made a special arrangement for her after discovering that her food sensitivitytely was because of her pregnancy. There are few spices and ingredients they must not include in her meals.


    "Hello, Miss Hailey! I''ll be taking your orders," said Ray with a warm smile.


    "I''m sorry to trouble you, chef Ray," Hailey apologized to the handsome chef.


    "What are you saying, Miss Hailee? It''s my honor to have your presence in my restaurant!" said Ray, his gaze then turned to Vince. It''s the first time he saw him around here. "Is he your guest, Miss?"


    "Ah. Meet Vincent Shen. He is my boyfriend," she introduced the two men to each other.


    Vincent extended his arm and said, "Nice to meet you, chef Ray." He could see how Ray was looking at him with intent. He could tell Ray was determining if he deserves having someone like Hailee Davies.


    Ray smiled and shook his hand. "Nice to meet you too, Mr. Shen."


    When Ray took their orders, Vincent remained silent on his seat and let Hailey order for them since she needed to instruct Ray what food she wanted.


    "Just let him have a ssic one," Hailey added.


    "Got it, Miss Hailey," said Ray. He then repeated the orders before he left to make them himself. "Kindly wait for fifteen minutes."


    "Sure! Thank you, chef Ray!"


    "You''re wee."


    *


    Instead of heading to the kitchen, Ray went to his office to get his cellphone. He dialed a particr phone number, then patiently waited for the person to pick up his call.


    "Hello?"


    After a few rings, the call finally connected.


    "Bryan! Where are you?" asked Ray.


    "At home¡­" Bryan replied to his friend timidly.


    He was still in a foul mood because of Eva destroying his phone, and yesterday, he had to visit the center to get a new phone.


    "Why? I am actually heading to your restaurant," he told Ray.


    "Do you know that Miss Hailee is in Sydney?"


    "What did you say, Ray? Are you sure about that? How did you know?" On the other line, it surprised Bryan.


    Why didn''t Hailee contact him? Bryan mused. Hailee promised she would tell him what day she''sing so that they could set a schedule to meet up.


    Bryan couldn''t stop pondering. Maybe Hailee did contact him, and Eva found it out. Now it makes sense why Eva destroyed his phone. She got jealous as usual, as she has been toward Hailee since the very beginning.


    Eva did all means to destroy his engagement to Hailee. Now it was too difficult to fix those decades of a great rtionship. She was suddenly treated like a stranger by her most trusted friend.


    He missed her already. Aside from things he wanted to rify with her, he just wanted to make an excuse to see her again. That includes doing anything she will want him to do.


    Although he was confused about why Hailee wanted to restrain Eva from living in Australia, he watched her satisfy Hailee''s request.


    Now, thinking about it, Eva probably did something huge. Hailee is not the person who would go to the point of imprisoning someone in one ce without a big reason.


    Bryan tightened his jaw and clenched his palm. ''That woman! If she did something that harms Hailee, he would deal with her himself, and Eva would regret that.''


    At that moment, thest ounce of sympathy toward Eva hadpletely disappeared into his heart.


    "I speak with her personally." Ray''s answer from the other line.


    Bryan pulled back himself to his senses after he heard Ray. "Where did you see Hailee?" he asked.


    "She''s in my restaurant. Are youing, right? She''s actually with someone. Do you know she has a new boyfriend?"


    Bryan didn''t speak in the other line. Hailee never had a boyfriend. He isn''t considered one when he just proposed to her with marriage, even if they were not in a rtionship.


    "Bryan, are you still there?" Ray wondered why the other line remained silent.


    Bryan replied, "Yeah. And I know she is in a rtionship now." And Hailee was too protective of him. Bryan added, which he didn''t share his thoughts with Ray. "Anyway, I''ming over. But please, don''t tell her you''ve informed me."


    "Okay. I understood." After the call. Ray rushed to the kitchen to prepare the orders.


    *


    Meanwhile, now that they were alone, Vince brushed Hailey''s cheeks. "I could tell he is sizing me up."


    "They were friends of my knights. Even so, you don''t need to feel tense to meet everyone soon." Sheforted Vince.


    She knew things would not be as easy as she thought they would be for Vince from here on. But she believes everyone would like him. dly, her executives have already met him, and there won''t be much exnation she needs to say to them.


    It''s been five minutes had passed, an appetizer was delivered to their table. It was Hailey who had eaten them all while Vince suited himself to watch her munching everything that was sent over to their table as treats while waiting for the food.


    To see that he isn''t eating, sheins. "Hubby, I''ll gain weight soon and grow a bump. How would I look by then?"


    There was a worry in her face, and he only suppressed not tough at how cute she sounded. Vince couldn''t help pinching her cheek and said, "You will still look cute."


    "Just cute?"


    Vince chuckled. He leaned over and imed those enticing lips pouting at him. They let themselves get lost in their world, ignoring the surrounding crowd, who were casually ncing in their direction.


    Well, even Tom instructed Ray to reserve the quieter part of his restaurant to give the couple privacy, and a few tables were left unupied to put space between them and the other guests. They knew her.


    They were not bothered by their PDA. These people were looking in secret because, atst, they finally met the mystery fiance.


    So in their mind, ''Who is this man? How great is he? What kind of background does this man have? Is he deserving of having someone like Hailee Davies?''

 Chapter 243 - He Appeared

    <h4>Chapter 243 - He Appeared</h4>


    Vince could feel those burning stares in his direction. He could tell that their attention is toward him as these people recognized the woman he was with. And everyone is sizing him up.


    However, he only ignored the crowd. It is better to continue flirting with Hailey than caring about their presence.


    Vince sped Hailey''s hands. He brought one hand to his lips and nted tiny kisses on the back of her palm.


    He doesn''t care what they would think of him. But he will show how much he''s in love with this girl and not because of who she is.


    "I love you."


    He whispered into Hailey''s ear; the girl lifted her gaze and kissed his lips. She is also aware of the crowd, but she didn''t owe them an exnation.


    She is simply a girl who wants to fall in love with the right man. So, people have no right to doubt Vince or question him as her lover.


    After another five minutes that passed, Ray sends a te of sliced fruits to their table. Vince is feeding Hailey when he receives a message from his dad. He read them;


    "Son, Howie Gu had confessed. Eva is pregnant with his child after she undergoes an insemination procedure. Also, Zenaida imed it was true and told us that Eva was in Sydney. Why don''t you look for her? It''s your chance to talk to her about your divorce, son."


    Vince fell in deep thought. Eva is with Bryan now. ording to Hailey, she is pregnant, but she believes it wasn''t Bryan''s child.


    Then Hailey is right.


    However, Eva is using her pregnancy to keep Bryan from going back to Hailey.


    He couldn''t believe that Eva was this kind of woman. Although it was wrong, what she did makes Hailey insanely cling to him instead.


    Vince doesn''t know whether to feel pity for Eva, or he shouldugh out loud. His nominal wife destroyed the rtionship of the girl he had dreamed of for years. Now, because of the heartbreak, Eva did to Hailey, she was lead toward him.


    He started to think of awarding her by letting off her. Sometimes, it made him ponder how to use Eva. Maybe he should ride in her drama and takes this opportunity. In one condition, she must make sure to keep Bryan away from Hailey. However...


    How dare these people have the guts to y the Shen? Do they think he will not avenge for what they''ve done? He will make sure these people will walk without a head on their bodies!


    Vince looked at Hailey. The girl beside him seemed so innocent. She appeared to be a different person from other days, whose ready to kill someone to protect her loved ones.


    But at this moment, the only concern she has is to feed the life growing inside her. She cares nothing more but for them to be a family.


    And he will assure to give her the title of being Mrs. Shen and the one and only mother of his children.


    After a brief thought, Vince decided to phone his dad. "Wifey... There is an important matter that I need to discuss with dad. I need to phone him."


    "Okay, hubby." She nodded while keeping her mouth full of fruits.


    Vince smiled. He ced a kiss on her forehead before he went outside and headed to the parking lot to have a private talk with his dad.


    "Hello, dad? Yes. I know Eva is in Sydney."


    "Oh. Did someone else tell you about this?" asked Fred.


    Vince replied to his dad, "I continue investigating her whereabouts. And I was actually in Sydney to meet her."


    "I see. So, it''s your n already."


    "Yes, dad. I want her to sign the divorce agreement as soon as possible. After everything her family did to me, the more I wanted to get it done sooner."


    "Okay. By the way, son. Could it be possible that you can bring Eva back to Metro City? She needs to be investigated as well. Or maybe she has to face some punishment and be convicted for a few years."


    Vince rendered his silence. He pondered how he could force Eva to go back to P Country after signing the divorce agreement.


    "Son, if you can''t convince her, then I better send authorities to get Eva and escort her back to Metro City. What do you think?"


    Vince contemted that. And he thinks it''s the best n to make Eva go back to Metro City.


    "Maybe we should do that too, dad, even if I could convince Eva to go home."


    Fred answered, "Okay, son. I better talk to ourwyers to submit a request about that."


    "Okay, dad."


    Meanwhile, Vince didn''t notice the man who got out of the white Ferrari parked not far away from where he was.


    Bryan looks around the moment he steps inside the restaurant. His eyes were searching for Hailey. He walks toward the private dining hall that is usually reserved for VIPs.


    "Hail, why didn''t you tell me that you''ve arrived already?" Bryan asked the moment he took the sofa across from her.


    Hailey lookup. It surprised her to see Bryan appear out of the blue. Now, she was a bit panicked.


    Although Vince knew about Bryan being her ex-fiance, Bryan doesn''t know yet that Vince is her boyfriend and now her fiance.


    "What are you doing here, Bryan? Aren''t we supposed to meet tonight and not today?" Hailey pursed her lips. She had guess already. "Eva didn''t tell you then?"


    Bryan sharpened his gaze. He knew it! Eva did something behind his back. She destroyed his phone so that Hailey could not contact him anymore.


    But Eva didn''t know that he is still using his old mobile number, and he has many ways to contact Hailey that Eva didn''t know.


    "Yesterday, my phone broke after it fell on the floor, so I have to buy a new one."


    Hailey smiled bitterly. She need not guess why. She could tell already. "Is it Eva who destroyed your phone?"


    Bryan nodded. He felt ashamed of how Eva is behaving toward Hailey until now. She hated her to hell.


    "I''m so sorry, Hail." He apologized.


    Bryan attempted to touch her hand, but Hailey quickly withdrew them from the table.


    Bryan was hurt by what she did. Before, she doesn''t mind if he casually holds her hands. But now, for her, he was like a person who has a contagious disease.

 Chapter 244 - I Dont Wish To Go Back In Time

    <h4>Chapter 244 - I Don''t Wish To Go Back In Time</h4>


    "Please, don''t do that, Bryan." She pleaded. "Even in the future, please refrain from doing so."


    "Is it because of him?" Sadness shed across his handsome face. His blue eyes filled with regret and pain. "I wished I could go back in time, and we''re not as strangers as this is."


    Hailey meets Bryan''s eyes, who are gazing at her tenderly. In the past, she wished that too. There are times she would contemte; everything is not Bryan''s fault. That''s why she stops ming him.


    The only regret she has now is how their beautiful rtionship ends, which causes the heartbreak she felt.


    "I don''t know why our good rtionship ends up just like that, Bryan." Hailey looked at him with regret. And these regrets are the reason she was always pulled back to the past. Maybe it''s time to let go or start something that would heal them both¡­


    "If there is something I wish to return to, it is to prevent the time where we both get hurt for what had happened," she told Bryan and added, "However, I want nothing to change or go back to the past."


    ''I don''t want to miss the chance I meet Vince.'' Hailey thought to herself.


    She no longer wishes to go back when she and Bryan are still not engaged. She was thinking....


    How if she never epts Bryan''s proposal? Is Liam would not think of using Eva to destroy their rtionship?


    Then, if that never happens, she would not set her mind to work even harder to finish Dream City as soon as possible. Perhaps she would not eagerly search for the best architect to work in her city.


    Her broken engagement is what she used as a mindset, and seriously taking her position as CEO is her way of mending her broken heart. She decided to do it by herself rather than relying on her executives all the time.


    Honestly, it helps her grow up. Visiting P Country, she was able to meet new amazing people, where her greatest adventure began. And that when she crossed paths with Vince, again¡­


    Everything that happens to her in Metro City, she would never trade that, even if she has the chance to change things back to where she wanted.


    She would never wish to go back in time because she doesn''t want to lose the child inside her.


    And with that thought, Hailey unconsciously touches her t stomach.


    Having this new life inside her is one of the most incredible things that happened to her after her sadness when her mom died.


    "Bryan, I''m pregnant," she told Bryan.


    Bryan feels like a bucket of ice is pouring on him. He closes his eyes as emotion floods into his heart.


    Hailey confessed she was pregnant. How he wished it was his child. For a thousand times, he dreams of this scenario. But his dream of having a family with Hailee shattered a year ago.


    At this point, the little hope he''s holding in his heart that Hailey would consider him again, and they would start over, has been crushed into tiny pieces.


    After he betrayed her, his heart also aches for what had happened. Every single day, he wants to punish himself. And today...


    Is it time to give up?


    "Hail, is it really impossible for us to start over?"


    Hailey was dumbfounded by what Bryan had told her. She just confesses to him she is pregnant, which was someone else''s child. But Bryan still hopes for them to forget the past and have a future together?


    It must be a joke. There''s no way she''ll go back to Bryan and forget her present happiness.


    "You''re losing your mind, Bryan." There is a bitter smile on her lips that, in the next moment, it left her rendered speechless.


    "Hail, I regret I didn''t confess my true feelings when I had all the chances before Eva destroyed our rtionship. But I truly love you! Ever since you were younger, I have been in love with you."


    She pressed her lips. Hailey isn''t sure how she could enlighten him at this point.


    "I''m sorry, Bryan. But I can''t return the love you''ve offered me." Hailee heaves a long sigh before she goes on. She stares at Bryan with a faint smile on her face.


    "When Eva came into the picture, it helped me realize my true feelings for you. The love that I felt will remain as brotherly love. I tried to love you in different ways; even so, I can never turn my feelings into romantic love." She admitted.


    "Bryan, we can never start over, but only our friendship. You were still the best brother that I have. It hurts me to let you go. But I don''t want Vincent to feel less because of our rtionship that was built through decades."


    Bryan softens his gaze and keeps pushing back the tears that threaten to escape from his eyes as his heart was splitting in two.


    In the end, it was another man who weighed more than him inside her heart. The decades of friendship they have are no match for the man she just met, now is her lover.


    Anyway, he deserves to be hurt like this. He already missed his chances. Although he is determined to beg Hailee, the way she firmly rejected him, she''s making a final decision.


    "How can you be so sure that he would stay faithful to you and no other women can seduce him?"


    Hailey tightens her jaw to hear Bryan''s opinion about Vincent. The frown on her face was visible to Bryan. He knew he judged Hailee''s lover, but at least he wanted to stand as a brother to her. He truly hurt her in the past, so he won''t allow anyone to hurt her again.


    "You need not worry about these matters, Bryan. There is no need for another woman to tempt him. I can do that."


    Bryan is rendered speechless by what she remarks. It appears Hailee is no longer the princess he loves. She is a woman now who can make any man go crazy about her.


    "Hail, I just wanted to make sure that he won''t hurt you." he smiled awkwardly with bitterness on his lips.


    "Don''t worry, Mr. Anderson. I assure you. Hailee is the only woman I ever love. I would never do what you did to her before. My existence is to love her through eternity," said of the man who appeared out of nowhere.

 Chapter 245 - Her Boyfriend

    <h4>Chapter 245 - Her Boyfriend</h4>


    Bryan''s eyes widened as he recognized the man who joined their conversation. This man sat down next to Hailee, ced his arm around her shoulders, and then nted a sweet kiss on her lips.


    Actually, when Hailey and Bryan began talking. Hailey dialed Vince''s phone number so that in that way, he could hear everything they would talk about.


    And it moved him. Hailey wanted to strengthen their rtionship in this way. Although she need not do that as he already trusted her, he is happy that she wants to be open to him with everything and anything that might lead him to get jealous.


    Bryan, on the other hand,?has now known who Hailee''s boyfriend was, and he was still in great shock.


    Gazing at how the couple made eye contact, they looked at each other like they were alone in that room, as there is so much affection shown in their eyes, ignoring his presence.


    In this scene, Bryan does not need to ask what was going on. Clearly, Vincent Shen is the boyfriend Ray mentioned over the phone.


    But when did their rtionship start if Hailee is now pregnant? Isn''t Vincent Shen just signed a contract with Davies Group, and Hailee never reveals herself to him?


    These are the questions ying in Bryan''s head. He couldn''t still grasp what was going on at the moment.


    But it is real. Hailee has someone she loves more than anyone else now! It''s not just someone she thought of as a brother.


    Bryan stared at the couple in front of him with so much jealousy and ached in his heart. He never imagined that a day woulde and someone would take her away from him.


    "Hail...." He could not find the words he wanted to say. He remained to stare particrly at Vincent. "How long are you in a rtionship already?" He asked.


    He wanted Hailee to rify whether she had a rtionship with Vincent Shen before she offered the contract. Or, she provided projects to him because he was her boyfriend.


    To recall the time he identally eavesdropped on her conversation over the phone, she mentioned a name, Vincent. Then that was Vincent Shen.


    Hailey looked at Vincent before she returned her gaze to Bryan. Somehow, she could read what was in Bryan''s mind.


    "Vincent didn''t know yet that I am Hailee Davies. It was the reason I refused to meet him when I came back to sign the contract personally. All Vince knew was that I am just a foreigner in his homnd."


    ''That makes sense,'' thought Bryan. But why? Still, it confused him.


    "Mr. Anderson, if you want assurance if I stay faithful to Hailee. I am forever loyal to her. And if you question my love? I have been in love with her for a long time already. Even though she didn''t know of my existence yet."


    Bryan listened carefully to every word that wasing out of Vincent''s mouth. He asked,


    "What do you mean for a long time already?"


    Where did they first meet? Is it the reason Hailey cannot love him romantically? Bryan mused inwardly as he listened to Vincent''s exnation.


    "Four years ago, I met this beautiful girl with a heart of gold, selling lemonade on the busy streets of Budapest. I fell in love with her at first sight. But I didn''t have time to introduce myself because of some family circumstances."


    Vince''s eyes never left Hailey. Bryan could tell how a man looked at the person he truly loved the way it shines.


    After a moment of pause, Vince turned his head toward Bryan and continued.


    "And after over three years, I could never be happier when I meet her again. Her heartbreak is a blessing in disguise for me. If it doesn''t happen, I think there''s no way she''lle to P Country."


    Bryan was a little offended by what Vince had said. But he has no right to refute. He truly hurt Hailee back then. He betrayed her, and because of that, she left Australia heartbroken.


    "I thought you were different from other men!"


    Bryan could never forget what Hailey told him that day. It keeps repeating into his head that haunts him almost every night.


    Remembering that, he shook his head and shrugged this thought aside. Even though he will regret it a million times, he could not win Hailee back. Maybe he must slowly ept the truth.


    "Then how long have you been in P Country, Hail? Isn''t it just recently you went to Metro City for theunching of the Asia Branch?" He asked Hailee after his long silence. "How many weeks have you been pregnant?"


    Hailey shook her head. "Just recently, we found out. But my symptoms have begun for a while now, but I do not know that it''s a sign that I am pregnant."


    "You were probably pregnant for almost two months now," Vince said with a proud smile on his lips, and that made Bryan jealous.


    "Do you think so?" Hailee blushed after she realized they were discussing it casually with Bryan, her ex-fiance. Is this even right? But Bryan is not a stranger to her. After all, she just admitted that she wants Bryan to remain as her brother. She believes it isn''t unfair both for Bryan and Vincent.


    "Bryan, before I will exin everything to you, I need your help. I want to talk to Eva first. There are important things I need to ask her."


    If she will tell Bryan about Liam Huo and what he did that involves Eva, possibly Bryan will explode in anger now. Then, her ns will go wasted. And so, it''s better Bryan heard it from Eva''s mouth.


    On the other hand, Bryan stared at Hailey with confusion. He has been wondering what Hailee wants from Eva. Now he remembers, Eva is from Metro City.


    By chance, did Eva do something to Hailey that he didn''t know?


    "Do you want me to invite her here?" Said Bryan. He''s bing too curious and eager to know the truth.


    He is confused about what is going on here, and he badly wants answers. He had things he wanted to be enlightened about.


    "Since you are here now. Maybe this is the perfect time to talk to Eva." Hailey agreed. Then she nced at Vince. "But I want to eat first. I''m hungry," she whined, using her cute sweet voice.


    Bryan remembers how she sounded like this if she wanted to be pampered. But this time, it wasn''t him whom Hailey persuaded, but another man. From here on, it will be another man who would coax and spoiled her.


    Meanwhile, Vince pinched Hailey''s cheek. Even in a situation like this, she cares more about her cravings than thinking other things.


    "Why are you too charming? But yes, eat all you wanted first." He chuckled then kissed Hailey on the lips, ignoring the man seated across from them, dying in jealousy.

 Chapter 246 - I Am Willing To Swim Into Hell

    <h4>Chapter 246 - I Am Willing To Swim Into Hell</h4>


    Remained calm in his seat, Bryan tried hard not to mind the couple flirting in front of him. They were talking in low voices, which still reached his ears. Vincent would whisper, and Hailee would giggle.


    At the look of them, they were perfect for each other. And this thought is killing him.


    As he cannot stand any longer, Bryan decided to talk to Ray in his small office in this restaurant. When he was in Sydney to watch Eva, almost every day, he was here to eat his meal in private, as he avoided staying in the same room as Eva.


    He only endured that she was around for the time being. And soon, finally, he could get rid of her.


    Bryan coughs to get the couple''s attention to announce his n. He smiled awkwardly and said,


    "Hail, I''ll go talk to Ray. I will ask him not to ept more customers but empty the restaurant soon."


    "Oh, great idea! I''m thinking the same too." She immediately agreed. "Um, Bryan¡­ About Eva, let me be the one to reach out to her and give this restaurant''s address. She contacted me earlier using her number, pretending to be you. So I think she still believes that we haven''t met yet."


    Bryan clenched his fists. Eva is trying to pull a string that she could meet Hailee herself. And what then? What is she nning? Is she going to confront Hailee or hurt her? She hated her so much. Eva might do that.


    "Okay, Hail." Bryan nodded, then left, walking toward a corridor with a sign that AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY.


    Now that Bryan left them alone. Vincent shared the news his dad told him. Hailey was astounded.


    "Recently, Howie Gu had confessed a lot with some shocking revtion. He admitted he is the father of the child Eva is carrying through the insemination procedure."


    "Why would Eva do that? Is it to trick Bryan? But how about the child? Wouldn''t it look Asian as both Howie and Eva were? How would Eva exin that to Bryan if the child would not look like him or have an Australian look?"


    Vince is pondering briefly; he agreed with Hailey. "You are correct, Wifey. Now that you''ve mentioned that, it was indeed wrong. Something is fishy about that."


    "Maybe Eva did it because Liam ordered as nned to trick you?" her suggestions that once again, Vince concurred.


    He ponders over the things Hailey had mentioned just now. There was a possibility that Liam wanted Eva to carry out a n to destroy his rtionship with Hailey. Maybe Eva would attempt to sleep with him and then im she got pregnant with his child.


    And everyone won''t be surprised since they are legally married abroad. So how would Eva do that? Is it during their meeting to talk about their divorce?


    Well, dly, she is head over heels in love with Bryan. Evapromises Liam''s n and sticks to her craziness to have Bryan to herself.


    Vince heaves a long sigh. If Liam seeded in destroying his rtionship with Hailey, what will happen to them then?


    Now it scared him. Good, Liam is in jail now, and he has no other way to get parole or a short sentence. He will be in prison for the rest of his life.


    Thank god, in the future, there will be no Liam, and soon Eva. And so, the issue between him and Eva must end today.


    Even the Elders from the Alliance. He is ready to face them and fights them if they n to separate him from Hailey.


    "Hubby, you were thinking so deeply. Are you worried?"


    Vince snaps himself back. He stared at Hailey''s beautiful face, whose concern lingering in her eyes. He shook his head as he carries on,


    "Dad is working on Eva''s warrant of arrest. If they were granted today, by tomorrow, a few agents wille and take Eva back to P Country for investigation of her involvement in Liam."


    "Oh. Then we have to make sure she won''t learn about that. After our talk, I think Bryan would explode in anger. But we need Bryan to keep preventing her from leaving Australia and hiding somewhere. Good thing, Liam could not keep her from you."


    "You are right, Wifey. We need to tell Bryan everything soon." After saying that, Vince ced a warm kiss on the tip of her nose.


    Hailey always finds it sweet about Vince. His small gestures always warmed her heart.


    "After you and Eva got divorced, it''s time to talk, dad. After that, we have to meet the Elders," said Hailey, who couldn''t hide the worry in her eyes. "Are you ready, hubby?"


    Vince brushed her cheeks andforted her. "Don''t worry too much. I will do everything to prove to your father and the Elders that I deserve to stay next to Princess Hailee Davies."


    "I will never allow them to bully you," said Hailey, wearing her heart in her eyes.


    "And I will not allow them to put pressure on you when you are in your first trimester of pregnancy. I want Hailee Hillson Davies for the rest of my life, and so I am willing to swim into the hell."


    Now that he knew who his ancestors were, his weapon was to win against the Elders; with that, they cannot separate them from each other.


    *


    Meanwhile, inside Ray''s office, Bryan is pacing back and forth. His palms clenched into fists on his side.


    He looked at the monitoring screens hanging on the wall. He could witness Hailee and Vincent Shen making out in their seats.


    Once again, his heart crushed into pieces. Jealousy is eating him; honestly, he wanted to pound the innocent screen in front of him so that he could no longer witness these intimate scenes they were showing in public.


    Bryan breathes out harshly. He wished it was just a dream that Hailee was in another man''s arms. But it isn''t. And what he is fussing about because he''s experiencing the same heartbreak Hailey had felt a year ago. He regretted it, of course. And now, he even regretted why he allowed Eva to destroy the wonderful friendship he has with Hailee.


    After the night of the scandal, he should focus on getting back to Hailee and not letting himself get entangled with Eva all over again and again. But what did he do instead? He keeps going back to Eva.


    Now, why would he feel devastated if Hailee keeps rejecting him?


    It was all his fault. He''s the one to be med for why he''s hurting. And why he could no longer get everything back to its ce. Now it simply was taken away by someone because of his idiocy.


    Yes, he is because he could not decide what he really wanted until it was toote.


    "Bryan? I''m done preparing lunch for Miss Davies." Ray announced the moment he stepped into his office.


    "Good, thank you, Ray. Anyway, we want to rent your ce for an important matter we have to doter." From staring at the monitors, meaningfully, Bryan cast a nce at Ray. "I need not exin it to you."


    "Of course. I will send my service crew home but let those I trusted most stay behind if you need a hand."


    "Okay. Whatever happenster, I hope it will remain here."


    "I assure you. I have high respect for Davies," said Ray with sincerity in his words.


    Bryan nodded with satisfaction, then he dered, "I''m going to use your office for monitoring. More people wille overter but will stay hidden here."


    Ray has questions hanging in his head, but he knew that he better not voice them out. Besides, he knew Bryan for almost his entire life, and he was well aware of what kind of influence the Davies Group had here in Australia and the whole world.


    Who wants to provoke that man? Unless you are seeking death, then do it! Ray thought to himself.


    Bryan extended his arm and patted his shoulder. "Thank you, Ray."


    "You''re very wee. Tell me if you need anything or what job you want us to do."


    "Okay, I will definitely inform you."


    Ray nodded lightly. He excused himself to talk to his employees to instruct them on the particr taskster in the evening.


    Now that he was again alone in Ray''s office, Bryan made a couple of calls for his men to do something. He instructed them to bring some devices to ce in some area of the table restaurant for them to listen to whatever Hailee and Eva will talk about.


    Until now, he keeps wondering about that. Why does it need them to talk without the other''s presence? What secrets is Eva hiding from him, but it seemed Hailee was aware of it?


    Can it be about a year ago? It''s not worth digging up the past any longer. But he honestly didn''t rify that one yet to Hailee the night he met Eva to give her the money.


    But then they were both drugged, and someone filmed them.


    That happens one week before their wedding. It''s a fucking week. Hailee should be Mrs. Anderson if he didn''t meet up with her and set her up.


    It''s a big scandal to Dream City investors. So he takes all the me and lets Hailee and everyone hate him.


    But meeting Eva in secret that night is alone a betrayal to Hailee. He should have told her about Eva reaching out to him for help. But he didn''t trust Hailee that she would understand. He doubted her more.


    Now he is paying the price. And so he''ll do everything if Hailey needs him in any way. However, how long could he numb his heart to bear the pain and jealousy lingering in his chest after seeing Hailee being intimate with another man?


    Because the truth is, it''s killing him.


    Bryan shrugged his thoughts and self-reflection and self-pity that only causes him to be broken all over again.

 Chapter 247 - The Tension: Past And Present, Her Future Husband

    <h4>Chapter 247 - The Tension: Past And Present, Her Future Husband</h4>


    Finally, their food is served. Vince attentively ces food on Hailey''s te, where she instantly stuffs her mouth while the two men gawk at her with amusement.


    Bryan was back at their table, they had served his orders shortly, but he''s not eating yet but observed her munching.


    After a while, Hailey grew curious to know why they were only watching her, and they had not yet eaten; with this, she was anxious.


    "Hubby, am I eating with no manners at all?" she whispered at Vincent.


    It worries her if how she''d behaving now. But she''s only been true to herself. She is starving even after she stuffed her stomach with an appetizer and fruits that serve to them.


    Vince smiled at her. His eyes glowed with amusement as he replied to her.


    "You were eating just fine. I am even d that you have this appetite rather than beingpletely picky. It will make me worry instead, and I''ll panic. Besides, mom reminds me to feed you healthy foods as much that match your cravings. No sweets too much, okay?"


    Hailey nodded, delighted by his response.


    Vince''s mentioning of his mom brought warmth to her heart. If it was before, Vince makes sure not to mention his mom after she attempts to chase her out of the country to leave Vincent. His mom once judged her for being a gold digger. But she never physically hurts her. Instead, she''s the one who takes care of articles that not onlyshing her out but also ndering Vincent.


    It was the main reason his mom wanted to separate them. It was the issue of calling Vincent a cheating husband, which he knew was not true. But Vincent only shrugs a shoulder. Still, he hid the truth that Eva also has her boyfriend she''s with after their marriage.


    Besides, Hilda Shen was just overly protected because the royal bloodline Shen kept a secret until now.


    Carried on, Hailey nced at Vincent''s te, then looked up to meet his loving gaze at her. She asked him, "Why are you not eating?"


    "I enjoyed watching you eat. I''m just amused how this buddy over here surely makes you this hungry all the time." Said Vince with joy; he reached for her t tummy and caressed it.


    "Hmm¡­ How about if it''s a girl?" she asked, full of wonder.


    "Well, I don''t mind if it was a girl or a boy. It doesn''t matter."


    Their eyes locked, and it didn''t hide the affection they have for each other.


    Bryan, who witnessed this sweet interaction, caused him another heartbreak. Although he''s the one in a long rtionship, even though it was on and off, he''s madly in love with his best friend, who was be his younger sister in those years.


    He could not just bring himself to admit it because Hailee was too young by then. And then of what she told Liam inter years.


    Hailey told Liam that she only felt a brotherly love for him and everyone, including him. That is why he concealed whatever feelings he had for her and tried to look for another woman. And that''s how Eva came to the picture.


    Trying to munch something, Bryan pinches the salmon with his fork, then brings it to his mouth. However, he could not taste its savory vor but bitterness.


    He wondered if this was how a brokenhearted person gets through. Even how delicious the food in front of him fails its purpose when it tastes awful on his tongue.


    Bryan lifts his gaze and fixes his eyes on Vincent. He was slicing the steak into small cuttings; then, he put them into Hailee''s te. He shrunk his pupil from irritation as jealousy continued surging in his chest.


    This kind of gesture was his toward Hailee. And that smile on her lips and the way her eyes twinkle is supposed to be his alone. But these now all belong to another man.


    He clenched his palm, then loosened them. He reminded himself once again not to lose cool. Instead, he broadened his smile and cheerfully offered Hailey the food he ordered.


    "Hail, I ordered your favorite vegetable sd." He pushed the bowl, but Vincent quickly blocked it.


    "She doesn''t like avocados and tomatoes," Vincent said reasonably, refusing the food Bryan offered to Hailee.


    Bryan was annoyed by what Vincent did. For a second, his face was in a rage while he was sizing up the guy.


    True that Vincent is Hailee''s boyfriend and lover, and the so-called mysterious-fiance, the future husband¡­. Despite that, he knew more than anyone what food was Hailee''s favorite.


    "Mr. Shen, this is Hailee''s favorite. I''ve made him this sd myself a thousand times."


    Bryan emphasized hisst sentence to p on Vincent the truth, that between them, he is the one who''s with Hailee longer and that he knows everything she likes and does not.


    Regarding his statement, Vincent could sense the meaning of his words. However, some things change now, and Bryan should know his ce, and he''s d to remind him.


    "Mr. Anderson, there are few aspects in our life that will only concern me. As Hailey''s future husband, I take my responsibility ultimately and wholeheartedly. I am fully aware of what she likes and does not. At this point in her life, there are certain things that she does not need your expertise or familiarity with when ites to her."


    Bryan tightens his jaw, but he quickly cools down when Hailee shifts her gaze toward him and then back to Vincent.


    The way she stared at them was full of worry, like some punches suddenly throwing across the table, and he didn''t want her to see him in that state. Of course, he''s only this calm in front of her and no one else. By then, he has no choice but not to argue anymore with her proud future husband.


    The least he should not do is to upset her. He doesn''t want to be the total lousy guy here since he was still blocklisted in her heart. He just offers food to Hailee, like in the old times. But he didn''t like how Vincent reacted to that.


    And he has no choice but to behave and avoid starting a fight with the man sitting next to Hailee, who casts secret mock nces toward him. Bryan tightens his grip on the fork while he''s shooting a sharp look at Vincent.


    He was smirking in secret, meeting Bryan''s intense stare; he didn''t back down. True that he''s overreacting after Bryan acts like he''s still the fiance here. But he''s out of Hailey''s life. Bryan need not show any sweet gesture toward her because that role belongs to him now.

 Chapter 248 - The Tension: Rights And Role

    <h4>Chapter 248 - The Tension: Rights And Role</h4>


    While the two men are shing gazes, Hailey is aware of what is going on. She wasn''t that naive girl back then who had no idea even men were killing each other in front of her.


    She could sense the tension between Vincent and Bryan, which made her worry. Although everything about her and Bryan is long over, still he''s one of her favorite people in the world. She doesn''t want him, and Vincent would have conflicts because of her.


    Of course, she knew they could not avoid these circumstances from happening. But in this situation, she has to take Vincent''s side.


    "Bryan¡­" Before she could let out her speech, Vincent made hiseback.


    "Mr. Anderson, Hailey is pregnant. I hope you understand what it means. Her preferences in food change and one of them is the sd you offered to her."


    Bryan has no n to back down. But after hearing this from Vincent''s mouth and seeing Hailee nodded at him, he cannot refute it.


    "I would feel sick if I ate avocado and tomatoes," said Hailey to him.


    Bryan''s shoulder dropped to his sides, bewilderment lingering on his face as he cannot ept that he was losing herpletely. Of course, after what happened in the past, he is thest person she would side with.


    It isn''t true. He thought. And it was painful to believe, but he has to embrace the reality.


    "Okay," he said afterward and didn''t argue anymore but lowered his gaze to hide the hurt in his eyes.


    He truly is. Vince Shen was utterly stripping off his role in her life as he took all the opportunity to remind him he has no rights toward Hailee anymore, now that she has someone she called her lover.


    And the truth hurts. She doesn''t need him anymore but another man.


    In the next half-hour, they''re eating; the table is filled with silence. No one from Bryan and Vincent attempted to speak toward each other when they ended up ridiculing each other in front of Hailee.


    Although Vincent has many things, he wanted to speak with Bryan; this is not the perfect time and the right ce. Actually, he has no n to fight him. He just showed him the truth that Hailey was his now, and no other man has the right toward her.


    Bryan is just the beginning. Everyone must know the boundaries they should mind from here on.


    It is one of his fights, and he has no n to be inferior, just so the knights would like him. He can be their friend, but he knew who he shouldn''t.


    In secret, Vince closed his eyes. He only deals with a few of them. Howe if the rest he has to face?


    He already won Pitt over¡­. Well, not fully yet. Tom and Keith have their woman, so he has no problem with them. But how about the rest of the knights? He is talking about the executives.


    They seem reluctant to wee him, but only Bryan, who is warm to him.


    Last time at his presentation, they tried to grill him in hell. Now that he recalls that. But now, he and Bryan were not on good terms. He knew it wasn''t right as it would affect their rtionship as co-workers. But Hailee is a different case.


    Vincent sighs inwardly. He actually hates this feeling. It seemed like he''s bing and thinking like Liam Huo. So full of jealousy.


    *


    Everything has been set up. Both Tim and Pitt and joins Bryan and Vincent in the monitoring room.


    When Tim arrived, he handed a folder to Vincent. Bryan was curious about what is it, but he asked nothing.


    Meanwhile, Hailee is eating a ck forest cake. She picked up her phone, type on her phone, and sent the message to the phone number she knew belongs to Eva.


    "Bryan, I can''t see you tonight. Can we meet now instead?"


    "Where are you?"


    Instantly, Eva replied to her. Hailey has this amusing smile across her face reading the message.


    "In our favorite steakhouse, here on South Bay Avenue."


    "Okay. I''ll be there."


    Hailey shook her head. If this is Bryan, at least he''ll use an endearment to his messages. This is how Eva failed to hide her identity.


    Since it will take Eva like fifteen minutes to arrive, Bryan came to talk to her.


    "Hail, can I at least know even just your initial n? Why do you want to meet and talk to Eva?"


    Hailey smiled at him, and she failed to hide the sadness in her eyes. But it is apparent to the reality that his illusion must end soon because all the emotion Hailee has to him is just pity, nothing more.


    "Mainly, I want to discuss her pregnancy. I could feel that child is not yours, and I would not let her tie you to a responsibility that is not supposed yours. It''s enough, Bryan. I want you to find happiness and peaceful life without tension because of Eva."


    "As they''ve always quoted, it''s easier said than done." Bryan breathes out.


    "Maybe one day, Bryan," she quoted.


    "I didn''t know when that day woulde." he smiled bitterly. He could perfectly feel the weight in her heart.


    There is silence that passes between them and Bryan, who breaks it first.


    "Regarding your query to Eva. I know it''s not my child. Eva and I had never had sex again after that night. I could never touch her again, but disgust was boiling deep within me. However, I can''t entirely me her. It''s my fault too. I made her insecure over you, and she has the right to feel that because I can''t love her the way I love you."


    "I think you must not bring up this, Bryan." She cut off whatever he wanted to tell her furthermore.


    However, Bryan is determined to exin his side.


    "I know I became a coward back then. I felt guilty, and I was depressed because I disappointed myself. It''s not only you who was disappointed in me. I hated myself for making that mistake. Above all, to miss the chance that you''ll be mine and I can court you to love me as your husband and not just a marriage of convenience for both of us."


    "Bryan..."


    "About Eva''s pregnancy... She tried to trick me months ago. She told me that Liam''s men chased her. She was hiding in Florida, and by then, she''s trying to get me drunk so she could take advantage. I pretended I passed out. But I''m awake. I know she tried to make love with me, but I didn''t drink what she gave me, but I pretended I did."


    "Now, this is her n. To trick me, she''s pregnant. I am wondering who''s the guy because I would be d to give her to him and make him responsible for it."


    Hailey remains her mouth sealed. She couldn''t reveal yet the information she learned from Vince.


    "Boss, Miss Eva has arrived."


    One of Bryan''s men reported.

 Chapter 249 - Whos The Father? (One)

    <h4>Chapter 249 - Who''s The Father? (One)</h4>


    Eva waltzes in the entrance door outside the restaurant, her eyes immediately traveling throughout the dining hall. But the ce is empty, but only four people are in here.


    She wonders if she came to the right ce. Anyway, it''s not her concern about why she is here. It will be brief, and she will leave after giving that girl a piece of her advice and rage.


    That girl is torn in her rtionship with Bryan. She will show that Bryan chose her, and it''s time for her to give up! Eva mused as she walked toward the bar area of this restaurant.


    Halfway, a man blocks Eva''s way.


    "Excuse me, ma''am. We were close for the entire afternoon. If you want to make a table reservation, you can visit our website and fill up our reservation form." Ray exined politely, a smile stering across his handsome face.


    "I''m not here for that. The person I have an appointment with will give me this address. I''m looking for Miss Hailey." She and Bryan were together for many years, but she never got that girl''s surname, but she only knew her name was Hailee.


    "Oh, my apologies. But I was instructed that Miss Davies'' date this afternoon is Mr. Bryan Anderson."


    "Mr. Anderson can''t make it. So I am here on his behalf. I want to see her." said Eva, disying her fake sweet smile.


    Date!? She tried to be calm because the truth was she wants to explode right now, right here. But what got her attention was the surname this man had mentioned.


    Eva looked at the man with furrowed eyebrows. It made her wonder if she heard it correctly. The man addressed Hailee as Miss Davies¡­


    Hailee Davies? Is it a coincidence? Of course, there are at least a few with the same name and surname in this world.


    Eva followed Ray toward the VIP rooms and opened a particr room, then gesturing his hand.


    "Miss Davies is waiting already. I''ll be the one to serve at this meeting; if you need anything, ma''am, just call my name, Ray."


    Eva nodded, but she ignored him. Her mind was upied with something. Maybe they''ve just the same name as that heiress of a multi-trillion dorspany, the Davies Group.


    Sat on the long couch, crossing her legs, Hailey enjoying her tea then, Eva immediately shrieks as she halts in front of her.


    "You!" her blood immediately boils upon seeing this girl again.


    "Miss Eva Lan, please take a seat." Hailee smiled. She gestured her hand to the empty couch across from her.


    "What is this? Why aren''t you surprised to see me? Did you already expect me to show instead of Bryan?" Eva immediately fired questions on top of her lungs.


    She came here well prepared to humiliate this girl and woke her up to her illusion of getting Bryan back to her. But she saw no trace of surprise on Hailee''s face. And that pissed her off because it caught her off guard. She started feeling something was not correct here.


    Even so, she won''t be intimidated by Hailee! Eva fretted inwardly.


    She scanned from the head down to her t shoes. She''s wearing a short white skirt and a pink sleeveless crop top. Her get up today is too simple, but she felt envious of how wless she was as a woman. Her long legs disyed beautifully while crossing her legs.


    She fixed her gaze on her face. She bet she only applied some CC Cream and pink lip gloss.


    She knew she had a pretty face, and this was where her insecurities came from. She''s young and pretty. The goddess of beauty seemed to have blessed her when she was born that even though many years had passed, her youthfulness remained. The reason Bryan is always looking behind him is to take a glimpse of her beauty.


    And because Bryan always worries about her, their rtionship never moves on or grows fruitful. The reason she hated her so much. She wishes she was gone! But somehow, Liam is head over heels in love with her.


    That is why even though she has the desire to ruin that innocent face, unfortunately, she must not provoke Liam to touch her. But she knew that behind that pretty face is not so innocent girl Bryan always speaks off.


    Bryan would always reason out that she was a naive girl. She''s innocent, and she''s fragile. But looking at this girl this close, she could sense that she was not really innocent or frail like a damsel in distress! But she knew her bitchiness was hiding in her innocent mask!


    Eva cannot settle down with the rage boiling inside her chest. She casts a sharp stare at Hailee, who continues sipping on her teacup.


    "Miss Lan, why don''t you take a seat and join me for tea? What do you want? Don''t worry. It''s my treat." Hailey looked up. She smiled sheepishly at Eva. "Or are you going to stare at me all afternoon? That is ufortable for me¡ª"


    "Shut up! I''m here to warn you." Eva began, pointing her index finger at Hailey. "Stay away from Bryan, or you''ll be sorry!"


    Hailey looks at Eva with a gloomy face, which was just her act. That''s right, Eva is not the only one who is good at acting. She could do it too! That is why in the next seconds, Hailee remains sad.


    "Why are you threatening me, Miss Lan? Besides, you don''t need to shout when we are the only ones in this room. I would hear you with your normal voice. I''m really sincere in inviting you to have something to eat. And I''m freaking hungry again! I know pregnant women have cravings."


    Hailee didn''t fake that smile because she was on that stage now. Her cravings for particr food and sweets are killing her.


    Hailey casually sends a text to Vince if she could get another dessert. A caramel cake, perhaps, or newly baked berries pies. She''s craving for those at the moment.


    But there is a reason she wants to eat again. When Eva walked in, the strong scent of her perfume made her dizzy, and for a second, she wanted to vomit.


    Damn. She hated how fragile she was with her pregnancy symptoms. She suddenly bes weak every time she''s facing a crucial battle.


    But the moment Eva''s perfume caught her nostril, she started bathing in a cold sweat, and her stomach turned up. That''s why, to distract herself from feeling ufortable, she wants to eat something at least.


    She was d that a caramel cake was served immediately.


    "Why don''t you join me, Miss Lan?" Once again, she offered Eva the seat across from her.


    But Eva''s perfume is now causing her head to throb wildly. ''I can''t stay with my poise!'' Hailey grumbled to her head.


    She sought help from the caramel cake, and she stuffed her mouth in a hurried motion to relieve her suffering, which she''s struggling with at the moment.


    Now sat down on the couch, Eva snorted. Her lips curled into a mocking smirk, watching Hailey continue stuffing her mouth with that cake-like she never ate one before.


    "Kid, don''t you have food in your house, and you were eating like there''s no tomorrow? How disgusting you are! It seemed that you only appeared beautiful outside, but your manners are disgraceful! No wonder Bryan alwayses back to me. You are a disappointment."


    "What do you mean, Bryan,e back to you? My memory isn''t failing me yet, Miss Lan. It was you who kept throwing yourself to him and did everything to drug him so that he would sleep with you. And my house never has out of food nor my bank car out of money."


    "Whatever! Just shut up! Bryan desires me. That''s why he cannot refuse me! You may be young and have a perfect body, but if you don''t know how to please a man on the bed, he''ll always be looking for someone who would serve him well!" Eva lifted her chin while rattling this. She''s very proud of herself.


    At the thought of Hailey that Eva had finished her speech, she prepared a counter-attack, but Eva carried on.


    "If Bryan didn''t love me. He would never meet me and have sex a week before your wedding!"


    "Why are you so insecure, Miss Lan? Why is it that every time we''ve encountered, all you''d throwing at my face is about your sex life with Bryan? I don''t care about Bryan''s private life. But I care who he should share his entire life with! And you are not qualified!"


    She carried on,


    "Besides, I''m pregnant! So I can''t control my cravings!"


    "What?" Eva flinched at the news she heard. For a minute, she could feel the lump in her throat that was slowly suffocating her. "Come again? Are you pregnant? Who''s the father?"


    Hailee didn''t reply, and Eva started fussing. "Tell me!"


    ''It''s your nominal husband!'' Hailey wants to scream this. But she didn''t. Not yet.


    "Don''t tell me you crawled on Bryan''s bed!? That''s why you are meeting him? To tell him? Is it about thest time I overheard you in the background? Answer me!" Eva used with her high pitch shrill.


    ''Damn it! Hoping he would not misunderstand this!'' She hasn''t shared that encounter yet, which....


    Vince is listening!

 Chapter 250 - Whos The Father? (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 250 - Who''s The Father? (Two)</h4>


    Inside Ray''s office, Tim shifted his gaze from Bryan''s back to his boss. Both men aren''t happy with what the two girls argued about.


    Leaning on the wall at the back, Pitt is grinning. He is wondering who will explode first. Is it Vincent Shen? Or Bryan?


    It was true that Bryan was furious at Eva. He doesn''t like the way she speaks to Hailee, while Vincent was annoyed how his nominal wife had a fuck mouth. And what''s more, he isn''t happy that Eva suspected maybe Bryan is the father of the baby Hailee carried.


    It isn''t Bryan''s child! It was his!


    And he had trust in Hailee. She isn''t that kind of woman who sleeps around. And it irritates him! He wished he could shut Eva''s mouth or strangle her.


    But is it not the right time for him to show up. Hailey had just started confronting Eva. He doesn''t want to ruin whatever n she has.


    *


    Back in the VIP room, Hailey leaned back on the couch and crossed her arms on top of her chest. She asked,


    "And where did thate from, Miss Lan? Why would I sleep with Bryan? I have a boyfriend, no, it''s my fiance. Have you forgotten? Didn''t you speak to him yesterday morning? So howe you have that conclusion that I slept with Bryan? Honestly, never in my wildest dream."


    In what Hailey had said, Vince parted his mouth with a huge smile. Tim and Pitt shared a nce. They give him one point.


    Now¡­


    Eva is looking at Hailee furiously.


    "Who knows if you are cheating with your boyfriend or fiance... or whatever! Why does your boyfriend ry the message to you? Are you nning to set up Bryan, then ckmail him? Is your boyfriend involved in this?"


    She growled at Hailey in a low voice. But her tone is full of sternness. "I won''t allow you to do anything! Bryan is mine!"


    At the monitoring room, Pitt and Tim couldn''t helpughing in the back. Both Bryan and Vincent red over their shoulders. However, they couldn''t help butugh at that crazy plot Eva came up with.


    Eva''s ways of thinking honestly amused Hailey. She was enticed tough, and she did; she couldn''t suppress itter. After she heard that, her mouth dropped open, now Eva is pointing her doings at her. It truly engages her.


    "Is that funny, I guess, right?" And it displeases Eva to see herughing. Her face darkened, throwing a sharp look in Hailey''s direction as she made her pissed again.


    "I''m sorry, Miss Lan. That was hrious. Me and my boyfriend? Why would we n to ckmail Bryan? He has been my brother my entire life. Above all, it never crosses my mind to sleep with him. Besides, I already have someone in my bed. I can assure you. His bed is the only one I love to crawl every night. That is why you don''t need to overthink about Bryan and me."


    "Oh, yeah? That''s bullshit¡ª "


    "Please, Miss Eva Lan. Stop bullying me every time our paths cross. In the past, I just let it go because it''s not true. And I didn''t tell Bryan how you loveshing me if he''s not around. I didn''t quarrel because you are the girlfriend. However, that''s all in the past now. So, please, don''t try my patience. I won''t back down nor ignore yourshing at me."


    "I hate you! Since the very beginning, I haven''t liked you already!" Eva hissed.


    Hailey retorted, "I may not like you, Miss Lan. But I don''t disrespect you. However, after what you''ve done to Bryan? I will no longer forgive you."


    "Is that so? And what now? Are you going to convince him to break up with me? Tell him lies about the past so that he''ll be angry at me?" If that was the case, she knew that Bryan is in favor of Hailee. But she will choose her! Bryan believes that it was his child.


    Eva is still full of determination, without her knowing that Bryan is witnessing all of this.


    Hailey, on the other hand, poured another tea in her cup as she answered. "Honestly, you are partially right, Miss Lan. I am truly here to warn Bryan and convince him to cut all his connections to you."


    "You! I know you are a bitch! But take my advice, sweetheart. I carried his child. Do you think she''ll listen to you?" Eva snorts. She was casting a sidelong nce at her. She lifted her chin like she already knew that she would win against Hailey.


    And Hailey shook her head. Until now, she was really impressed by Eva''s confidence. "You really have a thick face, Miss Lan. Like I didn''t know who the father of that child was."


    The smile on her face vanishes. For a few seconds, shock lingers on her face.


    "What are you talking about?" Eva growled. Her gaze sharpened, wishing she could throw knives at her. In her heart, a slight fear started spurting. It made her think if Hailey was only threatening her or she really knows the truth. But how?


    No. Of course, Liam would not reveal this secret. It was his very own n in the first ce! It is impossible when Liam was in P Country.


    "Stop making up stories!" she shrieked after a second of shock.


    "Really? Have you heard of where Howie Gu is by now? Haven''t you heard from your parents or sister either?"


    "What do you mean by that?" The beating in her heart is going wild. This girl appears to have a lot of information about herself and even her family. Did she run an investigation about them?


    Eva couldn''t stop herself from musing over this question. But it''s impossible!


    "Did you run an investigation about me? Is that how desperate you are to take Bryan from me?"


    "To free Bryan from you is the correct word, Miss Lan. And yes! When I researched LN Group, I saw their past articles posted on their website. You are LN''s Top Interior Designer, but you suddenly resigned a year ago. Then about Howie Gu, he is part of the team that designed the Pearl Hotel for Dream City. Am I correct?"


    "So what?" Eva snarled at her. Now she''s confused about why she starts bringing up all of this.


    Hailey didn''t answer yet, but picked up her cup and sipped on it. She pursed her lips, then smiled. "It was him, right? The father of that child."


    "Huh! And because we were once colleagues, you concluded that he''s the father of this child? You''re utterly crazy!"


    Hailey pushed the corner of her left mouth for a smirk. "Miss Lan, I am sure. I''m not the crazy one here. My child is abor of love. But what is your purpose, and did you undergo an insemination procedure? Bryan and Howie Gu are from a different breed. Are you seriously thinking of what the child looks like?"


    "It''s Bryan''s child! Stop making up stories!"


    The men inside Ray''s office were shocked by what Eva did. They wanted to dash outside and run to the VIP room.


    Hailey reaches for her left cheek that Eva had pped. She didn''t notice that Eva stood from her seat and rushed to her because she lowered her gaze to look at her tea.


    The p didn''t daze her, but the strong perfume Eva is wearing.


    "You are slut!" Eva shrieked once more.


    "I drugged no one and ckmailed someone! That was your doing! And you didn''t do it just once! It was twice! I think it will be the third one as Liam ordered you..."


    Hailey didn''t finish her sentence when Eva reached for her again and grabbed her hair. She and Hailey fought. She holds Eva''s hand to release her hair. And so, she is forced to twist Eva''s wrists to let her go.


    "Who are you? Why do you know too much!?" she asked. "Ah!"


    Eva was thrown on the sofa; she then wailed from pain. "Help me! This woman is crazy! She''s trying to hurt me!"


    Eva screams as loud as she can. She knew that the waiter was outside. She shrunk her body on the sofa to have the picture that Hailee was beating her up.


    She red at her, who remained standing in front of her. To anyone who could see this, they would think that Hailee attacked her and was beaten up.


    And so she keeps crying, curling up on the sofa. Hailey was astounded to see her drama. Sheughs at how Drama Queen Eva is, as always. She is the biggest pretentious person.


    Not long, the door opens. Immediately, Eva''s face lights up to see the man entering the room.


    "Bryan! You''re here!" she rushed toward Bryan then showed what Hailee had done to her. "Look! That girl is crazy! She invited me here then... Then she did this to me! She wants to kill our child! Bryan, she wants to kill me!"


    Watching Eva trying hard to her act, Haileyughs loudly. Eva cast a dagger look at her, then the corner of her mouth contorted. Eva thinks that her acting is perfect.


    Hailey shook her head and rolled her eyes. If only Eva knew what is going on here, she would wish for the ground to eat her. Hailey thought while watching Eva at how she clung to Bryan''s body.


    "Bryan... Why aren''t you speaking?"


    Eva cried once more. She throws her arms around Bryan''s neck, and with all of her effort, she wails louder.

 Chapter 251 - Call Off The Wedding (One)

    <h4>Chapter 251 - Call Off The Wedding (One)</h4>


    "Let go, Eva," said Bryan.


    Eva could sense the coldness in his voice. She looked up, and she saw how Bryan gazed at Hailey apologetically.


    "Don''t you see, Bryan? She hurts me!"


    Bryan clenched his jaw. He cast a look downward at Eva. She shuddered from the chill on her back at how Bryan was ring at her meant his sympathy for Hailey!


    Eva turned her head and threw a sharp re in Hailey''s direction. The girl only raised an eyebrow at her, which pissed her.


    "You bitch!"


    Eva dash to Hailee. But before she could take two steps, Bryan quickly grabbed her and pulled away from Hailee.


    "I''ll kill you, bitch!" she shrieked.


    "Enough, Eva!" Bryan shook both of her shoulders. But it didn''t stop her from fretting.


    "Why are you taking her side? She hurt me!" Eva insisted.


    Bryan sharpened his gaze at her and held her arms tighter. "You pped her!"


    "She''s talking lies!"


    "It was you who kept lying and had many secrets, Miss Lan."


    "That''s not true! Stop threatening me!" Eva turned around to face Bryan, clung to her waist. "Bryan, she chased me out of Australia. She said I should leave you! Why does she want to separate us? She is pregnant with someone else''s child! I''m just protecting you if she ns to set you up!"


    "And why would Hailee set me up?" Bryan asked coldly, buried his fingers in her arm.


    She winced but ignored the pain it creates on her skin. She is more determined to win this argument. This is her chance to separate Bryan from Haileepletely, thought Eva.


    "We don''t know what they were nning, Bryan! Maybe for money? And her boyfriend will soon ckmail you!"


    Where did shee up with these plots? It seems like she is an expert in making up stories.


    He felt ridiculous, so he asked Eva, "What gain would they get to do that?"


    If only you know how Hailee and Mr. Shen are more affluent than me! He wanted to scream that to Eva. He''s wholly annoyed at everything thates up to her little brain. It irritates him, keeps on listening to all of her bbing.


    "Bryan¡­ You''re hurting me." She pleaded, attempting to be freed from his grip, but she failed to let Bryan loosen his hold in her arms.


    Soon, she suffered more pain from Bryan''s grip.


    "Why did you scratch Hailee''s face, Eva?" Bryan is gritting his teeth as he asked one more time.


    But Eva remained adamant about her lies. She has cards to use on this, but it scares her how he stares at her when she looks up at Bryan.


    "Bryan, she hurts me first! Why are you choosing that girl''s side? Look!" Eva showed her wrists. Indeed, it has marks on Hailey''s fingers when she twisted her wrists. "Can''t you see that?"


    But to her annoyance, Bryan didn''t even cast a nce at her bruises. Instead, Bryan releases her and takes a step toward Hailey.


    Eva followed him and stopped him, grabbing his elbow. "What are you doing, Bryan? I was the one who was hurt here!"


    "Really, Eva?" he hissed at her.


    "I am telling the truth, Bryan!" Eva stomps her right foot on the floor, convincing Bryan to believe her.


    But she did not know that Bryan witnessed everything she did and had said to Hailee. On the other hand, Hailee snorts.


    "Are you really, Miss Lan? Have you really told Bryan the truth in thesest three years?"


    "What are you talking about? Why don''t you just shut up!?" Eva sneered. She wants to continue, but Bryan grabs her and holds tight when she attempts to attack her once more.


    "Enough, Eva!" Bryan yelled. His patience for Eva reaches its end.


    Eva pressed her mouth. She struggles to get free, but Bryan holds her tight. Later, she stopped resisting¡­ her voice full of pain; the tears threaten to flood her eyes. "Tell me¡­ did you sleep with her even though she has a boyfriend already?"


    "You are talking nonsense, Eva!" Bryan growled. "You are so good at making up stories!" Bryan added.


    "Have you forgotten when you tricked me? Isn''t I having a fiancee when you drugged me so that I would have sex with you?"


    "But you said you want me! But because of that girl, you keep breaking up with me over again!"


    "Why don''t you ask yourself why I want to break up with you?" he snapped at her.


    Eva carried on, "Every time we made love, you said I am the only one you need!"


    "Maybe I truly said that, but that was the time I was probably too drunk, Eva! And that was long ago! Why are you bringing it up now? Besides, that does not mean love! Just sex and you know that! It was you who have been chasing me!"


    And she would not ept that. The moment she crosses paths with Bryan, she falls deeply in love with him.


    "You can''t do this to me! I love you!"


    Stay silent on the corner, and just watch Eva with her drama. Hailey snorts. "Love? You seemed to talk shit, Miss Lan."


    Eva red in her direction, and Hailee met her burning stares.


    She suddenly remembered that day she met Eva at the hotel where Bryan was checking in. It was one week before their wedding, and everything was all ready. It was just the date of their marriage.


    But that day, her heart was torn in two after her conversation with Eva. So many things she said to her over coffee. Not only that, Eva showed Bryan''s naked photo, sleeping peacefully after they had sex.


    "Kid, why don''t you call off the wedding and give up already? Do you think Bryan would be happy with you? I know you never allow him to touch you. But because of your refusal, Bryan asked me to meet up and make love. Last night, we both had the best sex ever. Even if I tell you what kind of positions Bryan had enjoyed, you never know what it was. But I happily submit to anything he wishes to do with my body. Tell me? Can you do that? Can you even satisfy him with just normal sex?"


    "Shut up!" The more she listens to Eva, the more she feels disgusted.

 Chapter 252 - Call Off The Wedding (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 252 - Call Off The Wedding (Two)</h4>


    In the next moment, she ignored Eva, who kept beaming at her. She lowered her head as she fought the tears slowly fell from her eyes. She could only remain silent that day because Eva was right.


    She really didn''t know if she was ready tomit to her marital obligation to Bryan after they got married. She isn''t prepared to sleep with him. Or maybe because she only loves him as a brother, that''s why he is not sexually attracted to her?


    She thought at that time that it was the case. Bryan may have agreed that he won''t force her to do that if she is ufortable. But could he ignore his body needs throughout their marriage?


    And the real reason that he didn''t listen to him¡­ Eva forced her to watch the video.


    "Don''t close your eyes!" Eva yelled at her, putting the earphone in her ears.


    However, it''s useless to shut her eyes. Because even if her eyes close, the moaning and growling both from Eva and Bryan are making her eardrum explode any minute.


    In the video, both are breathing uncontrobly. And she could hear Bryan screaming at Eva with some words she didn''t understand. Bryan was instructing Eva how she should bend her body or open her legs wide, and the noises made her dazed in disgust.


    That''s right. She can''t stand it. She throws Eva''s phone on the floor and runs to the door.


    Seeing Bryan in that kind of situation shocked her to the extreme. It''s not that she didn''t know about that kind of thing between two people.


    But, maybe if it were another girl, she would not feel so much disgust toward Bryan.


    But it was Eva!


    "Hail! Let me exin¡ª"


    "Don''t touch me!"


    She was on her way out from the coffee shop when Bryan bumped into her. Bryan attempts to hold her, but disgust explodes to every nerve of her body.


    "Hail, it''s not what you think!" Bryan tried to exin to her.


    She lifted her head to re at Bryan. Maybe, if she didn''t see the video or hear how pleasured he was while he was pounding Eva in her bu*t***e, she probably listens and forgives him.


    But she was shocked!


    That knocks her head and sweeps her feet on the floor!


    To her confusion, after she ran from Bryan, who wanted to chase her and exin¡ªshe never gave him a chance¡ªshe didn''t tell anyone about it either; instead, she booked a flight in secret and flew to Dubai.


    "Hail, what happened? What''s going on?" Kelly freaked out after she saw how miserable Hailey was when she picked her up at the airport.


    She locked herself in her and Kelly''s apartment for days.


    "Don''t answer any calls from everyone, even from dad, Kell. Tell him I call him if I am ready."


    "How about telling me what''s going on?"


    "I''m sorry, Kell. If I tell you, I know you can''t stay quiet, and you end up telling dad."


    "Then how can I help you if you are not telling me anything!" She''ll go crazy first before Hailee will!


    The next day, Pitt arrived with her private jet. It takes a couple of days before she allows Pitt to see her inside her bedroom.


    "Pitt! I want to call off the wedding..."


    She cried on his shoulder. She lost count of how many days had already passed. She has no energy to move or appetite to eat, but Pitt was there, ready to feed her.


    "Princess¡­ Don''t do this to yourself." Pitt pleaded to her.


    Pitt and Kelly were there until her sanity came back, and she''s ready to face the world once again.


    Her dad and the boys never heard from her for a month. They came to Dubai after two days she suddenly ran away.


    But she requested the Prince of UAE, whose wife is her very close friend, to lift a ban for her knights froming to the city. Even her dad...


    Everyone is so furious, so they dig what happened before she left without telling everyone. Then, the boys beat up Bryan inside the Anderson Vi after they learned about Eva.


    And after she came back to life again and returning to work, she buried herself in putting up the new branch in Italy.


    After the DV Gem branch storeunch in Europe, then sailing for months with Pitt and other knights, she looked for Vincent Shen to offer him a contract.


    Then...


    Another book of her life was open and written, where every chapter was filled with only Vincent. And now she couldn''t wait to finish that book and write another book where it narrates the story of her marriage and pregnancy adventures.


    Yes, with their babies!


    Being a wife to Vincent and a mom to his children is the greatest gift of life she could ever imagine having.


    *


    "That bitch!"


    Hailee came back to her senses when she could keep hearing Eva''s shrilling voice arguing with Bryan.


    "Bryan, we''re expecting our first child!" Eva shrieked.


    "It ain''t my child!"


    "Bryan¡­" Eva gawked at him with pain in her eyes. It may shock her a little that Bryan says that... Eva only had one conclusion. Turning her head at Hailee, her heart filled with hatred toward her. "Did that girl tell you?"


    "No, Eva! I heard it from your mouth!"


    "What do you mean, Bryan?" Eva''s face turns white like bond paper. She opens her mouth, but no words are forming in her tongue for her excuses.


    "Do you think I am that stupid, Eva? I watched your every move and every phone call and message on your phone!"


    "Bryan¡­ Bryan! I just did it because I love you!" Eva threw her arms around Bryan''s waist. He tried to take her hand off from him, but Eva won''t move.


    "Miss Lan, how dare you say that you love Bryan."


    "Shut up, bitch!"


    "Then why didn''t you sign the divorce agreement your husband gave you if you are happy in my ex-fiance''s bed?" she dropped the bomb.


    Hailey saw how Bryan''s face was in horror upon hearing what she said. Apparently, how shocked he was to find this bomb she suddenly dropped in the room.


    ncing at her with disbelief, Bryan turned his head to the woman inside his arm.


    "What the hell is this, Eva!?"

 Chapter 253 - Her Husband (One)

    <h4>Chapter 253 - Her Husband (One)</h4>


    "Bryan..."


    "Speak!" Bryan shouted, gripping her left arm as hepletely loosened his patience for her. "What more lies do you hide under your thick skin!?"


    Before Eva could answer, Hailee cut her in.


    "Tsk. Tsk¡­. Better not lie, Eva," she smirked before she withdrew her gaze to Eva, then turned her attention to Bryan. "Too bad. You never find out until now that Miss Lan is a married woman, Bryan."


    "Don''t believe her, Bryan! She''s the one who is lying! She hates me because you keeping back to me! Now she is making up a story!"


    Eva thought she could make Bryan believe in her. But she''s wrong. Bryan frowns.


    "Really, Eva? I keeping back to you? It was you who is making up a story now! Is this what you tell Hailey? That''s why she never gives me a chance to exin myself? Answer me!?"


    "Why can''t you believe me in just this one, Bryan?" Eva welled up. She covered her face with her palm and cried. She wanted to show Bryan how to hurt her was the way he treated her.


    "Why would I? Tell me!? You have been caught, Eva! Even in your pregnancy, you lied to me! Then what''s there to believe you? How long have you been fooling me!?" Bryan roared.


    "Bryan, you''re hurting me... Please, release my arm." Eva pleaded, pulling her arm from his grip. She can''t feel her arm anymore, but the pain of how numbed at the part Bryan grabbed her.


    But he turned deaf. Eva kept pleading, but Bryan came off ruthlessly and gave her no chance to exin further. Instead, he narrowed his gaze. Bryan''s eyes were telling her that he was ready to kill her at this very moment.


    But she is determined... She needs to get away from this!


    "Bryan, listen to me. It was just an arranged marriage to pay Huo and save ourpany! It''s all Liam''s ordered me to do, or else, he''ll kill us all!"


    "Oh, yeah? But I give you money to pay your debts! That night, I met you in the hotel to hand you the money. But what have you done!? You drugged me to fuck you!"


    "Because I missed you, and I love you; that''s why I did all of that, Bryan..." Her reasonings that Bryan didn''t give the crap to listen.


    "How long already? Answer me!" he shook Eva''s body, his eyes burning in anger. Eva cannot open her mouth from fear that Bryan can be violent than this.


    "It''s been three years." It was Hailey who replied.


    Once again, it shocked him.


    ''Three years were not fucking just yesterday!'' Bryan screamed.


    He pressed his eyelids, cheering himself to calm down. Maybe he could not control his emotion, and he could p Eva with all his strength. Not long, he opened his eyes and looked at Hailey with tenderness; his lips smiled bitterly.


    He has been a big asshole ever since.


    He looked up at the ceiling, staring at the chandelier. He releases Eva from his hold, but Eva encircles her frail arm around his waist and begs him to give her a chance to exin.


    But he has no time for her shit anymore.


    "Let go, Eva."


    His voice is cold and full of threats. Eva knew Bryan could do shit if he wanted to, but she also knew that he wouldn''ty his hand on her because she is now pregnant.


    Bryan has a temper; she knew that very well; the reason she hated Hailee to the extreme was that he could only be too gentle and sweet to her. He treated her like a fragile, precious gem.


    Bryan loses his head every time she makes a phone call and asks him to go home. He is the ultimate servant of this girl!


    But Bryan would make it like just in the neighboring city! Make a round trip within less than 48 hours! That even he''ll fly a thousand miles away knowing he has his exam in a couple of days.


    So who''s girlfriend would not hate that kind of attention given to someone else?


    Your boyfriend can make time for somebody else but never for you! And yes! The only thing she could do during those times was fret and chase Bryan around.


    If she doesn''t do that, there will never be a rtionship to call on¡ªhonestly, all these years, only she works out to keep this rtionship in one piece.


    But she won''t give up. She loves Bryan very much. And if it isn''t for that girl, she and Bryan are supposed to be happy now! But till the end, her efforts aren''t enough for Bryan!


    Eva pulled her arms from Bryan; she turned around to face Hailee. And before Bryan can get a hold of her, she already dashed out toward Hailee.


    She stepped backward, but it was what Eva aimed, to push Hailee.


    Before she falls, a muscr arm catches her waist and pulls her close to his body. Hailee''s eyes glowed. Suddenly, she felt like in a fairytale that was saved by her prince in time she needed him most.


    Eva was like seeing a grim reaper, haunting her at this very moment that it was her dead end. Her face looked like running out of blood as it turned pale like a ghost.


    "Vincent!?"


    The guy stared at her with cold eyes. No emotion exhibits on his face, but a total stranger is staring at someone. There is no familiarity at all.


    Vincent withdrew his gaze to fix his eyes on Hailey. Now he had a better look at the cheek Eva had pped earlier. Upon seeing the red marks, Vincent gritted his teeth as anger exploded on his nerves.


    "Let me see it." He reached out for Hailey''s cheek and rubbed it gently.


    "Vincent, what are you doing here? Do you know that girl?" asked Eva, with confusion written all over her face.


    Vincent only ignores her but continues examining Hailee''s face. "I told Tim to get an ice pack," he said.


    "I hate seeing someoney their hands on you. I want them to disappear in an instant." He added. His jaw tightened from the fury that threatens to explode soon.


    Listening to hisforting tone, Hailee couldn''t hold the emotion that suddenly struck inside her chest. She was only fighting it the entire time she talked to Eva, as she would never show her weakness this time.


    And now, having Vince on her side made her too emotional she can''t control.


    After she learns she is pregnant, she does some research on the situations she will encounter.


    Swing moods are at the top of the list as symptoms in her pregnancy. She will be emotional such as suddenly get upset about little things, then cry over minor issues.


    Or upset over minor issues, then cry about little things. She would just imagine that; it feels like a crazy adventure.


    "Hubby... Do you know that Miss Lan is always bullying me? I did nothing to her, but she is constantlyshing me out even in our past encounters," she purred at Vince.


    Vince moves his gaze, casting a re at Eva as he utters, "She and Zenaida cannot do better in their life but feeling superior toward other people. Whatever wordsing from their mouth is never noteworthy. Do you understand me?"


    Eva couldn''t believe what she heard.


    Her nominal husband is intimately holding Hailee in his arm, and now she is calling him hubby? Like, what the fuck?


    "What is going on, Vincent?" She asked in an using tone.


    Vincent lifted his head and turned in Eva''s and Bryan''s direction. He narrowed his gaze, as he didn''t like the way his nominal wife sounded.


    "What gives you the right to question me? Did I ever question your rtionship with another man, even after we got married? No, Eva. I didn''t give you such requirements to be my nominal wife, but let you continue living with your boyfriend or have a rtionship with whoever you like! Now, don''t use that using tone of yours!" Vincent sneered.


    And in the middle of their heated argument, Bryan snaps.


    "What is going on here?!"


    He was the most confused and lost in this encounter. It appears that Eva knew Vincent, and he is not deaf. He heard clear and loud every word Vincent threw at Eva.


    The truth is crying out loud.


    They were married!


    But Hailey is in a rtionship with Vincent Shen, who is a married man. Then that means she is a mistress!


    He thought nothing could shock him again after he learned Eva was married. But now, he is horrified that Hailee is in an affair with a married man. How did it all happen, for god'' sake!?


    "Hail¡­ Do you know Eva is married to Vincent?" he asked Hailey after a long thought.


    Hailey replied, "Yes and no."


    Eva gawked at her. She began mulling over the situation that they have now. It never urred to her that a possibility, Hailee and Vincent, would cross paths. But how?


    Eva let out a loudugh. To anyone who can hear her outside, they would think she is losing her mind.


    "I see¡­ I get it now! You dug into my life so that you can take revenge on me!"

 Chapter 254 - Her Husband (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 254 - Her Husband (Two)</h4>


    Hailey shook her head after listening to her bbing. Eva is eventually bing delusional.


    "I''m sorry to curtail your illusion, Miss Lan, but you are not worthy of my time, to begin with. I skip the revenge part, as I am not interested in wasting more time than I already did," she replies.


    She has no reason to exin herself to Eva furthermore. God knows what her true purpose is and why she got close to Vince, which she knew Vince had his personal intention to get close to her.


    "Liar!" She clenched both of her palms into fists. She would never believe that Hailee''s closeness to Vincent had no ulterior motive.


    But she never anticipates that this girl would take massive action against her. Now she realized,ing to the restaurant is a trap set for her!


    Evaughed. She should never have belittled this girl! In the past, she could easily scare her because she appears so fragile, but that also upset her!


    Her innocent face made Bryan go crazy if this girl demanded his time! Finally, a year ago, she seeded in separating them, but now? ''Unbelievable!''


    Eva cast Hailee dark res; she pondered, ''How if?'' She has doubts about Hailee''s pregnancy. ''Howe Vincent is the father?''


    "My dear husband¡­ Are you sure she is even pregnant, to begin with?" she asked Vincent using her sarcastic tone, pursed her lips into a disdainful smile after.


    Of course, she is familiar with this kind of trick. A desperate woman would go to extreme lengths to win the battle!


    Vincent raised his left eyebrows. "And who gives you the right to address me as your husband? You have a thick face, Eva! How dare you pass your deeds on to others! You are so disgusting!"


    His thunderous roar echoed in the room. Vincent narrowed his gaze, enraged at Eva''s usation. He''s only taken control of his sanity, but if only he could, he already strangles Eva by her neck.


    But Eva has no n to back down and admit defeat! She believes Hailee faked her pregnancy like her!


    "Are you sure she was pregnant with your child, Vincent?" Eva lifted her chin, remaining prideful.


    "How dare you doubt it!" Vincent sneered at Eva. He was a couple of meters away, too near to grab Eva''s neck.


    "Of course! Everyone is saying that you are gay. So, how did you get her pregnant? Can you even do it? I heard you haven''t slept with any girls yet!"


    "And why do you have to be concerned about my sexual activities?"


    At this time, Vincent has the urge to p Eva from her right cheek and left cheek.


    How unbelievable that Eva keeps provoking him. She even has the guts to doubt his hard work to pregnant Hailee, which he poured all of his hormones into to satisfy her each time they made love.


    He may never have done that kind of activity before, but he has many ways to learn how to please a woman. And to be honest, he sometimes overdid it because of his passion. But Hailey neverins but asks for more.


    He never desired someone before. But he could not control himself when it came to Hailee. He was madly in love with her, but he was overly sexually attracted to her as well.


    And he knows the feeling is mutual. He was her first, and it made him so happy.


    Vincent set aside his thoughts. He cast a sidelong nce at Eva, contemting the advice his friends had told him. Eva is disastrous news to his life. But he can not refuse his mom arranging the marriage because of the pressure from society. Now how messy everything is.


    After a brief pause, he went on...


    "Milking money from me? Using another man to get you pregnant? Then obliging another man to father someone''s child? I know no one as disgusting as you, Eva!"


    Eva was infuriated after Vince''s harsh words were thrown at her. She would not ept he was free to call her that when Hailee also threw herself at him!


    Hailee used Vincent to get back at her; she is sure of that. And for her, she admits she used Liam to her advances to hide from Vincent but pursue Bryan!


    Clearly, she and Hailee have been whoring around! Then there is no difference between them! But she''s the only one who has received insults!


    "That girl is also disgusting! How can you be so sure that she is clean? I am sure she is tricking you as well!" Eva asserted, pointing her finger at Hailey.


    Vince pursed his lips and uttered coldly. "How shameful you are to pass your doings to others. Can''t you see? Three fingers pointing back at you?"


    "Open your eyes, Vincent! Can''t you see? She is using you to take revenge on me!" Eva screeched, taking a few steps toward them.


    Vincent quickly moved forward to use his body as a shield, and Bryan pulled Eva away.


    Vincent shot a dagger look at Eva as he roared, "You are wrong, Eva! I was the one who took the first step to trap her using a contract to pretend to be my mistress."


    "She seduced you!" she argued.


    "You are wrong again. She is the woman who I told you about before. The one I wanted to marry, rather than you. You are never worthy of being Mrs. Shen."


    You don''t deserve to be my Empress! Vince added to his head. He has decided. He will im his ancestor''s title, being descendants of Emperor Xing!


    To what Vincent had said, shocks appeared on Eva''s face. Vincent indeed told her before¡ªthere is a girl he is searching for, and when he finds her, they will have a divorce so that he could marry that girl.


    But who would have thought? That girl is Hailee! The same girl she hated so much in this life!


    "I can''t believe this!" Eva cannot process how her fate is ying on her.


    "It''s f**king real, Eva. Now, ept my utmost gratitude for destroying Hailey and Bryan''s rtionship. Thank you for delivering Hailee on my doorsteps." his words are full of sarcasm.


    "No! You can''t marry her!" ''I will never let her be happy!'' Eva selfishly thought.


    "And what is your right to stop me from marrying Hailee? Why? Are you not going to sign the papers? Is that it, Eva? Then my two cents goes to Mr. Anderson." Vince chuckled; then his gaze turned to Bryan and said, "You shouldn''t keep a poisonous woman like her, Mr. Anderson."


    Bryan scoffs, clenching his jaw as he sneered at Eva. "And who says I want to keep her? I''m not interested in keeping a snake pet! I just wanted this drama to be over! A year ago, I was so disgusted by what you did, Eva!"


    "Bryan.¡­ " she cried, looking at him helplessly. Bryan is not taking her side. He is only ring at her with disgust.


    He should have been angry after discovering that Hailee is having an affair with a married man, her nominal husband!


    Instead, Bryan seemed to care for nothing at all!


    Bryan only shrugs Eva''s hand on his shoulder; with her touch, his tongue could taste disgusted! It is far worse than a spoiled fish kept in a bucket for so long!


    Hailey watched Eva from the sideline in this drama, trying hard to turn the tables and throw the usations to her to spare her crimes. But whatever drama she is acting in now, it won''t work anymore.


    Eva is saying it''s not Vincent''s child. That was actually funny. Sheughed at it. How dare she?


    She and Vincentbored to conceive this child with love. They poured all their hearts and souls.


    Now, she will not overlook how much Eva insults them. Never again.


    "What are youughing at!?" Eva howled at Hailee after it reached her ears when the girl was chuckling behind Vincent.


    "You just amuse me so much, Miss Lan."


    "You, bitch!"


    Hailee wipes the smile on her lips, then reces it with a serious expression on her face.


    "Do you want to know how I learned you are married, Miss Lan? I would love to share the story of where it all began. I took revenge on you on behalf of Vincent."


    "See? I knew it! You took advantage of Vincent to take revenge on me!" Eva was very confident until now.


    Hailee shook her head. She snorted, then mouthed, "Stop being so full of yourself, Eva."


    Eva was taken aback, sensing the coldness in Hailee''s voice. The way she looks at her suffocates her¡ªso, suddenly, she was intimidated by her presence, emitting a dangerous aura from her body.


    "Before I tell Bryan and Vincent when I learned you are married, allow me to introduce myself. We always had encountered each other in the past, but you never learned my real identity."


    "Really? Like I am interested!" Eva shrieked.


    "Oh, you should be, sweetheart. My name is Hailee Hillson Davies. Owner of DV Inc. and CEO of Davies Group¡­ Mr. Bryan Varghese Anderson is my Vice President, and President Vincent Shen is my contractor. I gave him a 100 Billion US Dors project in my city. I need not spill out the name when you applied to be my resident Interior Designer. I''m sorry, Miss Eva Lan, but I rejected your application, and it was now shredded and burnt."


    Eva froze on her feet. Her eyes widened from shock at the revtion Hailee had pped on her face, not only on her left cheek but also on her right cheek.


    "Yo¡­. you¡­. Yo¡­." Eva can not mutter the words she was trying to let out.


    Hailey took a seat in the dining chair nearby, crossed her legs, then folded her arms above her chest.


    "That''s right, Miss Lan. I am their boss. And you are just a cockroach I could step on whenever I wanted. But I''m not fond of revenge stuff, actually. However, I want you to disappear from my sight."

 Chapter 255 - Her Husband (Three) [SPECIAL CHAPTERS]

    <h4>Chapter 255 - Her Husband (Three) [SPECIAL CHAPTERS]</h4>


    Several months ago¡­.


    Hailee made a stop in Greece to attend a Charity Cocktail Party. Tonight, she is wearing a fitted ck evening dress.


    "Good thing that this party has to wear a mask."


    "You''re right, Pitt." She raises her ss, brings it to her lips, and sips on her wine.


    "Don''t drink too much, Princess." Pitt scolds her again.


    Hailee frowned. He has kept reminding her not to drink a lot tonight as she couldn''t hold her liquor yet.


    "It has low alcohol content. I will not just get drunk." Hailee reasons out, pursing her lips into a sweet smile.


    "Princess, I tolerated you these passing months but not in public."


    "Yeah, I know." she giggled, shrugs a shoulder, then ignored Pitt''s unending scolding.


    The helpless guy sighed violently. He ced his palms on the top of the cold balustrades and observed the people below in the courtyard with a vast swimming pool.


    They were on a balcony in one of the most luxurious vis in Greece. The two yachts she owned were anchored near here, and she wanted to leave the party and had a swim instead because tonight is no different from other parties she''d attended in the past couple of months. It was boring.


    All the guests tonight are billionaires in the business world. These tycoons were here not only to show off their power, but most of them were also potential business deals and partnerships.


    At this party, you aren''t invited if your worth is only a million dors. Andbine the SHEN GROUP and the Lopez Empire, they are members in the Billionaire''s category.


    But Vincent Shen, CEO of Shen Group, isn''t here.


    "Pitt, have you confirmed he wouldn''t attend this party?" Hailee asked afterward.


    "That''s what I found out from the host of this party. He only sent someone to hand over his donations," he replied without casting a nce in her direction, uninterested in talking another man.


    "I see." She pursed her lips into disappointment.


    Pitt turned his head and looked at her over his shoulder. He sighed. The princess has been trying to catch that man.


    "It seems that he doesn''t enjoy socializing, the same as you."


    His words areforting; Hailey senses that. Well, she''s been hunting Vincent Shen, hoping to talk about business. Every time she receives an invitation, she will collect information if Vincent Shen were also invited to the party or any future activities.


    Hailee got up from the french chaise; she strode toward Pitt, then halted beside him. She looks up to watch the stars dancing on the night skyline before her eyes dramatically travel to the vastness of the ocean far ahead.


    As the night is getting older, the sea breeze is getting colder as well. Hailee fixes her gaze to the party below.


    These tycoons have a reason they''ve wasted time at parties around the globe, and tonight, she is no different among them; however, her prospect isn''t here.


    If it weren''t for a purpose, she would never be here and attend such boring gatherings. Socializing with the upper ss in High Society is thest thing she is interested in. Even though these people are not just ordinary rich men and women, still, she is dim to be friends with them.


    "I have to endure this, right, Pitt?"


    "Yeah. You don''t have a choice because you were born as the heir to Davies Empire."


    Hailey snorts. She saw a few guests raise their sses in her direction. She returned the gesture, lifted her arm with a ss of wine, then sipped on it.


    Many of these sessful tycoons are way older than her. They''ve experienced businessmen and women and already won many battles, fought countless situations to keep theirpany on its feet.


    However, because she was the famous Jacob Davies'' sole heiress, these tycoons bowed to her, trying to impress her and treat her overly nice, to the point that it causes her to feel ufortable.


    Although she is growing up with such an extravagant life, still, she will not be used to this kind of treatment and importance because if it wasn''t for her name?


    She knew these people would never care to cast a nce in her direction. And if they will, they would only call her a social climber or gold digger like the other women on this party who did everything, fighting for a spot to be chosen as the date of someone''s billionaire. Being here without a name or status was treated like an escort.


    Hailee chuckled, shook her head at her thought. Why do women have to chase a man? Is it love? His fortune? How about in a woman''s case?


    Could it be the same? Love or Fortune? Body? Trophy?


    It seemed like she needed to learn about all this stuff to y the Game of Love with many possibilities of betrayal, lies, and that¡­ REVENGE¡­.


    How to y along? She honestly has no interest in that. But¡­.


    "Pitt, I want you to gather the information of every single tycoon at this party," her request, and what she said next, made Pitt drop his jaw. "I think I should start dating soon."


    And in the next second, it is exactly the reaction she''d already imagined Pitt would have.


    "Have you lost your mind!? Do you think there are normal guys out here!?"


    ''Yeah, including yourself isn''t normal.'' she mumbled, rolled her eyes, andpletely wasn''t listening to Pitt, who continued lecturing her, but a sweet smile stered across her face.


    ''Jeez¡­ How could I get rid of Pitt?'' She can''t do something with her knights surrounding her! She needs to find perfect timing, then runs away from her knights, and that''s a massive n for her to make.


    Hailee was in the middle of ''making ns'' when amotion at the balcony door. She turned around.


    Since her knights guard it, no one can approach her, but they have to get through such security protocol, which only Pitt gives permission.


    With her presence in every gathering, everyone wanted to talk to her, hoping to present some business proposal or attempt to have an appointment to bid on a project in her city.


    "Please! Can I talk to Miss Davies for just three minutes? That''s all I need for her to look at my presentation! Please!" said a man, helpless in front of her knights. They are using their height and firm body as a shield to any attempted attack.


    "Who''s that?" she asked Pitt, as she had no view of what was going on but her knight''s broad back she could only see.


    "I think it was the CEO of H Group, which you rejected their proposal."


    "I see." She gestured a dismissal wave, rejecting to see the guy.


    Pitt calls someone from the knight and gives instruction. Just for tonight, there are twenty knights to look for her safety, not to mention the satellite visual from the sky and five snipers scattered at the high grounds, hidden from different directions.


    Hailee sighs. She reaches for her head to rub her temple. She took a seat and leaned back. Swirling the content in her wine ss, she was about to gulp the liquid when Pitt snatched it from her hand.


    "That''s enough." Pitt sat down on the cocktail table, facing Hailee. He extends both of his arms to reach her temple and forehead.


    Hailee closes her eyes, letting Pitt kneading her forehead until she sighs with relief.


    "Pitt..." she calls out to him, whispering.


    "Yeah."


    "What shall I do without you by my side?" she murmured between heaving a long sigh.


    Pitt has rendered speechless. ''This naive girl! She neverprehends what she was saying to a man!''


    This girl never considers their poor heart.


    Pitt hurls his deepest breath from the bottom of his lungs, then releases them gradually. He poked Hailee''s forehead before he got up.


    "I''ll make you a coffee." He said, striding toward the console table where it ces all he needed.


    It''s always a special request every time Hailey went to parties like this; they brought their own stuff, such as a coffee maker, coffee beans, and mugs, to ensure her safety, not only from the assassins and kidnappers or Liam''s alliance.


    And speaking of Liam, he is banned from stepping anywhere in Europe, the US, or Africa. However, he has partnerships with otherpanies anywhere globally, or to say, his legal and illegal business partners.


    There is a possibility he will use them to abduct the Princess, and Pitt would not allow that to happen. No matter what, they must prevent anyone from getting near Hailee that a possibility is Liam''s men.


    "Pitt, I''m going to the powder room," she announced, standing behind Pitt. He nodded.


    Whenever she attends events outside Australia, she has a female bodyguard assigned to apany her inside thedies'' room. Five knights, including Pitt, escort her toward the powder room at the left wing of the floor they were in.


    While Hailee was inside the cubicle and her female bodyguard was standing outside her door, she heard two women''s voicesing in.


    The two women were busy gossiping. Hailee cannot avoid listening to them when their voices are too loud.


    "Eva, what are you doing?" Yelled by the other girl.


    "What?" a familiar voice snaps at her.


    Hailee was surprised to hear this familiar voice. She finished her spill, but she didn''t want to see Eva''s face, so she remained inside the cubicle, listening to whatever gossip is. But she wondered why Eva was here as this is Billionaires'' party.


    She knew Eva wasn''t from a super-rich family, so there is no chance she could get an invitation unless she escorted a billionaire because Bryan wasn''t one.


    Curiosity hits her¡ªshe listens to Eva having a conversation with the other girl. Maybe she could get a little information about her behind Bryan''s back.


    "Your husband flew to New York to discuss your divorce, but here you are!"


    ''Husband?'' Hailee raised one eyebrow. She didn''t hear Eva, and Bryan got married because Tina Anderson never likes Eva. She deprived Bryan of his inheritance instead.


    Hailee was mulling over what''s going on here. Then Eva''s shrieking voice filled the room.


    "Humph! I don''t care! I will not sign it until he didn''t agree to my conditions," she said stubbornly.


    This time, it was Hailee''s other brow raised upward. She mused, ''And what conditions are that?''

 Chapter 256 - Her Husband (Four) [SPECIAL CHAPTERS]

    <h4>Chapter 256 - Her Husband (Four) [SPECIAL CHAPTERS]</h4>


    "And what conditions did you give to your husband?"


    Eva didn''t answer Ruth, her best friend. She looked for an empty cubicle to piss.


    "It''s just a few dimes of his money," she replied. She came out after a minute, washed her hands, then started retouching her makeup.


    "I want a permanent apartment in New York," she told Ruth.


    "Are you talking about that $ 40 Million penthouse in Manhattan?" shocked registered on Ruth''s face. She heard this guy was rich, but now, he sounded super rich!


    Eva nodded. "Yes. And thetest Ferrari, the white satin one, a $50 Million transfer on my bank ount, and a vi in Metro City. I don''t want to see my parents, so I want to stay at my own house!"


    "Eva? Did you hear yourself? That''s too much!" Ruth freaked out. She imagined the things Eva have bbing about; now she started dizzying to count her best friend''s fortune! It was a lifetime blessing!


    "I''m not finished yet, Ruth. I am keeping the yacht too." Eva smiled at her reflection in the mirror.


    Ruth dropped her mouth open. "Is that how incredibly rich your husband is? Why waste time chasing Bryan or sleeping with d if he is?"


    "Shush!" Eva cast a re in her direction. They weren''t alone in that powder room. "Actually, I intend to agree to my nominal husband''s request of discussing our divorce in New York because he''s also invited to this party. If he''s here, he will see me with d! I have my reasons for epting d''s invitation as his date. So, it shouldn''tpromise that."


    It seems Eva has too many tricks under her sleeves! Ruth finds it disturbing.


    "Hold up, girl! Are you crazy? Isn''t Bryan the VP of Davies Group? Then you''re entangled with d, not to mention your husband. Does Bryan even know you are married? It''s been two years!"


    "That''s why keep your mouth shut!" Eva warned her best friend. Afterward, she smiled at Ruth and said, "How about this¡­ I''ll give you five hundred thousand US dors. Do you want it?"


    "Deal! Don''t take back your words; you''re giving me some of your fortunes!" Ruth has an enormous smile across her face. "And I will live with you in your house!"


    "Sure. As long as you tell nothing to Bryan," Eva beamed. "Oh, by the way, after my husband purchases the penthouse, Bryan should know nothing about it. So we must keep our current apartment."


    "Okay. I understand. I promised I wouldn''t mention anything to Bryan about anything. You can trust me!" Ruth didn''t hide her excitement, but then she calmed down after realizing something. It isn''t happening yet, and everything is vague.


    "Is your husband even willing to grant you these conditions? We are talking US dors here, Eva! Can he afford that?" Ruth queried further.


    "Of course, he is! He owns multiple buildings rented by those big fish globally. And he has apartments throughout P Country; it''s not just in Metro City. He built condos in everyrger city in the country. And his yacht business earned well. He is ranked number one boat builder in all of Asia now. He is super rich, yes!"


    "Your husband sounds great. He''s also handsome! Why didn''t you chase him instead? You''ll live like a queen!" Ruth has been ecstatic, but Eva only snorts at her enthusiasm.


    "Do you know why I want him topensate me that much? It would be his payment for me from facing such humiliation!"


    It confused Ruth. She''s waiting for Eva to continue.


    "He''s using me to cover up his true sexual orientation, you know¡­." Eva first reapplied a red lipstick on her lips before she went on. She scanned her reflection in the mirror, then smiled to herself.


    "I''ve known him since we were little. He''s older than me by a few years, but I know what others are saying. He is gay!"


    Ruth raised an eyebrow at the fact she heard. "Is that even true? How can you be so sure?"


    "He never had a girlfriend since birth! And they were saying; he sleeps no one with yet! Countless women attempt to climb his bed, but none of them he touched! And when he goes sailing? Hispany is all boys! What would you think about that? No women on the yacht? Isn''t that suspicious enough?"


    "Eh? But he is so handsome! I can''t believe that he is gay!" Ruth already meets Eva''s nominal husband the reason she could not believe Eva''s imed.


    "That''s very true, Ruth. I tried it for myself. I attempt to seduce him, but you know? We''re having just dinner, but he didn''t even look at me! He''s too cold and formal! The dinner juststed thirty minutes, and he spent time with his male friends instead! Who knows what they were doing? That is why, even though his mom bugged me to go back to Metro City, I''m not interested. What is the use of having a husband if he is not interested in you? My s*x life is in vain as he only prefers men!" Eva''s litany.


    "Then why don''t you divorce him so soon?" Shocked at everything she heard, but this question is hanging there. She gapes at Eva.


    Eva meets Ruth''s confusing gaze. She beamed, then strides toward her best friend, extending her arms to hold both of her shoulders.


    "My dear, Ruth. You aren''t looking at the big picture. Clearly, my nominal husband is way richer than Bryan. He didn''t give me any terms and conditions when we agreed to this arranged marriage so I can be with anyone I want."


    "How about Bryan? Is it because he lost his inheritance that''s why you dyed your divorce?"


    "I love Bryan very much. But think practically, Ruth."


    "He is VP of Davies Group. He''s earning great as well, right?"


    "Yeah. But he is always cold to me. He''s not interested in f**king me anymore."


    "And that''s why you hook up with d?" Ruth asked curiously. To be honest, she was nervous about what Eva''s doing.


    "He needs me, and I need him. Why not? He has money and power. It should be Win-Win, Ruth." said Eva. She then walked, headed to the door.


    Hailee narrowed her gaze. Eva is really something; she is a shame to women! Disgusts crawled through her body, listening to everything Eva had confessed.


    How dare she gossips about her nominal husband and bacsh about Bryan? How if it was someone who heard that? Eva mentioned the Davies Group! And there''s no other Bryan, her VP!


    She didn''t see Eva''s face, but she could picture the proudness in her eyes and the beamed on her lips!


    She didn''t know who her husband was, but her sympathy was for him already. Eva is pure evil, a gold digger, and a social climber!


    She keeps reminding herself not to waste her time for Eva, but she hates her extremely now!


    She doesn''t understand, but she wants tofort whoever is Eva''s husband.


    ''Who is he?'' she asked herself.


    She wishes to meet him and reveal Eva''s doing so that she receives not even one dime! Eva deserves nothing!


    Hailee contemted; then, an idea came to her. ''He''s also living in P Country like Vincent Shen!''


    And if she is not mistaken, Eva mentioned he is also constructing buildings and apartments. What a coincidence, isn''t it?


    ''Vincent Shen probably knows him!''


    Hailee wondered if he''s good as Vincent. She will not mind hiring him as well if his achievements are also outstanding.


    Eva also mentioned he was building boats. Then, he was possibly Vincent Shen''s business partner.


    ''One stone, two birds.'' Hailey felt delighted at thinking of this quote.


    Now that the room is silent, it is time for her to get out. She nced at her female bodyguard, who smiled awkwardly. She heard the gossip loud and clear.


    "What do you want me to do, Miss?"


    "Nothing¡­ Just let it be."


    "She has a thick face!" Rose also didn''t like how Eva insults her nominal husband. It was apparent the guy is nice and generous. He allowed Eva to date other men, but this woman isn''t satisfied!


    "I know. But don''t mention this to anyone, especially to Pitt."


    "But, Miss¡­"


    "Don''t worry. I already have a n," she smiled at Rose.


    Hailey fixed her dress, then prepared to leave. She picked up her phone and looked at it for a moment. It''s a good thing that she recorded everything Eva had said about her nominal husband. And even she lies to Bryan!


    ''Just wait, Eva Lan. I''ll give you hell when the time is perfect.''

 Chapter 257 - Her Husband (Five) [SPECIAL CHAPTERS]

    <h4>Chapter 257 - Her Husband (Five) [SPECIAL CHAPTERS]</h4>


    "Pitt! Let''s go!" she announced, takingrge steps in the hallway.


    "Are we leaving now? But the party¡­."


    "Rose will hand over the cheque. I already gave her instructions." She cut whatever Pitt would say. She halted from taking another step. She turned around to hug her female bodyguard. "Thank you, Rose. You can return to Italy after here."


    "You''re wee, Miss Davies. It''s a pleasure to work for you." Rose bowed after the hug.


    "Take care!" said Hailee; she then resumed walking toward the staircase, following her knights to take a secret exit.


    That night, no one noticed her leave. Hailee and her knights go back to the yachts in silence while Rose approaches Senior Maurice to exin her early leave.


    ***


    Lounging on the long couch, Pitt looked at Hailee with shock. "Are you out of your mind? Do you know how dangerous your n is!?"


    "Pitterson Cha!" Hailee frowned.


    "Have you forgotten that Liam is just lurking around with his men? They were following us around and ready to attack and abduct you if he sees the chance?"


    "That''s why you will not apany me! So Liam believes that I''m just somewhere in Europe! or Dubai!" she insisted.


    "You''re losing your mind! So am I with your ns!"


    "Like what I''ve told you, Keith will take care of everything once I''m in P Country." she pleaded.


    However, Pitt remains to stand on his words. She ran to her cabin and cried.


    Left in the pool area, Pitt growled. The princess is acting like a spoiled brat again. He could not take it anymore; he stood from the couch and marched towards her cabin.


    "Open it, Princess. Let''s talk." he keeps knocking on the door.


    "I''m sleeping!"


    Pitt rolled his eyes. She''s in a rebellious mood at this moment. His fingers rake through his hair and release a helpless sigh.


    "Okay, fine! I will allow you to go, but we need to discuss it thoroughly. Staying in the country without us is like burying you alive by me. Do you understand that, Princess?"


    Just within seconds, the door opened wide.


    "I promised I would behave well!" Hailee had a broad smile on her face and her eyes twinkling from excitement.


    He knew it! He already sees it through, but this girl made him helpless with no choice but to spoil her.


    Hailee let him entered her cabin and sat down on the sectional sofa. She listens to everything Pitt had said,ying his conditions on the table.


    "Share your daily activities and ns once you are in P Country." Pitt began; Hailee nodded obediently through their talk.


    In the next few days, Hailee arrived in Dubai; from there, she took a flight bound for P Country. The moment her foot stepped on thend, she had the widest smile on her face.


    She never felt freedom like this, just now. With her knights around, she can''t fully decide for herself, but she has to wait for everyone to agree, or else her safety is at stake.


    How strange, but she feels like she found the light she had been looking for. She''s never been this happy when she roams around the streets of Paris, Italy, Budapest, London, or anywhere in the world!


    It seems magical¡­. That''s what she is feeling at the moment.


    ''Atst, I''m here!'' she shrieked inwardly. ''Now, let''s rock this city!''


    She had two things she wanted to do why she visits P Country.


    First, she will offer a project for the Shen Group, and so, she has to know more about Vincent Shen.


    Second, she wanted to meet Eva''s husband. If he is gay, that is not a problem for her; instead, she would befortable making friends.


    Maybe they''d be best friends, and she''s excited to find him. And to do that, she has to get close to Vincent Shen to help her find Eva''s husband.


    Surely, they were in the same circle in High Society. They seemed both sessful in business, making the same trade.


    Hailee arrived at her hotel suite in Metro Pce Hotel. She told Keith to get her not so luxurious room. Still, he booked a DeLuxe suite, and her room was on the 25th floor of that hotel.


    "I should get you a Presidential Suite if you didn''t warn me." Keith reasoned when she confronted him.


    "Okay, fine." She dropped the issue. "See you and Daisy in two hours! I missed you guys!"


    "Okay, princess. See you at La Fleur."


    "Bye!"


    After the quick call, she took a quick shower, dried her hair, then dressed up for dinner. After one hour, she''s ready and off!


    She was inside the elevator when Sandy emailed her the information she asked him the other day. It was the information about Eva Lan, including her husband''s.


    Hailee was so surprised to recognize the man in the photo attached to the files.


    ''Holy shot!'' she squeals inwardly.


    Her eyes glued to her phone screen remained staring at the man in the photo, none other than Vincent Shen. ording to the information, Sandy had gathered. He and Eva got married over two years ago in New York.


    ''Oh, my gosh! Is he truly gay?''


    She can''t convince herself¡ªit''s impossible to believe when the man in the photo was so attractive.


    ''Wait, what? He''s attractive?'' What were you thinking, Hailee Davies!? She scolded herself.


    Hailee keeps staring at her phone screen when the elevator door opens. She lifted her gaze to check out who they were.


    Suddenly, her surroundings put everything to a halt. She could not withdraw her gaze from the man who was staring back at her. She didn''t understand, but she felt butterflies in her stomach and her heart beating loudly.


    The elevator door was slowly closing; the man held on to stop it from shutting.


    ''It was him!'' she freaked out to meet Vincent Shen atst.


    "Tim, take the stairs."


    It was what she heard him instructing to the man standing behind him. She knew him, of course. ording to the information she gathered, he is Timothy Cheng, the Assistant.


    "Boss? What do you mean I take the stairs?"


    Timothy Cheng talks to his boss, shows they did not just have a boss-assistant rtionship but a closer one like good friends.


    Hailee snaps herself to blink and avert her eyes from Vincent Shen, who is now stepping inside the elevator, leaving his assistant behind.


    She isn''t sure whether to think that Vincent is only joking with his assistant because if it was true, that was a hell of a step from the 20th floor down to the ground floor.


    But that servesmon sense. There are another three elevators in this hotel Timothy Cheng can ride.


    So that was a joke!


    Hailee concealed the smile on her lips. This elevator has mirrored walls, and now her neck stiffened as she avoided looking in the front where she could meet Vincent Shen''s eyes. She had to when she could feel that pair of burning deep brown eyes staring at her face.


    ''Eva Lan! You''re such a liar! You said your nominal husband is gay. Why did he smell so nice!''


    And that''s not the only case. She felt like the threads on her white lower lingerie were loosened up. She''d like to check if her underwear is still around her waist!


    ''I hope so!''


    Wearing a loose white dress tonight is never a good idea!


    ***


    Hailee was pulled back to the present when Eva''s screeching voice constantly yelled at Bryan.


    "So this is the reason! You want to marry her for money! Am I right, Bryan!?"


    "Stop making up more stories, Eva! I''m so fed up!" Bryan shouted back.

 Chapter 258 - Her End (One)

    <h4>Chapter 258 - Her End (One)</h4>


    She was listening to Eva''s shrill voice, arguing with Bryan about what pulled Hailee back to the present. The two continued to quarrel, which gave her a headache, and her ears were buzzing from Eva, endlessly shrieking at Bryan.


    "So this is the reason! That''s why you are like a puppet, like a dog! You are ready to be a ve and even to marry her! It was because of her money! Am I right, Bryan!?"


    "Enough, Eva! Stop making up more stories! I''m so fed up with everything thates out of your filthy mouth!" Bryan shouted back.


    Hailee sighs. She can''t stand to continue listening to the argument all afternoon. She reached her temple, kneaded both sides, and growled in a low voice. Vince noticed her action.


    "Are you okay, Wifey?" He asked, leaning over to touch her left cheek. He could see that Hailee looked paler and seemed ufortable.


    "I''m not feeling well, hubby," she told Vince. He squatted in front of her to check her temperature.


    "Do you have a fever? Your forehead is a bit hot. It isn''t good if you get sick when you are pregnant. You can''t take any medicine," said Vince worriedly. "I think we better go home for you to take a rest. I''ll instruct Tim to¡­."


    "No!" She intercepts him. "Eva must sign the divorce papers first. It was the reason we were meeting her."


    "You need not think that anymore. I''ll assign Tim to deal with that from here."


    "But we came to meet Eva and¡­."


    Eva cast a sidelong nce at the couple, whispering at each other. She stopped arguing with Bryan to listen to Vince and Hailee''s conversation.


    ''So they truly set me up!'' She narrowed her gaze at Vince before she fixed her eyes on Hailee.


    Until now, she couldn''t believe it. The girl she hated in her entire life was one of the wealthiest women in the world! She had her own jewelrypany, owns several fast cars, private nes, yachts, and was the sole heiress of Davies Group! Hailee had everything that she wanted!


    No wonder Bryan would throw her away!


    Hailee Davies could easily remove her from this world anytime she wanted! She''s no match for her, and it hurts after the truth ps her on the face! She is just a cockroach to her.


    Eva pursed her lips. She could taste bitter in her tongue. What will she do now? She can''t ept defeat! She can''t let things end here! However, she could not think of any valid reason that Bryan forgave her and Vincent would let her off.


    Eva contemted for a long moment; then a light came to her mind. She still has one card to get away from all of this!


    Clenching both of her palms into fists on her sides, she swallowed the lump in her throat. There is only one person to me.


    "Liam Huo!" she eximed so suddenly.


    "And what about him?" Bryan lifted his right eyebrow upward. The disgust he felt for her worsened each second that had passed. "You''ve been using him for your crap excuses!"


    "But everything is his orders! I''m just following whatever he wants me to do because he''s going to kill my family! She''s determined to find a way out. She needs to save her life to start a new one! You know that!"


    "Like I''ll believe you again." Bryan crossed his arms across his body and cast a sidelong nce at Eva. He showed no interest in listening to her crap.


    "He will kill you too, Bryan! Liam keeps threatening me!" Eva asserted. She has no n to stop until she persuades Bryan.


    "Like I can''t protect myself! Like Liam can step in Australia!"


    Eva remained silent. Bryan scoffs and mutters, "You didn''t know that, Eva? Since Liam lost all his screws in the head, the association wanted to kick him out. That is why they were gathering his illegal activities to be punished."


    "And he was already." Vincent chimed in. His lips pursed into a thin smile. "I give him heavy punches on his face and other parts of his body.


    Both Eva and Bryan give him a perplexed expression on their faces.


    Eva tried to process her head. If she isn''t mistaken, Vince tells them he and Liam had a heated encounter!


    "Vincent¡­ What did you mean he was already? Liam was in prison now?" asked Eva.


    She never had a chance to y Vincent''s wife. She doesn''t mind going on dates with him or even to sleep with him, but he is a total stone! So how did he get pregnant, Hailee? Is he truly the father?


    Vincent pushed the corner of his mouth, contorting a proud grin. "He is! And everyone who allied with him is also behind cold bars now."


    "Yeah. Including the family who orchestrated Vincent''s ident." Hailey scoffs. "Unfortunately, your parents failed to kill him, Eva."


    "No¡­ That''s a lie!" the shocks registered across Eva''s face, as she''s pale as a ghost.


    "Come on, Eva. The whole Lan family helped Liam to harm Vincent, and the Gu family helped him to abduct me."


    "What did you say, Hail? Liam got close to you? Wait¡­ What''s going on?" Bryan began freaking out, throwing a series of questions in the next seconds.


    Hailee narrated everything that happened, including the day she arrived in Metro City, Lan''s crime, Gu''s involvement, and Liam''s attempt to abduct her. She also confirmed that the incident a year ago was Liam''s, trapped with Eva''s help.


    "Liam did everything so that I won''t marry you. We''re both victims here. So I already forgive you, Bryan."


    Bryan closed his eyes. That was too wonderful to hear. But the reality is screaming out loud. There is no second chance for him because Hailee found someone, she would say, her true love. She can''t be his anymore.


    Liam got close to Hailee! And ording to what Vincent had mentioned, he and Liam had a heated encounter! Bryan snaps himself and goes back to the main issue in this talk.


    "Why didn''t you tell us, Hail!? What if something happened to you!" he stressed out afterward.


    "I went to P Country all by myself for many reasons. That includes for you to be free from Eva by exposing her affair to her nominal husband. However, I learned Vincent knew she had a boyfriend, and he didn''t forbid her to have a rtionship with other men." Hailee exined.


    "But she''s great at hiding it." Vincent chimed in, the corner of his mouth contorted an amusing smirk. "I want mom to catch her having an affair so that mom will act to convince Eva to sign a divorce agreement."

 Chapter 259 - Her End (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 259 - Her End (Two)</h4>


    "Wow. I can''t believe this!" Bryan let out a loudugh. He was shaking his head, anger burning deep down inside his chest.


    "Eva only makes you look like a fool, and she has a n to milk money from Vincent," added Hailee.


    "Oh, sure she is. I won''t count how much I paid her to stay away from us. But she made a fool of me! She set me up a year ago!" Bryan narrowed his gaze at Eva. "Is there anything worse she did than what she does already?"


    "Bryan! Listen to what I say. It was all Liam''s n! I''m just following his orders!"


    "Shut up!" Bryan''s stern voice reaches outside where Ray, Tim, and Pitt were listening behind the shut door.


    All they did this entire time was share nces at each other while listening to the drama happening inside.


    From their perspective, the couple who had the biggest issue is between Eva and Bryan, rather than Vincent and Eva, the married couple.


    But Vincent doesn''t give a fuck about Eva. All he wanted was for her to sign the papers, nothing more, but look forward to marrying Hailee.


    However, there is still a question. How will this drama unfold from here?


    In the VIP room, Eva attempts to exin to Bryan, convincing him it''s not her fault. But Bryan only shrugged when Eva touched him by the shoulder. He has no interest in listening anymore as he cannot stand to stay in the same room with her.


    Eva tried to reason out, and Hailee can''t stand to watch her drama further. She stood from the chair and strode toward Eva. She grabbed her by the arm and pushed on the nearby sofa.


    "Enough of your drama, Miss Lan! I won''t allow you to continue fooling both Vincent and Bryan!" said Hailee; she raised a recorder in the air.


    "Did you see this? It was a record of your conversation several months ago. You and your best friend Ruth were gossiping inside a powder room in one of the luxury vis in Greece. Do you remember that night, Miss Lan?"


    "What are you talking about?" She cannot follow what Hailee was talking about, but the beating inside her heart tells her it was that night!


    "You said you were going to meet your husband in New York to discuss the divorce. But you lied. You just made him a fool. You attend a Charity Cocktail Party instead," Hailee carried on.


    "You¡­." Eva could only stutter the words she wanted to spill out. Of course, she could still remember everything perfectly! Who knows that the woman inside the upied cubicle is this girl! And she bs a lot that night!


    Eva bites her bottom lip. She nced at Bryan and Vince. Both men are shooting an intent re at her.


    "I want to hear it!" said Bryan. Vincent, on the other hand, he''s not interested anymore as he already heard its content.


    Hailee yed the recorder. What she could only do at this moment was close her eyes when the room filled with her and Ruth''s voices.


    ***


    "Eh? But he is so handsome! I can''t believe that he is gay!"


    "That''s very true, Ruth. I tried it for myself. I attempt to seduce him, but you know? We''re having just dinner, but he didn''t even look at me! He''s too cold and formal! The dinner juststed thirty minutes, and he spent time with his male friends instead! Who knows what they were doing? That is why, even though his mom bugged me to go back to Metro City, I''m not interested. What is the use of having a husband if he is not interested in you? My s*x life is in vain as he only prefers men!"


    "Then why don''t you divorce him so soon?"


    "My dear, Ruth. You aren''t looking at the big picture. Clearly, my nominal husband is way richer than Bryan. He didn''t give me any terms and conditions when we agreed to this arranged marriage so I can be with anyone I want."


    "How about Bryan? Is it because he lost his inheritance that''s why you dyed your divorce?"


    "I love Bryan very much. But think practically, Ruth."


    "He is VP of Davies Group. He''s earning great as well, right?"


    "Yeah. But he is always cold to me. He''s not interested in f**king me anymore."


    "And that''s why you hook up with d?"


    "He needs me, and I need him. Why not? He has money and power. It should be Win-Win, Ruth."


    ***


    Eva opened her eyes. She saw how fierce Bryan''s gaze was at her. He looks like he is ready to kill her.


    "I''m so disgusted by you, Eva!" Bryan roared at her.


    "Bryan¡­ I was wrong! I didn''t mean any of what I said! I was drunk! I didn''t know what I''d said that time!" she reasons out, but Bryan only looks downward at her; his pupils shrunk from rage.


    He could not believe that Eva would deny it when her voice was clearly isn''t drunk!


    Eva dropped her shoulders to her sides. She has no way out now. She was mulling over. Hailee ced a folder on the table.


    "Care to sign it now, Miss Lan? The recording I hold is originally a video. It may be short, but I got a clear view of your face."


    Eva nced at the ck folder lying in front of her. She lifted her gaze and looked at Hailee with eyes full of hatred.


    "I never hated someone as to how much I hate you!" she roared at Hailee. Still, there''s thickness left on her face.


    "I''m sorry to disappoint you, Miss Lan, but our feelings aren''t mutual. I have no n to waste my time hating you. I have a wonderful and happy life with my friends and loved ones. Your hatred has no room in my world."


    Upon Hailee quoting this, she ced a ck pen on top of the folder. "You can review and discuss it with Tim. You can hand it to him after, but my knights will take you away. Tomorrow, I will hand you over to a group of secret agents from P Country to escort you back. You need to face your crime, Miss Lan."


    "What are you saying?" Eva looks at Hailee with wide eyes. ''Secret Agents? Are they going to arrest me?'' With this thought, Eva freaked out.


    ''No! I must escape from here!'' Eva stood up suddenly; no one saw iting when she pushed Hailee to the floor.


    Hailee was shoved on the corner, where disyed different sizes and shapes of vases, and one of them are as tall as her.


    "Hailee!"


    Both Bryan and Vince cried out, then rushed to her side. It was Vince who freaked out the most when he saw blood on her arms and legs.


    "Hail! Answer me!" he cried out. Vince couldn''t decide if he must carry Hailee when pieces of the shattered vase pricked anywhere in her body. "Wifey, wake up, please!"


    "Call an ambnce, Ray!" He shouted at the door. Bryan was trained to act fast; he''s the first to recover ande back to his senses.


    Every knight was well-trained and capable of giving her first aid when a situation urred like this. However, no one noticed yet, that it''s a different case why she lost consciousness...


    "Bryan¡­." Eva''s hoarse voice barely reaches Bryan''s ears. He nced at her fiercely. She almost passed out when Bryan''s giant palmnded on her left cheek. She copsed on the couch she seated earlier.


    Eva''s face flooded with tears, but Bryan didn''t feel any pity at all.


    "I''m going to kill you, bitch! Hurting Hailee, you must pay with your life!" He attempted to reach Eva''s neck to strangle her, but Ray stops him. "Let me go, Ray!"


    Bryan struggles to be freed, but Ray knew it isn''t right if Bryan would harm his girlfriend. Still, there is aw that would settle this and more important things to pay attention to.


    "That won''t help now! We should decide on how we can bring Miss Hailee to the hospital with wounds on her body!"


    Bryan finally came to his senses. He joined Vincent, who was very careful in taking out the pieces of vase that were pricking out on Hailee''s arms and legs.


    "Princess!" Pitt rushed inside after he heard Bryan and Vincent screamed. "Oh, my god! She''s bleeding!"

 Chapter 260 - Her End (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 260 - Her End (Three)</h4>


    Vincent can no longer wait for the paramedics to respond. He cautiously picks up Hailee''s body, then carries her outside.


    "Pitt, we can''t wait for the ambnce!"


    "I know! I will get the car!" Pitt didn''t waste another second. He ran to the exit door, headed to the parking lot to get the SUV he droveing here.


    Everything happens so fast. Bryan helplessly watched Hailee taken by another man. He was supposed to be that man. However, he failed to keep his promise to protect her from everything, including himself with dark secrets.


    In the end, she was in grave danger because of him. But this is not the time for his regrets and self-pity over his jealousy.


    Bryan turned around to face Eva. He looked at her furiously, wishing his stares could kill her. "I will not forgive you for this, Eva!"


    He screamed. "Bring that woman back to the apartment, and don''t let her step out of the bedroom! Lock her up!" He called for his men and gave instructions.


    "Bryan!" Eva followed him, but Tim blocked her way. Although she was already in a grim situation, she still has the attitude. "You! Move, Timothy Cheng!"


    Tim raises a brow upward. In the beginning, he already didn''t like Eva. But when Madam Hilda forced his boss to arrange marriage, he shut his mouth because he was in no position to speak on behalf of his boss.


    "Move!?" Eva barked when he remained to block the door and stare at her with mocked in his eyes.


    Tim curled his lips. "Stop being so proud, Miss Lan. You better behave and cooperate, or else you will see what kind of man President Shen was when someone provoked him."


    "I don''t need your advice!" Eva barked in.


    "Oh, you should, Miss Lan. You hurt the woman boss loved his whole life. You better prepare for the consequences of what you''ve done."


    "You are just his assistant! So shut up!"


    "You are right, Miss Lan. I am just his assistant so that I will tell you now. I hate you so I won''t be nice to you. I''ll keep an eye on you and make sure you have nowhere to go but the lonely and cold prison," said Tim, even gesturing in the air when he said, ''I''ll keep an eye on you,'' which infuriates Eva. "Goodbye, shoppings. Goodbye night out party. Bye-bye to a trip around the world."


    She cast a re at Tim. This assistant is noisy! But she can do nothing anymore but struggle when Bryan''s men drag her outside and shove her in the car''s backseat. She pursed her lips, shooting a sharp look at them. They all throw dark res in her direction.


    "What is this woman thinking?" One bodyguard asked, ncing at the rearview mirror, shooting a threatening stare at Eva.


    "Why do we have to lock her up if we can bury her alive?" Commented by a man in front of the steering wheel.


    Panic creeps through Eva''s nerves. Her body began shuddering, listening to Bryan''s men having a casual conversation in front of her! Obviously, they didn''t like her from the very beginning because their sympathy is for Hailee!


    Now the truth is screaming out loud! Australia is the most dangerous ce on Earth! Every person in this country is on that girl''s side!


    Tim, who was sitting beside her, snorts. She res at him, but he only gives her a mocking smirk.


    "I''ll pretend I witnessed nothing." He even made a joke that freaked the hell out of Eva.


    *


    Meanwhile, Pitt drove faster than he could. But they traffic-jammed everywhere, preventing them from speeding.


    "Damn it! Bryan, do something with it!" he phoned Bryan.


    "I know! I''m calling everyone to make way for us!" Bryan responded from behind, tailing them. He overtakes to make a noise.


    "Red Code. LA MERVEILLE. We are on South Avenue. Repeat, we are on South Avenue. Make way for La Merveille to the closest hospital!"


    Just within half a minute that passed, someone responded and gave them coordination. After a long battle with the congested streets of Sydney, they reached the hospital. Hailee was immediately brought to the Operating Room to provide full attention to her.


    Besides, they must keep it a secret before the media notices anything. Let the world know about the princess is the first thing they must prevent.


    "Sir, you can''te in," said the nurse. She then shut the ss doors.


    Vince attempted to talk to the nurse inside, but he only ignored them. Then a hand was ced on his shoulder.


    "We''re not the ones who can save her at this moment. We can''t create anymotion as well by arguing with the medical staff." Pitt was calmly consoling Vincent. It was a surprise that he acted so calm when he freaks out when something happens to the princess most of the time.


    Vince closed his eyes. He rested his head on the ss door like he could hear all the happenings inside, but it was too quiet.


    Pitt scanned him. His clothes disheveled and soaked from Hailee''s blood, now his white long sleeves turned red. His hands are stained with blood, but it''s not all blood because of Hailee''s wounds.


    Vincent''s fingers bleed after he uses them to sweep the shattered vases away, preventing Hailee''s body from catching more of them.


    "Vincent, you need to tend your wounds."


    "I''m staying here," he responded stubbornly.


    "We are all worried! I get you. I understand what you are feeling right now."


    "You can only say that, Mr. Cha." Vincent gritted his teeth. At this moment, he wishes he could strangle Eva.


    "Look, Vincent¡­ I was there when the princess grew up. Everyone is overprotective of her, especially me. So, if you are too worried about her, what do you think I am feeling right now? I''m worried as well! I wished I could do something for the princess. If only I knew to attend to her, but nothing we can do now but trust the medical team. If you act stubbornly at me now, one thing I know for sure. The princess would freak out if she saw your wounds."


    Vincent knew that everything Pitt had said was right. And he could not refute that. It won''t help Hailee if he ignores the wounds on his fingers.


    His fingers are the most precious part of his body. How can he continue designing for Hailee''s dream city if he lets his wounds infected?


    "Why do you need to challenge Liam for a fistfight?"


    Hailee asked him after the Face-Off between him and Liam. They''ve just finished making love on the bed after their steamy shower. Now they are cuddling under the quilt.


    "I don''t want you to hurt these beautiful fingers of yours," Hailey added, tracing his knuckles, then palm with her soft fingers. "You have a big job to do for me, President Shen. So, you should not get them injured or wound them, and that''s an order!"


    Now, as he recalled, their conversation just a few days back broke him. Vincent let out low sobs as his tears found their way down to his cheeks.

 Chapter 261 - Meeting The Lover (One)

    <h4>Chapter 261 - Meeting The Lover (One)</h4>


    DAVIES GROUP Dream City HQ, Western Australia


    Geoffrey Wilson, James White, and Chester Liang were on the South field to tour their new investors.


    Leo Grubber, Josh Lynch, and Trevor Johansson were in a meeting, while Doctor Hector Payne was entertaining a long line of patients from the workers of Dream City.


    All the Executives Knights were busy with their job. Even Chairman Jacob met with the CEOs and representatives of their contractorpanies, and Vincent was supposed to be here.


    "Kristian, when will President Shene back?" Jacob asked his assistant when they had a coffee break.


    "His assistant said they would return one of these days."


    "Okay." Jacob nodded.


    Kristian studied the chairman''s mood. He seemed to be in deep thoughtstely. "Is everything alright, sir? You look botheredtely."


    "Well, yeah, you are right. I just feel sad."


    "Is it about the princess?" asked Kristian.


    "Ah. It''s Mr. Shen. But I am worried about Hailee, yes. I felt helpless that I couldn''t keep her by my side nor force her to share what she was doingtely. Since Bryan broke her heart, she''s been secretive and even tries to push me away. So, I''m still considering finding someone she could fall in love with then settle down. Even she has a bunch of knights to protect her, but most of them only spoil her. I know it will still be different if a husband will look after her and protect her. Maybe when she is married. It will lessen her crazy adventures, and you know what I am talking about."


    "Yes, sir. I understand your concern." And you actually have nothing to worry about, sir. Kristian muttered, but he didn''t share his thoughts. "Ahem. So, how about Mr. Shen, sir?"


    Jacob nced at his assistant before he went on. "Well¡­ Mr. Shen is truly a talented architect. His designs and his vision are perfect. I''m just a little sad."


    "And why is that, sir?" Kristian queried.


    "Do you know that his mother tried to save my wife?"


    "Oh. Of course, sir. I remembered this story. So, is this the reason you are fond of him?" Kristian queried. Of course, he is interested in his boss''s opinion about Vincent Shen, his daughter''s boyfriend.


    However, he could not confess this to the chairman. He made a promise to Hailee that he will seal his mouth until she was ready to tell her dad the truth.


    After a brief silence, Jacob continued letting out his thoughts.


    "I like Vincent Shen. If he isn''t married yet, I might set a blind date for him to date, my princess. Who knows? Maybe they fell in love, then got married? But my daughter is dating someone and even got engaged, sharing nothing with me! So, I am too sad."


    Kristian concealed the smile on his lips. ''Actually, sir, your dream mighte true soon. If only you knew, but the princess has a huge reason she keeps it a secret.''


    "Well, sir. Maybe the princess''s fiance is as great as Mr. Shen."


    "Well¡­ I am hoping so, Kris. By the way, Hailee told me she''sing home on one of these days. Does she tell you anything?"


    "I will tell you once Pitt confirms their arrival, sir." And I lied again. Kristian heaves a guilty sigh inwardly.


    The princess told him they were in Sydney now, but she had a few things to take care of before she would give the go-to inform the chairman that she''d arrived already.


    Jacob discussed a few things with Kristian when his phone chimed in. And this alert tone was set for this situation.


    "Kristian, that tone is set for an emergency alert message. A RED CODE."


    Kristian is reluctant to report to the chairman. But he has to be honest this time.


    "Answer me, Kris?"


    "Someone activated the red code, sir."


    "Who is it? And where is my daughter?" Jacob''s voice cracked from the emotion that engulfed him. "Did something happen to her?"


    "Wait a sec, sir. I''ll check the location and who activated the emergency alert message. Maybe it was Pitt or Tom¡­." Kristian browsed his phone. "Sir, it was Bryan and the princess who were in Sydney."


    "What? My daughter was already in Australia, but no one told me?"


    "I''m sorry, sit. It was my ipetence. But we need to go now."


    "Of course! Cancel our meetings this evening! I want to see my daughter! Why is Bryan with her!"


    Kristian cannot answer the chairman. He may know Hailee was already in Sydney, but he has no information about what happened. After then, he made several phone calls. After that, Kristian carefully chooses the correct exnation of what happened in Sydney.


    Meanwhile, every executive knight also received an emergency alert message. After fifteen minutes, they all gather at the airport, and the two private nes are ready to take off.


    ***


    Sydney, Australia


    Vincent is finally finished crying. Pitt patted his shoulder, escorting him to the E. R. to tend his wounds.


    Pitt nced at Bryan, who was now seated on the bench outside the Operating Room. At this moment, Pitt would love to beat up the guy. But he knew he need not do that because Bryan was indeed beating himself up inside.


    After fifteen minutes, the assigned physician finished wrapping Vincent''s fingers with a bandage wrapped. She instructed him a few things, but his mind wandered and heard nothing. The whole time, it was Pitt who was attentive to conversing with the doctor.


    Vincent Shen seemed not with himself, and Pitt understood that. He''s worried, and his mind remains with Hailee.


    "Why are they not finished yet!?" Vincent keeps mumbling while he''s pacing back and forth in front of the Operating Room. It''s been half an hour since Hailey was brought in, and he needs an answer if Hailee was alright and even the child.


    When a nurse gets out, he immediately blocks her way to throw a series of questions.


    "Please, don''t interrupt our work, sir. We''re doing everything to save them."


    "Save them? What''s going on!?" Vincent could not control himself not to yell at the poor nurse. Good thing she was used to her work. The patient''s family members are mostly under such emotion.


    "The mother has a fever. We have to do something about it. That''s all I can say." The nurse resumes walking; Pitt has to grab Vincent and calm him down. He ns to trouble the nurse further.


    Bryan remained on the bench. His hands still held his head while his elbows rested on his legs. He never changed position since they left him to treat Vincent''s wounded fingers.


    "I''m sorry¡­."


    With a broken, hoarse voice, Bryan apologized. Both Pitt and Vincent red in his direction, but no one could really scold him. Vincent, on the other hand, was in a rage at this moment. But as Eva is his nominal wife, he could not me Bryan entirely. Instead, he is partly ountable for what Hailee has been through now.


    Vincent heaves a long sigh and takes a seat. The moment he saw Hailee was pushed on the corner andnded on the vases, he froze for a moment. That feeling of turmoil surging inside him for a moment.


    And seeing Hailee bleeding freaked him out. After his ident five years ago, he almost died. Thest ce he wanted to be is in hospital. He may have gotten into another ident, but he was at ease because he wanted to see Hailee when he opened his eyes.


    He''s praying that Hailee would remember that he was here waiting for her.


    "Wifey¡­." he mumbled while praying for the safety of their child.


    It''s been two hours that have passed, but the doctor isn''ting out yet.


    "Where is my daughter!?"


    Jacobs'' loud voice echoed in the corridor. He had big steps; following behind him are the executive knights who cannot exin the emotion exhibiting on their faces.


    "What happened, Pitt!?" he asked.


    "Bryan!"


    But Geoffrey yanks at the guy. He grabbed him by the cor and was about to punch him when the door of the Operating Room opened.

 Chapter 262 - Meeting The Lover (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 262 - Meeting The Lover (Two)</h4>


    Everyone held their breath when the Operating Room opened. A doctor in his early fifties appeared in the door, casting a curious look at every person in that corridor.


    Although he was aware of his patient''s identity, it was still overwhelming to see these men crowded into the small space of the hallway. Such handsome men in tailored business suits, whose heights towering him.


    Such cruel reality that they are the perfect men walking on Earth. Anyway, the interesting case is that he stood in front of these men, not as a cardio surgeon or a General Physician. But as an expert obstetrician.


    And yes, they were giving him a confused look.


    He is a man. But it was the profession he loved to do for a living, and he was passionate about it. Taking care of women is such an achievement in his career.


    Having Miss Hailee Davies as his patient is never in his wildest dream. The Davies family had their very own medical team to treat the sole heiress if she was running a fever, caught any flu, or had an ident in one of her obsessions...


    Driving fast cars, surfing, sailing the ocean, etc...


    And today, she was his patient as a pregnant woman; now, he must be careful not to make any mistake. He was nervous, honestly, while treating her.


    He didn''t dream of sleeping forever yet, and so he was very cautious and made sure he attended to the patient''s needs.


    But to think that she is Jacob Davies'' daughter is already shaking up his world, and having the man''s presence made him shiver to the bones.


    Dr. Dave Thomas wipes the beads of sweat forming on his forehead. One more time, he scans their faces. He realized they looked valiant and had an overwhelming aura emitting from their bodies, but the emotion peeked in their eyes was a pure concern.


    "Doctor! Why haven''t you started talking yet!?" asked James. He couldn''t wait any longer, the usually impatient one among the knights.


    The doctor flinched by his thunderous query. He coughs and smiles awkwardly at them. He shouldn''t have stayed timid when he was in the profession for two decades.


    However, this is not the usual case he ever handles. With these men''s presence, it made him nervous for real.


    "Ahem! Good evening, gentlemen. My name is Doctor Dave Thomas. I have the good news! Miss Davies and her babies are safe now¡­." I''m sorry to keep you waiting, we..."


    "Her babies!?"


    The boys eximed, dropping their mouths on the hospital floor.


    "She''s pregnant!?"


    Doctor Thomas isn''t sure either tough seeing these men havingplex expressions on their faces.


    "What are you talking about, Doctor Thomas?" asked Jacob Davies, shocked exhibited across his face.


    His voice echoes in the corridor, reaching the entrance door of that section of the hospital where his bodyguards watch the area and control the people allowed to enter inside. It''s good that they ride helicoptersing in here to avoid getting stuck in the heavy traffic. If everyone saw them marching at the hospital''s front entrance, it would create big news after a minute people spotted them.


    Now, the doctor swallowed several times, as he could see the confusion on everyone''s faces. It was apparent that Mr. Jacob Davies does not know about his daughter''s pregnancy yet. Probably no one knew about it; that''s why they were careless of the princess'' health.


    Doctor Thomas moves his eyes to the three men in the corner. They are the ones who have different expressions on their faces among the rest of the men. If he isn''t mistaken, they were the ones who brought the princess.


    But he was intrigued. Who is the boyfriend?


    "Doctor Thomas, you aren''t answering us!?" the boys demanded.


    The poor doctor was stunned by their fearsome notions. Of course, these men continued intimidating him. Let alone imagine that they were the famous knights of Hailee Davies.


    "We..... Um, I want to speak to the immediate family of the patient." He means the boyfriend, but he does not know who''s the lucky guy among these men.


    And if he is correct, the man who carried her is the one whose clothes are soaked in blood.


    "We are all her family, so there''s no difference if whoever you talk, Doc..." Geoffrey urged Doctor Thomas.


    "So, spill it out now, Doc!" Leo echoed. They were growing impatient to hear everything.


    "Well... What I am saying is... " but once again, he was interrupted.


    "Doctor, don''t make us wait! What took you so long? Why does it take two hours for you to treat her?"


    Every pair of eyes in that corridor looked in Vincent''s direction. It was he who asked the series of questions.


    Now that they''ve noticed him in the scene, everyone was surprised, wondering what he was doing there.


    "Mr. Shen? What are you doing here?" Geoffrey asked him curiously. His eyes traveled down to his shirt.


    "Why do you look pathetic, man!?" James echoed with his humorous tone, but Pitt immediately scolded him.


    "Shut up, James! It''s not time for a joke!" Pitt snapped at him.


    "Dammit! Pitterson Cha---!" He countered, but Pitt intercepted him quickly.


    "Just shut the f**k up!" He and James are the ones who quarreled often.


    "Enough!" Jacob and Doctor Thomas said at once, rebuking the two men.


    But it was Doctor Thomas who got irritated the most, listening to them. Now he could see that their presence won''t help the princess. And if this is the environment she will have, then he must educate these men.


    "Alright, gentlemen. Please listen carefully to what I am going to say because it is for Miss Davies'' health and her babies." Doctor Thomas exined. "Miss Davies is almost having a miscarriage because of the high level of stress entering her nervous system. Now, she must avoid any situation that will make her suffer such emotion. She needs to avoid dealing with things that cause her stress. Either from her work or the surrounding people. Bickering or quarreling can be possibly one will trigger this."


    For what Doctor Thomas had said, Vincent and Bryan exchange a meaningful look. It looks like Hailee was put in danger because she tried to deal with Eva, and this is because of them both. They yed a major role in her almost miscarriage.


    The argument and quarrels are reasons she was under such stress. But no one thought things would turn out like this.


    "Anyway, I wanted to know when did you find out she''s pregnant? Her private OB-GYN should have detected her condition. Conceiving multiple babies would be a hard journey, so I expect all of you to cooperate and not cause her anyplications of her condition."


    "Are you sure, doctor? How did you know she would have not only one but possibly twins?"


    Doctor Thomas looked at James with an offended expression on his face, but he understands.


    These men are not medical experts, but pregnancy is his line of expertise. The family members typically are clueless, sometimes throwing ridiculous questions at the doctors.


    Now, James received a "Dude? Really?" look from everyone. He scratched his head and grinned.

 Chapter 263 - Meeting Her Lover (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 263 - Meeting Her Lover (Three)</h4>


    Since it came to this, Doctor Thomas exined further.


    "Well, the reason it took me longer to reach out to you all was that I ran multiple blood tests, and the level of her hCG was too high. She is six weeks pregnant for now. In her eight weeks of pregnancy, let''s run another ultrasound, another hCG blood test to confirm how many possible fetus babies are growing in her womb. Also, we could determine this by listening to the baby''s heartbeat. For now, let''s focus on giving her the rest she needs and avoiding stressing the patient. She lost a lot of blood, and dly, we have the blood type we need to transfuse to her. So you can rx now."


    Doctor Thomas was looking at Vincent when he said thest two sentences. He was convinced he must be the fiance. The two nurses who assisted him earlier told him that a man covered his clothes with blood, agitated to know the patient''s condition. The female nurse was muttering about a post on Instagram.


    "Could it possibly be that he is the fiance Miss Davies posted on Instagram?" Then an intern echoed this and that, gossiping¡­


    "Both of you can get out." He told them with a haughty tone.


    "I''m sorry, Doctor Thomas." They apologized.


    Doctor Thomas shrugged this thought, and he carried on. The boys wanted to ask further, but doctor Thomas bid goodbye.


    "I will monitor her condition all night, so you don''t have to worry." Doctor Thomas said before he left. "For now, they were carefully treating her wounds on her arms and legs. It is dangerous for her to fall on objects or dangerous ces once she suddenly loses consciousness, so make sure to keep an eye on her¡­ We are doing everything that her wounds would not get infected and leave no scars. I''ll talk to the other doctors. We need to be careful of what medicine to give her for this."


    "Doctor Thomas, I am Doctor Payne. Can I join your team? Here''s my ID. I want to help monitor the princess'' condition..." Doctor Hector Payne pulled out his ID from his back pocket and showed it to the older doctor. "...personally, actually," he added.


    Doctor Thomas nodded. "No problem! Of course. I know you, Doctor Payne. Your parents are excellent surgeons."


    "Thank you, Doctor Thomas." He thanked the doctor, then doctor Thomas went back to the Operating Room.


    Doctor Payne turned around to talk to the men, assuring them that Hailee will be okay.


    Jacob took a seat on the bench after the doctor leaves. He''s trying to process everything that happened to his daughter. His precious daughter almost had a miscarriage. Her mom died in the ident, but what caused her quick death is due to blood loss because of miscarriage.


    "She''ll be okay, right?" Jacob asked no particr person.


    He just wanted to mutter his thoughts. Right now, unexinable emotion brimmed over him as he tried to calm himself.


    But how could he? His daughter almost shared the same fate as her mom!


    For the second time, he was on the edge of his seat, mulling over the possibilities of the cause, and his daughter had to be sent to the hospital.


    What happened, and she was stressed too much?


    "Now, can any of you exin this?" Geoffrey is looking at Pitt and Bryan back and forth.


    He was casting a re at Bryan as it boils his blood. He has a feeling that the person who''s at fault.


    Jacob raised his head after Geoffrey made that query. His gaze ran across the hallway. There''s a question that still hasn''t been answered.


    Why is Vincent Shen here, and he is the only one who has blood on his clothes?


    Jacob doesn''t want to presume, but the beating of his heart is unsettling. However, it is impossible that his daughter''spanion is Vincent Shen.


    He nced at Pitt, studied the guy. He is Hailee''s Head of Knights during her trips outside the Oceanic Continent. He must know this but didn''t report it to him.


    Now the way he whispered to Vincent Shen, telling him that his guess was correct.


    Recently, his daughter traveled to P Country to open a branch of her jewelry store. But that was just a month ago, and his daughter is almost two months pregnant!


    Something is going on here. It''s not the only thing that''s strange here... The Shen Group signed a contract with them just a month ago. Nothing coincided either the time of the DV Asia Branchunching and the handing of the project by his very own daughter, who made sure Vincent Shen could sign the contract ASAP!


    She even argued with the boys! He remembered that.


    "Can anyone care to exin now?" Jacob echoed what Geoffrey had been asked. His gaze shifted back and forth at Pitt, Bryan, and Vincent Shen.


    "Now¡­ Tell me what happened? Why was the princess under such terrible stress? Is it you, Bryan?" asked James, squeezing his knuckles, preparing to throw them at any moment.


    Bryan cast a nce at James; he then fixed his eyes on Jacob. He lowered his head to apologize.


    "I''m sorry, Uncle Jacob. I was the one to me the most here. I will take full responsibility for what happened to Hailee."


    "Do you think your sorry would save the princess if she had a miscarriage? You put her life in grave danger! Not only that, you almost break her heart again! What do you think she will feel after losing her baby?" Geoffrey roared at Bryan. He took a step to punch him, but Leo and Chester quickly grabbed his shoulders and arms.


    "It won''t help if we keep shouting in the corridor." Trevor made a calmment.


    "Think about the princess. What would she feel if she heard us all fighting?" Josh chimed in.


    Kelvin also expressed himself. "The doctor just told us not to cause any stress to the princess. She should feel at peace instead."


    "Let''s just set aside any dispute we have for Bryan. Like what the doctor said, let''s focus on the princess to get feeling better." Pitt asserted.


    But James is always the hard-headed one among the knights. He snorted at Pitt and muttered, "Says of the guy who almost killed Bryan after he beat him up. Do you both reconcile now? Best friend again?"


    "Enough, James! That won''t help!" Pitt snaps at him again. "Our friendship is broken forever. I''m just speaking on behalf of the princess. Besides, the major cause of her stress is Liam."


    "What!?"


    "Was that guy able to get near the princess? When does it happen? Why aren''t you telling us, Pitt?!"


    "It''s a long story. But Liam is now apprehended by International Law. Chairman Shun Crow and President Shen help the Asian Knights to set a trap on Liam. I was to be med too because I used the princess as bait."


    "Pitterson Cha!" James rushed toward Pitt, but Kelvin and Alfie quickly pulled him away. "Let me go!"


    "Howe that Mr. Shen was involved in this?" asked Jacob, his eyes darted at Vincent.


    "The princess was in great anxiety when Liam plotted to kill Vincent." Pitt carried on exining. The men fixed their eyes on Vincent, shooting an intense re at him.


    In their minds, they could already have the conclusion of where this story goes. Vincent Shen is the princess''s lover! Now it makes sense! The post was made when the princess was in P Country. And Vincent Shen went home at the time of theunch!


    The timeline is screaming out loud, including the reality that the princess and Vincent Shen were already in a rtionship before he submitted a proposal, then was approved real quick, then he was offered a contract!


    Then can it be the case?


    The princess offers Vincent Shen a contract because he is her lover?

 Chapter 264 - Meeting Her Lover (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 264 - Meeting Her Lover (Four)</h4>


    Everyone is waiting for Vincent to share his side. They would like to hear how he met the Princess. Regardless, they wanted to know how he made the princess fall in love with him, and now, they were expecting not only one child, but there is a possibility that it is twins.


    How great is he for the princess to allow him to touch her? What trick did he do for the Princess to give him such favors?


    Now to think over, he was granted the biggest funds the Davies ever given to other contractors. As well, they weren''t given multiple projects until they do not finish one.


    But the princess granted Vincent Shen with 100 BILLION US DOLLARS with just a snap of a finger.


    Now it''s not surprising why Hailee scolded them when they make things difficult for Vincent Shen. She was also present at the presentation, pursuing the contract signing ASAP, and even threw a grand wee party. It''s all because the CEO of Shen Group is her lover. She wanted to make things go her way.


    The princess gave him all the favor she could offer. It was unfair for the rest of the contractors. What would they think once it leaks? It isn''t good for the face of Dream City, where they wanted to maintain a good rtionship with everyone.


    Pitt nced at Vincent. He could guess what the men were thinking about him now. Even he, it surprised him to found this out. He knew the Princess wanted Vincent Shen to join her team but falling in love? They never see thating.


    "I think this is not the proper ce to discuss and question Mr. Shen or anything about the princess. We are in a public area. Let''s talk about this in a closed-door meeting." Pitt suggested.


    He added, "It won''t help Hailee if some people heard our discussion and others used it as gossip news. We must consider the princess'' condition first."


    "Why do I have this feeling that you''ve be Mr. Shen''s spokesperson, Pitterson Cha?"


    "Cut the crap, James. I''m only speaking of, on behalf of the princess. Each of you is confused. I know that. But save all your questions and curiosity to know the entire story. I will provide that but not here."


    The men protested, but they knew very well that the hospital wasn''t safe to discuss any information about Hailee, especially that her love life is a mystery to the world. They wanted to hear it now, but they must wait for the perfect time.


    Later on, Doctor Hector came out from the OR; he announced he requested to transfer Hailee to Dream City hospital to keep the media away from getting news about the incident.


    After they took care of the documents needed, Hailee was boarded to an Air Ambnce as transport. Jacob and Vincent join the helicopter ambnce while the knights take the ne back to Dream City.


    Since Doctor Dave Thomas first attended Hailee, he was hired as her private obstetrician to monitor her condition. Also, to ensure that her pregnancy will be a secret from the world for the time being.


    It''s not that they were trying to hide it. But as Hailee''s condition needs special care and attention, Jacob will wait until his daughter decides to announce her pregnancy.


    She was still in a crucial situation. All they need is to avoid making unnecessary decisions that have a terrible impact on them. And that is to me and force Vincent to speak about the whole thing.


    Everyone is still clueless, so they wanted to know the details, but arguing this time around would not help either. And so, everyone retains their patience, considers the princess'' condition.


    Hailee was ced in a private ward. Jacob was seated in a chair and never left his daughter''s side. His heart ached to see the bandages wrapped around her arms. He could not believe that his daughter would be in this situation.


    Although he is often busy at work, he makes sure that everyone is paying attention to her, especially when she''s doing dangerous stunts like driving her supercars.


    But now¡­


    "Princess¡­. Dad is here¡­. Please, hold on. I''m not angry with you. Dad will listen. I promised." Jacob continued talking to her daughter. He reached for her left hand and gently held on to it.


    Vincent was moved by the scene he''d witnessed. He was feeling extreme guilt. He has no n to lie and keep a secret from Hailee''s father, but things beplicated because of his marriage to Eva, who is Bryan''s girlfriend, the woman who got involved in their big issue in the past.


    Now, he owed a huge exnation to Jacob Davies; soon, he should express his side and prove he has good intentions.


    Vincent was in deep thoughts when someone patted his back. Pitt gestured at him toe outside.


    "Mr. Shen, you should go to your apartment and get change. I''ll drive you back." Pitt urges him.


    "Hmm¡­ Are you watching me?" He asked Pitt suspiciously.


    Shrugging his right shoulder, Pitt replied, "Yeah. Just in case, James suddenly had the tendency to beat you up when he sees you''re alone. The princess would freak out to see your face had bruises and ck eyes. So yes, I am going to watch your back."


    "Why are you doing this, Pitt?" he asked him. It felt strange that he felt ufortable. "I think you know that I''m still anxious about you because you are a rival to Hailee''s attention."


    Pitt chuckled. He patted Vincent''s shoulder while shaking his head. "The feeling is mutual, Mr. Shen."


    "Vincent¡­ I have an eerie feeling, you¡ªcalling me by my surname."


    "Alright! But don''t think we are now best friends."


    "Nope. I would still get jealous if you were so clingy to Hailee." Vincent muttered so straightforwardly.


    Pitt let out a loudugh this time. He can''t believe that there is another man that is as straightforward as him. Well, the other men are also straightforward when ites to Hailee.


    "Alright, Vincent. Well, I''m just doing this for Hailee. She is worried the boys will do something to you once they find out you are her boyfriend, which you are a married man. They would dig a deep grave for you."


    "I know they will."


    "Then¡­ Will you fight back?"


    "Yes, of course. I must prove I am capable of protecting her, so I have to defeat each of you. But not with this¡­." Vincent raises his two hands, wrapped in bandages.


    "That''s what I''m talking about," Pitt contorted the corner of his mouth. Then, he covered his nose and made a joke. "You stink. But in your situation, it looks like I need to bathe you."


    "Shut up. Don''t act as if we''re best friends now." Vincent muttered, keeping a distance from Pitt.


    "That won''t happen. I would always hate you," said Pitt.


    "I''ll buy you a drink."


    "When?"


    Vincent didn''t answer, but he and Pittughed. The guy drove him toward his apartment and waited until he was done taking a quick bath from soaking in a tub of warm water.


    In the end, he''s having a hard time getting on his clothes. Pitt had that expression on his face while he zippered and buttoned his pants.


    "Do you think I want to be in this humiliating situation of my life if I can do it myself?" Vincent mumbled at Pitt.


    "B*llsh*t¡­." Pitt cursed.


    Vincent rolled his eyes. He wished Tim were here. His life is much easier, and he would not be stuck with one of Hailee''s knights and owes a favor.


    "Alright. Let''s go¡­." Pitt quickly dashes to the front door after he buttoned the pants, leaving Vincent frowning.


    Of course, it was an awkward situation. Anyone who sees them in that scene would jump to a conclusion.


    *


    Not long after, they reached the hospital, and they found the knights gathered in the lounge on the tenth floor. They all seemed to wait for their arrival.


    "We wanted to talk to you now, Mr. Shen," James announced.


    Pitt and Vincent shared a nce, both heave a long sigh as they walked over to the front and sat down on the bench reserves for them. Bryan was already sitted there, and Jacob joined them, sitting on an ent chair across the bench.


    "We''re all ears, Mr. Shen," said Jacob.


    Vincent clears his throat. He sweeps his eyes, scrutinizing every face in front of him, and the way they were staring at him, he could tell how these men were sizing him up.


    "Chairman Davies, sir... Honestly, I don''t know how to begin at all. Meeting your daughter, I fell in love with her at first sight. The reason I persuaded her. But I truly didn''t know that she is Hailee Davies, the CEO, and founder of Dream City, until the night of DV Gem''sunching party."


    "What do you mean about that, Mr. Shen?" asked Geoffrey.


    "So, how long did you know her?" James chimed in.


    "Yeah." And the rest of the men echoed.


    Vincent took a deep breath before he carried on. He was never put in a hot seat as this one. Now, the tension began getting on his nerves. He must bear in mind; this is a normal circumstance, a battlefield he must win so that he could ask the princess''s hand for marriage.


    There''s no difference between wearing armor, carrying a sword and shield to win the tournament, and getting the precious reward... To marry the princess.


    But he was living in modern times. His weapons to win this battle and made the king impress, including her knights, are to show how sincere he is to the princess. He will prove his intention is pure, and he is serious with Hailee...


    "I... I saw her strolling in Metro City Garden. Soon, I found out she was checking into the hotel of that mall. The information I learned next, she''s renting an apartment and would stay in the country for a longer time. She enrolls at N University..."


    "She what?????"


    "She took Hotel and Restaurant Management, and she began having a part-time job around the city. And since she was an international student... She''s a foreigner in the country; some hooligans wanted to take advantage of her. They think she can work on some illegal things in the underground."


    "What the hell is that? The princess has two dozen knights surrounding her during her travels! Howe she''s in danger aside from Liam''s threats?"


    "Pitterson Cha! What is going on?" They demanded a further exnation.

 Chapter 265 - Roasting Her Lover (One)

    <h4>Chapter 265 - Roasting Her Lover (One)</h4>


    "Okay, I know! It was my responsibility! Every n the princess had made should carry by my guidance and smart decision opinion. I knew how dangerous it was, but I still permitted her to visit P Country alone. I should have done that even if Keith was there to take care of her. I know it was stupid when I agree to be bait to lure Liam away, so I travel anywhere to upy the guy band keeps following me." Pitt exined; he went on...


    "I know I have been careless. Liam has eyes everywhere. A possibility that soon, he will find out where the princess is. But I honestly didn''t know what she was doing during her stay in P Country. I be less concerned every time she says Keith is watching her."


    He added, "When she told me she enrolled in a university using her fake identity, I knew it''s not a good idea, but I can''t thoroughly scold her. She would reason out; she''s doing this for Dream City! She wanted to bepetent as a leader. She''s trying to be fully in control of her life, of her decision."


    "It''s a suicide, Pitt!" James groaned, his sharp re flying across the lounge, but Pitt only rolled his eyes and ignored him.


    "You are lying to us all this time! What if something happens to the princess in that country even Keith provided some men to watch her? You are not thinking!" They argued.


    "I know the risk! You guys don''t need to tell me that! I know fully that I am putting her in great danger! So I am alwaysmunicating with Keith if the princess is fine or if she is safe. Keith makes sure that enough bodyguards are watching her! His father-inw, who was a Congressional Representative, made promises to the princess'' safety. So I focus on doing my job of luring Liam instead."


    "Now, when did this all begin? How many months has she been there?" Jacob asked afterward. The rest of the knights wanted to hear about it as well.


    They knew the princess was contacting her dad, and a few of them asionally ask about thepany, and a proposal has to be approved. But never imagine that she was actually nowhere in Dubai, but she was just across Australia! P Country is close. They coulde and go if only they knew about it.


    Pitt fell in thoughts, contemting how many months had passed. "Eight? Nine? I guess I lost track now."


    "And you never told us!?"


    Geoffrey shouted at him. Pitt scowled at them. He chuckled then roared...


    "You should see how miserable she was when she mended her broken heart! She felt betrayed by the man she had trusted with all her life!"


    Everyone fell silent to what Pitt had said. In the next couple of minutes, no one attempted to open their mouth. Pitt rakes his hair with his fingers, heaving countless sighs, then he continues narrating.


    "When she decided to search for the architect, who could help her finish Dream City¡­ I let her be. After a month of being sad and listless... She tried to get back to her feet."


    Pitt casts a nce at Vincent to give the guy a meaningful look before he went on.


    "She did her research. She started working without needing help from the rest of us. Afterunching the Italy branch, she attended the gatherings of the tycoons in the business world to meet someone. But she was disappointed when this man never showed up at those parties."


    "And so, when she shared with me her ns to go alone, I disagreed, of course. But I got enough to see and hear her cry again. I could remember those days and nights she would mumble to herself ...."


    "Pitt¡­ I need to be strong¡­."


    "Pitt, I need to wake up¡­."


    "Pitt, I have to dedicate my life to Dream City only. It was what I should think about from now on. I should stop dreaming of falling in love or find the right man for me."


    "Is there even a right man for me, Pitt?"


    "Never mind¡­. Let''s just search for the most talented architect in the world, Pitt. Let''s travel the world!"


    It did make him rendered speechless and followed her anywhere she wanted to go.


    Now remembering those days, he doesn''t want to rewind anything.


    Heaving a long sigh, Pitt lowered his gaze on the floor to fight the emotion surging in his eyes. No one of these men ever witnessed how the princess looked miserable again. The first time she was in great sorrow was the death of her mom.


    She shut everyone out. She speaks to no one but only to her dad and grandma. But that made her sick. She had a medical team to watch over her health.


    And so, spoiling her inter years is the way Jacob could at least do. He let her be attached to the boys who unconditionally love her and pampered her until now. More to say, if not because of them, she may develop psychological ipetence growing up.


    When Liam Huo appeared in the picture, they became even overprotected. But then, she had another breakdown because of Bryan, not to mention Liam, who kept pestering her.


    Liam knew her weakness. He ys on the princess'' emotion. His violence was never of help to make her fall in love and submit to him. And they did everything to protect her.


    However, when Liam threatens Vincent''s life. Pitt sees how the princess fought her anxiety. She stood calm andposed during her fight against him to protect Vincent.


    More to say, the princess made a change of herself for Vincent Shen. When she says she will be stronger, she proves it''s not just for her dreams but also for the person she''d fall in love with.


    "We are waiting, Pitt." James impatiently grumbles in his seat.


    Pitt lifted his gaze and met every pair of eyes, keenly scrutinizing at him, listening to his exnation.


    "When the princess had her grand n, I saw the sparks in her eyes. And I don''t want to rub that little happiness she found at the moment. You can me me all you want. But the princess didn''t deserve to be scolded for how recklessly she behaves in these passing months."


    "Not only she''s fallen in love with the country, but for the first time, she also fell in love with someone," he added. "The princess just wanted to talk to Mr. Shen and offer a job in Dream City. She visits Metro City to find a chance to meet Mr. Shen. But he has been too busy with his international projects. But it took long before she couldy her business because of someplicated situation between them..."


    Everyone fixes their eyes on Vincent. No one made any reaction but pondered. Now that they''ve heard Pitt''s exnation, they have no reason to doubt why the princess offered most of the projects to Vincent Shen. However, they were still apprehensive about him.


    They could not still ept himying his hand on the princess. They have a bunch of questions ying in their heads.


    How sincere is he to the princess?


    How pure is his love for the princess?


    How loyal is he to the princess?


    How if?


    They have countless how-ifs in their heads¡­

 Chapter 266 - Roasting Her Lover (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 266 - Roasting Her Lover (Two)</h4>


    The entire time Pitt was narrating to everyone, Vincent was keenly listening to his story. Hailee had already confessed to him how she followed around to get to know him better before offering the project.


    And as he was hearing the storying from someone, his heart melted after happiness burst out from the bottom of his chest.


    That girl is too precious. He is grateful he trusts her instead of getting angry for keeping her identity from the beginning. He must have regretted it now if he didn''t wait for her to exin herself and confess everything.


    Hailee now carrying his children. Yes, possibly not just one! And just thinking of his child growing inside her womb makes him ecstatic. He wished it was her due soon so that he could meet his babies. He''s happy to make the right decision.


    But for now, he must face the anger of the men who also love their Mumma, especially their grandpa. He must persuade his approval.


    This is a battle he has to win, no matter what.


    Now that Pitt was done expressing his side, it was time for him to share his. He understood that this is likely his trial to measure his sincerity and honesty and how much he loved their princess.


    Before taking a deep breath.


    "Four years ago, I met a girl sailing a lemonade in the busy streets of Budapest. Observing her across the streets, her sweet smile enchanted me. And I began to have the desire to introduce myself. But I didn''t have a chance because of family issues. After a year, I was hoping and praying to find her, so I searched for her. I went back to Hungary, but no one can tell me who she is. I didn''t stop. I traveled to Italy, but I also failed to find her there... Even in Paris and in the UK, I did try to look for her."


    "I thought I would never see her again. But when I almost lost hope... There she is! She appears in front of me. So I didn''t miss my chance. I hired a few men to follow her around. To watch her and make sure she won''t leave the country. And I was relieved when she stayed in Metro City and took a course in the university where I graduated. I offered her an agreement so that I could keep her by my side. I thought she would get angry with me. But it surprised me. She signed it without a second thought. I didn''t know she had a motive in getting close to me."


    Vincent shared the rest of the story.


    "So, you are saying you didn''t notice that the princess is following you around, Mr. Shen?"


    "No." Vincent shook his head.


    "And the princess didn''t know you were following her as well?"


    "She told me she didn''t. But she confessed that her newest knight, Bruce, made a way to work for me so that she could help me investigate who wanted to kill me. Liam Huo is using the surrounding people. He bombs the Shang Casino and Hotel to divert my attention and leaves for Las Vegas. In that way, he could have made his n of taking Hailey out of Metro City. But Pitt, with the help of other knights and Interpol, we''ve sessfully set a trap in my building to arrest Liam."


    "If you didn''t know, DV Inc. is taking office in one of Mr. Shen''s Towers," said Pitt. "But at that time, Mr. Shen knows nothing yet that Hailee is the owner of the DV Gem until theunching party," Pitt exined to make things short.


    "But why are you in Sydney instead ofing straight to Dream City?" Geoffrey asked them suspiciously. He believes there is a huge reason, and things have turned out like this; Hailey''s life was put in danger.


    On the other hand, the three men on the front shared nces as their eyes were talking, deciding who should speak up about it.


    "I was to me for what happened in Sydney." Later on, it was Bryan who confessed.


    "You''re always the one who causes her heart to break!"


    "I know! And I won''t deny any of that." Bryan genuinely admitted.


    "Now, what did you do, Bryan?" asked Geoffrey, with a sternness in his voice. Ever since they were teenagers, the two of them have been in a great rivalry with Hailee''s attention, and they were the ones who didn''t hide their feelings for her, which the princess is too na?ve to determine.


    "Hailee came home to Sydney to meet with Eva."


    "What???" All the men roared at Bryan. The way they were shooting him with a dagger look, he should have been dead now.


    "And why the princess wanted to see you b*tch?" James curled his lips like he tasted something bitter on his tongue. No one of them had the interest to mention that woman''s name.


    "When I said things gotplicated, Bryan and Eva were part of that," said Pitt.


    As the men waited for an answer, Pitt chimed in once again, which he was scolded by James afterward.


    "When I said things gotplicated, Bryan and Eva were part of that," said Pitt.


    "Why are you still intercepting, Pitterson Cha!?"


    "You want an answer and exnation? Then I am giving you!" He argued.


    "Pitt is right." Bryan concurred. "Eva and I yed a huge part in Hailee and Vincent''s rtionship."


    "And why is that?" Leo queried. And the rest of the men grumbled.


    Bryan knew that after this, everyone would hate him more. But he doesn''t care anymore. What he wants to happen now is to put an end to everything. He could not take to see Hailee is suffering. He gives up and epts the truth that he''s no longer the man who can put a smile on her face.


    "I didn''t know that Eva was married for three years now," he began.


    "I just learned that today. Actually, it was Hailee who told me. Eva was in an arranged marriage, even though we still see each other. No¡­ We are together, but she actually has a nominal husband. They have an agreement to get a divorce, but..." Bryan shook his head and let out a chuckle. "It''s unbelievable. Liam used Eva to set me up a year ago. Liam wanted to break off our engagement, and he seeded."


    "So? What is the connection to Mr. Shen¡­." they''ve asked him.


    "It''s difficult to believe, but Eva is still useful to Liam. At this time, it was against Mr. Shen." Pitt chimed in once again.


    Everyone is giving them a perplexed expression on their faces, particrly at Vincent.


    "Enlighten us, Pitt!"


    Pitt looks at Vincent. He nodded and took it from there.


    "Eva''s family has been a close friend of mine. They knew my ancestors'' secrets, and to maintain the good rtionship between our families, our parents arranged marriage."


    "Are you saying that you are married to her, Mr. Shen!?" James stood on his feet. He is prepared to leap at any moment to pounce on Vincent.


    Vincent meets Chairman Jacob''s eyes, who remained to scrutinize him. He could not determine what he was thinking now, hearing all of this exnation as no emotion could be seen on his face.


    After a long moment of silence, Vincent''s answer causes the lounge into chaos.

 Chapter 267 - Roasting Her Lover (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 267 - Roasting Her Lover (Three)</h4>


    It was Geoffrey and James who first rushed toward Vincent. His firstnded well at Bryan''s right jaw, swollen lip, and blooding from his mouth. However, Pitt blocked James'' punch by dodging it using his arms while Bryan uses his body to shield Vincent from Geoffrey''s attack.


    Geoffrey attempts to throw another punch, but he is pulled back by the other men. James was in a rage, not able tond his knuckles on Vincent''s face because Pitt was using his martial arts on him.


    "This is crazy! Are you three good buddies now? Huh?" James blurted out. He''sughing ridiculously.


    "Are you seriously protecting that a**hole!" Geoffrey seconded, pointing at Vincent. He was struggling toe closer again.


    "If we didn''t do it. How are we going to exin to the princess that Vincent was beating up badly?" Pitt reasoned out.


    "How outrageous!" Geoffrey tries to get free, but Trevor and Josh are holding him tight. "Let me go! That''s not enough, for you Bryan! I will beat you up, good!"


    "I''m sorry if you meet me in this kind of situation." Vincent apologized, where the men-only scowl at him.


    They cannot ept him, and Vincent was fully aware of that. So then, he went on...


    "I didn''t mean to make Hailee my mistress. God knows I want her as my wife. I would love to marry her. There''s no other woman I wanted to walk down the aisle and bring to the altar but her." Vincent looked at every man in that lounge until his gaze fixed on Jacob.


    "But if you didn''t hide her from me. There is the possibility that I won''t be forced to marry another woman but have my chances to meet her before my life gets messed up." He added it confused everyone.


    "What are you talking about now, Mr. Shen?"


    Vincent took a long-breathed to express himself. "I look for her...." he began.


    "I searched for her! I asked hundreds of people. No, thousands! But no god damn one told me the truth that the woman I am looking for is a princess of a High Royal Family member. Am I right, Chairman Davies, sir?"


    The men shifted their gaze toward the chairman. He perfectly knows that the boys wanted an exnation.


    Jacob sits upright in his chair. Both of his elbows rested on the armrest, sping his palms, then rested his chin on it. His gaze never left Vincent.


    "Do you know about this, Uncle Jacob?" It was Leo who dared to ask.


    "Yes. Shun informed me," Jacob replied without blinking an eye. "But Vincent Shen is just one of the hundred men who is looking for my daughter, and that includes Liam in the numbers."


    The men groaned and mumbled in a low voice. Each of them isn''t sure what to reckon now.


    "Whatever then, it won''t change the fact that Hailee had an affair with a married man! Does she even know that?" Someone from the knights raises the question.


    "The Princess knows about it," Pitt replied.


    "You are bing biased now, Pitt, so stop speaking for Mr. Shen!"


    "But that is true." Kristian, who stood in the corner near the ss door, chimed in their dialogue.


    Every head turned in his direction. Now, the men are ready to roast him.


    "What did you know about this, Kris?" Now they


    "You all know that all reports and information go through me. But the princess had talked to me ahead first and made me swear to zip my mouth if I got reports about her activities in P Country."


    "So, you know on the very first day that Vincent Shen is the Princess''s boyfriend, and he is married."


    Kris is nodding at his response. The lounge was filled with noise from the men''sints.


    "I''m sorry if I kept the truth from you, sir." He apologizes.


    Jacob looks at Kris for a moment, then turns to Vincent. He asked, "What happened, and my daughter almost had a miscarriage and had wounds on her body. Is this your wife?"


    "Yes, sir, and I''m sorry about that. I should have dealt with Eva myself and gotten your daughter involved in my divorce if I had known. But we didn''t know that she was pregnant until this morning."


    "So you were saying you just learned about her pregnancy?"


    "Yes, sir," Vincent replied. "I am truly sorry, sir. If only I could..."


    Vincent stops speaking after Jacob raises his hand, motioning for him to stop.


    "I heard enough," he said.


    "Uncle Jacob?"


    Some men aren''t satisfied. They could not get off Vincent just like that. They wanted to vent their anger and annoyance. Beating him up could make their blood rx a little.


    "You guys can punch me. But please, avoid breaking my arms and fingers." Vincent suggested; his request made the men snort. They think he is bing egotistic.


    "Don''t give us crap!" James roared at him.


    "I just wanted to keep my promise to Hailee. I can''t disappoint her." He reasons out, and everyone falls silent. No one attempts to counter that.


    When ites to the princess, they cannot have the heart to argue further. And this made them helpless, but they shot sharp stares at the guy.


    "Alright. Let''s call it a night. All of you can go back to the apartment. We still have work to doter. It''s almost sunrise." he urges them.


    "No. We are staying, Uncle Jacob." And the rest of the men said the same.


    Jacob just let them. He knows already that these men would throw a fuss if they talk to Vincent by themselves; that is why he leads this meeting. Besides, he is interested in knowing everything about Vincent, aside from being the son of Frederick Shen.


    Jacob stands from the chair; Vincent walks over.


    "Sir, can I speak to you in private?"


    "Is this about my daughter?" Jacob guessed.


    Vincent nodded, "Yes, sir."


    Jacob stared at Vincent. He sized him up and searched his face with emotions he wanted to see.

 Chapter 268 - Roasting Her Lover (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 268 - Roasting Her Lover (Four)</h4>


    "Honestly, I don''t know what to think, for now, Mr. Shen. My daughter was in a critical condition having her pregnancy. The least I could do is avoid causing her sadness if I act now to chase you out of Australia. As a father, I am not happy, Mr. Shen. I would be honest. I like you. I was ecstatic when you submitted a proposal to mypany. Of course, I remembered you are one of several men who are looking for my daughter. I marked you down. And I feel disappointed when I found out that you have a wife¡­."


    "But I am referring to your daughter, sir." Vincent intercepts whatever Jacob was about to say further. He carried on, but


    "When you were curious to know about my marital status, I answered with honesty, sir. There is no other woman I am thinking of like my wife, but your daughter alone. I may be married to someone in these passing years, but I only love your daughter. Besides, my nominal wife and I never live on one roof. I know she has a boyfriend, and she knows I love someone else whom the one I want to marry instead. It''s an agreement between us, and if only I could turn back time, I would make a wiser decision."


    "Would you really wish to go back in time, Mr. Shen?" Jacob''s meaningful question at Vincent.


    Vincent shook his head. "No, sir. I would rather fix the present problem than run back to the past to have my second chance. So, please give me a chance in this lifetime, sir. Allow me to prove to you how much I love your daughter, not because she is Hailee Davies, but a woman who can make my heart beat with joy."


    Jacob gaped at Vincent for a longer time. He was debating with himself about what was right and wrong. It might be wrong, but maybe it isn''t totally a mistake.


    He loves his daughter. Maybe Vincent is right. His daughter just fell in love at the wrong time with a man who gets married at the bad timing as well.


    What if he allowed Vincent to find his daughter three years ago?


    Are things will prevail in the right ce at present?


    However, some things are necessary to happen as they will help us understand what is wrong and right, and our decisions y a big role in what future awaits...


    Jacob heaves a long sigh. It won''t help if he''ll have his regrets now. He has many reasons he hides Hailee from Vincent in the past. Besides, his daughter was too young by that time. He could not imagine his daughter being taken away by someone at such a young age.


    But now, as Pitt had said earlier, his daughter acted maturer than she has been. She even wanted to be independent, but it turned out she fell in love as well.


    Of course, he wants his daughter to be happy. So it''s no used to dwell in the past. And so, he made a decision. Jacob patted Vincent''s shoulder, nodding his head.


    "I saw the video. So, I''m giving you one chance to make things right."


    Vincent dropped his jaw on the floor. Then does it mean his future father-inw just intentionally wanted to see him roasted in front of Hailee''s knights! He has all the answers, but he wants him to overwork on exining himself.


    On the one hand, it looks like he passed his future father-inw''s expectations. Vincent extends his right arm and offers it to Jacob.


    "Thank you, sir."


    "Hummed¡­." Jacob nodded, epting Vincent''s hand for a handshake. "This is for my daughter. I don''t want to be the reason for her heartbreak one more time."


    "I understood, sir." Vincent smiled. He knew that the chairman would continue treating him indifferently. Jacob Davies would not ept him yet,pletely. But he will work hard to win the heart of his future father-inw.


    "But I won''t let your nominal wife go from what she did."


    "Don''t worry, sir. She is ountable for receiving punishment for being involved in Liam Huo''s crime. My country will deal with her, sir."


    "But she has a separate crime to face as what she did to my daughter. The footage in the restaurant is enough evidence. She paused my daughter to cause her to fall. Hailee''s life was in danger because of the vases that caused the bruises everywhere on her body. Do you know how much insurance coverage my daughter had?"


    Vincent shook his head. "No, sir. But I know she is worth more than I could imagine."


    "And the child inside her is in danger too," Jacob added, clenching his jaw in anger.


    "I know, sir. I''m still furious every time I think of it, sir."


    "That woman will remain in Australia, and she will face thew."


    "I understood, sir," said Vincent.


    To witness that conversation, the knights cannot make remorse from here on. Even so, they will keep an eye on Vincent. They didn''t know him well yet, so they''ll watch him and protect the princess if he ns to cheat on her.


    "Mr. Shen, do you have past girlfriends?" Out of the blue, the knight raises this question. Every man in that room was keenly waiting for his reply.


    "I only had one girlfriend in the past," he replied with a smile on his face. "My work¡­ She''s demanding and consumes most of my time. So I am loyal to her."


    The men raised their brows at his answer; Pitt echoed hisugh, making them wish to strangle him.


    "What was funny about that, Pitterson Cha?"


    "Admit it, James. Vincent got you on that one!"


    Pitt continuedughing; the ss door chimed, telling them that someone wasing out. Hector appeared to bring some good news.


    "Uncle Jacob, Hailee is awake." After he informed the old man, he then turned to Vincent to ry a message. "Hailee is looking for you."


    Jacob was delighted to hear the good news. However, it didn''t make him happy that his daughter asked for another man instead of looking for him!


    Jacob frowned, sulking that there was another man who took the number one spot in her daughter''s heart. It already annoys him that in the past, he has topete against Andre, Bryan, Geoffrey, and Pitt as his daughter''s most favorite man in the world.


    Now someone won over them, and that is Vincent.


    On the other hand, Vincent notices the displeasure on Jacob''s face. He coughs then said to Jacob,


    "Let''s go, sir?"


    *


    NEXT ON:


    When they arrived at Hailee''s ward, her face brightened upon seeing Vincent.


    "Hubby¡­" She quickly threw her arms around his neck and cried on his shoulder.


    "That''s enough now. You need not stress yourself." he coaxed her, caressing her back to calm her down. "How are you feeling? I was worried sick."


    "Is it true? That possibly we have twins?"


    Vincent parted their body to see her face. Gently brushing her right cheek, he replied to her. "Yes. And so, you have to follow what the doctor has to tell you, okay?"


    "Hummed!" she nodded delightedly.


    The knights, including Jacob, contracted their pupils while watching this scene. Hailee, who was intimate to another man!


    And for her to behave and be obedient like that, they knew what it meant...


    Shepletely trusted this man.

 Chapter 269 - Her Dads Blessing

    <h4>Chapter 269 - Her Dad''s Blessing</h4>


    Walking down the hallway, they couldn''t take their eyes off of Vincent. They still can''t ept that the princess is so obsessed with him that the moment she wakes up, he''s the one she''s looking for.


    Looking back just a month ago, the princess has been protecting him already. She kept it from them, but she already gave him so many privileges.


    And now he had the chairman''s blessing. Even though they question how faithful he is toward the princess, they can''t show resentment when the princess seems serious about him. All they could do was keep quiet since the princess''s condition had to be considered.


    When they arrived at Hailee''s ward, they saw her sitting on the bed. Her face instantly brightened upon seeing theming in. When she had a glimpse of Vincent''s face, she had that big smile on her lips.


    "Hubby¡­" she called out to him.


    They have to give way for him and watch. Vincent sat on the bed, warily scanning her face and arms, but Hailee quickly threw her arms around his neck and cried on his shoulder.


    "I missed you." She mumbled between her sobs.


    Vince chuckled, encircling his arms carefully around her body. He''s afraid that she''s in pain everywhere, and he might break her if he tightens his embrace.


    "I missed you too, Wifey." He replied, kissing Hailee''s hair.


    This girl is behaving adorably again. They actually did not separate that long. She only lost consciousness, but he was here by her side most of the time.


    "That''s enough now. You need not stress yourself." He coaxed her, caressing her back to calm her down. He asked afterward, "How are you feeling? I was worried sick."


    "I feel tired, but I want to see you. Hector told me I lost so much blood, so I was transfused with two bags. I''m d our baby is safe."


    "Yes. They are fighters. And you too! So, you can stop crying now, okay?" Vincent continuedforting her, using his sweetest and calm voice.


    When he said that, her eyes twinkled with excitement. "Is it true that possibly we have twins?"


    Vincent parted their body to see her face. He is gently brushing her right cheek, drying her eyes with his thumb. He replied, "Yes. And so, follow what the doctor has to tell you, especially with the food you have to eat."


    "Okay." She smiled at Vince.


    "It should be only healthy foods. You can still eat what you like too, but there should be a limit and little sweets this time, okay?" He added.


    "Hummed!" she nodded delightedly. It makes her happy that she could still eat cakes; although she has to limit sugar and salt consumption, she can have them once in a while.


    "Good girl." Vincent smiled. He ced a warm kiss on her forehead as he whispered, "I love you."


    "I love you, too." Hailee lifted her chin to reach for Vince''s lips, then brushed hers on top of his.


    The knights, including Jacob, contracted their pupils while watching this scene. Of course, this is the first time that Hailee was very intimate with another man!


    She was sweet to all the boys, but she''s not this daring. But for her to behave and be obedient like that, they knew what it meant...


    Shepletely trusted this man.


    It causes their hearts to break, but they could see the glimmer in her eyes the way she was staring at Vincent. It''s the first time they saw her having that kind of expression. Her cheeks were blushing, and she smiled sweetly.


    It shows she''s genuinely in love.


    Bryan lowered his gaze to the floor and paused back, the tears threatening to escape his eyes. Meanwhile, watching this scene is not his first time. Still, it breaks his heart. He keeps telling himself to stop and give up. But he knew it was impossible to be too soon.


    After the kiss, Hailee''s eyes fell at Vincent''s hands. Her eyes widened, and shock struck her, seeing the bandages on his fingers.


    "What happened to your hands? Did you injure your fingers?" Panic began exhibiting on her face; Vincent had to calm her down quickly.


    "They''re just minor scratches." He tried to sound cheerful, but the way Hailee looked at him, she didn''t believe his excuse.


    "Scratches?" Instead, she freaked out.


    The men in that room shared nces. They see how Hailee gloom upon seeing Vincent''s wounded hands.


    "There''s nothing to worry about, okay?" said Vince, coaxing her. He didn''t want to stress herself, thinking it was her fault, so he didn''t mention he wounded his fingers to save her after she fell to the vases.


    But Hailee isn''t convinced. It can be seen how troubled she was to see his injuries. She took his hands and asked, "Are they painful?"


    "Not much. But I have to take care of them, so they don''t get infected. I''ll be careful next time."


    "You should be!" She mouthed.


    "I''m more worried about you." He muttered. It pained him to see her arms covered with bandages.


    "I am fine. They were just my skinpared to you. You needed these hands to keep your promise to me." She told him that almost choked Vincent.


    Her statement moved him, bringing warmth to his chest. Vincent lowered his head, touching her forehead. "Silly girl, have you forgotten we are not alone?"


    "Oh¡­" she blushed, then giggled. "I forgot." She whispered while her voice still reached the boy''s ears, which were too alert to listen to their conversation.


    "Everyone is too worried about you, particrly your dad." Honestly, he has to bring it up, or the rest of the men would keep throwing daggers at him. He would have no head by now if only their eyes could kill.


    Now that Vince had mentioned this, Hailee turned her head to the door where her knights were, waiting patiently for her to notice them. She smiled at them, traveling her gaze to each of them before she fixed her eyes on her dad.


    "Dad..." Hailee raised her left hand, waiting for her dad toe over. Vincent gets off the bed, giving way for Jacob to hug and talk to his daughter.


    "Oh, princess. I''m happy that you are awake now. I''m so worried about you." Jacob fought the tears that formed in his eyes. He didn''t hide the pain he felt seeing his daughter in such a situation.


    "I''m sorry, dad. I have been lying to you. I should have told you the truth sooner¡­."


    "Hush, now. Don''t worry. Dad is not angry at you. I forgive you already." Jacob raises his hand and carefullybs Hailee''s head. She got a minor injury at the back of her head after she fell on the floor.


    "Dad... Don''t get mad at Vincent. I think you already know that he is married. And his wife is Bryan''s girlfriend. Dad, I knew everything, but I still fell in love with him... I¡­"


    "Shush... That''s enough. It''s okay now. Like I have said already, I''m not angry anymore."


    "Dad¡­" Hailee let her eyes welled up. She rested her head on her dad''s shoulder as she continued crying. "Thank you, dad."


    "I love you, princess. Dad is not trying to interfere with your happiness. But I think dad should have apologized too."


    Hailee released from her dad''s embrace to look him in the eyes, waiting for him to continue.


    "I know he was looking for you three years ago, Princess."


    "Oh, then?" She and Vincent had the conclusion that Shun possibly did something so that he could not find her. And they''ve guessed right.


    "Shun informed me about it. And I gave the order not to let Vincent Shen find you. I have to hide you. Dad has his reasons, and you know what it was¡­ So, can you forgive, dad?"


    "Dad¡­" Hailee remained silent for a long moment, pondering about something. Later on, a sweet smile yed on her lips.


    "Does it mean you''ll ept Vincent to be your son-inw, dad? You''ll give your blessing for us to get married soon?"


    Jacob dropped his mouth open. Suddenly, he felt like he was under pressure to make an important life decision. He could see that his daughter was getting good at negotiating, which he had no other choice but to agree!


    Meanwhile, the rest of the men remain silent in the next few minutes. Each of them gets a grip on themselves not to fret. They disagreed that there will be a wedding too soon.


    It feels like Bryan and Hailee suddenly announced they were engaged and began nning to get married.


    Now, the princess is nning to get married, and this time, it was to someone they barely knew!


    They are against it. However, with the princess'' condition at the moment, they cannot raise a protest nor scold her for making such decisions. She and Vincent had just been in a rtionship for a few months. Even though they are expecting now, they believe it is still too early to get married soon!


    Jacob lifted his head and looked at the men. Like him, he could see that they object to this, but no one wants to cause his daughter''s sadness like him.


    Heaving a long sigh inwardly, Jacob turned to his daughter and kissed her forehead.


    "Whatever makes you happy, princess."


    Hailee threw her arms around her dad''s neck.


    "Thank you, dad!"

 Chapter 270 - Dad, Hes Too Handsome

    <h4>Chapter 270 - Dad, He''s Too Handsome</h4>


    Fate works on its own.


    This is what Jacob has been thinking at the moment.


    He prevented Vincent Shen from finding his daughter. But it turns out his daughter finds him. He once defies what destiny had designed, but...


    After many years, the two of them are still united. It means what he did in the past only proved that it meant for his daughter to cross paths with Vincent, and the two of them are tied to each other no one can ever separate them.


    His daughter still falls in love with Vincent Shen even though he is married at present.


    He is not against the guy, the reason he hides his daughter from him. The world they were living in is not a perfect ce. Many people would take advantage of his daughter''s status, not to mention a man like Liam.


    dly, that man was apprehended now, and ording to the reports, Vincent took a big part in getting Liam to trap. That was a huge thorn pulled out from his heart. Liam is not a threat to his daughter anymore. He can rx a little from now on.


    Jacob took his daughter''s hand. He looked at her with full of love in his eyes and a warm smile on his lips.


    He had no objection if his daughter fell in love with someone else, regarded as a stranger to them, as long as his daughter was happy. That was all that matters to him.


    "I wished you all the happiness in life, princess."


    "Thank you, dad."


    *


    Now that she''s awake and out of danger, the men one by one to start a day of work, even though they have no sleep and rest.


    She thanked each of them, hugged them, and made a quick talk. And thest person she anticipated talking to was Bryan, but she didn''t see him anymore. He was here a while ago.


    After everything that had happened, Bryan still upies a small space inside her heart. It is not the same anymore, but her life once revolves around him. He was still the best friend and brother who did many things to make her happy in the past.


    It''s just that¡­. They have a not-so-good ending.


    "Where''s Bryan, dad?" she asked afterward. Everyone had left already.


    "Ah. Kris told me that he left not long after he saw you''re okay," Jacob replied. He could see the sadness exhibited on her face. "What''s the matter? Do you want me to summon him?"


    "Ah. Well, I just wanted to ask how he felt after he learned about his girlfriend. I felt bad for him, dad. I always think of him as my good brother, so I hope he''ll move on from here. Eva doesn''t deserve him."


    "I understand that you still care for Bryan. And what you did is enough already. You can stop concerning yourself with him or that woman."


    "I know, dad. She can no longer bother Bryan or Vincent from now on."


    "And you... She can never harm you again. From here on, you and Bryan will continue your lives in separate ways."


    Hailee nodded. She smiled, then rested her head on her dad''s shoulder. She just realized how much she misses him.


    "Thank you for epting Vincent''s dad," she mumbled afterward.


    Jacob squeezed her hand and replied, "As long as Vincent makes you happy and would never hurt you, I would never beat him up then chase him out of Australia."


    Hailey giggles. She then bragged about Vincent to her dad.


    "Vincent is taking good care of me, dad. When I stayed in Metro City, he pampered and loved me even if he didn''t know my true identity. He treated me like a queen."


    "Alright. I am giving him ten points if that was true," said Jacob. He then leans over to whisper to her daughter. "Speaking of him... It felt awkward. We''re talking all of this when he is just standing a couple of meters away."


    Jacob moves his mouth in Vincent''s direction, standing in the corner, patiently waiting for the father and daughter to finish talking.


    Hailee squeal. "Dad, he''s too handsome, don''t you think so?"


    Jacob rolled his eyes. His daughter never speaks to him about a guy. She never mentioned before if she had a crush on someone, especially the hot men surrounding his daughter. She seemed na?ve to see their assets and physique, which was a dream for every woman to date them. And one of those crazy women is Eva, who has a grudge against her daughter for being too lucky.


    Jacob wanted to stay and apanied his daughter. But since she had someone she more wanted to spend with, Jacob bid his goodbye.


    "Take a rest, princess. Don''t worry about thepany. The boys take care of everything. Remember what the doctor told you? You have to avoid any circumstances that stress you out."


    "Yes, dad. I''ll keep it in mind. I will take care of myself for your grandbabies."


    Jacob''s eyes flickered for what she had said. He may not show it, but he was already excited to confirm if Hailee was expecting multiple babies. Finally, there would be little ones that are going to mess up his mansion.


    It''s been a while since the house was too noisy every time the boys stayed every weekend to apany his daughter.


    Having grandchildren is still a different feeling.


    "Bye, dad. See you at lunch."


    "Okay, princess. I''ll ask the chef to prepare something."


    "Thanks, dad."


    Jacob ced a kiss on Hailee''s hair before he nced at Vincent. He said, "Take care of my daughter."


    "Yes, sir."


    Vincent sighs with relief when he could finally have Hailee for himself in at least a few hours. Having everyone around is his rival to her time and attention, and this is something he has to get used to from here on.


    "What was in your mind, hubby?" asked Hailee. She was leaning on his chest, but he remained silent.


    "I''m just jealous, Wifey," he answered with honesty.


    Hailee looked up. She gaped at Vincent lovingly and said, "You have nothing to get jealous of."


    She lifted her chin to brushed her lips on top of his. Vincent gently held her face to deepen the kiss. But it didn''tst long because their breakfast arrived.


    She giggled, looking at Vince''s face, frowning.

 Chapter 271 - Her Best Girlfriends

    <h4>Chapter 271 - Her Best Girlfriends</h4>


    Later in the afternoon, Gigi arrived in Dream City. She freaked out to see the bandages on her body.


    "I should have been there!" Gigi fretted.


    Hailee smiled at how worried Gigi was. She persuades her, "It''s alright. We can''t foresee what will happen, you know."


    She pacifies Gigi, whoter realizes that she must not cause things that would stress her.


    She said, "Okay. I should not whine openly but fret inwardly. Pitt told Tom that it''s not good for you to be depressed or stress yourself."


    "I''m fine. Don''t worry about me, okay? Dad, Vincent, and everyone was already freaking out about my pregnancy. I''ll be more stressed if everyone gives me a worried face," Hailee answered.


    "Silly! Normally, they would freak out because they love you. I also freak out after I heard the news." Gigi said, holding her hand, carefully scanning her arm.


    Hailee smiled and hugged Gigi one more time. "And I''m happy about that. It''s just that I already hate myself."


    Gigi parted from her; shock registered on her face at what she said. "Why would you? You shouldn''t think that way!"


    Hailee pointed out, "I mean, I hate how my body is so fragile. I should have been stronger than this! I should not lose consciousness during my talk with Eva."


    "You are pregnant. You can''t take control over your body if your pregnancy differs from that of other women," Gigi exined to her.


    She understood Hailee is new to what she is experiencing now. She must watch her body, and she must not overdo any heavy work. Most especially in her mental state, she must avoid stress or feel depressed.


    "I haven''t experienced it myself yet, so I can''t have a lot of examples. But Tom''s mom said of what struggles she has to get through to keep him inside her womb for nine months," she added.


    Hailee smiled at Gigi. She''s grateful that she was the one she''d talk to. Gigi is much more mature and has more experience in life. "Okay. I understand what you were saying. Thank you."


    Gigi embraced Hailee one more time. Afterward, they talk about random things like the gender of the baby, or if it was a twin, and what names she would give them.


    "I think this is something I have to discuss with Vincent. I understand they have some beliefs, especially on Vincent''s part. Also, I have to let his family get involved in naming our firstborn. He is from a long line of the royal family."


    "So, are you!" Gigi reminded her. "Your forefathers are a European Royal as well."


    "Ah, right¡­" she chuckled awkwardly. Why did she forget that?


    She and Vincent are from the bloodline of aristocrats.


    "I have nothing to worry about, then once we meet the Elders. Vincent is also from the royal family. He is a descendant of an emperor," she is more sound of consoling herself not to worry so much.


    "Otherwise, it will be a bloody fight for Vincent," Gigi''s meaningful remarks. "Well, I''m happy that your dad gave his blessings."


    "Yes. I was so happy. But I am a little guilty. I am worried they will make things hard for Vincent, so I used my condition to get dad and the men''s approval. I felt bad. I felt like I tricked them."


    "Vincent loves you. They should see that," she reassured Hailee.


    "Vincent must prove to everyone yes." Hailee nodded. Gigi''s words areforting to her. She must not worry so much.


    "So stop beating yourself up, okay? They have no choice but to let you be happy. For god''s sake, you suffered enough already!" Gigi continued consoling her.


    "And you too. I''m happy for you, Gigi..." said Hailee, a warm smile ced on her lips.


    Gigi cannot hide anymore how happy she was that Tom epted her into the family.


    "Tom''s family is actually nice to me. I could tell that they were genuine for treating me well. I''m actually nervous! What if they would not like me?"


    "Silly. The Morris family is wonderful. They would like you. They won''t judge you nor mistreat you." This time, she''s the oneforting Gigi.


    Gigi smiled, concurring with what Hailee had said to her. "I already love them."


    "I''m happy to know that." Tom''s mom is her mother''s best friend. Katherine is like a mother to her, too.


    "Hail!" At the door, Kelly stepped inside and rushed to the bed. "You girl! I can''t believe this! Where is my cousin? I will beat him up!"


    Hailee and Gigi look at each other. They''re happy to see her, but she started throwing a pit. Gigi has to hold Kelly on the shoulders to calm her down, guiding her to inhale and exhale.


    "Hailee should not encounter any stressful situation." Gigi reminded Kelly, which the girl still didn''t stop fitting.


    "I''m just furious! I want to p that woman!"


    "You need not waste your time," said Hailee with a smile on her lips. Honestly, she felt warm at what Kelly showed her of how concerned she was. "Come here."


    Kelly cried. And so she was mumbling between their hugs. "I can''t believe that you truly are going to show me your marriage license too soon."


    Hailee chuckled at what she fussed about now. Before, she made mentions to Kelly that she will wave her marriage license at her soon. She said, "You''ll be my bridesmaid and godmother."


    "Oh, my gosh! I love that!" Kelly shrieked delightedly.


    Outside the door, Vincent, Tom, and Pitt shared a look. The three of them were on the balcony of that ward, having coffee when they heard someone scream from Hailee''s room. It was just Kelly fretting over her frustration.


    "This woman, really!" Pitt fretted.


    Vincent and Tom just shrugged their right shoulders.


    *


    SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA


    Later in the evening¡­.


    Eva was seated in the corner of the room. She never touched the food given to her. But every time the door opened, she lifted her head, hoping it was Bryan.


    She was locked up in her bedroom, and Bryan hadn''te home since yesterday. She was mulling over whether what happened to that girl was serious.


    Eva is wondering what Bryan would do to her. Maybe she has to apologize. She didn''t feel guilty about what had happened, but she didn''t want to lose Bryan. She realized that she really loved him.


    "Bryan!" she hurried to stand and rush to the door. But thest person she expected to see is the one who appears at the door.


    Eva froze to her feet on the floor. She stammers, but she could not spill out any word. She remained horrid to see the person walking toward her.


    pped!


    When thatnded on her face, she staggered her legs and fell to the floor.


    "After the kindness, I showed to your family? You have the nerve to hurt my grandchild!? You''ve caused enough headaches for my son! But for you to harm the Shen heir? I will make sure you''ll live in hell!"

 Chapter 272 - Do Everything For Her

    <h4>Chapter 272 - Do Everything For Her</h4>


    Eva touched the part of her face that pped. She could sense her cheek began swelling. She hasn''t eaten sincest night, and the p made her dizzy.


    "Madam Shen! Please, forgive me! It was only an ident!"


    p!


    Hilda pped her other cheek; Eva cannot hold back her tears any longer. She covered her mouth, not letting out her cry.


    "That was for you being such a liar! And that is not enough to pay for your crime! Your family has the oath to remain loyal and protect Shen from all circumstances! But what have you done instead? Spreading rumors about my son''s sexual orientation? You must protect Vincent''s image even if true he is gay! That was your job, the reason you are married to him! The Shen has been generous to the Lan as we felt indebted! But you dare to betray us after we save your family from almost living in the streets!"


    "Madam Shen, please forgive me if I didn''t be a better wife to your son¡­ I¡­"


    "You never became Vincent''s wife, and thank god someone did that on your behalf!"


    Eva grabbed the hem of her dress and clenched both of her palms into fists. Hilda is referring to Hailee.


    "As you could see, he is expecting his child now!" Hilda added that enraged Eva.


    She mused, ''So it was okay for her that Vincent has a mistress? Huh!''


    Madam Shen didn''t tolerate such an act. That is why in these passing years, she is cautious about everything she is doing.


    But of course! Hailee Davies is such a prize!


    Eva lowered her gaze. It''s not because she felt sorry, but hatred surging uncontrobly from the bottom of her chest.


    Why was she born into a family that was only ves to others? Being born to protect the Shen? What a joke! What is so great about them in the first ce?


    The Shen family only survived because of Hilda Lopez. Now Madam Shen was throwing a fit because she harmed the heir?


    Eva scoffs inwardly. Madam Shen is also the same as those in the upper-ss family who would only favor someone rich and from the most prominent family, such as Hailee Davies, the sole heiress of Davies Corporation, one of the most wealthy families in the world!


    She wanted tough to herself for being such a pity and a fool for losing her head over Bryan. She crawled someone''s bed to get a name of her own as an outstanding Interior Designer. But she isn''t just using her body to get what she wants. She also proves that she is the best. She only takes the easiest way.


    But stupid heart! Bryan''s love is what she can never get because of Hailee Davies! Now, someone like Madam Hilda Lopez Shen is in favor of that girl! She even won her heart!


    Hailee has everything already. Why does she have to take the only things she wanted in this life?


    "I didn''t intend to hurt her¡­" she said in a lower voice. "It''s not my fault if she was just too weak. I touch her¡­." Eva gasped. Hilda ps her one more time, and that is the third time.


    "Don''t make a fool of me!" Hilda sneered at Eva. "Do you think Tim didn''t send me the video? That was enough evidence that you assaulted Hailee! You pped her and hurt her, but you acted like it was you Hailee had attacked! I will make sure you share the same fate as your parents and sister!"


    Hilda looked at Eva downward like a disgusting insect. She lifted her chin and said, "You dream of milking money from Vincent and then nning to set him up with another man''s child? Huh! Keep dreaming! You will get not even one dime from him! The next time we see each other is in court! I would love to send you off to prison!"


    After saying this, Madam Hilda Shen red at Eva before she got out of the room. Eva was left in despair. She can''t ept that her dreams would shatter like this!


    Why has that girl be her nightmare even in the daytime? She was like a shadow who always hunts her!?


    Eva shoves her face in her palms. It shouldn''t end like this!


    She lost track of how long she remained to lie down on the floor. She heard the door open one more time, but she didn''t move, thinking that it might be Madam Hilda who came back.


    Then, a familiar ck folder was thrown on the floor andnded in front of her.


    She lifted her head; she found Bryan staring at her with such cold eyes.


    "Sign it."


    Eva bites her lip. She furiously clenched her palm into a fist from her anger. Yes. She didn''t feel scared or pity herself anymore. But she was angry that Bryan waspletely losing his head.


    "Are you letting her marry Vincent? Don''t you want to get back together? Don''t you keep rejecting me because you still hope she will give you another chance? Then why do you want me to divorce Vincent? You can use me, Bryan! I will not give Vincent the divorce he wanted!"


    "Enough, Eva! I''m not interested in whatever you were saying. Now sign it!"


    Bryan squatted in front of her, shoving a pen in her hand. She wipes the tears from her eyes, then looks up at Bryan with rage.


    "You can''t stop me! I will speak whatever I want! All these years, you are using me with your dark fantasies. And it bothers me how you never care about me! You were only thinking of yourself, Bryan!"


    "Is that so? Did I force you? I never had, but you also liked it! Besides, you were fooling with other men behind my back!"


    "You never treat me right, but just someone as your shit! You only see me as an object to relieve your sexual frustration! But you can''ty your hands on her, but treat her like a fragile doll! And with me, you are so heartless! You''ve just used me!"


    "Why are you whining now? Our rtionship has no strings attached. You know that already, but you were acting as if you owned me, nor I owed you something!"


    "I only wish for a bit of love from you! But you only love her even if she just enves you!"


    "She never enved me! I give her every right to bother me whenever she wants me! Can''t you understand that, Eva?"


    "You are so unfair! I love you so much, Bryan! And it bothers me that you don''t care about me! You never see what I am willing to do for you!"


    "I heard loud and clear what you said! Don''t you dare to deny how a gold digger you are! You are also a user for using your nominal husband and other men! You are not different from me! So stop acting clean!"


    Bryan is holding both of her shoulders, shaking her body. He was hurting her, but Bryan ignored her even if she cried with pain.


    "Bryan, I''m hurting." She pleaded for him to let her go.


    "Don''t you ever dare to tell me you love me! Do you know why Eva? If you truly love me, you should have never married Vincent in the first ce! You should have divorced him sooner!"


    Eva rendered her silence. After a long moment, she wipes her tears and smiles bitterly.


    "Do you want to know why I showed her the video of us having sex, Bryan?" she asked Bryan afterward, who only cast a sharp re at her. "Every person has a skeleton hiding in their closet, and I told her how dominant you are in sexual activity. I just taught her sex education, at the same time, showed her what kind of man you are. But she is such a baby. All she did was cry¡­."


    Tears fell from her eyes after Bryan pped her hard. Her face was swollen already after Madam Shen hit her three times.


    Eva welled up. Bryan has no more ounce of pity left in his heart. He doesn''t mind if he''s hurting her now.


    "Why are you doing this, Bryan?" Eva asked, her voice trembling due to pain and anger.


    "I cannot touch her because she is too precious to me. Yes. I am afraid she will know who I am. I don''t want to scare her. That is why I was careful of what kind of man I revealed to her. I''ve be the best man in front of her, the reason she was shocked, and it was hard for her to ept after she learned what I am."


    Bryan hurled a long breath from the bottom of his lungs before he carried on.


    "You are right all along, Eva. I am just using you to relieve the monster inside me. I cannot love you because the only one in my heart is her¡­. But because of that love? I can go this far, Eva. I want her to be happy. And the least I could do is help her marry the man who can bring a smile to her face. Yes, Eva. I am willing to do everything for her, even if it will break my heart."


    "Why!?" she doesn''t understand.


    Bryan replied, "Do you want to know why I can''t stop loving her? And why can''t I teach my heart to love you?"


    "Hailee has never been selfish. We may spoil her, act like a child, and be na?ve. But her innocence made her heart pure. She never thinks evil of others, but others teach her to be one. She doesn''t like to hurt others, but others are hurting her. I''ve be overprotective of her because of that, and I will always be. So I am protecting her from the like of you, Eva."


    Eva dropped both of her shoulders to her sides. Her tears were flooding her eyes; she barely could see the folder in front of her¡­.


    Then, she picked up the ck pen with a shaking hand.

 Chapter 273 - Put Her On The Pedestal

    <h4>Chapter 273 - Put Her On The Pedestal</h4>


    DREAM CITY, AUSTRALIA


    Hailee was yawning when she felt a firmed body underneath her. She realized she was lying on top of Vincent''s body.


    After she had some carrot cake and green tea around 5:30 in the evening, she fell asleep. If she weren''t mistaken, she''d sleep for hours.


    Ah, poor hubby!


    Surely, his body was numbing now, but she wanted to stay cuddled by him.


    Hailee gaped at Vince, immersed herself in staring at his handsome face while he slept so peacefully. When she saw him this morning, she could tell how exhausted he was. Now, she doesn''t want to disturb his nap.


    Hailee remains to stare at him for a few more minutes before she slowly gets down from Vince, then sits up on the bed to check the time on her phone.


    ''Gosh!''


    It''s nine-thirty of the night. It was way past dinner, and she wondered if Vince had eaten already when she pillowed on his body.


    Hailee types on her phone. "Pitt, are you in the hospital?"


    "Yes, princess. I''m with the others here in the lounge. Gigi and Kelly were here as well. Do you want to have dinner now?"


    "Yes, I''m feeling hungry... Is Vincent done eating?"


    "Not yet, princess. I urged him earlier, but he refused, saying he''d wait for you to wake up to have dinner together."


    "I see. He looks exhausted, so I don''t want to interrupt his sleep. Did he freak out when I lost consciousness?"


    "It cannot paint how worried sick he is, princess. Well, all of us have no sleep as well. Everyone was too worried about you too, but he''s the one who broke down in tears."


    She''s reading Pitt''s reply. It made her heart leap with joy. Learning that Vince shed tears, an unexinable warm feeling filled her chest. Making him worried was thest thing she wanted him to feel, but it made her happy to know this.


    Hailee nced at Vince full of love, glimpsing in her eyes. She ced a soft kiss on his lips before she sent another text to Pitt.


    "Thank you, Pitt. I''ll wait for Vincent to wake up for us to have dinner together."


    "Alright, princess. Just ring us so that the boys heat the food. They prepared your favorites."


    "Oh¡­"


    "Don''t worry. Vincent told us what food you don''t like to eat this time around your pregnancy."


    "I see. Thanks, Pitt!"


    Hailee ced her phone on the bedside table. She then slowlyy down next to Vincent. She was careful not to wake him up, but she couldn''t keep her hands from touching his face. Her fingers were tracing his jawline and the bridge of his proud nose until it reached his lips.


    "Why don''t youpletely take advantage of me when you ogle at me like that?"


    Hailee dropped her mouth open when Vincent opened his eyes, then wink at her. She smacks her shoulder from sudden embarrassment. He was awake!


    She giggled, then pinched him on the waist, but she swallowed the words she wanted to spill when Vincent imed her lips. This guy could make her feel like a teenager.


    "Next time, wake me up like this..." said Vincent after he parted their lips. "It''s not healthy for you to miss a meal. It''s gettingte, and you haven''t had dinner yet."


    She smiled at what Vince had said. "But I want us to eat together. You''re waiting for me to wake up, too, as I pillow on your shoulder."


    "I don''t mind, of course." He said but didn''t tell Hailee how his shoulder was numbing now, and he''s suffering real bad. But he could ignore that. Holding her like this made him feel at ease. He wished they could stay like this forever... Like was glued together.


    "Thank you," she muttered, full of love.


    Vincent brushed her cheeks gently. He''s d the swelling from Eva''s p is slowly disappearing.


    "It''s healing now. I''m sorry. I should have watched Eva closely. It should not have happened." he apologized with distress in his voice.


    It pained him to see Hailee with bandages on her arms and legs. He''ll do everything so it won''t leave any marks on her body. Her skin is so smooth and wless.


    He doesn''t mind if Hailee had scars, but women boost their confidence when they see wless skin. She loves sleeveless crop tops, camis, and halter dresses, where she looks too pretty and elegant, whatever clothes she''s wearing.


    He doesn''t feel less because of her ws, but he knows it will affect Hailee psychologically.


    Starting at her, Vince leaned over and kissed her shoulder.


    Hailee could see the sincerity in his eyes and his fear after she fell on the vases. "You don''t need to apologize to me. Okay?" she persuades him.


    "I''m too worried¡­." Vincent lowered his gaze to her arms; Hailee could guess what he''s thinking.


    "Are you afraid they would leave some scars?" she asked.


    "I don''t mind. But you are so precious to have those. You don''t deserve it." Vincent groans with frustration.


    Hailee cupped his face and said, "As long as I am still the prettiest girl in your eyes, I will always feel confident in myself."


    "You''re the image of yourpany. I know how you take care of your body."


    He could recall those beauty products in her dressers and bathroom. They aren''t the ordinary products you can buy in the mall or drugstores. They seem personalized formtions for sensitive skin types.


    "Dermatologists surely can do something about it," Vincent added afterward.


    Hailee parted her lips into a huge smile. She smacks a kiss on Vince''s lips.


    "Thank you. I know you aren''t concerned if I ever get ugly. But you are right. I am the first image of mypany, so I have to maintain my wless skin. Don''t worry. My team is already preparing the research on what kind of form I need to eliminate the scars on my body without doing any surgery."


    "Oh¡­ is it?"


    Hailee nodded. "In the past two years, I''ve invested in a Research Center for beauty products. I want to expand it by introducing our products to middle-ss housewives, not just for young singledies but also for everyone. But my team still failed to find the perfect formtion that I can sell for a little cheaper than its current prices."


    "For now, my beauty products are avable only to the upper-ss consumers. My next goal is to make it affordable to everyone," she added.


    Vince kept his silence for a little while. He fell into thought while staring at Hailee, who was waiting for his insights. Ever since Vince knew her real identity, it became too convenient for her to discuss what she was doing in her life.


    "I should not forget that I''m going to marry a businesswoman," said Vince.


    Hailee chuckled. Sometimes, she''d forgotten about that too.


    "Hailey Hillson is always avable, you know... She will always make time for you." She purred at Vince, ying on the buttons of his shirt.


    His eyes gleamed with excitement as this kitten was making a move towards him. He lowered his head to cover her mouth. After the long kiss, he ced his forehead on hers and muttered, "I''m madly in love with her. But Hailee Davies made me kneel on one foot as I adore her. I want to put her on the pedestal."


    "You''re too cheesy. But I love it!" She and Vince bothugh.


    He imed her lips, kissing her one more time before he urged her to talk about her otherpany. "Now tell me more about your otherpany."


    Hailee had these sparks in her eyes when she discussed her cosmeticpany, the reason he urges her to tell him more about it.


    "I see the struggles of mothers who lost confidence after giving birth. Not everyone is gifted with naturally wless skin, but the majority suffer from stretch marks, skin sensitivity such as allergies and then changes during and after pregnancy."


    "You are amazing." This girl keeps impressing him. Vince couldn''t helppliment her in the middle of her talk. "How can I invest in your cosmeticpany?"


    Hailee gaped at Vince with surprise. She couldn''t believe it would interest him. But it made her happy if Vince would be her business partner.


    "Well, mypany is more on skincare products. Now that we''re expecting our babies, I''ve got an idea. When my team seeds in making cheaper beauty products, I want to name it after our firstborn daughter."


    "Oh." He loves the idea! Now he''s mulling over to find the perfect name. "Could it be Venus? Or Aphrodite? She is the goddess of beauty ording to mythology."


    Hailee smiled enormously. She was d to see Vince had already thought about it. In fact, he looks more excited than her.


    "Are you sure to name your daughter after Greek goddesses?" She teases him.


    Vinceughed awkwardly. It was just something that came to his mind. Now he realized they must choose the names carefully.


    He said, "Of course, it''s up to you what name you would like for our children."


    "Well, I''m thinking of consulting your family. Maybe you have some tradition or beliefs?"


    Vince contemted. "Do you know the meaning of mom''s name?"


    "Nadia and Liza mentioned it before." She beamed. It was one of those days; the great Madam Hilda Shen is chasing her out of the country.


    Both Nadia and Lizamented about it.


    "Everyone was actually scared of Madam Hilda Shen. Do you know what the meaning of her name is? It means war!" said Liza.


    Then Nadia echoed. "She lives up to her name."


    She would admit that Vince''s mom was intimidating. But she never feared her, nor hated her. Madam Hilda Shen was just ethical.


    Having a mistress is never right.


    No one should be happy about that. But she believes that hers and Vince''s story has profound excuses and is exceptional.


    *


    NEXT ON:


    "Vincent Shen?!"


    He was dumbfounded to see his mom on the door. "Mom?"


    "What are you doing?" Hilda asked his son.


    Vincent was puzzled by his mom''s question. He replied, "I''m eating, mom."


    "And why does Hailee feed you? Are you the one who was hospitalized here?"


    Vincent shook his head in response to his mom. He was amazed at how nagging his mom was as always; whatever circumstances are or wherever she was...


    She is always the great Hilda Shen.

 Chapter 274 - Destined For Each Other

    <h4>Chapter 274 - Destined For Each Other</h4>


    Vincent is pacing back and forth outside Hailee''s ward. Her maids are helping her to get a bath. It frustrates him that he could not use his hands yet.


    He wants to bathe Hailee himself and dress her. He would love to take care of her and be in service, but he has nothing to do for now but cuddle her.


    "Don''t worry, hubby. Your body is still useful to me. Hug me like this¡­" she said this morning; they woke up. She gets up from the bed, then sat down on hisp and purred against his chest.


    He frowned. She was giving him that kind of look, teasing him as he had his morning hard-on.


    "How about a hand job?"


    Hailee whispered in his ear; he shrunk his pupils, pressing his mouth tight not to sigh hungrily. This girl was behaving naughtily early in the morning.


    She had no idea how he only controlled himself not to touch her when she still looked pale. It scares him she might pass out if they make love.


    Moreover, he could not use his hand to pleasure her, the least he could offer to her for the time being. But the main problem here is her knights came and went in her ward.


    Like, what the f*ck?


    The doctor said she has to rest, but those men are checking her out every hour. They were bringing food and anything, but he had suspected that was only their f*cking excuses.


    They don''t respect their privacy at all!


    Vincent had this grim mood exhibiting on his face when Pitt and Tom arrived. They found him leaning on the wall next to the door of the private ward.


    "Hey, Vincent Shen! What''s up, man? Early in the morning, but you look gloomy? Why is that? The princess had her mood swings?"


    Vincent shrugged a shoulder. In the past week that he spent much time around Pitt, he was getting used to his nosiness.


    "No. I was the one who was having mood swings." His reply to Pitt, whoughed out loud at his answer.


    "I could not imagine that you are this honest. But that actually is a nice character of yours. I won''t be surprised if you persuade the princess with that behavior. She needs an honest guy. Otherwise, she would not understand if you are sulking because of her."


    "Yeah. I deliberately told her I would be jealous if she were close to other men."


    Pitt and Tom were rendered speechless. Later on, it was Pitt who burst outughing, patting on Vincent''s shoulder.


    "I think I''m going to like you too soon," said Pitt delightedly. "Anyway, aren''t they finished yet?"


    "Hailee''s dermatologist''s team is there to check how deep her wounds are. I heard they would start making the skincare products she needs to heal her wound faster and, at the same time, won''t leave a scar on her skin," Vince exined.


    "I see." Pitt sighed. He could still remember how pitiful she looked inside Vince''s arms. Each of them, as her knights, was too cautious she would not get into an ident.


    But she was too careless. No one can stop her from doing some stunts that end up bleeding her knees or elbows, scratching her legs, or spraining her ankles.


    And seeing her bleed a lot freaks him out. They have been too overprotective of Hailee.


    After what had happened, then seeing another man who wouldn''t want to leave her side as much as them¡­


    Maybe it''s time to let her go. She will be a mom soon and a wife to someone.


    It feels like, just yesterday, that little girl was following them around in secret. Soon, she''s going to look after her children.


    "Hey! Do you need a facial napkin?" Tom elbowed Pitt, and the guy was puzzled. He didn''t understand him at all. Tom grinned at him, which annoys Pitt. He told him, "You look like you''re about to cry."


    Pitt twitches his mouth. "Shut up, Tom!"


    Heughed. It amused him to see Pitt blushed once in a while. This guy loves to make fun of everyone. Getting him good is rare. But he understood why Pitt''s facial expression suddenly turned emotional. Even he would surely shed tears at Hailee''s wedding.


    They were all going to miss that cute girl who would trouble them even in the middle of their sleep.


    "Tom! Dad won''t allow me to go to Melbourne!"


    And in the next few weeks¡­


    "Tom! Dad gave his permission to have a drive toward Northern Australia! I''ll let others know!"


    And whatever came to her mind. The more she''s growing up, the more she''s demanding to travel to farther ces. Well, at least he''s still going to pilot her private ne.


    He''s still traveling with her most of the time. And he knew Pitt would be her head of bodyguards. So there is nothing to feel bad about. Pitt was just too emotional, and it was contagious.


    "Come on. Let''s get Hailee''s breakfast." Tom urges Pitt; both left Vincent, who was still in a gloomy mood.


    Not long after, the door opens, and Hailee''s dermatologist teames out, followed by her nannies.


    "Mr. Shen, the princess, is looking for you," Mrs. Brown informed him. She is the Headmistress of the Davies family, serving for forty years already.


    "Thank you, Mrs. Brown." Vincent thanked the older woman, sighing with relief that finally, after almost two hours waiting, they''re done examining her.


    He steps inside the room; Hailee immediately opens her arms to hook them around his neck when he sits next to her on the sofa.


    Vincent imed Hailee''s lips; she tasted sweet; he''s enticed to thrust his tongue inside her mouth to kiss her deeper.


    "Ahem! Food is here. It''s time for breakfast, princess." Pitt announced he didn''t care, even if the couple was making out.


    Tom, who was following behind Pitt, shaking his head from astonishment. Pitt has no consideration at all. He admires his nosiness to the princess''s privacy. May Vincent conceals his annoyance toward them, but he caught that glint of irritation in his eyes.


    It looks like he has to gather the knights and discuss crucial matters. The princess isn''t a little kid anymore. She will have her own life from here on, and everyone should have epted that.


    Tom had this thought in his mind when he ced the basket of fresh strawberries on the coffee table.


    "Here, Princess! Fresh picked out this morning from Russell Farm." Tom smiled to see the joy in her eyes.


    That girl who always has the sweetest smile and purest heart. Everyone is overreacting now that she has a lover. But for him, she was always the girl they all have known...


    "Thanks, Tom! They are so big and so red!" Feeling thrilled, she picked up one and put it in her mouth. In the next few seconds, she had already eaten five strawberries.


    "Alright, princess. We''re leaving now," said Tom, pulling Pitt outside.


    "Hey, let me go! Why are you dragging me?" Pittined and was about to go back.


    "Are you serious about being the third wheeler inside?" asked Tom with one eyebrow raised upward.


    "So what? Vincent wounded his fingers, and the princess has cuts in her arms. Who would feed her?"


    Tom has rendered speechless. He was dumbfounded at Pitt''s response. ''This guy is impossible.'' He mumbled inwardly.


    "What are youughing about?" Pitt asked Tom after the guy smirks at him.


    "You know what? Enough being excessive to the princess. You know that things aren''t the same anymore. She had a fiance now, and they were expecting already. It''s time for the princess to live her life without relying so much on us."


    "You know that was not!" Pitt argued.


    Tom sighed. It looks like things would not be easy. He just talked to Pitt, and this guy showed stubbornness already. How if it was everyone who he speaks to now? He should prepare himself then, thought Tom.


    *


    Inside the ward, both Vincent and Hailee heard the conversation outside. A sh of sadness passed in her eyes, and Vincent caught that before she shrugs it off.


    "I should talk to them," he told Hailee. Vincent decided he had to initiate an all-men heart-to-heart talk with all of her knights.


    The silent dispute between him and the knights would cause an unhealthy environment. They were all working in the samepany and with the same goal.


    Moreover, they all wanted to create a happy ce for her. What they wanted to see is her beautiful smile each day. But if they were indifferent toward him, he knew Hailee would be affected.


    And his only choice is to court her knights and persuades them.


    Hailee raised her arm and held his face. She brushed his lips on top of his as she muttered, "Thank you. Maybe that is the best thing we must do for my knights to see that you truly love me. I''ll ask Tom to set an all men''s out for you all. I think it will be perfect for my yachts."


    "Hmm¡­ What if they throw me into the ocean with a rock tied on my ankle?"


    Haileeughed out loud at the crazy thoughts Vincent had at the moment. He was too cute having that expression on his face while narrating his imagination.


    But Vincent intentionally makes a funny face. He wants to see Hailee smile and stop worrying about her knights for not epting him yet.


    "There¡­ I need that smile," he mutters on top of her lips.


    Hailee ying Vince''s ear, she softened her gaze as she uttered, "I think I would not have overheard Eva''s conversation with her best friend if I didn''t search for you."


    "Well, your dad made sure I would not find you three years ago. Still, we will meet as we are destined for each other."


    "I love you, Vincent Shen¡­."


    "I love you more, Hailee Hillson Davies," Vincent imed her enticing lips; he didn''t let her go until both were out of breath.

 Chapter 275 - His Family (One)

    <h4>Chapter 275 - His Family (One)</h4>


    "Open your mouth, hubby." Holding a fork with an omelet on it, Hailee urges him.


    Vincent obediently parted his lips and ate the food she offered. He munches it, then swallows. He opened his mouth again to take a bite of the gingerbread Hailee holding in her other hand.


    "Wifey, I should be the one feeding you." He said, thrilled with the affection she was giving to him. He''s the one to receive care, instead of Hailee.


    "No! Your hand is still injured!" She insisted stubbornly.


    Vince remained silent for a moment, then said with a faint smile, "They are just scratch, Wifey. Soon, it will heal."


    He tries to exin, but Hailee keeps scooping food, and then she''ll bring them to his mouth. He couldn''t refuse.


    "I''ll feed you until they heal. For now, you will be my baby. After I give birth, it will be our children I''m to feed by then."


    By her statement, warmth filled his chest when delight burst in his heart. He loves the idea that Hailee would baby him for the time being. He wishes it will be forever, but the thought of having kids soon also made him happy.


    After that, she said, he didn''t argue anymore but opened his mouth, leisurely epting all the food Hailee was giving him.


    They were halfway through their breakfast, then the door opened. It shocked the woman with the scene she saw.


    Hailee puts a spoonful of mushroom-corn soup into Vince''s mouth. She then wipes the soup left on the corner of his mouth. The scene was too cheesy and, at the same time, ridiculous to see a grown man being treated like a little kid.


    "Vincent Shen!"


    A thunderous voice echoed on the ward and could also be heard outside in the corridor, which shook the hell out of Vincent. The water he drank choked him when someone screamed his name. This voice is so familiar that even when he''s sleeping, he would recognize who he belongs to.


    He slowly turned his head and was surprised to see the people at the door. "Mom?"


    The older woman stepped inside and instantly stormed him with a question.


    "What are you doing?"


    He could sense the sternness in his mom''s voice; he is puzzled by her question. "I''m eating, mom."


    "Eating? And why does Hailee feed you? Are you the one who was hospitalized here? Why are you acting like a child!"


    Vincent remained stunned. His mom is undoubtedly the Drama Queen¡ªshe was a nagger as this, whatever circumstances are. No wonder people gave her the name the Great Madam Hilda Shen.


    His mom seemed to wait for his response; he could only shake his head as he couldn''te up with a better exnation of the scene they all have seen.


    He was flustered to hear the three girls giggling behind his mom.


    "Mom, just let our brother enjoy the attention Hailee gives him. Once she gives birth, brother haspetition!" Sheena chimed in. She had the most teasing smile among Dee and Janise.


    He could only render his silence. If his sister only knew how he was already on the battlefield of having Hailee''s attention only for himself, thepetition is too great!


    Now that his sisters came and his mom was also here, he had more people topete with!


    "Mom, sister Dee, Sheena, Janise¡­." Hailee was ted to see them appear at the door. She didn''t expect that Vince''s family woulde to Australia and visit her.


    Vincent sighs helplessly when he is kicked out from the sofa, and the three girls upy it as they now crowd Hailee.


    "Why are you guys here?" That was more like a murmur to himself, but his mom''s sharp ears heard it loudly and clearly.


    "What kind of son are you? Aren''t you happy your family was here? We were also worried when we heard Hailee had to rush to the hospital after she bleeds! What if something had happened to my grandson?"


    Vincent opens his mouth, but before he could ask who told them, his mom snaps already and answers the question ying on his head.


    "Tim emailed me the footage. Eva dared toy her hand on Hailee." Hilda furrowed her brows from rage. After she notices Hailee is probably carrying Vincent''s firstborn, she secretly monitors her condition.


    And after she heard the news of what Eva had done, given her three ps actually did not satisfy her. But she won''t stain her hands to end that snake''s life! She still believes in karma and has other ways to make her enemies walk with no head!


    "I will strangle Eva if Hailee loses the child!" she stressed out in front of her son.


    Staring at his mom''s sullen face, Vincent curled up the corner of his mouth into an amusing smirk. His mom had really an attitude in every situation. It was also why he could not hate her, even though she deliberately chased Hailee out in the past.


    She is just a great nagger and had a vicious tongue, but she''d only acted on what she thinks is right.


    She wanted to break off his affair with Hailee because it wasn''t right in the first ce when he is legally married to someone else. But now that she knows the truth, she is willing to put her life on the line to protect the woman he loves the most in this life.


    Hailee lifted her head and watched Vincent and Hilda talk on the corner. She smiled, then said, "Mom, why don''t you take a seat?"


    "Thank you." Hilda pushes her lips into a thin smile; it isn''t enormous but warm enough to make someone feelfortable.?She took the single couch opposite to the sofa; she then red at Vincent. "You can''t even invite your mom for a seat?"


    Vincent blinks. It made him utterly dumbfounded that his mom kept scolding him in front of Hailee, which the three girls sitting at her sides would chime in to tease him.


    He just realized¡­ No one is taking his side!


    But then, Hailee exined. "Mom, it was me who insisted on feeding Vince since his fingers haven''t healed yet. He got the wound in an attempt to protect me, not from catching the shattered vases on my body."


    Vince''s eyes flickered as his heart warmed up after Hailee stood up for him. He looks at her full of love, who also meets his eyes. Across the room, their eyes locked as their hearts convey the love they felt for each other.


    Their newly arrived guests could feel the atmosphere suddenly filled with blooming flowers, as it didn''t hide their affection for each other.


    "Ahem! Mom, it looks like we are only third wheelers here." Sheenamented jokingly.


    "I''m d you guys realized that," Vince uttered to himself.


    That was only a muffled voice but still reached their ears. The girls giggles while Hilda frowned and cast a re toward her son.


    "Vincent Shen!"


    "Don''t worry, mom. I''m delighted that you visited me. I couldn''t wait to go back to Metro City after Vincent and I visited Budapest." Hailee meddled after seeing Vincent is sulking. She was aware that he was gloomy in passing days because of her knights.


    Hearing Hailee mentioned that Hilda''s facial expression changes. She learned Fred received an important call from his brother to warn them that the elders summoned Hailee regarding her rtionship with Vincent.


    "It was one reason we came here without dy," Hilda stated.


    Vincent asked with surprise, "Then, dad is also here?"


    Hilda nodded. "Yes, son. He had a conversation with Jacob at the moment. He will be hereter."


    Vincent and Hailee shared a look. To learn that their fathers had a private talk, they could feel that things were getting into the ces soon...

 Chapter 276 - His Family (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 276 - His Family (Two)</h4>


    "How are you?" Hilda asked Hailee afterward.


    A pained in her heart to see the bandages on Hailee''s arms. It infuriates her every time she remembers how Eva pushes Hailee, and then she fell on those vases.


    She''s been noticing this in their first meeting and wondering what skincare she was using. Her skin was so smooth and fair. She''s praying it wouldn''t leave scars after her wounds healed.


    Hailee, gazing at Vince, turned her eyes to Hilda and replied with delight. "I am a lot better now, mom."


    Every time she calls Hilda ''mom'', it creates a warm feeling in her heart.


    "I''m d. Are you having morning sickness or feel nauseated?" she asked further.


    Hailee answered, "Sometimes during the night, I throw up. And as long as my nostril didn''t catch any fragrant or odors that would turn up my stomach, I didn''t feel sick."


    "I see. Then everyone should mind what perfume they were using." Hilda suggested, and her lecture began.


    Sheena and Dee shared a nce. Although their mom checked them out as well when they got pregnant, she sounded fierce. But when ites to Hailee, she is warmer and gentle.


    When their brother was forced to marry Eva, their mom was also nice to that snake. Or to say she is trying.


    Well, they understood that Vincent, who will be the one to continue the family Shen or to point out the Xing bloodline. Having the rumors that he is gay, questioning his sexual orientation, their mom freaks out. Then she dug a pit for their poor brother, ended him marrying the woman he didn''t love.


    It was an outdated system to arrange a marriage with your family friend or business partner''s daughter or son. But their mom wanted to preserve a good reputation for the sake of the history of the Shen ancestors.


    She stressed to pair them to marry an outstanding family in High Society. But as they failed to meet their mom''s expectations, Vincent carried the burden not to disappoint their mom.


    *


    DAVIES GROUP HQ


    Inside the conference room are Hailee''s executives gathered together.


    "Is it true that Vincent''s dad is now having a meeting with uncle Jacob?" asked Geoffrey. His brows partly furrow from irritation.


    ''What''s this? A father-to-father talk? Are they discussing marriage?''


    Geoffrey couldn''t help but beat himself up. Last night, his parents heard Hailee was back but was sent to the hospital for almost having a miscarriage. And then, they brought up the topic of him being slow. Over the phone, his parents scolded him. He may have said nothing, but it was apparent that he was head over heels to Hailee.


    He refused to take over the Wilson Industry because he wanted to focus on managing Hailee''spany. Instead, he asked his parents for his inheritance as he will invest in thepany. They let him do whatever he wants as long as it has a great result, and that is to court Hailee to be Mrs. Wilson.


    But that girl is too na?ve to notice his feelings for her until he was used to being her only fourth favorite person in the world. Now, someone has taken her away!


    Geoffrey is not the only person who felt gloomy inside that room. They all had a heavy heart as sadness filled their chests, thinking that the princess was getting married, which will be real this time.


    Meanwhile, Jacob and Fred are seated opposite each other, having coffee while discussing crucial matters.


    "Shun and Nichs are convincing the Elders not to meddle with my daughter''s life. But those hard-headed royals are persistent," Jacob muttered.


    He doesn''t want to deal with the High Royal family, as he believes it was just a waste of time.


    "Especially now that Hailee has to take easy on her pregnancy, those elders would only trouble and stress her out." He added.


    Fred put down his cup and retort, "That is why we came as soon as possible after we heard of what happened. I apologize on behalf of my son. Although he married Eva Lan, my family persuaded him to marry her, a woman he never loved or was familiar with. I just learned that three years ago, he searched for your daughter to marry instead to avoid his arranged marriage to another woman."


    "Yeah. I received reports about that, but I am hiding my daughter during that time around. I had my reasons. I am indebted to your family, so I don''t mind if my daughter gets close to your son. However, that was a crucial time in her life. Fewer people are involved with her, the better. But who could have guessed? None of us¡­ That one day, our children will cross paths again, and this time, it was my daughter who is searching for him."


    "You can''t stop the soul searching for its twin mate." Fred quoted.


    Jacob gaped at Fred. He chuckled after he contemted. "I didn''t know you believed in that stuff."


    Fred was slightly flush as Jacob sounded teasing him. He shook his head and replied, "Nah. I''m just quoted what my daughters and niece talked about the entire flight we have. Although my elders have these beliefs, as we are in a new era now, people less in believing about this mysterious force surrounding us."


    "Actually, myte wife also believes in this, so I cannot fully disagree but concurred. Nothing we can do if they are fated to love each other. Also, my daughter''s happiness only matters to me. I don''t care who she wants to marry as long as this man loves her true and will be faithful throughout their marriage."


    "You have nothing to worry about. My son is madly in love with your daughter. Since he met her again, Vincent firmly stood up for your daughter. He never disobeyed us, but for the first time, he was rebellious toward us. And so, even if she''s not your daughter or from a prominent family. My son will fight his love for her and is ready to abandon us to be with her."


    There is proudness in Fred''s voice. He said this was true, but he wanted to impress Jacob that his son was a great lover and is a perfect match for his daughter.


    On the other hand, Jacob keeps nodding his head. He could sense that Fred wanted to boast about his son. He need not do that; still, it made him happy to hear it.


    The information he gathers impressed him already. He admired all Vincent''s achievements in these passing years.


    The two fathers continue to talk about their children. Both are praising the sess of thepany they put up on their own.


    Hailee has her sister branch of Davies Group, jewelry stores, and cosmeticpany, while Vincent''spany in building a yacht to billionaires is doing well, aside from his apartments, penthouses, rental buildings, and investment within the country or internationally.


    "I think our children would do well without our help," Jacob stated afterward.


    Fred concurred, "Yeah. I agreed, they can stand on their own. I believe they could do more being together."


    "You are right, Fred. Dream City is in good hands." Finally, he could breathe with relief to see that his daughter found a mature and responsible man. He will be a beneficial influence on his daughter.


    But as Hailee had said to him, Vincent was also spoiling her a lot. In what he notices, his daughter acts maturer than before, and with that ddens him.


    "Alright. Let''s visit my daughter." Jacob announced; Fred nodded and followed him out of the office.


    *


    EXTRA SCENE:


    The executives were keeping an eye on the Chairman''s Office. They saw the door open. From what they were seeing, Jacob had a great talk with Frederick Shen, Vincent''s dad.


    Now, they all felt at a loss. Soon, Vincent Shen will officially take the princess from them.

 Chapter 277 - The Fathers Talk (One)

    <h4>Chapter 277 - The Fathers Talk (One)</h4>


    At the entrance of Dream City Hospital, a ck Rolls-Royce pulled over, and two middle-aged men got out of the car.


    Jacob and Fred climbed the stairs and entered the door, headed straight to the elevator. Kris, following behind them, made an abrupt step to press the elevator button and let the two chairmen enter the lift.


    Inside the elevator, Fred gazed out at the beautiful scenery in front of him. They were facing the mountain, and the view here was spectacr. The patients would definitely have peace of mind to have such a sight.


    "The hospital was built in the perfect area." He couldn''t help praise.


    The elevator was deliberately made of ss to be able to enjoy the beautiful view of the mountainside. The architect and engineer of this building is a genius. He thought.


    "It was the boys who carefully thought of it with my daughter."


    "Boys?" Fred furrows his brow in curiosity. In his mind is a question. ''Is my son dealing with these men?''


    "Yeah. The executives and Hailee''s knights. I think you met a few of them back in Metro City when Liam Huo made a move on my daughter."


    "Ah. Yes! It surprised me at first. But after Carl exined, it''s not surprising at all. Actually, one of them has been a Lopez business partner for a few years now."


    "Hansen Park, is it?"


    "Yes. CEO of Park Electronics. It''s hard to believe, but the world we''re living in is small."


    "Indeed... It''s so small that it''s impossible not to cross paths again." Jacob quoted.


    He and Fred weren''t close, but they were in the same circle. Like Fred, he isn''t active in attending the Royal Family annual gathering. And so, they don''t see each other often.


    Fred chooses a low profile. That''s why he stops seeing Fred in the passing decades in the Alliance. If it weren''t for his wife''s ident and Fred''s wife attempted to rescue her, their path would not meet again.


    After Marlyn died, he only focused on expanding his empire to numb his broken heart and give time to Hailee as much. She was shocked when she learned her mom died. It''s been a year since she hasn''t spoken to anyone.


    And because Andre worries about his cousin, he stops hanging out with his friends and lives with them. But every weekend, he began noticing a group of teenagers hanging out outside the Davies'' mansion.


    He found out it was Andre''s friends and ssmates living in the same neighborhood as him.


    Those kids would travel miles away to see Andre. He was grateful to Andre for always being there on Hailey''s side. And so, he built a yground for the boys not far away from the mansion. Each of them has a bicycle, and that will be their ride. Then he bought them a set of skateboards, put up a basketball ring, and added ces to do tricks while flipping their bikes.


    One day, the maids and servants were in a panic because Hailee was gone. They''ve already searched the whole mansion and garden, but they didn''t find her. When the butler phoned him, he flew the miles away to reach home fast.


    But then the boys found her behind the bushes. And when he arrived in the mansion, he hurled his deepest breath of relief after learning that Hailee was found and joining the boys in the park.


    And he cried to see his daughter waving at him, calling him "Dad!" with an enormous smile on her lips. Since her mom died, that was the first time that she smiled again. But that day, her eyes twinkled while watching the boys doing those stunts in the park.


    That was the beginning. She''s hanging out with the boys every weekend. It also started he spoiled her with anything she would request. He couldn''t say no because he was afraid that his daughter would be sad again.


    He was in great pain not only because he lost his wife but also his daughter. And she found a new light and life in the presence of the boys.


    Since then, the boys were always wee in the mansion, and they would bring their little sisters and cousins to y with Hailee. But she was more attached to the boys.


    Anyways, these men are trustworthy. He is grateful to them. They love Hailee like their younger sister. And so he was at ease if they were the one she''s with. He never allows her to go out on her own unless one of those boys apanies her.


    But then Liam came into the picture. They attended the funeral of Liam''s parents, where Hailee met him. She was fourteen by then, and Liam was seventeen. He is aloof to everyone and behaving like Hailee when her mom died. Worst is, he witnessed how his parents died after the crash.


    He was getting through such sorrow. Hailee felt his pain, so sheforted him. Suffering emotionally after the ident, he found sce in Hailee''s presence. But that begins his obsession.


    And then, there''s Bryan, who gives a shot in proposing to Hailee after announcing to the boys that he needs their help to search for a suitable husband for Hailee.


    For his reasons, maybe Liam would stop Liam''s obsession. Then to have someone to discipline his daughter. She was too impulsive. She chose Dubai to establish her jewelrypany because she can drive her fastest cars without him from her sight.


    He wished someone could control her. She had too many crazy adventures and then traveled alone, despite Liam''s threat. Even though Europe is safer for her, he is sure that Liam has eyes everywhere.


    And the engagement made him even madder, even losing more screw in his head.


    He seeds in breaking off Hailee and Bryan''s wedding. His daughter went through another heartache. After her heartbreak, who would have thought she woulde home with a husband and now expecting possibly not only one...


    He probably had twin grandchildren!


    And he prayed it would be a girl and a boy. Hailee had no siblings because he lost interest in looking for a second wife so that Hailee would have a new mother. But no one can rece his wife in his heart.


    At present, he was happy to see his daughter genuinely in love. He could see as well that Vincent truly loved his daughter. That is all that matters.

 Chapter 278 - The Fathers Talk (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 278 - The Father''s Talk (Two)</h4>


    Jacob came back to his senses when they arrived on the 10th floor. They stepped out of the lift, then took the hallway toward the left wing of this hospital.


    They made a stop halfway to watch the city lying in front of them. Standing near the floor-ceiling windows, Jacob and Fred discussed the progress of the constructions in the entire city.


    Later on, Jacob brought up another topic.


    "Fred, can I ask you one question?"


    Fred turned his head in his direction, then nodded. "Of course."


    "Why did you leave the Alliance?" Jacob was serious when he asked this.


    Fred pondered for a moment before he smiled at him and replied, "I realized I want a peaceful life away from anything."


    "Is that what you reason out to the elders?" Creasing his forehead, Jacob wanted to confirm if Fred was serious.


    Fred nodded. "Yes. And I guess after three decades, they were still as hard-headed as before."


    Jacob chuckled. "Yeah. They were even more nosy. They couldn''t see that we were now living in a new era. It means a lot has changed already."


    "I pitied the father and son to deal with them," Fred muttered. "But those two made a lot of progress in these past decades. They were able to make a reformation of the entire Mafia into a clean association."


    "This is how Nichs and Shun envisioned the whole new thing. To have peace in every country, the best action to do is to ce the most capable of handling the matters of every territory by introducing a Law that leads to the new reform association," Jacob exined to Fred, who he was nodding the whole time.


    He concluded, "But because of that, many members have a secret alliance to revolt against the present Emperor."


    "Yeah. They couldn''t continue their illegal activities anymore because Shun implements a Law," Jacob concurred. While Hailee is growing up, he was also dealing with them.


    That is why Hailee was actually in danger, the reason she needs a lot of knights around her growing up.


    "Hmm... It''s a brilliant move, actually." Fred''s remarks, he carried on. "To tell you the truth, I can''t take the doings within the old association, the reason I want to go out. Nichs asked me to stay to help him fight his battle, but when I have Vincent... I contemte what life I am giving him? Also, with my wife''s character, she would nag me nonstop. However, the Lopez family is a member of the association. Hilda hated it."


    "I heard, it angers the Elders. They are opposed to letting you go when you hold an amount of information about them," said Jacob.


    Fred replied, "Yeah. I actually have had this fear all my life that maybe one day, the elders send the missionaries to annihte my family."


    "That cannot be. The Shen family is one of those protected by the Alliance. They cannot threaten you." Jacob assured Fred. This is one of many things he must learn about the High Royal Family secrets.


    "Well, thanks to my ancestor, Emperor Xing," said Fred with a total relief on his face. It''s been too long since he lost direct contact with the Alliance.


    He added, "So I''m thinking of facing the Elders myself. As the doctor has advised, my future daughter-inw should stay resting and avoid stressing herself. I will deal with the Elders. It''s about time for them to meet my son."


    "I think that''s a brilliant idea." Jacob supported this. "Those old geezers needed to be reced on their seats."


    "Are you willing to take one?" asked Fred to Jacob.


    "How about you?" Jacob scrutinizes Fred''s face, waiting for his answer.


    On the other hand, Fred shrugged a shoulder and said, "I''m too old to start over. Vincent is also not interested in the association."


    "Well, the same as my daughter. Hailee didn''t take it seriously when she was in training under Shun. She also doesn''t like to get involved in the High Royal Family."


    "Huh. They''re a match made in heaven." Fred quoted. He nced at Jacob and said, "Unless our eldest grandson would have the interest."


    "Yeah. The Alliance only epts direct descendants if I want to retire." Jacob replied. He will not force his family member to step in, but the Elders need to be reced soon. Some of them still support those revolting in the association.


    "I''ll bring my son to Hungary on one of these days. I will request Lady Isabe''s audience," said Fred afterward.


    Jacob gaped at Fred. He had questions inside his head, but he wasn''t sure which one he must mutter.


    Fred, on the other hand, could guess what was in Jacob''s mind.


    "It was Lady Isabe who backed me up to be freed from the elders'' scolding." He exined and shared a little story about that.


    "I see. No wonder they let you go. Once Lady Isabe makes the decision, no one should question that. No one in the elders should offend her," Jacob retorted. He went on, "Do you know she foresees my daughter will build a city?"


    "I believe that¡­."


    "Did she tell you what she foresees in your future?"


    "Before I left, she told me to raise my son well. That''s all. I think it was a riddle, right?" He doesn''t understand yet until recently.


    And whatever was on Fred''s mind. It was what Jacob was thinking as well.


    "Did she foresee the fate of our firstborn?" asked Jacob meaningfully.


    Fred was thinking the same as well. "Probably she did."


    "Hmm¡­ She told me an arrow is pointing at a king. This riddle is something, but I thought about it. My daughter is Sagittarius, and your son is Scorpio." said Jacob.


    Fred contemted this. Of course, he is familiar with the constetion. It was what his elders and ancestors relied on.


    "I didn''t know you were interested in Zodiac?" Fred''s tone was teasing.


    "I was researching about that riddle, and those I consulted give me this answer," Jacob exined.


    "Oh¡­."


    But who knows? If it is coincidentally or even the stars telling them that those two are destined for each other.


    Sagittarius is pointing his arrow at Scorpius'' heart.


    "So it means your daughter shotted an arrow to my son''s heart when they met four years ago?" Fred asked; his tone remains to teases Jacob.


    But Jacob made a confused face.


    "Four years ago? I thought it was five years ago," said Jacob. It can sense the confusion in his voice.


    Fred blinks. He was surprised to hear this. "Really? Where?"


    Jacob replied, "Hailee said it was when your son had his therapy at Shun''s Medical Facility."


    Surprised written on Fred''s face. That was when Vincent almost died in the car ident. He was in aa for a few months.


    "What a fate¡­" he muttered.

 Chapter 279 - Wedding Plans

    <h4>Chapter 279 - Wedding ns</h4>


    Hailee glimmers her eyes to see Jacob and Fred enter her ward.


    "Dad!" she called out.


    Both men smiled at her. She mentions no name, but she was looking at both of them, shifting her gazes back and forth while wearing that sweet smile on her face.


    Hailee was now seated on her sickbed while Vincent sat behind her, massaging her lower back. Both the older men were delighted to see him taking care of his wife¡­


    Fred is proud of his son for impressing his future father-inw with this action. He wanted to give him a thumbs up.


    Jacob walks forward to nt a kiss on his daughter''s forehead. He asked Hailee, "How are you feeling, princess?"


    "I feel a lot better, dad." She replied enthusiastically. She then shifted her gaze to the man behind him. "d to see you, dad."


    Fred smiled, but his eyes were exhibiting apologetically. He felt the guilt that Hailee was in such a situation because of his son''s nominal wife. He scanned her arms wrapped with bandages, his chest ache.


    "I''m happy to see you alright. We were all so worried after we saw the video," he told Hailee with a soft tone in his voice.


    Hailee smiled. She persuaded him. "Don''t worry, dad. I was already not feeling that day. But I still insisted on meeting Eva."


    She doesn''t want him to feel guilty about what happened. And it''s not her character to me anyone either.


    Fred softens his expression. His face looked rxed now. He could not avoid not being impressed that though Hailee was wronged, she mes no one for what happened to her.


    ''She inherited her mom''s temperament.'' Thought Fred. He''s happy that his son is blessed to have a wife with a big heart. Not only that, she is well educated and well behaved. But she would bite back if theshings were too much and in the wrong ce.


    He witnessed how she fought back at those who spread rumors about her and Vincent. She''s actually protecting his son''s reputation even though they were in an affair for the people''s eyes as Vincent was married to another woman.


    Fred snaps himself when Jacob speaks. He caught his attention to introduce his two daughters, including his niece, Janise.


    The three girls politely greeted Hailee''s dad, who extended his gratitude. Hailee had mentioned how nice they were to her.


    "I will ask the chef to prepare more dishes for lunch," Jacob said afterward. He then turned to his daughter. "Princess, Dr. Lee, and chef Lynn had arrived to monitor the food you crave if it is healthy for you. They will also watch your diet throughout your pregnancy."


    "Okay, dad. Thank you!" Hailee replied cheerfully. However, she is only hiding the sadness shed in her eyes that she has to limit eating sweet desserts from now on that her nutritionists are here.


    "You wanted me to sneak some cake?" Vince whispered in her ear.


    Hailee giggled. She was delighted that Vince immediately noticed her sorrow. She pinched his shoulder and said, "Silly. Doctor Lee would always know, but I love that. Let''s sneak out and go to my favorite restaurant to eat some desserts."


    "Hmm... I''ll ask Tim on standby." He winked at her.


    "I will tell Pitt too!" she retorted in a low voice, holding her excitement to sneak out soon.


    Jacob, who heard their ns, raised an eyebrow and rolled his eyes. He was happy that Vincent dotted his daughter. However, he is no different from the boys that spoiling her!


    *


    At lunch, the private restaurant that was not open yet, on the 9th floor was upied not only by Vincent''s family, but all the executives were also here to have lunch with Hailee as initially nned out.


    But since Vincent''s family had arrived, they were eating quietly across the room.


    On the long table near the window that faces the mountainside: Sheena, Deana, Janice, seated on the right side, while Kelly and Gigi are on the left side.


    The five girls were happily chatting when Vincent and Hailee joined them. Sitting on the wheelchair, Vincent picked up Hailee, then carefully put her down in a dining chair.


    They were in the middle of their meal when Kelly remembered something.


    "Hail, look at this! These will be the essories you will wear at your wedding!" she excitedly showed the set of jewelry she finished designing this morning.


    Hailee dropped her mouth open after seeing the pieces of jewelry Kelly ns to make soon.


    "Kell, that crown is too huge on my head!" sheins. Scanning further, she mouthed. "That was too dazzling! After the wedding, all my guests have blinded by my tiara!"


    The crown would be made of small and big diamonds around it, and Kelly ns to ce a bigger one in the middle of her tiara.


    But Kelly proudly exined to her.


    "You are a Queen! If it is not heavy, I want to make a bigger one than this!"


    "You don''t have to!" she refused immediately.


    "Oh, well¡­ Anyway!" Kelly pped her hands. She then said, "Since you rarely wear your pink diamond ne, please give it to me. It will be the mother diamond on your tiara!"


    "Oh¡­ sure!" She agreed to that.


    Hailee loves the idea. Her dad purchased the pink diamond as a birthday present, and so it was precious to her. Just thinking she would wear it during her wedding day, joy already filled her heart.


    "I''m a genius! This crown would be a legacy in your family. You can pass it down to your daughter and granddaughters when they are going to marry!"


    Kelly was too irrational in saying this. Vincent, who was eating quietly and only listening to the girls, choked when Kelly said that.


    His daughters aren''t born yet. And even if they were, to think of them having a boyfriend and fiance, his heart protested against giving them away too soon! He would not agree to early marriage. He will definitely dote on them, so he won''t allow any boys toe close to his daughters.


    "Hubby, are you okay?" Hailee worriedly quickly hands Vince a ss of water when she hears him coughing.


    "I''m fine, Wifey¡ª" his alibi. The chicken wings are truly spicy, but he was used to the food as his favorite. "I think I ate chili."


    What really chokes him is the thought of his daughters getting married, in which their parents are just preparing their own wedding. He knew it would happen in the future. Yet, he wanted to baby them as much time as he had.


    "Thank you, Wifey." Vincent ced the empty ss on the table; he continued eating as the girls carried on chatting.


    Janise was serious while looking at Kelly''s designs. Hailee noticed her silence. She smiled and asked, "What do you think?"


    "Hum?" Janise raised her head; she then replied shyly. "They were so pretty."


    "Why don''t you show the wedding dresses you designed for Hailee!" Sheena chimed in. She elbowed Janise as her way of encouraging her to show it.


    "Really?" Hailee got excited when she heard this. Janise is a talented designer like Kelly. They may have been doing different work as Kelly''s expertise was designing jewelry while Janise was clothing, but both are great designers.


    At first, Janise was hesitant to show her designs. After she learned Hailee was actually Hailee Davies, the woman she dreamed of wearing her designs, it made her happy that she was actually dressing her up in these passing months.


    But now, they were talking about her wedding dress. It was different. That asion is once in a lifetime, and so, Hailee surely prefers someone else.


    "I¡­ I know you already have the best designers in the world, and so¡­ I felt shy to show them."


    "Why would you? I love those dresses you chose for me! They were stunning!"


    Janise was overwhelmed with Hailee''s praise, so she didn''t hold herself from sharing her feelings.


    "Thank you, Hail. I''m d to hear that. I really dream that one day, you will wear one of my designs. I didn''t know that it had alreadye true!"


    "You are a talented designer. I would be happy if you would design my wedding dress."


    "Is that true!?" Janise cannot believe it. Her eyes were threatening to get wet, so she pushed back the tears forming in the corner.


    Janise pulled out the TAB she was carrying around. She was often inspired out of the blue even though she was in the middle of the road, having it with her.


    She then showed it to Hailee; Kelly and Gigi looked over at it as well. Both are the ones who were ted.


    "They were pretty! It was so perfect for the jewelry I designed!" Kelly eximed.


    "I love it, Hail!" Gigi echoed. She looks at Janise to give herpliments, then she added, "I would definitely hire you to design my wedding dress."


    Janise couldn''t believe that Gigi Chan would love it as well. Gigi is one of the known fashion icons in the world. She was always present in many fashion shows in these past two years!


    "I can''t believe you girls would like it." She humbly expressed.


    Gigi and Hailee smiled at her and said, "We just don''t like it¡­ We love it!"


    Janise was overwhelmed to have these women as clients. Hailee alone¡ªthe history would include writing her name. But she actually doesn''t think about that. What''s important to her is that these women recognized her talent.


    "Thank you," she said happily.


    "Now, let''s not forget about the bridesmaids! I should be the prettiest maid of honor!" Kelly excitedly gives back to Janise her TAB. "Show me the gowns you design for us!"


    Janise stands up from her chair. She moves in between Kelly and Gigi, showing the first batch of the bridesmaid''s dresses. She designs different styles for them to pick what they would prefer to wear at the wedding.


    Hilda was seated at the next table with Fred and Jacob. She was only silent while observing the six girls discussing the gowns to wear for the wedding. She did not join the girls as she already assigned herself to other things for the wedding. She will oversee the wedding reception decorations and the food and drinks that will serve that very special day of her son''s life.

 Chapter 280 - Belongs To Her

    <h4>Chapter 280 - Belongs To Her</h4>


    Vincent wanted to give Hailee a grand wedding. Her son merrily told her, and she has no objection. When they forced him to marry Eva, he didn''t want to announce it to the world, so they just did it in a simple wedding ceremony and a simple dinner gathering afterward.


    There are no other guests but Carl, Jake, Tim, and the newlywed''s parents. Vincent didn''t care to make it fancy and grand; he was entirely not interested in going through details.


    But now, ording to Carl and Rodney, Vincent is saving up his money for a grand wedding he could give to Hailee. It was something that he thought on his own. How obvious he only looks forward to marrying the woman he wants to grow old with¡ªfor investing his strength in the wedding preparation.


    In the past few days, the Shen family stayed in Dream City. Along with Gigi and Kelly, the girls apanied Hailee every day to discuss the details of the wedding.


    Since they have to avoid tiring her and stressing herself from deciding and picking out everything for the wedding, Hilda and the five girls would meet the wedding nners they''ve invited to present their ideas before they showed it to Hailee. They will choose the best among the better.


    Hailee wished to join them, but she cared more about the life growing inside her. And so, she endures the boredom she felt in her stay at the hospital. dly, Vincent had a valid reason to ck off of his work for several days while waiting for his fingers to be fully healed.


    He tried his best to entertain her and what happens instead; they took every opportunity to make out.


    Since his dad was there, he has nothing to care much about. Fred led the engineers and architects on the site, preparing the area for the Groundbreaking Ceremony next week.


    It was a perfect time that his family was here. It was also their opportunity to announce their rtionship to the world. Certainly, it will be the biggest news of the year.


    Also, the scene of Jacob and Fred driving around the city to visit other sites has be routine.


    And so, rumors started rising among the other contractors.


    Several workers often saw Vincenting in and out of the hospital. They could see that he only had injured his fingers that looked almost healed, but they hadn''t seen him around the restaurant at lunch.


    When there is gossip, typically, the wives spread them fast. And as they signed an agreement that they wouldn''t bring any news outside the time they live with their husbands in the city, they could only gossip among themselves and make sure not to let the entire world know.


    News circting that Vincent Shen is apanying a beautiful woman to an Obstetrician clinic. And this woman, they have never seen her before. But one wife, whose husband is the representative of their construction firm, recognized Hailee.


    "She''s the CEO! The owner of this city!"


    They quickly shared the gossip with their husbands, and typically, the husbands would feel tension toward him. Hispany is the newest team to join them. Then now, they would learn that he was the CEO''s lover and possibly expecting a child.


    To those who didn''t know their story, their imagination went wild with every possibility as they recalled how warm and grand the wee party was for the Shen Group.


    Not only that, the Shen Group is alone in handling the entire East District. It means that was a hell of a project!


    East District is the heart of the city. Everyone desired to get the projects in East District. But the CEO was too picky. She would only approve of their proposal if they agreed to assign it to another site.


    Now, the reason is obvious to them. That was reserved for the SHEN GROUP, where the CEO is the Davies¡ªsolely heiress'' lover.


    Would they feel biased or lucky to receive a project? Even a fewpanies were discarded for some vague reason, such as the LN Group that built Pearl Hotel.


    Now they would hear that Shen Group was assigned to build the tallest tower in the world, which they can do that too!


    Why didn''t the CEO hold the bidding?


    They would happily take part and show off their talents, too. But the CEO gave it to Vincent Shen just like that.


    The CEOs, including the chairman from the other construction firms, felt the unfairness. And because of that, a few of them requested an appointment to talk to Jacob.


    Jacob was enraged that such rumors spread out. It worries him it will reach his daughter, and she would go furious.


    He immediately ordered Kris to suppress the gossip. And to ease up every construction firm they hired, Jacob held a meeting.


    "I think my daughter and I have the full rights to pick out which construction firm we will offer a project! She was in a sensitive stage of her pregnancy at the moment... If you don''t control your wife''s mouth! I''ll consider terminating your contracts!"


    Every CEO and representative in that room fell silent. They could not afford to lose their projects!


    After apologizing and ensuring that they will warn their workers, Jacob dismissed them.


    *


    At Dream City Hospital, in a private ward inside the bathroom. Hailee let out a satisfying sigh.


    Tomorrow, she can finally go home. However, she was prohibited from going back to work right away, so she would bore herself at her apartment for a few more days.


    Hailee bit her bottom lip when Vincent added another finger.


    Vincent was rxed, leaning on the bathtub wall while she was squatted on his thighs. His eyes fixed on Hailee''s beautiful face. It disys the pleasure she was enjoying at the moment.


    Being careful, holding his excitement not to speed up his thrusts in her inside, Vincent could feel her tightening her grip on his shoulders. Her nails are digging into his back. It was mean; she''s near to her first orgasm. He reached out for her breast, kneading one after another, and then he leans over to do his work on her n**ples.


    Hailee reaches her climax; shuddering her body, she rested her head on his shoulder. They both aren''t satisfied, but Vincent is just being careful0.


    Gratefully, the babies are holding tightly into their mommy''s womb. Hailee almost had a miscarriage.


    And so, her body still needs more rest. That''s why Vince can only give to her is pleasuring her with his fingers.


    Vincent carefully helped Hailee sit on the top of the bathtub. He then lifted her one leg and ced it on his shoulder before he lowered his head.


    Hailee held tight in the bathtub, closing her eyes as waves of pleasure surging in her core.


    Meanwhile, the door in the ward opens. The man looked around, but the room was empty. He wondered where Hailee was.


    When he was about to ce the folder on the bed, he heard pleasurable noises from the washroom. The man darkened his face, clenching his other palm into a fist on his side.


    He changes his mind to put down the folder. He left the room, headed to the lounge not far away from Hailee''s ward, then took a seat.


    In his eyes was sadness exhibiting on them. He lowered his head for a moment, then furiously hurls an air from the deepest part of his lungs. He waited for five minutes before he pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his pants to send a text to Hailee.


    *


    Back in the ward, after fifteen minutes, Hailee and Vincent finished their steamy bath. He was helping Hailee to apply a body cream all over her body; he admires her every curve. He allows his eyes to feast on her smooth skin and wishes to find her team had spent creating skincare products for her wounds.


    It''s just a couple of days, but it is now showing promising results.


    Vince nted light kisses on her smooth back while his hands kneaded both of her breasts. Hailey lovingly gazes at their reflections in the mirror. Watching Vince caressing her body like that arouses her once again.


    She reached out her hand to hold on to his neck, then let out her soft moans after he pinched both of her n**ples.


    "Hubby¡­ might someone knock. I haven''t dressed yet!" she reminded him.


    "Okay¡­" Vince''s simple answer, she swallowed his hoarse voice after he imed her mouth.


    After she got dressed, she checked her phone and found Bryan''s text message. She read it, then lifted her head to meet Vince''s curious eyes.


    "What''s wrong? Did something happen?" he asked.


    "It was Bryan¡­ He wanted to speak with you. He was waiting in the lounge," she informed him.


    "Okay." he nodded, then put on a shirt. He leaned over to kissed Hailee before he stepped out of the room.


    Vincent stared at Bryan. The guy was standing near the floor-ceiling window, gazing out at the busy sites in the distance. From where the hospital was located, they could have a view of the half-finished buildings around the South-west and South districts.


    Vincent halted two feet next to Bryan. The guy didn''t spare a look at his left side when his presence was overwhelming already.


    Vincent didn''t spare a look at him, either. He could already sense that Bryan was somewhat annoyed.


    He hasn''t seen him after Hailee regains consciousness. It was Tim who reported to him that Bryan personally took care of Eva''s imprisonment.


    Eva was almost beaten up to death inside Sydney Correctional after the inmates heard who she offended.


    Bryan was keenly watching her not to pity her but to make sure she stayed alive to suffer from her crimes. Soon, Eva will transfer to Metro City to face another trial, and so, she has no reason to stay in Sydney but will face a heavier punishment back in P Country.


    "What do you want to discuss, Mr. Anderson?" asked Vincent after a long silence passed between them.


    Instead of Bryan answering Vincent, he extended his arm and handed him a folder. Vincent lowered his gaze; the folder was very familiar to him.


    He blinked twice before he took the folder and flipped over to see the documents. Vincent furrowed his brows. Eva had finally signed up.


    A mountain thorn pulled out from his heart.


    Finally¡­ He can give his surname to Hailee, which belongs to hers, on the very first day he meets her...

 Chapter 281 - Resigning

    <h4>Chapter 281 - Resigning</h4>


    Vincent''s face shows much rxation, while Bryan remains frowning. He senses his foul mood, but Vincent was too happy right now to worry about what upset the guy.


    He had the idea that he was the reason Bryan looked irritated, but he didn''t care at all. He owed nothing to him. It is what Vince thought.


    "Mr. Anderson, I would be honest. Although I''m d the divorce papers have been signed¡­ However, I would not feel..."


    "No need to thank me." Bryan cut whatever words Vincent liked to say. He went on, "Don''t think I did it for you. I only care what made Hailee happy."


    "I don''t consider I am indebted to you, Mr. Anderson. And so, I will not be going to thank you," Vincent retorted. He then added, "My feelings aren''t yet rxed around you."


    Bryan let out a ridiculous chuckle. Vincent is a straightforward man; he could see that.


    "The feelings are mutual, Mr. Shen," he muttered.


    The surrounding air suddenly bes heavy. Tim and Pitt, who took the left turn, halted and watched the two men''s back.


    By looking at them from a distance, they could already tell that they were having a serious talk. Pitt and Tim retreated from their tracks, headed back to the elevator, then sat down in the waiting lounge near it.


    They understood they should not interrupt their talk. It was what they had to do the most, as Hailee''s two favorite people in the world.


    May one is the past, and the other is the present. A pleasant talk to close the past and let the present open the door to future happiness.


    Bryan and Vincent remain standing near the floor-ceiling windows. After a long silence, it was the former who broke the silence.


    "I realized¡­ I may give up pursuing Hailee to forgive me and ept me again to start over again. However, it does not mean I will stop caring for her, Mr. Shen."


    His tone is low, but there is a firmness in his words, and he sounded threatening instead. Vincent squinted his eyes.


    He scoffs, "You have nothing to worry about, Mr. Anderson. Like what I''ve already told you before. I would never do what you did to her. I cherished her, and I will love her until I stop breathing."


    Bryan had stiffened his back and darkened his face. He casts a sidelong nce at Vincent as the guy keeps reminding him of how he betrayed Hailee before.


    He would not deny what he''d done. But for Vincent, boldly mentioning this in front of him is pissing him off.


    However, he should not lose his cool. That is not a good move if he suddenly punches Vincent Shen out of annoyance. If he does that, Hailee might hate him even more.


    He wanted to regain their friendship, or at least as business partners working together to finish Dream City andunch it to the world¡­ because he couldn''t think to live peacefully that Hailee was still indifferent toward him.


    Bryan heaves a long sigh inwardly. Thinking of what Vincent told him, he could only grit his teeth and clenched both of his hands at his sides. It felt ridiculous that Vincent would use the past to strike on him every time they talked like this.


    "Mr. Shen, you don''t need to put salt on my wounds," he retorted afterward.


    Vincent cast a re in his direction, then the corner of his mouth contorted a smirk. He returned, "You can stop asserting that I would hurt Hailee in the future. Breaking her heart? Then I am probably seeking my death."


    To what Vincent had said, he finds no answer. He is right. Right now, it kills him to see that there is someone who can make Hailee happy.


    Every day, he is dying inside that he is not that person who could make her smile. Her eyes don''t twinkle the way they are when she sees him arriving.


    That was the absolute truth. He is just simply the stranger guy now.


    Bryan sighed. He had many things he wanted to say to Vincent. But now, it''s unnecessary to express himself further.


    He turned his head to look at him. Staring at Vincent, he could not suppress his jealousy that Hailee was determined to marry him. He understood. He has no right anymore as he wasted the chances he had before.


    That day, he lied to Hailee about the reason he''s going to Sydney. Unknowingly, Eva sent Hailee a text message, pretending it was him and he has a surprise for her.


    She excitedly flew to Sydney, but then¡­


    His heart shattered into pieces one more time, thinking about it.


    Bryan heaves a long sigh. He is the one who breaks her heart, but he was the one who suffered from the pain every time he could recall that.


    "Can I talk to her?"


    Suddenly, Bryan asks Vincent''s permission. Heughs at himself because, in the past, he was the man who other men feared as they cannot approach her.


    But the cycle of fate had a change. Now, he''s thest person who should stay near her, and he is the person who should not approach her.


    It was a sort of joke.


    *


    Hailee was seated on the sofa ufortably. She''s been restless on the soft cushion as she wondered what happened to Vincent and Bryan''s conversation.


    She prayed that both would have a peaceful talk. Somehow, she is familiar with both attitudes when ites to her. Vincent and Bryan shared the same behavior.


    They quickly get jealous.


    Hailee quickly lifted her head when the door opened. She sighs with relief that their talk has ended right away. However, the smile on her face turned awkward.


    "Bryan¡­" she looked at him, her gaze quickly shifted behind him. But she only sees Bryan walking toward her.


    Her eyes expressed wonder why he''s the one who was here, but Vincent didn''te back.


    On the other hand, it hurts him to see that Hailee''s smile quickly disappears when she sees it was him and not Vincent.


    "Can I take a seat?" Bryan asked, gesturing at the empty sofa across from her.


    Hailee nced at the door one more time before she nodded. Bryan faintly smiled after he sat down. He could see how Hailee only relied on Vincent.


    She has changed a lot. Bryan thought; his eyes remained to stare at her pinkish cheeks. She was too pale thest time he saw her, like a ghost after losing too much blood. Now, her glow ising back.


    "I''m happy to see that you are okay now," said Bryan, a faint smile appearing on his lips.


    Hailee nodded and said, "I can go home tomorrow."


    "I''m d."


    Hailee sps her palm on top of herp; she remains to stare at the coffee table. Facing Bryan like this, she could not conceal the sadness from shing in her eyes.


    If it were the same as in the past, she would coquettishly pester him with many things, which she had no idea that it was an intimate interaction between the opposite sex.


    She was very na?ve not to understand what effects it had on a man.


    "Do you want some coffee?" she asked afterward. She could not think of a topic to open up, which Bryan remained silent, staring at her. It made her ufortable.


    "Sure. Thank you." Bryan nodded, then smiled.


    She stood up from the sofa. While Vincent leaves to meet Bryan, she already brewed a coffee for him.


    Hailee gets a mug and then pours the hot ck liquid, then offers it to Bryan.


    Sadness exhibits in his eyes while sipping on the mug. After Hailee learned how to makettes, she was too excited to make him one. He was her taster if she mixed right.


    Bryan constantly sipped the coffee until he drank half of the mug. He ced it down on the coffee table. He lifted his gaze and stared at Hailee for a long moment once again.


    "Do you have something to say to me?" Hailee takes the initiative to open up a proper conversation.


    Bryan breathed in before he smiled, then spoke¡­


    "Hail¡­ My mind still messed up," he began to express his true feelings to everything that had happened to them. "To the point that¡­ I''m thinking of typing my resignation letter soon¡­."


    Hailee raised her head and met Bryan''s sad eyes. All of a sudden, inexplicable emotion lingering on her beautiful face. She was confused about what to feel at the moment.


    She was hurt by him, yes. But thinking that the dream she started with Bryan, still, her emotion torn into perplexity.


    "Are you¡­ serious about that?" she asked.


    There is a dot of pain inside her heart. Her broken friendship with Bryan is a big loss for her. Even though they broke up, she never thought of throwing him out of her projects. And so she was confused.


    "I don''t know, Hail¡­." Bryan replied honestly. His voice is full of pain and regrets. "I don''t know how I can stop loving you."

 Chapter 282 - Finally Found His Happiness

    <h4>Chapter 282 - Finally Found His Happiness</h4>


    Hailee was still in a trance, even though Bryan had left already. When they broke up, she didn''t think of firing him from working in Davies Group.


    But now that Bryan mentioned he might leave thepany, she had aplex feeling about it.


    Their conversation did notst long. He just wanted her to share his ns. After she replied to him, she''d think about it, and then after a few more words, Bryan bid goodbye.


    Hailee lifted her gaze after she felt the space next to her upied by someone. Vince reached out his hand to caress her face.


    She rested her head against Vince''s warm chest. She breathed with relief after Vince wrapped her in his arms. Suddenly, a chill sumbed to her body when Bryan mentioned his n of resigning.


    Thefort from her cardigan sweater could not warm her feelings, as the one she needed was Vince''s embrace.


    Vince could see that she was perplexed by Bryan''s n. Hailee, who is too close to Bryan for a long time, usually would feel sad.


    After Bryan entered her ward a while ago, she dialed Vince''s mobile number out of habit. So then, she needed not to share what she and Bryan had discussed. Vince heard it all already.


    Studying the expression on her face, now he''s worried she would stress herself thinking about it. He doesn''t want her to think about Bryan anymore. However, he could not deny that the friendship they''ve built for almost fifteen years is something they cannot just forget in a snap of a finger.


    Hailee had already invested in it emotionally for over a decade. Typically, she could regret that it would ultimately end, and he is trying to understand this.


    Hailee has been honest to say that she cares about their friendship, but nothing more. However, sometimes, things are better to end than remain to be hurt or hurt the other.


    Vince set aside his thoughts and focused on the woman inside his arms, who unconsciously rubbed his chest, creating a tingling sensation to his body.


    In the passing days, they were only suppressing their desires for each other when they have to be careful this time around of her pregnancy.


    But this girl, as it has been her habit to touch his body when they were alone, it was a punishment on his side. He was suffering, but he has to control his body from wanting her right here, right now.


    Now he could rte to what Bryan was feeling. Bryan opens up to Hailee that a part of him he concealed, not for her to see.


    This monster is the reason he is always entangled with Eva, and they had an unusual rtionship because she was willing.


    However, when ites to Hailee, he didn''t allow this monster to be discovered by her.


    "Hubby¡­ Bryan has truly hurt me before. But I have forgotten about the things that happened in the past. I am also feeling guilty that I am going to marry him, but I don''t love him the way I love you."


    While she is saying this, she keeps rubbing his chest. Vincent tries to distract himself. He keenly listens to her mumbling.


    What Hailee said made him happy.


    She then added, "What kind of marriage would we have if there is no physical contact?"


    Vince lowered his head and kissed her hair as he tightened his embrace, immersing himself in her alluring fragranting from her hair and body while she carried on talking.


    "But my feelings for you are one for my true love¡­ The reason I can let you touch me and I''m willingly epting you inside me, and..."


    Vincent held his breath when Hailee trailed herst words. He grunted in frustration. In his eyes, flickering from the excitement he is feeling now, glimpsing his uttermost affection where his chest is burning with passion.


    He buried his face in Hailee''s neck. At that moment, the desire he felt earlier when they were in the bathroom has returned.


    Hailee''s eyes move upward, staring at him seductively. His hand is on fire. She could feel the heat it produced on her back as Vince stroked her gently. He was too aroused, and she noticed the bulge in his pants.


    "Hubby¡­"


    Vincent ces his two fingers on top of her lips. "I survived these passing years. It will be just a few weeks until you are fully well and then a few months when you are near your due."


    Hailee reached out her hand to hold his face. She whispered, "There is another way."


    Vince lowered his gaze, staring at her enticing lips and ying with a silly smile while her eyes were glimmering alluringly. He understood what she meant.


    "Silly girl¡­ Your man willingly to be a monk. He''s a rare species in this universe, don''t forget that."


    With what he said with his serious tone and solemn face, Hailee could not stop herself fromughing. Vince smiled to see her better mood.


    "There¡­ You smile atst." Vince pushes a warm smile across his face, which Hailee initiates to kiss him and curl up inside his arms.


    *


    During the night, Hailee opens up again about Bryan''s n of resigning. They were already preparing to sleep. As both couldn''t drag their eyes shut, they were talking random stuff from work, then about themselves and their adventures during their childhood days.


    Hailee shared with Vince why she was attached to the boys. He was listening closely. He would rub her cheek when she told him how sad she was after her mom died. Then how she doesn''t want to speak to everyone until she meets Bryan, Geoffrey, Pitt, Tom, and others. After almost a year, she was listless; she finally returned from being cheerful.


    "Bryan is very helpful in running thepany. He was the one who takes care of our foreign investors and international partnerships," Hailee said afterward.


    "Should I let our troubles over the gains I could get from Bryan as my VP?" she added.


    Vincent has rendered speechless. Dream City is a massive project. Bryan was one of many brains to establish the Davies Group as a sisterpany of Davies Corporation.


    His visions contributed greatly to the start-up of the construction of Dream City. The world has already marked his leadership.


    And so, if Bryan leaves the team¡­ What impact can that be on thepany and the entire Dream City project?


    Vincent thought about it thoroughly. As a businessman at the same time is a skilled architect, professionalism should prevail over private matters or personal disputes.


    And so, he has no big say in Hailee''s decision. The only thing he must do is to encourage and support her.


    "Whatever your heart says, then follow it."


    It is what he quoted to Hailee.


    Hailee, burying her face into his chest, looks up, peeking at his calm face with her bright eyes. Later on, her gaze softens upon seeing the trace of a thin smile on his lips, enough tofort her troubled heart and confuse head.


    Vince''s words are like enlightenment. If Bryan would ever stay, for the sake of professionalism, peace, and harmony of her employees, working together to finish Dream City, respect is what they needed most.


    They all aimed not only to finish the city but they are also to make history.


    "I''ll give more days before I should make a final decision. I have to think thoroughly first."


    "Yes." Vince nodded, caressing her jawline and tracing a line of her nose.


    "Thank you, hubby." Hailee even tightens her embrace. She mumbled sleepily, "I love you, hubby."


    "I love you too, Wifey." He kissed her hair, then pulled up the quilt to cover her body up to her neck.


    The following day, before Hailee was discharged from the hospital, she underwent another set of blood tests and ultrasounds. Doctor Dave Thomas said that the babies are fine and healthy. However, he could not tell yet if it was only a twin.


    Looking at the monitor, Vince couldn''t hide the emotion exhibiting on his face. Hailee was even more delighted to see his precious reaction.


    She opens her phone and made a video call when Vincent didn''t notice but engross in looking at the monitor like he was almost talking to the monitor to say,


    "Dad is here!"


    On the other side of the video call, Sheena, Deana, and Janise were having fun watching the other side of their brother. However, they couldn''t hold it any longer so as not to wet their eyes. They were happy for their brother.


    Finally, he found his happiness.


    "Mom, look!"


    Hilda stares at Sheena''s phone. Honestly, she was too eager to squeeze in between these girls, but she only maintained her poise.


    She was also moved to see the emotions lingering on her son''s face. There is joy and proudness.


    After all the results came out, Vincent drove Hailee''s porches, heading toward the apartment where all the Davies Executives stayed in.


    In the days that his family was here, they were staying at his unit. His dad manages the preparation for the groundbreaking ceremony while the girls are taking care of Hailee''s wedding details.


    Hailee and Vince rode the elevator; she warned him he might see things that get him jealous and mad about it.


    Vince ponders. The only thing that makes him jealous and upset is when another guy is too close to her. And so he was too curious like he''s dying to know it soon!


    When Vincent entered the unit, Hailey was staying. He felt like he was about to pass out.


    They were on the tenth floor, but he thinks his jaw dropped to the ground floor of this building.


    Vincent realized that the living room he walk-in is Princess Hailee Davies'' Harem.

 Chapter 283 - Photo Frames And Family Heirloom

    <h4>Chapter 283 - Photo Frames And Family Heirloom</h4>


    Hailee smiled as she watched Vince''s priceless reaction when he saw the photo frames hanging in the living room. His face was gloomy, twitching his mouth from shock.


    One by one, Vince scrutinizes the photos. His pupils contracted after he tried to count how many frames were hanging on the wall.


    He thinks there are more or less a hundred photo frames of Hailee with different men, in which the backgrounds of the photos are from different countries. Name it, from different states of America, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Europe and her knights here in Oceania Continent.


    Looking at these photos, Hailee seemed like someone collecting memories, along with her lovers around the world. But he knew that was not it. There must be a greater reason she keeps them in her apartment.


    But to look at these photos, this room was like her harem.


    They are now standing in the middle of the living room, two delicate arms wrapped around his waist and a soft body pressing on his back.


    "Hubby, they are all my trusted knights around the world. I want you to see them before I take them down."


    Vince remained silent. He nced over his shoulder, where Hailee tilted her head. She moved her gaze from the wall toward his baffled face.


    "What is in your mind, hubby? Can you share it?" she asked afterward. Her voice was mellow; he could not bring himself to show how jealous he was and wanted to throw these photo frames.


    Ah, no. He will cut the photos first before throwing the other half to a drum where he lit a fire. He would keep the half because Hailee was on it¡­


    He''s thinking crazily, and he knew if Hailee would know his thoughts, undoubtedly she wouldugh at him, amuse at his childish imagination.


    Before he replied, Vince swept his eyes to the walls one more time. He could recognize several of them as he already met them, and some of them are known men in this world.


    Her knights are not just ordinary men. Vince could see that they came from affluent families.


    Vince heaves a long sigh to calm down his jealous heart. He must remember that they are just Hailee''s knights; they are her good friends.


    "You don''t need to take them down," he said afterward. He turned around to face her, gripping her waist, pulling close to him. Among these photo frames, there is one knight that is missing. "Did you take Bryan''s?"


    Hailee pursed her lips, then smiled after. She nodded, then replied, "I asked Pitt. He is part of my past, and I don''t want my present and future to be aplicated journey. So, I think¡­ It is unnecessary to keep it."


    He nted a warm kiss on her forehead. It made him happy that Hailee was thinking about his feelings. And so, he should not act as someone close-minded.


    Vince pursed his lips, then smiled. He uttered, "You don''t need to put them down. It''s alright. There are reasons you hang them in here. Besides, I could recognize several of them, and one day, I want to meet the rest of them."


    With what he said, Hailee lifted her chin to kiss Vince passionately. They are both gasping for air after the kiss.


    Vince raised his hand to brush her cheek. He ced his forehead to hers and said, "So, Princess Hailee. I honestly was shocked to discover your harem. I am jealous because your consorts are all handsome and capable men. Then, when should I put ours?"


    What he means is also to ce a photo frame of his on that wall. However, Hailee did not reply to his query. Instead, she sped his hand, intertwining their fingers, then pulled him toward a door.


    "There is a sacred ce to that," said Hailee before she pushed open the door of her bedroom.


    His gaze softened after seeing those frames hanging on the wall across from her queen-sized bed. The photos are all taken in P Country.


    One of them is from his ss Reunion, where Hailee wore a backless nude color dress. The photo is when they were dancing. And one photo frame is during theunch of her store branch. The rest of the pictures are taken randomly from his two penthouses and during their visit to Shen Mansion.


    Vince looked at Hailee with tenderness in his eyes. Right now, his heart is beating so fast from joy.


    This girl knows how to make his chest tremble, at the same time, fill it with warmth and love. She never fails to show him how special their rtionship ispared to anything in this world.


    "I love you, Mrs. Shen," Vince whispered to her ear.


    Hailee lifted her chin, eyes gleaming at what he called her. She thought she heard it wrong, but Vince repeated it.


    "Why aren''t you replying, Mrs. Shen?"


    Maybe her pregnancy truly messes up her emotions. She couldn''t stop her tears from flooding her eyes. Now her vision bes foggy. Vince leaned over to kiss her eyes to dry them.


    "I love it," she said between her low sobs.


    "Here¡­" Vince put a jade ring on her right middle finger.


    "This is?" Hailee was dumbfounded. She could tell that the ring was an antique.


    Vince exined, "It was a ring kept by my Shen ancestor to pass down to the next daughter-inw who bore a Shen heir."


    "Then, mom, Hilda is¡­." She stuttered.


    Vince nodded and smiled. He took her right hand and kissed the back of her palm. The ring was too perfect on her finger.


    "Mom passed the ring to me to give it to you since you already bore my children before we even got married."


    "Oh¡­" It made her speechless. The sun-like jade ring is exquisite. Now that it was on her finger, she could feel the warmth from it.


    The ring is a family heirloom that symbolizes she is Mrs. Shen. "It was too beautiful!" she mumbled happily.


    For the next half-minute, Hailee remains to stare at her beautiful ring. Then she lifted her gaze to meet Vince''s eyes. He could see that something was bothering her but was hesitant to voice it out.


    "Something is troubling you?" he asked.


    She replied, "I''m just wondering. Mom didn''t give it to Eva¡­."


    Hailee doesn''t want to continue, but it is enough for Vince to understand what was on her mind. He raises his right arm, then pokes her nose.


    "She didn''t bore my child, and I have no n to make her the mother of my child. Mom just wanted her to be my wife as necessary."


    Hailee felt somewhat assured, and a thought came to her mind that in the end, Vince''s mom didn''t pursue him to pregnant Eva, and she was against her because she thoughts she is an escort, a gold digger, and social climber.


    But everything is perfect now. She could not ask for anything anymore. Although they still have one problem, and that to face the Elders, she has nothing to worry about.


    Vince is from a noble bloodline. The Elders have no reason to oppose their union.


    She also wanted to meet them, invite them personally to their wedding, and witness her and Vince''s holy matrimony.


    "All we have to do now is visit the elders," Hailee said. She saw that something had changed in Vince''s expression. Now, she''s looking at him with curiosity. "What is it?"


    "There are changes about that," said Vince, who then rified. "You are in a sensitive condition now. We are all worried about you, and so, dad and I are going to meet them."


    "Oh. But¡­"


    Vince didn''t let her finish her words. "Dad hasn''t seen the elders for almost three decades, and so, he wanted to pay a visit then introduce me to them to have formalities as a member of the High Royal Family."


    "I see¡­ Then, I must stay. And while you are away, I will take care of the preparation for our wedding to entertain myself not missing you."


    She will miss him immensely, so she needs to busy herself not to feel bored while he is away.


    Vince could see the mncholy in her eyes even if he didn''t leave yet for Budapest. The same as her, he will miss her too badly.


    Pursing his lips into a thin smile, he lowered his face to im her lips one more time.


    "I''ll be back right away," heforted her. He doesn''t want to be apart from her that long, too.


    Now that he had seen the photos of her knights, Hailee told him that there was another ce she wanted to show him. He had a bad feeling, so heforted himself that things were bearable. He won''t get jealous, and he will befriend her knights instead.


    Vincent followed Hailey toward the front door when his eyes caught a familiar figure in one of the photo frames.


    "Kristian Keller?" He nced at Hailee, who nodded at him. He could not believe it! One of his tenants is actually Hailee''s knight?


    Kristian Keller is the VP of a German Pharmaceutical Company based in P Country. Ever since he brought Hailee to the penthouse, he noticed that Kristian''s pregnant wife was somewhat friendly because they actually knew each other.


    Then the conclusion in his head was soon supported. Hailee exined that it was not a coincidence since she knew that Kristian was assigned to Metro City.


    "Kristian''spany has a business deal with mine. I chose theirpany to provide medicines and medical tools to Dream City. And so, we''ve started to discuss putting aboratory here in Dream City. When you are out of the country, I often had a coffee meeting with him and his wife not to look suspicious. I am meeting another man when you are away. Now, we have business deals."


    She added, "Originally, I chose Shen Group to design and construct theboratory. But since the other construction firm has hadintstely not giving them a chance to submit their project n. I will open the bidding for everyone except the Shen Group. Is that okay?"


    Vince smiled and patted her head. "Of course. My team also felt the tension from the other construction firm. I would love topete with them in a fair fight. But I could not deny that truly you have given me more projects than the others."


    "Your works in the past two years are enough to impress mepare to their decades of achievements," she said with her mouth pouting. Her expression is too cute for Vince.


    But what she said made his heart dance with proudness.


    Watching her frown, he could tell that this matter triggered her mood swing.


    So Vince coaxed her, "Alright. You need not stress yourself about work. Let''s enjoy each other''spany, not thinking about anything instead, okay?"


    Hailee could see that Vince wasforting her. It made her realize she wanted to be coaxed by him only.


    She kissed Vince before pulling him out of her unit, then led him toward the stairs, headed to the rooftop.


    Once again, the scene stunned him.

 Chapter 284 - Things Have Changed Already

    <h4>Chapter 284 - Things Have Changed Already</h4>


    Vince supported Hailee climbing the stairs. He helped her open the door; he thought she was bringing him into that small lounge behind the rooftop door. But he is wrong.


    The sliding door led to an open space, then surrounded by divided halls. Sweeping his gaze to the whole ce, he couldn''t stop himself from being impressed by how the rooftop turned out.


    Calling it a penthouse is not suitable for it as it has no bedrooms but entertainment spaces.


    The moment they stepped out of the door, they walked into a rectangr space on the rooftop. In the middle is a fountain surrounded by beautiful blooming flowers. The middle area stands as a garden and an open lounge as he saw many benches and tables scattered around.


    Vince''s architectural brain quickly draws the blueprint of the rooftop in his head after observing the whole ce.


    He turned his head to the north direction; he saw a spacious kitchen where two chefs are currently cooking something. Then, in the east direction, is a dining hall with two long tables opposite each other, with sofas on the corner as diners'' seats.


    Hailee''s knights already upy the two tables, but there are wide spaces between them.


    Vince''s gaze moves to the next room from the dining hall. Its arrangement looks like a Tearoom. There are ten love seats and coffee tables inside.


    In the south direction is a closed room; he could not guess the use of that room when it was the only closed door as the rest halls were transparent ss walls.


    Now he scanned the west part of the rooftop. He saw a ten-meters long swimming pool, gym equipment, a barroom with arge TV screen hanging on the wall, a billiard table, sofas, cocktail tables, and another game table on the corners.


    In his opinion, that room is perfect for after office hours'' rxation, drinking liquor while watching a football game.


    Everything is in here already¡ªa total entertainment, leisurely hanging out with friends.


    "The closed-door room in the theater hall."


    Hailee finally answered his question. He turned his head to look at Hailee. He smiled at her, then kissed her forehead.


    "Thank you," he whispered after the kiss.


    "Come on..."


    After she thought that he had seen enough, Hailee pulled him toward the dining hall. The moment they walk in, all pairs of eyes look at the door.


    "Princess, finally, you''re discharged from the hospital!" James enthusiastically meets her at the door. "Come on, princess, sit here!"


    James guided her toward the sofa, ignoring Vincent standing behind Hailee. She nced at Vince apologetically. ''Hubby,e here.''


    She was sending it through telepathy. They said lovers in love could read each other''s minds andmunicate through their eyes.


    Vince indeed followed her. He sat down beside Hailee and didn''t care if no one invited him to take a seat. Of course. These men wanted to make things difficult for him. Staying clear of his mind and calm is a must.


    Seeing what he did, James frowned, but it was just in a second. He quickly reced it with a sweet smile on his lips as he scanned Hailee''s face.


    After he was satisfied with what he was searching for on her face, then James burst out. "Good! You''re not pale anymore! We are worried sick, princess!"


    Hailee patted James'' head and said, "I''m sorry for making you guys worry. Where have you been these days, huh?"


    In the days she stayed in the hospital, she only saw James that morning before she woke up. She got worried because she saw a bruise under his lip. She learned from Doctor Hector, Pitt punches James when he throws his fist toward Vincent.


    It made her worried at the same time, sad, but she tries to understand her knights.


    James smiled at her,pletely ignoring the man behind her.


    "I was assigned to take care of a few things back in P Country."


    Vince stiffened his back. If the guy is throwing a dagger look, he is scrutinizing closely at him. His gaze ultimately focuses on James when he mentions P Country.


    Meanwhile, Hailee gives James a questioning stare, waiting for him to go on.


    James frowned, then said, "I have to escort someone''s ex-wife."


    Vince shrunk his pupils after he heard James reveal his mission recently.


    "I see. Have you met Bruce?" she asked with a sweet smile. It was her way to coax James. She understood that thest thing he would do was something for Vincent.


    "Yeah. Keith introduces us to each other. And..." James nced at Vince before he went on, "I could not believe that this guy''s cousin is Carl Johnson!"


    The surprise disyed on her face disappears instantly and is reced with a smile. She said, "Oh, I''m d you knew Professor Carl."


    Carl is a retired mafia lord, but hearing that he was James senior was astounding. The world they are living in is truly small for them all.


    "He''s my ruthless senior! He always punishes me during our Camp training in Italy!" James continues venting his annoyance.


    Hailee only giggled at him but put a pleasant word in favor of Carl. "Professor Carl is a cool teacher."


    "He''s not!" James immediately disagrees. "He is abusive!"


    Listening to Hailee and James'' conversation, Vincent cannot conceal his frowning face. It displeases him that shepliments Carl.


    Carl helped a lot during the entrapment they set for Liam Huo, so he is grateful for his cousin to protect Hailee.


    It was just that he got jealous Hailee was praising another man.


    Not long after, the chefs serve Hailee''s nutritious food. She was happy that the chef was brilliant in how they could make her food tasty.


    Vincent is eating silently. Since Hailee''s meal is different, Vince can''t put food on her te other than what the chef prepared, especially for her.


    Soon, the girls arrived. The girls had no idea of the tension in the air before they came in. Vince breathed with a sigh of relief when his sisters sat next to him. At least he has them he can talk with during the meal because James keeps stealing Hailee''s attention to speak with random topics.


    Now, he''s happy that Hailee''s attention was about their wedding. Gigi and Kelly were showing her the sample of flowers they''ve chosen for the final selection.


    Kelly connected her TAB to the TV screen on the wall. They were all looking at their left side. At the moment, a video is ying on the screen. It shows different kinds of wedding flower arrangements on flower stands, wedding centerpieces, floral arrangements on the tables, ceiling decors, etc.


    Hailey had already gone through it before, but this time, it was different. She was ted this time when she organized her wedding with Bryan. Probably because she is going to marry the man whom she was madly in love with.


    Out of the blue, Janise eximed.


    "Oh. Why do I just remember the flower arrangementsst time at Vincent''s ss Reunion? That was stunning! Vincent ordered 10,000 roses for Hailee!" Janise excitedly opened her gallery and showed it to Gigi and Kelly.


    Both girls were amazed. They keep swiping the screen until a photo of Vince and Hailee appeared. It was when they were dancing in the middle of the dance floor.


    "Omg, Hail! Your dress is too pretty!" Kelly couldn''t help praising. She was bbing every detail she saw in the dress.


    "It was Janise who designed and tailored it," Hailee replied.


    Kelly looks at Janise with sparkling eyes. She says, "Girl, I''m going to order a bunch of clothes from you!"


    "Oh. Thank you! Actually, I have worked on my new clothesline for my store''s anniversary thising October. Can I invite you as a guest?" Janise was actually nervous. But she thickens her face not to miss an opportunity.


    "Of course! I would love to!" Kelly epts it delightedly.


    Janice was beaming when suddenly the smile on her face disappeared upon seeing the man who entered the door. She lowered her head, then continued eating quietly.


    Meanwhile, the boys cheered and greeted the newly arrived man.


    "Hey, Hansen Park! What brings you here, Mr. CEO?" James asked in a teasing manner. He throws a fist at the guy on the shoulder, but his punch has no strength, just a friendly greeting.


    "You''re still childish, James," Hansen smirks.


    "Hey! Don''t kid me!" Jamesints. He''s bbing endlessly once again.


    Hansen shook his head, pushing James back to his seat. He walks toward the table where Hailee is seated with the girls. He sweeps his gaze to the people who were there. Pitt was sitting next to Janise.


    When he''s closer to the table, Kelly jumps on him for a hug, then pulls him to sit next to her. His eyes fix somewhere, but the girl treats him like air.


    Hailee and Vince look at each other. The way Janise remains lowering her head to eat silently and Hansen ncing in her direction, it was apparent that something had happened to the both of them. They probably had a lovers'' quarrel. Both Hailee and Vincent came to this conclusion.


    "What brings you here, brother Hansen?" Hailee asked with a motive of gossip. There is no other reason for Hanse''s visitation to Dream City. The schedule for her business partner''s meetings was on September 1st, so there is a greater reason he is here.


    Before Hansen replied to Hailee, his eyes nced at Janise one more time. He then smiled at Hailee then said, "I have some business to take care of on the South Coast, princess."


    "Oh. I see¡­" But she isn''t convinced that it was the real case.


    "Hey, Hansen Park! Why are you sitting far from your girlfriend!" Pitt suddenly shouted next to Janise.


    On the other hand, Janise burnt her tongue with the soup she carefully sips when Pitt suddenly yells on her side. She was trying to distract herself, not mind her surroundings, especially the guy who just arrived.


    "Girlfriend?" It was James who first recovered from the shock. "What do you mean, Pitterson Cha? Tom got engaged! Now Hansen has also had a girlfriend? Then who''s next to confess who has a girlfriend?"


    He swept his eyes to the entire room. Everyone was looking in his direction, then said, "You!"


    "Huh? I''m not interested in having a girlfriend! Women are annoying!"


    "Shut up, James! It was you who had more girlfriends among us here!" Pitt who banters at James. The two of them had bickered again.


    Hailee had a bright smile on her lips, watching her knights being lively. It was just like a few years back. She misses this, actually...


    However, things have changed already. Bryan istes himself from everyone.


    It actually saddens her, but maybe it''s for the better.


    Hailey was in deep thoughts when a man spoke at the door.


    "What''s the noise about?"


    "Andre!"

 Chapter 285 - Our Castle

    <h4>Chapter 285 - Our Castle</h4>


    The men cheered upon seeing him, then one person rushed to his side and threw her arms around him.


    "Andre!"


    "Hello, Princess." Andre hugged Hailee back. He raised his right arm to stroke her now long hair while his other arm gripped tight to her back. "I''m d you look well, now."


    When he heard about what happened, he made a FaceTime with Hailee three days after being admitted to the hospital. By that time, she looked a lot paler.


    And then he learned she was pregnant.


    It shocked him. But Hailee''s smile was priceless. He could see how happy she was while she''s telling him this. Soon, she will be a mother, and there are possibilities she is conceiving a twin.


    Now that Andre was here, Vincent immediately rose from the diner sofa and stood before Andre. He extended his arm and introduced himself politely, "Vincent Shen."


    There are only two men he would respect extra politely among Hailee''s family. One is her dad, and the second is her uncle Andre. The rest of her knights. It would depend on if they were all nice to him.


    Anyway, he''ll not begin a fight, not cause to make her disappointed in him for maintaining a dispute among her knights.


    Lowering his gaze to Vincent''s hand, Andre lifted his arm after five seconds, then shook Vincent''s palm.


    "Andre Hillson¡­. We''ve already been introduced before."


    "Yes. But you left immediately. We didn''t have a chance to have a pleasant talk."


    "Ah, right¡­" Andre smiled awkwardly.


    Of course. That night, he was furious, looking out for Bryan to beat him up, and then he apanied Hailee to go back to Dubai after having at least a short time together after a year he didn''t see her.


    Hailee pulled Andre to join their table. Food is served, lunch bes even merrier.


    As Andre was there, the knights were behaving by treating Vince indifferently. The guy had a good conversation with Vincent, making Hailee happy to see they got along well.


    And because she was ecstatic by Andre''s arrival, she didn''t notice right away that Hansen and Janise were missing in the room.


    Hailee concluded that maybe the two of them went to have a private talk, so she shrugged her shoulders and enjoyed her dessert.


    The chef uses natural sweeteners, so it was okay for her to eat more portions of the cake.


    When it was three in the afternoon, and the other boys had to go back to thepany for a meeting, Hailee returned to her unit to rest.


    She was woken up by the need to go to the restroom. She was leaning on Vince''s sturdy chest, arms circling around his waist. Her breathing is tranquil; he dare not move but remain to stare at her calm face for two hours.


    Since there is an official dinner for the Shen and Davies family, Vince bathes Hailee and helps her pick out a dress. Every time she chose a backless or a low V-neck cut, Vince frowned and shook his head.


    In the end, she chose a high neck and long sleeve pair with a fitted skirt. Just then, Vince smiled and was satisfied. He reminded her it was cold at night. She might have caught a cold.


    His concern touched Hailee. He''s bing a more doting husband.


    Vince helped to pony-tailed her hair. She showed him a video tutorial on tying her hair using a rubber band and two hairpins hook on the sides. She could not help smiling enormously while watching their reflection in the mirror.


    "Is it tight enough?"


    Vince asked her after he gathered all the hair strands in his palm. After she nodded, he picked up the rubber band, then copied how the video did it.


    Hailee gaped at Vince lovingly. She knew he would be a great dad to their daughters and a wonderful teacher to their sons.


    A gentleman like him should produce a dozen of their children to multiply and spread in this world. She doesn''t mind being pregnant with his offspring many times.


    "Thank you." She kissed Vince on the lips after he tied her hair. The admiration in her eyes glints with proudness. "I am the luckiest girl in the world."


    "So am I¡­ I have the most amazing woman here by my side."


    With what Vince had said, warmth crept toward her chest, then exploded inside her heart. She embraces him tight and breathes with his natural scent.


    "I love you, hubby."


    "I love you too, Wifey. You are the light that always shines in my life."


    "If you haven''t known yet. You are my strength I want to rely on."


    Vince sealed her lips with a kiss after their sweet words for each other. Hailee parted to him to see his face.


    "I have something to show before we head to Dream City Castle."


    Vince drove Hailee''s Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV. They headed to the North-west district, the Dreamville Residency, for the most prominent families who wish to live here.


    Currently, ten mansions are almost finished. Soon, more manors are going to be constructed. All the owners of these houses are known celebrities and billionaires who are the Davies family''s good friends.


    Hailee instructed Vince where to go. He drove toward a hill mountain. The road was already cemented, and so they have a smooth drive going up.


    "Park over there, hubby."


    She pointed out a tree near the cliff on this hill. Vince pulls over, and he helps Hailee get out of the car. Even though she''s still seven weeks pregnant, he panicked and worried if she would feel ufortable.


    Hand in hand, they walk toward the cliff. The view from there is breathtaking. They could see the entire city from there, and even the Dream City Castle erected North.


    "Originally, dad and I made a careful selection of which part of the city we will build the mansions. And here are the perfect locations." Hailee began narrating. "I saw the model type of the mansion you wanted to build for your future family, and so¡­ Mr. Shen, I give you this piece ofnd to build that mansion. I am willing to bore a dozen of your children, and so, you make sure to build a huge one."


    ***


    Listening to Hailee, he processed her words first, as if what he heard was correct. He could see that thend was ready to build a house any time.


    Vincent travels his eyes to the vastness of the area.


    Vince fixed his eyes on Hailee''s face. He searched her face and that radiating smile he saw. He asked, "Are you really giving me thisnd?"


    "Yup! It''s my wedding gift to you."


    It rendered him speechless for half a minute. He caresses her face, staring at her with a tenderness in his eyes. He''d realized that he did nothing much for her, but she does many things for him.


    Even now, she''s giving him endless gifts, which he returns none yet.


    Shepletes him¡­ She also gave him children. And then, she''s the reason his family is all together now. No fighting, but working as a team. They were actually happier now than before she came into their life.


    She is really the moonlight that shines during their stormy nights. She glowed and continued twinkling above. His family was too blessed to have her; it is not because of her powerful background but because of her heart made of gold.


    She never hates his parents; instead, she keeps showing her warmth and thoughtfulness about his family. She never acts superior to his family but humbleness.


    Who''re inws wouldn''t be fond of her? Even his mom could melt her strong-willed heart. He is certain that even if his mom and Hailee had no strong connection fifteen years ago, they would still have a good rtionship one day, as long as his mom opens her heart to the woman he loved to grow old with.


    Panic exhibited in Hailee''s eyes when she saw the beads of tears fall on Vince''s cheeks.


    "Thank you." He muttered with a hoarse voice. Vince nudged her forehead with his. She reaches out his face and wipes the tears that wet his eyes. He went on,


    "You are so wonderful! There are no words I could say of how blissful I was that God gave me you."


    Vince took both of her hands and kissed them while muttering about his ns for their first family home here in Dream City.


    "I would not build a mansion but a castle where there are two dozen bedrooms for our children and family when they visit us. I will put a maze garden in the front yard, then a vast swimming pool with slides for the kids. And oh, I will build a greenhouse for you, where you can take a rest during the days you bore our dozen children. I would be so worried about you. And so, you can walk around your blossoming garden as your daily exercise. Definitely, I will also build another building where we can do some sports and gym exercise. A tennis court, perhaps? There will be arge theater hall, tearoom, and yroom for the little kids¡­ I will make sure that our grandchildren would love to visit us often and spend time with us."


    Hailee bit her lip as tears welled up in her eyes. When she saw Vince tear up, she struggled to push back her tears. Now, she let them soak her cheeks, listening to Vince making ns for their future big family.


    Having a glimpse of their beautiful future made her heart smile.


    There is nothing she wishes in this life to grow old with this man embracing her tightly while they both cried.


    They said marriage should be a give and take. Both couples offer each other, so both can take and receive a beautiful gift such as love.


    With love in between them, they can do many things and be a great team. Being a great teames with a beautiful partner in life.


    That is why she could not wait to start a life with Vince.


    "I love you, forever, Mrs. Hailee Davies Shen..."

 Chapter 286 - First Official Family Dinner

    <h4>Chapter 286 - First Official Family Dinner</h4>


    After the heartfelt words of love and sharing dreams, and then, sealed with passionate kisses¡­ Vince and Hailee went to Dream Castle, where both of their families are waiting for their arrival.


    The main hall of Dream Castle is where to hold the family dinner. It is the same hall Hailee threw a grand wee party for Vincest month, and it will be the venue of theirvish wedding soon.


    Tonight, such asion is exclusive only for the Davies and Shen families, where eight people are already seated at the round table, drinking champagne and red wine.


    At this family dinner, Andre was present along with his father, Allen Hillson, and mother, Andrea Hillson.


    While they were waiting for the couple, Hilda shared with Jacob about the wedding preparation they''ve done so far.


    As men don''t have great ideas to contribute and are less interested in the details, Jacob and Fred are ecstatic about the wedding. Both men were keenly listening to the girl''s exnation.


    Jacob pondered for a moment. Later on, he told the Shen family that they didn''t need to worry about the expenses. He will help to cover as much.


    At first, both Hilda and Fred refused. But Jacob exined¡­


    "Hailee is my only child. I want her wedding to be unforgettable. I want my daughter to be happy. How about this¡­ Help me think of what best giveaways we can offer to our guests? Let me know, and I will cover all the expenses."


    Hilda and Fred shared a look. Soon, they agreed and started thinking of giveaways ideas.


    Not long after, Hailee and Vince had finally arrived.


    Hailee hugged her step-grandma Anna and her grandfather, Allen. She then introduces Vince to the elderly.


    "Grandpa Allen, meet Vincent, my fiance."


    "Good evening, sir, ma''am..." Vincent politely greeted the couple; he quickly raises his arm and offers it to Allen for a handshake.


    "Good evening. Call me, grandpa," said the older man. He hugged Vince, patting his back. It disyed in Allen''s face how delighted he was to meet Vincent.


    Actually, his first mother-inw is from P Country, and the family is wonderful. It was just sad that his daughter died during her visit to her rtives. While waiting for his granddaughter and Vincent, he had a long talk with Fred and Hilda.


    Now he is interested in visiting P Country once again. It''s been so long since hisst visit. That ce is still close to his heart, even the tragedy his daughter had to face.


    Allen shrugs his thoughts and epts Vincent''s hand.


    "I''m happy to meet you, grandpa Allen," said Vincent afterward. This time, the rapid beating of his heart decreased to see the bright smile in his future grandfather-inw.


    When Hailee told that her mom''s father would be present at the family dinner, he racked his head on how he could show the older man a good impression.


    "The pleasure is mine to meet you atst," said Allen. They exchanged a few more words, then took a seat and continued a lively conversation.


    Hailee sat between his grandfather and Vincent. While waiting for the food to finish setting on the table, Hailee hooked her hand around her grandfather''s arm.


    "I''m sorry if I hadn''t had a chance to visit you when we were in Sydney." She apologized to her grandpa. Her face is a bit pitiful to show her regrets for not paying respect to her elders first. Instead, she meets Bryan and Eva.


    Allen patted his granddaughter''s hand and coaxed her. "It''s alright, princess. I was worried sick when I heard what happened to you. But I was unwell that day, so I wasn''t able toe to the hospital."


    "That''s why I felt so bad. I should visit you first when you are sick."


    "You, sweet child. I said, it''s alright. I''m happy to see you well."


    "Hum! I feel so great now, grandpa! Did dad tell you the good news?" Hailee asked her grandfather, and she went on after he nodded. "You are going to be a great grandfather soon! Then, Andre will be a grandpa!"


    She giggled when she said that, and then she curled her lips with an enormous smile. Poor Andre, who drank champagne, was choked with the liquor.


    He coughs, then frowns. "You know now how to bully your uncle, huh?"


    Hailee wasughing out loud this time. She also teased Andre to get married soon. So then, their kids could y together a few years from now. However, the guy only scowled and avoided this topic.


    "Tom and Hansen will get married this year, or maybe the following year. Are you not jealous?" she teases him further.


    "Why would I?" Andre soured his face. Now that this princess was getting married, she wasn''t pestering them with things to spoil her. Instead, she is bothering them now to get married!


    "Like I didn''t know about thedy major who you had a crush on," Hailee murmured, enough to reach Andre''s ears.


    "You¡­ And where did you get that gossip?" Andre tried to deny it. But Hailey''s smile didn''t recede. Instead, she mouthed further.


    "So, have you courted her dad, who is a Corporal Air General?"


    Andre widened his eyes. He could not believe this girl had heard about it! "Who told you that, huh?"


    "I have my ways!" she winks at him. Andre shook his head, then smiled.


    The food has now been set up on the table; they start eating while discussing the other details of the wedding.


    They''ve discussed what best wedding favor they give out. Everyone shared their ideas until, finally, they settled on a few ones. But they prefer what Hailee would love to give away.


    "I''m thinking of a limited edition of a DV Gem watch for men and women. There will be my and Vincent''s initials on the watch. It will be metallic brown and rose gold colors. How about it?"


    "That was actually a marvelous idea, sweetheart!" Jacob approved of it. Like what he said earlier to Fred and Hilda. He is ready to spend a billion dors for his daughter''s wedding.


    However, Hailee had another in mind.


    "Dad, it will cost you so much. But I have my second option. I''m thinking of a special edition of white wine for men and then skin products for women. However, my team hasn''t finished the research to find the right form for all skin types. The skincare product that I have for now is concentrated on a different skin type. Unless I could make the guests fill up a special form so that I know their skin types."


    "Maybe that would work, Hail!" Sheena is actually like this kind of giveaway. Hailee gave them a set of her skin products, and she loves it!


    "Both ideas are great," Hilda chimed in. She went on, "Both items are a good promotional front of your business. My cousin, who owns a resort, is using your skincare products in her spa treatment. What I know, she is a major client of yours."


    Who would have thought¡­ This girl had actually been a business partner of their family even before they met. Fate knows how to y around, as the world they are living in is just small.


    Hailee smiled at her future mother-inw. "I''m happy that Aunt Christina loves my skincare products."


    Christina Lopez is Janise''s mom. Her family owns the resort, but Janise has more passion for fashion designers than managing their resort and spa.


    Merry dinner continued. Hailee found a perfect time to sneak out with Vince and headed to the third floor of this castle.


    Vincent dropped his jaw to the floor. Hailee brought him to the VIP lounge room, where he could see through the other room. It was the room where he officially signed the contract under Davies Group.


    He looked at the girl in his arms. She had a bright smile across her face while her eyes gleaming from silliness.


    "So¡­ Miss Davies is hiding in this room while I sign those contracts." His voice isn''t mad but a tease.


    Hailee giggled, then she nodded. She beamed once again, then pulled Vince toward the curtain.


    "Stay right there," she told him, then went toward a console table to take the remote control inside the drawer. She pressed a button.


    Soon, the curtain opened. Upon realizing it, Vince dropped his jaw to the first floor this time. From where he stood, he could clearly see all the happenings below. He nced at Hailee with a confounded look on his face.


    She was here the entire time! However, he isn''t mad but astounded.


    Vince need not ask. He guesses already that Hailee was watching him that night. He turned around and said,


    "You are so sneaky, Miss Davies!"


    After saying this, he pulled Hailee into his arms, then covered those enticing lips that were smiling the entire time yfully.


    "Ah¡­ I can''t wait for the day that I can spank you again. You need heavy punishment, silly girl... After nine months..." he whispered hoarsely in her ear. His hot breath tickled her neck.


    She could only giggle to cover the heat that crept into her skin. The way Vince''s gazing at her, intense love peeked into his eyes. She could understand what he means. This time around, they could not have intense and wild lovemaking but have to restrain themselves, because even she is longing with his wild touch.


    Vince pushed her to the ss wall. But his movement is too gentle. He ced his right arm above her head to support his weight, then leaned over, reached out his hand to hold her chin.


    She lifted her gaze and met Vince''s burning eyes. He lowered his mouth to seal her lips with his. She opened her mouth and responded to his kisses.


    She could feel his scorching palm sometimes gently touch her waist, stroking her back or squeezing her palm, sending an electrifying sensation throughout her body.


    "I want you badly, now¡­."


    Vince''s hoarse voice is tickling her skin. She couldn''t help but melt inside his arms. She moans and gasps for air.


    ***


    Before they left the room to join their family once again, Hailee brings Vince to the balcony.


    From there, they could see the terrace where he has a friendly talk with Bryan.


    Now to recall that night of his wee party, he and Bryan were actually talking about the same woman. He could remember how sad his voice was and full of regrets.


    Bryan confessed how much he loves his ex-fiancee, whose girl is Hailee.


    After recalling that time, Vince tightens his embrace around her body but is careful not to press her belly. He kisses her hair while carefully rubbing her t belly. In his mind, he was talking to his children as scenes shing in his mind he didn''t know where it came from.


    They stayed standing near the balustrades for a longer time, gazing out at the night skyline, immersing in the beautiful scenery before their eyes.


    Tonight had a full moon.? Such a beautiful night they wish not to end.


    Or is there actually a storming?

 Chapter 287 - Not Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 287 - Not Anymore</h4>


    The following morning, Vince was preparing to attend the Davies Group contractors and business partners. He was fixing his tie when Hailee woke up and ran to the bathroom.


    He followed her immediately tofort her, rubbing her back while she continued puking.


    It cannot paint on his face how worried he was when Hailee began throwing up in the washbasin, but nothing ising out.


    Hailee breathes in, washes her face, then brushes her teeth. Vince handed her a ss of drinking water. She emptied it in one go, then thanked Vince afterward.


    He gets a clean face towel at the drawer under the washbasin, then carefully patting the fabric on her face.


    "Thank you, hubby." She forced a smile, but sadness shed in her eyes. She felt weak early in the morning, and then her stomach churned up.


    Watching Vince preparing to attend the Board meeting, she felt sad that she couldn''t help him by even putting a tie around the cor of his shirt.


    They were supposed to go together, but she started having morning sickness, had fatigue, and a bit of headache.


    Vince helps her sit on the bed. He walks toward her closet and pulls out a dress for her. She was touched by how attentive he was to her.


    She ced a warm kiss on his lips before she changed her nightie intofortable house clothes.


    "The chef is preparing breakfast now. Do you want anything?"


    Hearing Vince, she couldn''t help but pout at herself. She is supposed to make breakfast for him.


    Watching her sour face, Vince understood why she''s having an awful morning. This time around, she would happily make breakfast for them.


    "Let''s go¡­." Vince kissed her forehead, then helped her from getting up on the bed. He was holding her so gently like she was fragile porcin. "Where do you want to eat? Should we go to the kitchen, or do you want to rest on the sofa?"


    Hailee smiled that even to this, Vince was paying attention. She felt ufortable, and so she preferred the sofa to rest her back.


    Mrs. Brown heard the princess'' bedroom door open; she gathered all the food the chef prepared, ced them into a tray, then brought them to the living room to set up the coffee table.


    Hailee stared at therge bowl of soup ced in the middle of the table. She observes her appetite if she doesn''t feel bad.


    The aroma of the soup reaches her nostrils. She was OK with it, and she doesn''t feel like puking.


    "Do you want the soup?" Vince asked. He was cautious as well for the food that triggers her nausea.


    Vince picked up the soup bowl, then filled it with the soup. He carefully ced it on the saucer te, then gave it to Hailee.


    She cautiously holds the saucer te in one hand, then the soup spoon in her other hand, carefully sipping the hot liquid.


    Vince ces the green leafy vegetables added to the soup on Hailee''s te. He asked, "How about the chicken meat?"


    Hailee shook her head but pointed at the bacon on the tter.


    "I want it on the toasted bread and then mayo and a lot of cheese then lettuce."


    Vince smiled, brushing her face before he hurriedly made Hailer a bacon sandwich, which she was slowly munching. She looks at Vince, urging him to eat as well.


    "You don''t have to worry a lot about me, okay? I''ll call the girls to apany me now. You should have finished having breakfast, then gone to the meeting."


    Vince was hesitant to leave her. He''s worried sick. He was actually on the verge of suggesting to go to the hospital. But Hailee is tired of staying in that ce.


    He didn''t leave until the girls came over, and Doctor Thomas, staying on the second floor of that apartment. He was on call 24/7...


    Jacob wanted to ensure that his daughter gets all the attention she needed for her pregnancy. When Marlyn died, his heart was so brokenhearted for a reason he didn''t notice she was carrying their second child.


    She died not just because of the ident and having a miscarriage; she lost so much blood. That''s why he is freaking out that now his daughter got pregnant.


    When Jacob saw Vincent stepping into the conference room, he didn''t hide his concern. Hailee had texted him five minutes ago that Vincent would bete.


    She was not feeling well, and he helped her eat breakfast and apany her until the girls came over. Anyway, Gigi was at Tom''s unit, just below their floor. And Kelly was next door, staying at Bryan''s apartment unit.


    Every time Hailee stayed in Dream City, Bryan would be there to do things for her, even preparing her breakfast or knocking on her bedroom door to wake her up, reminding her that it was time to get ready for their very early board meeting.


    Yes. Bryan was just next door. Although Kelly wanted to beat him up, she was still upying her cousin''s apartment unit since Bryan was in the US at the moment to take care of other things.


    Yup... Bryan is heartbroken with the reality that he is no longer the man standing and staying on her side but someone else.


    Jacob blinks his eyes, waiting for Vincent toe close to him, to ask a question. The moment Vincent stop at his side, he immediately cast his queries.


    "How was my daughter? Why did youe? Isn''t you must stay with her?"


    Vincent is already ten minuteste to the scheduled time of thepany meeting. At this moment, he wanted to skip the meeting to apany his daughter. But he pushes it for another fifteen minutes for him to join them.


    If it were him to ask, he prefers Vincent to watch his daughter. Then, what Vincent replied to him made him somewhat happy. His daughter is bing even more responsible. If before she was bothering the boys to leave their work to apany her somewhere, she suddenly wants to go¡­


    But now, even if she was in a difficult situation, she didn''t want Vincent to ck off for her sake. His daughter understood Vincent was not just one of her contractors and architect, but Vincent holding a new role as her husband.


    He somewhat feels proud that his daughter put a lot more thought into what is best to maintain professionalism and a good rtionship in herpany.


    Then, before Vincent replied to his future father-inw, he swept his gaze to the entire room with apologetic eyes. He then said to Jacob,


    "Dr. Thomas is attending her now, Sir. I don''t want to leave her side, but she urges me to take part in the meeting on her behalf. I''m sorry for dying the meeting."


    Everyone nodded at him. Since the CEO is pregnant and her lover is one of her contractors, they could only wait patiently.


    Meanwhile, the executives could only nce in his direction. Since Hailee had her boyfriend, a fiance, and a future husband, they have to control the urge of rushing toward her side to take care of her, like when she has a fever or has flu and has no appetite to eat with anything.


    However, everything had changed already. There is now someone she would rather be with tofort and pamper her¡­


    That ce is no longer theirs¡­.


    And they have to ept the truth that for her, they are not her best men anymore.

 Chapter 288 - Colour His Life

    <h4>Chapter 288 - Colour His Life</h4>


    As the board meeting was ongoing at Davies Group HQ, at Hailee''s apartment, Gigi fixed a vegetable sd after she craved something sour.


    Gigi came up with cucumber sd she mixed with lettuce and seaweeds, then put a lot of apple cider which Hailee would dip the cucumber and lettuce into the mayo.


    Since she didn''t like tomatoes this time around, Kelly and Gigi made a separate bowl for them, then stayed a few meters away from her.


    The two girls ate at the dining table while she remained in the living room.


    Later, Sheena and Deana came over to join them. Janise goes back to Metro City first as she needs to start to make Hailee''s wedding dress. These passing days, they made many video calls to discuss the details of her wedding gown. Like this morning, they had a long chat with her, who already misses hanging out with Kelly and Gigi.


    Kelly promised to fly to Metro City next week. She wanted to visit the branch store, then help Janise work on Hailee''s wedding gown. Kelly had ideas of adding real gemstones to the dress.


    "Have you guys found a perfect date for the wedding?" Kelly asked Hailee after the video call with Janise. At the moment, they were enjoying their cup of honey and lemon tea.


    Hailee replied, "I can''t decide yet. Vince and I will discuss it after hees back from meeting the Elders."


    Honestly, she was too anxious to tell the world the good news.


    However, she couldn''t calm down but had a bad feeling when she would think about meeting the elders. Now that they demanded their presence, she has to n out everything.


    Somehow in the past, Shun had warned her before that not everyone in the alliance would remain loyal for long; that is why he needs more trusted Lords in the Mafia Alliance to support him.


    Hailee wanted to help Shun to strengthen his throne. However, she has had no interest in the underground world since the very beginning.


    She was already distancing herself from aristocrats on the surface and the tycoons'' circle, which she knew she could not hide from forever. For now, she would do all her might to maintain the status of Davies to the surface world.


    There is no other heir but solely her. By now, she wanted to worry less about anything but soon to focus her life together with Vincent and their future children.


    Yes. She nned to conceive a dozen children to continue the Legacy, at the same time to strengthen Davies'' status both into the surface and the underground world.


    The more children she bore, the more heir and heiress to protect Davies and Shen''s royal bloodline.


    The more she thinks about her life after marriage, the more she''s determined to enjoy her life around her family because as a family who stood on the top, the more the possibility of the people to bring them down.


    She badly dreams of living only an ordinary life. However, she epted now that it would be impossible for her and Vincent to achieve such a life.


    The only choice she has now is to show the strength she possesses. To gain unfathomable power is to gather as many trusted knights on her side, which she finally achieves.


    What is needed for her to do next is act as a real leader, which she hinders from carrying out in these passing years.


    She is aware her dad faces a lot of battles to keep her safe and alive. Now that she will be a mother, it was her turn to protect her family.


    After a long thought, Hailee snaps herself andes back to her senses. She then resumed her speech.


    "Maybe after the Elders ept Vincent as my husband. I would not dy announcing my pregnancy to my Instagram Official ount. Also, it will be a perfect opportunity to reveal the wedding date."


    "Oh! You''re going to introduce my brother?" Sheena was ecstatic after hearing Hailee''s n. When Hailee nodded at her query, she felt ted.


    So then, it''s not bad that the world would know that he will be the husband of Hailee Davies, a self-made billionaire. Hailee didn''t rely on her dad''s money, but she earned her own wealth. Of course, she was delighted that her brother found the woman he dreams of being with forever.


    The Shen family is not as wealthy as the Davies family, but her brother is also a self-made millionaire. Aside from his sess in managing Shen Group. He had his line of business, which earns well. He could give Hailee a good life even if she were from an average wealthy family.


    But no one imagined that the famous Mistress in Metro City is a super-rich girl! Her brother thinks she is only from a middle-ss family. That is why he ensures to protect her from malice and judgment.


    People could not stop naming her with this title because her brother was forced into marriage. Even if he and Eva never be real husband and wife, still their marriage is legal.


    But now, she was happy that her brother finally got his deserved freedom.


    Soon, everyone will know that the famous mistress is not just simply a business partner of DV Gem Inc., but she is actually the owner of these billion-dorpanies, and she is also the founder of Dream City. The most awaited modern city in the world.


    They already predicted that it would be the safest city to live in. As of now, Melbourne holds the title of entire Australia.


    But Hailee aimed to have a perfect city to live in for celebrities and super-rich people in the world.


    It felt so amazing that her brother, Vincent, could contribute to building this city. He is going to make the tallest tower in the world!


    Sure is... They were making history!


    Being a Shen to achieve such recognition, their family aplished another sess that even though many hundred years had passed, the world would remember the Shen family.


    She couldn''t stop admiring and being proud of her brother. Above all, her brother deserves to be happy despite his achievements and soon fame.


    She believes that the unparalleled rewards her brothers deserve to earn are pure love and genuine happiness.


    With the overwhelming warmth surrounding her heart, Sheena suddenly hugs Hailee, which surprised her a little.


    "Hail, thank you foring into my brother''s life. He was such a great man. He deserves this¡­ He deserves you¡­." Sheena mumbled in a trembling voice as emotion engulfed her.


    "When no one I could hold on a family to call on, Vincent is always there for me and my daughter Lena. He gave up many things, even his happiness, for the sake of our family. But now, finally, his life had colors. And it was you who painted those colors in his life... I know, same as you... You didn''t care about my brother''s wealth, but to have someone who can make you feel the inexplicable happiness lingering in your heart."


    Sheena''s eyes were drenched with tears after. Those other girls couldn''t hold it as well. Their eyes welled up and sobs. They all could rte to that feeling of finding someone whopletes you.


    Gigi knew that feeling very well. After her life in hell with Galvin, she thought many times to end her life. And after she got free from him, she never dares to love again.


    Many courted her, but she swore she would rather grow old alone instead of suffering again like what she had been through in a forced marriage with Galvin.


    However, she never imagines nor dares to dream of finding love for a second time around.


    But Tom is willing to love her unconditionally. He made her feel that wonderful feeling of being genuinely loved by a man. He showed her that pure love is real.


    The same as Sheena and Deana, they also found their true love. And as for Kelly, she may not have seen that guy yet, but she is hopeful and believes that someone is meant for her who will dedicate his life only to her.


    As tears blurred their eyes, the front door opened, and the men who entered the room were surprised why they were crying while having a group hug.


    "Women truly are too emotional¡­ They sure are Drama Queens!" Pittmented that both Vincent and Tom elbowed his stomach. He was pitiful, reaching out the wall to hold on to it while he rubbed his tummy to ease from pain.


    He could only cry inwardly,forting himself from the brutality he received from Tom and Vincent.


    ''What is the problem with these men!?'' he grumbled inwardly as he was afraid to let out his thoughts; he might receive another blow.


    Pitt red at Tim, who was snickering at the door. He was annoyed because he believes he did nothing wrong!

 Chapter 289 - No Secrets To Her In-Laws

    <h4>Chapter 289 - No Secrets To Her In-Laws</h4>


    The girls quickly dried the tears in their eyes. Although the men are curious to know what made them emotional, none ask a question from them.


    Hailee smiled at Vince. She stretched her hand to reach Vince''s neck, pulled him close to ce a sweet kiss on his lips.


    "I love you," she whispered after, tightening her hold on his neck.


    Vince chuckled. Hailee is choking him, but he ignores it. His chest was actually filled with warmth to be given a sweet embrace greeting like this.


    "I love you, too." He asked, "How are you feeling?" he rubbed her cheeks while he replied with his hoarse voice.


    "I feel great now," she replied. Vince sat next to her. She immediately cuddled into him, resting her head on his sturdy chest, rubbing her nose into his shirt.


    Vince smiled. She acted even more cutely now that she was pregnant. If only they were alone, he would have already pushed her on the sofa and covered those enticing lips until they were out of breath.


    cing a light kiss on her hair, Vince uttered... "Your dad was worried, too. He wanted to have lunch with us, but he had a videoconference with the American investors."


    "Okay. I will send him a text message not to worry much. I already told him earlier that I am fine. I guess I have to appease him again, not to fuse too much of my pregnancy."


    Hailee could imagine her dad''s face twitching from worries. Her dad has been so great to her. He''s pampering and spoiling her so much. In fact, she''s a little guilty that all these years, she''s been a hard-headed daughter.


    She always insisted on what she liked to do because she knew her dad would not say no, as long as the boys were there... The reason she''s pestering the boys. These men have been patiently and kindly enduring her capriciousness.


    Now it''s time for them to have their own lives. And she is determined to let them take an extended vacation, and she will start with Bryan, then Geoffrey, then the rest of her executive knights¡­


    Hailee is beaming when she picks up her phone on the coffee table. She typed a quick text message, then sent it to her dad. Jacob replied immediately and said that he woulde over soon after the conference meeting.


    "Okay, dad. I''ll set aside some food for you. Muahh!"


    By lunchtime, Hilda and Fred came to visit Hailee in her apartment. Like Sheena and Deana, the couple was also shocked to see the photo frames hanging in the living room.


    Fred and Hilda shared a nce. And before their brains form the question on their heads, Sheena already exined what Kelly and Gigi told them earlier.


    Well, it was certainly shocking to see your daughter-inw''s house filled with photo frames of different men. However, Hailee didn''t want to hide this from her inws.


    It will be more of a problem if, one day, her inws caught her being with different men anywhere in the world.


    But Fred was only shocked for a moment. After a careful look at the frames, he could recognize several of them.


    "Some of them are our business partners from our International cooperation," said Vincent to his dad.


    Fred nodded. His son is right. Not only that, some of them are from the Royal Family. He told Vincent, "I personally know their dad''s. I think their father would recognize you if one day you''ll meet them."


    Fred pointed to the men he knew during the time he was active in the High Royal Family gatherings. Recalling the past, he told Vince a little story about those men.


    Vince keenly listened to his dad. He thought his dad only focused on their business but was timid in many things. His dad has been his idol. But listening to his stories, he admires his dad even more. He is really a great man behind his mask as simply Frederick Shen.


    He could see those faint glints of excitement in his eyes. He believes his dad was actually interested in staying in the association. However, he chose a peaceful life, away from probable disputes between mafia lords and territories for the sake of his family.


    Vince stared at the photo frames for a long moment. Maybe it''s not wrong to leave them disyed in Hailee''s apartment. This will be for the time being only. Soon after he finishes building their castle, he will discuss with Hailee if she needs a secret room to hang them there.


    "Hailee ns to bring them down, but I think she has a reason she hangs them up here," he told his dad.


    "In the world, Jacob is living in. He needs all the protection and connection he could gather." Fred is actually praising his future daughter-inw. He went on, "Hailee is pretty clever. She knew she had to do the same as this was for her future family''s benefit. Your children''s safety, my grandchildren''s gain."


    Vince didn''t hide the proudness in his eyes and a smile on his lips, listening to his dad praising his wife. Although he couldn''t stop himself from getting jealous every time he saw these photos, he was not a totally close-minded person. He has an average EQ, and he could control his anger.


    He understood how important this was to Hailee. Besides, he knew he owned her heart. And so, he has nothing to fear but work even harder to be on the number one spot.


    Waiting for the food to get done, finally, it was served after an hour and a half. And in the middle of the meal, Jacob arrived along with Andre.


    "Is everyone ready?"


    Jacob asked Fred after they had a delicious lunch. While the girls were chatting in the living room, the men stayed at the dining table, discussing business.


    Fred nodded and replied, "Hilda and the girls are done packing. They were actually excited to visit Perth City."


    "They can drive around at night. My men will be there to apany them. But hopefully, my daughter will avoid going out at night for the time being." Jacob is looking at Vincent when he says this, to which Vincent assured him he would not encourage Hailee to go out at night.


    "That''s good!" Jacob sighs with relief, satisfied with his answer. He was confident that Hailee would listen to Vincent. He is happy that his son-inw has the capability to reprimand his daughter. He needs a fully mature man who would not just spoil and pamper her but also has the power to say no.


    "Alright. Andre and Tom would fly the two helicopters. I have a few things to take care of, and so, I''ll be there by dinnertime," Jacob exined about their setup going to his mansion.


    He believes his daughter should spend her days fully recovering her health at the mansion to keep her away from insisting on work when Vincent is not around.

 Chapter 290 - Ambitious Man

    <h4>Chapter 290 - Ambitious Man</h4>


    Somewhere in Hungary¡­


    A woman who still looks young, like she was still in herte thirties, is leisurely lounging on her French Chaise, waiting for the servant to finish setting up her tea.


    The woman is wearing a red coat and a red skirt above her knee. In her hand, she is also wearing red gloves and a big, round red hat. She was holding an iPad, and she is currently the world news.


    Lady Isabe ced the gadget on the coffee table after the maid bid goodbye and got out of her study room. With elegance, she unhurried to pick up the teacup as she carefully drew closer to her red lips.


    She was enjoying the rich aroma of Da-Hong Pao tea when her butler knocked on the door.


    "Mdy, Duke Alessandro Martini is requesting to see you."


    Lady Isabe contracted her pupils. One thing she hates is an unwee visitor arriving during her tea time.


    "Let hime in," she said afterward, cing her teacup on the saucer te. Even though it annoys her, she permitted the duke to meet her.


    Not long after, the duke appeared at her door.


    "Greetings, mdy." Duke Alessandro partly bowed his head.


    "My Lord, please have a seat." Lady Isabe gestures her right hand to the empty loveseat across her.


    Duke Martini bowed one more time, then took the seat thedy offered to him. She must have woken up on the right side of the bed. Thest time he visited thedy, she didn''t offer him a seat, but he remained standing behind her working desk.


    Sittingfortably, the butler came back and offered him tea. It''s unusual indeed. Thedy rarely serves her expensive tea to her guests.


    With a thought that Lady Isabe was in a good mood as he was amodated warmly, Duke Martini smiled and sipped on the tea leisurely.


    However, Lady Isabe has her intention of why she was showing hospitality to her unwee visitor.


    "It''s a pleasant surprise for you to visit me this time around, Duke Martini. The Elder''s Council is just a few days away. Please state your business with me." Lady Isabe didn''t want to beat around the bush. She had other things to take care of than meeting an Elder when it is unnecessary.


    Duke Alessandro Martini is one of the Council of the Elders, sitting in the highest seats of the High Royal Family.


    As his family is a member of the High Royal Family, he was introduced to the council when he was ten years old. Looking back, the woman across from him has changed nothing even slightly after fifty-five years.


    When this woman introduced his grandfather to her, he told him she had the same looks a hundred years ago.


    And in the next fifty years, this woman would still look the same. His grandchildren would see her the same appearance as today. Unfortunately, none of his grandchildren had arrived yet because he wasn''t blessed with children.


    However, his matter to see thedy without informing his arrival is rted to the future of the Martin family.


    "Ahem. Mdy, my apologies if I haven''t notified you ahead of time. I will state my affairs right away and will not stay longer. In these passing decades, the Martin family has done our duty to protect this council and the association. However, I was disappointed that you agreed to such ...."


    Duke Alessandro Martini could not finish his world when Lady Isabe looked him in the eyes. He gulped and shut his mouth. He wanted to go on. However, the woman in front of him is highly intimidating.


    Lady Isabe is rare to look anyone in the eyes. She always avoids eye contact, as everyone is not worthy for her to spare a look at them. However, asionally, she will cast a nce at you to send a warning.


    "Are you questioning my decisions, Duke Martini?" she asked with sternness in her voice.


    "Mdy¡­ there is a suitable prince for the princess¡­." Duke Martini stuttered his words.


    "Such as your nephew?" The duke is not the first one to visit her and discuss this matter.


    "My nephew Alexander is the future King of Fen Country. Is it suitable that he will be the first choice to marry Princess Hailee?" Alessandro is determined to fight for the rights of his family to take the opportunity of an arranged marriage. "I have been requesting your guidance to arrange my nephew and Jacob''s daughter''s betrothal. I don''t understand why thedy overlooked such an opportunity."


    Lady Isabe frowned. However, Duke Martini didn''t see it as Lady Isabe''s side angle of her face was covered with her hat. All the emotion disyed on her face, hidden by her red hat, and Duke Martini missed seeing the displeasure keep shing on her eyes.


    Without casting a nce at the man, Lady Isabe exined her point of view.


    "Duke Martini, Alexander, and Hailee are from the fourth generation of the Fen Country''s royal family. Jacob had already given his words; his daughter would not marry her rtives."


    Duke Martiniughed nervously. He wanted to put an arrogant expression on his face. However, the woman in front of him is someone he should not provoke.


    "As you mention, Alexander and Hailee are distant rtives. Alexander and Hailee are the sole heir and heiress of the Martin and Davies family. Is it more right to protect both of the families? There will be no one helping each other but us as family."


    Lady Isabe purses her lips. She thinks she just heard a joke. "I didn''t know you were a fan of rumors, Duke Martini."


    Lady Isabe''s tone is full of sarcasm. Duke martin was not dumb not to understand what thedy has meant.


    But Duke Martini could not bring himself to exin further. Her indifference toward him clearly tells him she is not interested in listening to his words furthermore.


    Duke Martini could only vent his annoyance to the golden royal cane in his right hand. The tension inside the room is growing, and it suffocates him. However, he could not decide if he must leave in an instance.


    Lady Isabe has nothing to say to the Lord. Great that she could hide her face behind the red hat; her eyes were burning in displeasure. Not only that, disgust at how ambitious this man is.


    Good thing that her phone rang, and the screen was shing Cassandra''s name.


    "Please, excuse me, Duke Martini. I have to answer this call. The Empress should not wait."


    Lady Isabe called her butler to apany the duke outside. The duke was furious, but his irritation could only vent in silence.


    Now that she was alone, she drew her phone closer to her ear. "Hello, Cassandra?"


    "Isabe, it''s me."


    Isabe paused for a moment. Softening her gaze, she pursed her lips into a thin smile as worries envelop her chest.


    Every time this woman visits the future, she always brings bad news.


    "Hwa-Young¡­ Have you envisioned something again?"

 Chapter 291 - Wedding Date

    <h4>Chapter 291 - Wedding Date</h4>


    Back in Australia¡­


    Vincent and Fred are scheduled to go to Hungary three days from now. It had then decided that Hailee would go home in one of their mansions to not sneak out to the office to work.


    And while the father and son made a trip to Hungary, Hilda and Vincent''s sister will apany her along with Kelly and Gigi to make a final selection with the wedding details. In this way, other things will upy her days.


    Hailee had set the wedding date. It will be on August 28, 2026¡­


    The wedding is rushed, but both families want to see the couple bind their love through marriage.


    So they will announce the wedding date on Hilda''s birthday, which is less than three weeks from now on. After Vince and Fred meet the Elders ande back, it is time for them to go back home to Metro City to prepare for a grand birthday celebration.


    Of course, it was a perfect time to announce Vincent''s grand wedding, and so, all prominent families in P Country must be invited.


    Vincent had already racked up his head thinking about it.


    If every family her mom were going to invite, that would be not only like three to five hundred people.


    Vincent knew his mom deserves to have a grand party, but inviting many people may not be such a good idea. They can hold a press conference if they want a grand announcement of the wedding and Hailee''s pregnancy.


    But of course, Hilda is strong-willed. She actually wanted to announce it very soon so that the elders had no chance to meddle.


    After a long discussion, Hilda finally gives up on her original n. Her birthday party would be only a n gathering¡ªthe Lopez and Shen rtives, including extended families such as inws.


    And if there are other guests, that is their business partners like Hansen Park, Keith Cole, and Hilda''s closest friends.


    As she hated those stic families in High Society, Hilda agreed not to invite them as she wanted to show off. Keeping it as a family gathering is much better.


    Her birthday party will be live streaming, so everyone would only drool to watch and wish she invited them. Hilda''s Hailee nodded and smiled.


    Hilda already imagined what would be the theme on her birthday. Of course, still, a grand one as they were celebrating not only her birthday but also theing of her grandchildren.


    Next week, they will find out how many babies they should expect. And Hilda was too excited to meet them. Of course, she was ted because these kids would be the heir and heiress for Shen and Lopez and the Davies.


    Both Vincent and Hailee are a sessful businessman and businesswoman. They were independent and hard workers. She could imagine and certain that their children would follow in their parent''s footsteps, and she felt so proud already.


    *


    After Fred and Vincent instructed their architects and engineers that afternoon, they prepared to leave Dream City. Boarded by the two helicopters, they headed to Perth City.


    Hilda and Fred are aboard the helicopter piloted by Tom. Gigi and Pitt joined them. And on the second chopper piloted by Andre: Kelly, Vincent, and his sisters are joining Hailee.


    Along the way, Sheena and Kelly have been non-stop making ns where to go at night and then go shopping in the following days.


    Now that they were approaching the Davies Mansion, Hailee tugged Vince''s suit to tell him they were close.


    Davies'' mansion was located near the beach. Sheena and Deana gasp in excitement. They could see three yachts anchored nearby.


    "Oh, my gosh! Are those yachts yours, Hail?" Sheena could not suppress her anticipation.


    Hailee nodded. "Two of them are the ones I am using when I travel by sea."


    Sheena and Deana need not guess which one''s Hailee had been pointing out. Two giant yachts are like twins.


    Although they were often sailing before, they just know how grand Hailee Davies owns the yachts. Of course, they had already seen its interior from Hailee''s posts on Instagram.


    She may not post the overall appearance of her yachts. But she showed enough photos of her luxurious life.


    The two helicopters make a tour of the entire city before theynd in the mansion''s golf field. Before they could tour around the mansion, Hailee showed them the guests'' rooms so that they could take a rest first.


    "Let''s have a barbecue party on the yacht!" Hailee suddenly has the urge to spend time in the middle of the ocean. After she announced this, she ran toward Vince and purred at Vince, "I want some Korean-style barbecue grill at my yacht."


    Vince blinks his eyes. He understood Hailee was coquettishly requesting for him to talk to the chef to grant her cravings.


    "Okay. I''ll go talk to Pitt to give your request to the chef."


    Since it was determined she would stay in Perth for a few days. Her nutritionists came ahead of them, traveling bynd.


    Hailee had a massive smile after he agreed. She smacked his lips with a kiss, then apanied his sister upstairs to show them their bedrooms.


    Vince heaves a long sigh after Hailee disappeared. She was really in a good mood, so he didn''t have the heart to say no to her request.


    "What''s the matter?"


    Tom noticed his gloomy face. Vincent nced at the three men discussing some things in the mansion''s entryway. He joined them, then shared what Hailee requested for dinner.


    "Let''s have some beef and tuna. I''ll go ask the chef to make soup as well," said Pitt, patting Vincent''s back before he went to the kitchen.


    "Don''t worry too much. Hailee is a nutritionist herself. She knew she had a limit to how much meat she should intake," Andre appeases him.


    Vincent thanked Andre for being an understanding uncle. Says¡ªthat Andre is one of those who pampered Hailee all the time. He could see that, but Andre also trusted that she wasn''t a kid anymore, unlike the rest of her knights who wanted to meddle every time¡­


    "I''ll show you something."


    Andre brought Vincent to a private room in the right-wing of the mansion. It was a study room, and with Hailee''s pictures, it filled therge room with her beautiful smile.


    Vincent immersed himself in looking at Hailee''s baby photos. They are also photographed when she was taking a ballet lesson in a private studio.


    Hailee was too cute in her pink ballet costume.


    They filled the walls with her photos until she''s a teenager while she''s in a swimsuit and holding a surfboard. The other images are of her on a skateboard or mountain bike.


    She''s sure had a lot of adventures during her teenage years.


    "Hey, there you are! I''ve been looking for you guys." Hailee appeared at the door. She walks toward Vincent and Andre, looking at her photos. She mouthed, "I could see that the first thing my uncle showed you were my baby photos."


    Vince chuckled as he circled his arms around her waist. He said, "I''m looking at the treasure."


    Hailee was touched by what she said. During their visit to Shen mansion, she steals a baby photo of Vince. Well, Sheena snuck out the frame out of the room where their mom hung their pictures since they were babies until they grew up.


    "Do you want to take one of these photos?"


    Vince nodded. Then walk toward the wall and reach out to the photo framed where she was six years old in her ballet costume.


    "I want to put this in our study room."


    Vince meant the room Hailee used as a working ce in her apartment. Most pictures she ced on the console tables are photos of her parents and grandparents. There''s no solo picture she disyed in her study room.


    Now that she and Vince live together in Dream City, they are now sharing her workce. Last night, Vince put up his working table and worked until ten in the night.


    Now that he has to begin to design their castle, Vince set his mind to work on it every night after working hours. Sharing a working room with Hailee, he could feel what they called POWER COUPLE.


    "What were you thinking, hubby?" she asked him when he suddenly fell silent.


    At this time, Andre already left them alone to have time together. And so, they are more extra intimate with each other. Vince ced a kiss on her shoulder, then said, "Can I get another one?"


    Vince carefully looks at the photos one by one. He had a little trouble picking out another photo he could put on his desk. Finally, he chose Hailee''s picture when she was sixteen years old. Hailee is walking on the beach; behind her is the sun about to set. Hailee nodded and smiled.


    "Love this so much," he then muttered happily.


    Hailee yfully frowned in front of Vince. She pouted, "You have a real one here."


    Vince ced his hand on her lower back, then gently pulled her close to him. "You look so magical in this photo. It was like¡­ Even the sun is about to hide, and darkness is soon to wrap this side of the world, but your smile lightens the night."


    Hailee feels ted by his poetic words, and she could not stop herself praising him. "Hubby, you were even sweeter now."


    "What I said is true. You are the moon that shines in my life¡­."


    Vince lowered his head and ate all the words that Hailee was about to counter. She wanted to say some sweet words as well. But Vince kissed her passionately.


    Hailee tightens her embrace around Vince''s waist. Being held and kissed by him like this, she felt like she needed no one but him only.


    Everything is perfect¡­ or it is just what she thinks so¡­

 Chapter 292 - ASSASINATION (One)

    <h4>Chapter 292 - ASSASINATION (One)</h4>


    BUDAPEST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT


    Three dayster¡­.


    The Shen private ne has justnded. Guided by the airport tower, the Shen ne headed to the hangar that Shun prepared. Outside are five vehicles already waiting for the father and son''s arrival.


    Vincent swept his gaze to the men in ck cautiously standing near the cars, looking around, and asionally spoke through their small gadget hidden somewhere in their clothes.


    Seeing such a situation, Vince has tensed up. It made him wonder if the setup was necessary.


    "Wee, Mr. Shen. My name is Jerry Killian, your escort."


    The guy extended his hand, and both Fred and Vincent had a handshake with him.


    "Please, this way, sirs." Jerry led them to thetest Lamborghini URUS.


    Vincent wanted to raise a brow and whistled at the personalized ck Lambo disys in front of him. Jerry opens the door and gestures his hand for them to get in the car. Vincent stepped inside the backseat, then thanked the guy.


    As a car lover as he is, he didn''t hide his fascination with the vehicle. He expects a Mercedes Benz to pick them up. But a Lambo?


    This is beyond his imagination like he suspected that something was off here.


    Not only that, there are four other cars, two are ahead of them, and two are tailing them. He thinks it''s a bit of a convoy for someone like him. Thest time he was here, he was alone, with no bodyguards apanying him as unnecessary.


    He was free to roam around the country, as he didn''t feel threatened by danger lurking in the dark alley.


    Vincent looked at his father, who seemed to guess what was on his mind.


    "The day you got entangled with her, it was a huge change in your life as well," Fred quoted with meaning to his son.


    Vincent processed the words his dad had said. Since he was determined to be with Hailee, he persuaded the Elders to give their blessings to marry her.


    Introducing himself to the elders is also a deration that he involved the High Royal family.


    With this, some people are not happy with his arrival. Not to mention that he is marrying a princess-like Hailee Davies.


    Somehow, he realized that Liam Huo is not the only one who is after the princess. Other royals must be after her for some purpose they will benefit from.


    Davies'' wealth and Jacob''s influence are beyond imagination. Whoever marries the sole heiress will also gain a massive advantage over this power.


    That is why his battle to win Hailee over continues even to this side of the world, which this time, he must prove he is worthy of the princess and show that he has no ulterior motive but genuinely loves the princess.


    Vincent heaves a long sigh. He thought his and Hailee''s love was enough to show the world they were meant to be.


    However, that wasn''t enough either. It takes for the Shen to release all their cards to win this battle.


    Vincent turned his head to his left side, looking outside the window as he admired the beautiful city of Budapest. Then, the day he meets Hailee four years ago shes in his mind.


    Fell into deep thoughts, Vincent didn''t notice that the car was speeding up when they crossed the bridge.


    Unlike thest time he was here, looking for Hailey, the city was crowded with tourists. Today there is surprisingly no traffic at all. Vince pondered if the city had an unusual holiday, and that is to stay indoors.


    *


    Meanwhile, somewhere in the city¡­


    "Target is crossing the bridge," said of a man on the radio.


    "Locking in the target."


    Another man announced in the other line. He took a deep breath before he pulled the trigger of his long-range sniper rifle.


    While the car where Vincent was riding had increased its velocity while crossing the bridge, a bullet made its way to follow its target.


    BANG!


    ***


    A few days ago at Martini Manor, Hungary¡­


    A man in his early thirties looks up from the book he is reading. Even though the infuriation on Duke Alessandro Martini exhibits on his face, the man dares to ask still.


    "What happened, uncle Alessandro? Your face can not paint on the canvas."


    Duke Alessandro shot a grim nce at his nephew, who was always carefree in his life. It made him unhappy because now, Alexander hasn''t achieved greater things until now. If it weren''t for his great effort, the Martini Royal family would have copsed a long time ago.


    Because he was only the youngest son, he couldn''t inherit the throne but histe brother''s wife, who ran the kingdom.


    "Stop joking around, Alex." Alessandro sneered, contracting the pupils of his eyes because of his annoyance. He cast a sidelong nce at his nephew, who resumed reading the book in his hand. "Are you going to sit all day long around here?"


    Alexander shrugs a shoulder as he replies calmly. "You said I should stay low-key and don''t get too involved in the Royal duties in the association. Then, what do you want me to do now?"


    Duke Alessandro cursed inwardly. It annoys him how his nephew shows no interest in making a move of their ns.


    He may say that Alex remains to ck around, but it doesn''t mean he shouldpletely be ipetent. Several royal heirs are lining up to arrange a marriage with Jacob''s daughter.


    Although they have a great advantage as they could get near the princess anytime they wanted without noticing an ulterior motive; however, Alex is not using his head.


    "Are you not going to visit your cousin?" Alessandro''s voice was impatient when he asked his nephew. He was at a loss when Alex is ying dumb all the time.


    "Who''s a cousin? Be specific, uncle." Without lifting his head, Alexander has the mood to point out his uncle.


    Alessandro was in great despair. His nephew never took him seriously. "I have been telling you that Liam Huo was apprehended, finally! Now it is our time to move on with our n! Since Liam Huo''s wrath is no longer a threat to us, this is the perfect time for you to woo Hailee!"


    The duke only takes control of his anger. He has been patiently waiting for Liam Huo''s end. However, he was good at escaping death. He knew he was assassinated many times, but in the end, his weakness was the princess.


    He learned it was the princess who personally dealt with him. And so, they have to be careful not to mask off their motive of getting close to the princess.


    "Uncle, have you forgotten? Hailee has a fiance now. Besides, that man ising in a few days from now, right?"


    "That is why you should have flown to Australia by that time! Do I have to teach you every detail of what you need to do?"


    Alexander heaves a long sigh. His ears couldn''t take it anymore. The duke''s voice was getting louder as he spoke further. He ced the book on the coffee table, then stood on his feet.


    "I heard you loud and clear, Uncle. I''m going to my room and pack my clothes."


    Alessandro wanted to throw a pit. But nothing he could do but fume inwardly.


    *


    NEXT ON:


    Mrs. Brown, the Davies headmistress, knocked Hailee in her bedroom to inform her that her cousin arrived.


    "Alex!"


    "Hey, beautiful Princess!" Alex shed a sweet smile across his handsome face as he opens his arms wide, which Hailee delightedly hug him back.

 Chapter 293 - ASSASINATION (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 293 - ASSASINATION (Two)</h4>


    The following day, Alex''s suitcase was ready, as well as his flight was scheduled for tonight.


    Duke Martini made sure that Alex''s arrival was on the day of Vincent and Fred''s departure.


    "This is the perfect time you are by her side." Alessandro reminded his nephew.


    Alexander creases his forehead, gaping at his uncle with a suspicious look. "What do you mean by that, Uncle?" he asked with curiosity.


    Casting a nce at his nephew, the Duke turned his gaze back to his food. "Do what I am telling you. It is your chance to pursue Hailee."


    Duke Alessandro chose not to exin more details to his nephew. The less he knew, the better. Still, the duke wants Alex to appear that it has nothing to do with him. He only makes all the ns.


    That''s right. He may work on something behind the association, but he would not let Alex be involved directly. He would ensure that Alex was innocent. Besides, he wasn''t sure what his nephew was thinking. He was timid and less interested in involvement in the association or even in running the kingdom.


    Alex is such a carefree man. And because of that, it made him worry all the time if the kingdom had a future in his nephew''s hands. To arrange his marriage to the royal daughters is the best he can do, which Alex is still nonchnt about.


    Weighing his uncle''s words, Alex figured it out. "Are you plotting to assassinate Vincent Shen?" he asked the duke with a casual tone like they were discussing climate change.


    "You need not be concerned about this matter. I am doing this for the Martini Royal family and Fen Country. Our bloodline should continue. You must think about having an heir as soon as possible."


    Hearing that, Alex shook his head, then chuckled. He muttered, using his ridiculous tone.


    "And do you expect me to get the princess pregnant on my visit?" he then added, "You were copying Liam Huo''s method of causing the princess to feel depressed and grieve, then I should be there tofort her?"


    "Why not? Jacob will be delighted to have an heir. Hailee is the sole heiress of incredible wealth. I know Jacob. He would not give up his wealth to anyone. However, his daughter chose someone else to marry. If the Shen family is out of the picture, it''s your perfect time to win over the princess''s heart."


    Alex contorted the corner of his mouth. It seems like his uncle would go on an all-out n to eliminate Vincent Shen.


    "The Martini royal bloodline will continue in the next hundred years. There is nothing for you to worry about, Uncle Alessandro." Alex stated meaningfully. His gaze clouded with emotion his uncle failed to see as he concealed it immediately.


    Duke Alessandro was satisfied with his nephew''s words. It is what he wanted to hear from him.


    *


    PERTH, AUSTRALIA


    That morning, the Shen private jet left for Hungary.


    Hailee remained in her bedroom hugging the pillow Vince had used in these passing three nights they''d stayed together in the Davies mansion.


    She already misses Vince badly. If only it weren''t critical for her to travel that far; she wanted toe. But as usual this morning, her stomach churned up, and she spent it on the washbasin to throw up with nothinging out.


    Vince changes his mind to leave as he could not bear to see her like this each morning. He would be so worried about being away, thinking that Hailee was alone in her massive bedroom.


    She may have a dozen maids; still, he worries he isn''t by her side through her harrowing journey in pregnancy.


    But Hailee persuades him. Meeting the elders is significant at this moment, so they would stop meddling in their lives. They need their freedom from the elders'' watch.


    Hailee breathes the scent Vince left in her bed. She wanted to close her eyes and take a nap, but she wanted Vince''s warm arms to cuddle her. Only in that way could she have a peaceful sleep.


    With a knock on her bedroom door, Kelly entered her room. With light steps, Kelly strode toward the bed and sat down. "Hey, Hail! We had a food-taste today. Would you like to join us?"


    "Hmm¡­ I felt like throwing up just thinking of tomato sauce."


    Kelly blinks three times, then encourages herself that her friend is pregnant, and she acts just pretty normal.


    "Hail, you are making me worry. Should I call Mrs. Brown to get you something?"


    Hailee shook her head as she replied to Kelly, "No. I just wanted to take a nap, not to think of Vince for an hour or two."


    Kelly blinks her eyes, and this time, she did it several times. Heaving a long sigh, she hugged Hailee. She understood this girl was sluggish because Vince wasn''t here.


    So this is an effect of falling in love? It seems scary and exciting, so she must prepare herself to have these crazy moods once she meets the one!


    And when will ite?


    Kelly shrugs off her crazy thoughts at the moment. This is not her issue, but Hailee''s.


    "Okay, Hail. Let me know if you have anything particr for lunch," she asked afterward, then patiently waited for Hailee to answer.


    On the other hand, Hailee fell into deep thoughts, observing her appetite for what food she wanted for lunch. She sat up and looked at Kelly. Hugging the pillow inside her arms, shey down back on the bed, and this time, her head was resting on Kelly''sp.


    "Kell, your godchildren craving for stir-fry noodles with a lot of shrimps. Should I ask Pitt to fly to Melbourne and buy me a family meal set?"


    "Huh?" Kelly was dumbfounded at her request. She thinks it was ridiculous to cross that far. But she also understood it''s no joke for a pregnant woman to have such cravings.


    Anyway, there is another reason for that. There is this Chinese restaurant Hailee loves so much. She would travel there to have food. That''s why she often pestered the boys to apany her from Sydney to Melbourne.


    And now that she is pregnant, her mood is getting worse. Ordering the food from Melbourne then traveling back to Perth was too weird!


    "Can''t your chef make the dish?"


    Hailee shook her head, pouting at Kelly. "I want the food from there."


    Kelly stayed silent to ponder the situation if they can alter a n to this. She would just imagine the distance and calcte the time consumed¡­


    "I have the best solution!" Kelly has finally figured out the best way. She told Hailee, "Why don''t you ask Chester toe over and make your lunch?"


    Hailee''s eyes glimmer at Kelly''s suggestion. Chester''s family owns the favorite restaurant she often visited in Melbourne. Later then, her dad decided to hire Chester to make her Chinese meal to prevent her from traveling to Melbourne all the time.


    Until then, Chester got close to the boys, and a few of them went to the same college, and he received a schrship from Davies Foundation for making the princess a Chinese meal if she preferred it.


    She learned how to make Chinese food from Chester''s family after she pestered her dad to work at Liang''s Restaurant so that she could learn the secret of their recipes. Helpless, her dad is willing to pay the Liang family to teach her some Chinese recipes in the mansion.


    However, because of the kindness, Jacob and Hailee showed to Chester, the family delightedly taught Hailee their secret family recipes.


    With the thought of it, she agreed to Kelly''s n. Although Chester had many things to do, she needed to borrow him for a while.

 Chapter 294 - ASSASINATION (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 294 - ASSASINATION (Three)</h4>


    Kelly left to search for Pitt to tell the guy to pick up Chester in Dream City. With the maids'' help, she found the guy joining the food taste.


    "You have such a thick face, Pitterson Cha!" Kelly scolded the guy after putting the whole mousse cake in his mouth. "You''re already eating the dessert without even trying the starting course!"


    "What? I''m hungry. I''m not here for food-tasting, but to eat!" Pitt dug the main course dishes,pletely ignoring Kelly''s fierce gaze at him.


    "Get out! Go and pick up Chester! Hailee would like to stir-fry noodles for lunch!" Kelly was like a dragon puffing fire at him.


    Pitt could only curl his mouth. He cannot counter Kelly but scorn inwardly. If Hailee does not make the request, there''s no way he would follow this woman''s order.


    "You know what? With your attitude? You will never find a boyfriend." It should be a tease, but Kelly snaps him immediately.


    "I don''t need a boyfriend! Humph!" Kelly folded her arms above her chest, which heaving up and down from annoyance.


    Watching the bickering from the sideline, Sheena was curious not to ask. "Isn''t Chester the Chief Officer of the Innovative Department in Hailee''spany?"


    Sheena remembers him well because he''s Chinese like her, and the rest of the guys are from other races. Like Pitt and Hansen, they were Korean. James is a mixed Japanese and Aussie mother. Tom Morris is Irish, then Alfie Rinaldi is Italian, and Leo Grubber is mixed German.


    Hailee''s knights are actually from all around the world, which is very impressive. Some of them are British, French, and African descendants. She ensures to have a connection from all over the world, something that she admired her future sister-inw.


    Sheena asks; both Kelly and Pitt nodded at her.


    "Would Hailee only prefer his cooking? Mom made stir fry noodles, and it was good." Deanna chimed in.


    "Oh. Is it, Auntie? Maybe it will save us more time?" Kelly was excited upon hearing this.


    On the other hand, Hilda couldn''t believe her two daughters would embarrass her like this. She may be good at cooking, but she doesn''t do it often anymore. Besides, she was only cooking for Fred and Vincent, which none anymore after Vincent moved out from their mansion.


    The father and son prefer homemade food, even though they often have lunch or dinner meetings with their business partners and clients. But thinking Hailee would eat it, she had less confidence if she would like it.


    In the end, Hilda was encouraged to make stir-fry noodles with the help of Sheena and Deana. Hailee was actually happy after she learned about it. She misses her mom and grandmother''s cooking, so she looks forward to Vince''s mom''s cooking.


    Hailee was in a better mood. She called her nannies to prepare her bath. She soaked in the warm water for fifteen minutes using the essential oil product from her cosmeticpany.


    The essential oils both in bath and application on the body after showering for pregnant women are one of many skin care products herpany was producing over a couple of years. And she never thought she could use the new products before she couldunch them to the world.


    After her bath, Hailee was putting on light makeup to cover her slight paleness. She ns to have a video call with Vince, and she doesn''t want to make him worry.


    Sitting on a French lounge chaise inside her bedroom, she sorted out some names on her iPad when Mrs. Brown entered the room to notify her of the arrival of her cousin.


    Hailee lifted her head, ced her iPad on the coffee table, then hurried to get up from the French chaise.


    "He''s here?" she likely murmured to herself; following behind her is Mrs. Brown.


    "Aye, princess."


    Hailee had a hurried step, headed to the Tea Room, where the butler escorted Prince Alex to wait for the princess.


    Alex was standing near the French window, roaming his eyes to the courtyard. It''s been a while since thest time he came here because often, he was only staying in Sydney or in Northern Australia, where he owned a penthouse.


    "Alex!"


    A sweet voice calling his name, Alex turned around with a broad sweet smile across his handsome face. "Hello, beautiful princess!"


    He opened his arms wide, locked Hailee inside his arms, who delightedly embraced him back.


    "I missed you!" Hailee said. She even tightened her hug.


    "I missed you too." Alex ced a light kiss on her forehead. "How are you? I haven''t heard from you anymore. Why is that?"


    Alex parted their body to look at her face. He lifted his right arm to brush her cheeks. "You look even more beautiful now. It must be your pregnancy, right?"


    "Oh. You knew already?" Hailee isn''t surprised if Alex would hear about it, but she is curious about where he learned about it.


    "Yup. Hector told me." Alex replied. He guided Hailey to sit on the nearby loveseat. "And he said, you had a difficult one."


    Hailee nodded; she remained to hug Alex. "Yeah. And I''m so sad their daddy wasn''t here."


    "Anyway¡­ What brought you here without notifying me?"


    "That would not be surprising if I announce my arrival." Alex poked Hailee''s nose that made her giggle. She lifted her arm to scratch her nose, which Alex helped her rub.


    "Are you here to congratte me? You should be! I''m getting married, and I am expecting now!" There is proudness in her voice. Alex couldn''t help chuckling.


    "Yeah. It is something to celebrate. Anyway, this is Uncle Alessandro''s original n. He wants me tofort you if he sessfully executes your lover."


    Hailee dropped her jaw, followed by shock exhibits on her face while yelling out, "Uncle Alessandro plotted an assassination against Vincent?"


    Alex nodded, a proud smile curled up his lips. "Yeah. And as your knight. It is my duty to protect your lover."


    Hailee sighs with relief. She threw her arms around his waist and murmured, "Thank you."


    She need not guess. Alex must have already reported to Shun about her uncle wanting her future husband dead.


    A grim look is lingering on her face as the pupils of her eyes shrunk for about ten seconds before she softens her gaze. An inexplicable emotion surging in her chest. For all people, those who are blood-rted to her, who would dare to harm Vincent.


    Even the Elder from the High Royal Family carried out a n against her happiness. Hailee would not let this off. She will allow no one to harm Vincent, even his family. They are also her family now, and she knows her uncle is just one who wishes for her power and influence in this world.


    "Alexander!"


    At the door, Jacob made giant strides toward them. Hailee could already guess that Alex notified her dad about his distant cousin''s plot.


    "Uncle Jacob¡­" Alex loosened his embrace from Hailee''s body. He stood up from the seat to hug Jacob as a greeting.


    Jacob nced at his daughter and said, "Princess, I wanted to speak to Alex in private."


    "Sure, dad." Hailee nodded after she ced a kiss on her dad''s cheek.


    "Let''s go to my study," Jacob led the way out of the door, then headed to the second floor of the mansion.


    Now that she was left alone, Hailee called Mrs. Brown to get her cellphone she left in her bedroom. Once she had it, she immediately dialed a particr contact.


    "Hello, George?"

 Chapter 295 - ASSASINATION (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 295 - ASSASINATION (Four)</h4>


    At the library¡­


    Jacob and Alex sat down opposite each other. The butler served them coffee and left immediately to give them privacy.


    Jacob''s fists remained tightly clenched. He was concealing his anger. All these years, he knew that few of the elders didn''t fully support Shun, and they were on allegiance to bring him down from his seat.


    Shun is vocally telling him this. However, he couldn''t see a bigger reason to step in to help Shun. He focused on ruling the Oceanic Continent to make it a better ce for his daughter and her future family.


    However, until today¡­. He was wrong for not taking it seriously in expanding his territory further than Australia. His friendship with the rest of the lords is great. Many of them are his business partners. Several of them are indebted to him.


    But today, it proved that everything he invested in the past fifteen years is not enough. He needs a higher seat to sit in and oversee everyone.


    At this moment, his chest filled with fury, as his heart desired more power to destroy those who want to take advantage of his family, who are capable of influencing the world.


    The reason he works so hard all these years is to protect his only daughter, the real treasure he only cherished all his life. But to learn that his very own rtives are the ones who n to harm his precious daughter, he would not forgive them.


    Whoever they are, he will bring the war to their doorsteps.


    "I will go to Hungary," Jacob announced afterward.


    "I''ming with you, Uncle Jacob."


    Jacob shook his head. He uttered, "No. You will stay here. I''m worried Hailee would do something that puts her pregnancy in danger. The boys, even Andre, could not resist not giving in to her request. Watch them, please... especially your cousin. Someone should persuade her not to make a sudden decision like going to Hungary out of the blue. She wasn''t advised to travel long distances."


    "I understand your concern, Uncle Jacob, but¡­."


    Jacob raised his left hand to cut Alex''s words.


    "Alex, even though your uncle angered me so much, I know that he thinks of you as his own son. Seeing you betrayed him would lose his head and maybe even harm you in the end. It''s better that he would not know it was you who revealed his ns."


    "But uncle Jacob¡­ It is what I wanted Uncle Alessandro to see. He raised me like his own son. Still, it did not change the fact that we have different views and values in life. I set my eyes on another path, separate from his. I didn''t share his wrong beliefs," Alex rified himself.


    Jacob scrutinizes Alex for a moment, processing his words and weighing them¡­ He smiled with satisfaction. Somehow, Alex impressed him. His nephew actually has a high IQ and graduated from university with flying colors.


    Alex may show as a timid prince who is less involved in royal duties and interests in the association. But no one truly knew what was running inside his head. He has his own methods of surviving in this world, along with the kingdom he''s going to inherit.


    Seeing that Jacob fell into deep thoughts, Alex took this opportunity to convince him furthermore.


    "I disagree with Uncle Alessandro''s method to help the Martini Royal family survive. I understand he wants the royal family to rise from where it was buried. The kingdom is sinking, and I sincerely need help, Uncle Jacob. But Hailee is not just a sweet cousin of mine¡­ She is also like a sister to me."


    With what Alex had said, Jacob can not stop his nephew. Alex has the determination to show his Uncle Alessandro that there are better solutions to their problems in this world.


    Being too ambitious brings someone''s downfall.


    He wanted his uncle to see this¡­ That taking sides to people in JUST is a better plot than taking the path of being a viin. Honestly, that was a lonely journey, and he had no desire to live a sad life. He is a free-spirited man, so he only wanted to live where he has freedom.


    After careful thought, Jacob finally agreed that Alex would expose himself.


    Jacob honestly did not expect that his cousin wanted to cause his daughter to live with a grievance in this world. Somehow, he fears Hailee will use her influence to avenge the elders.


    He admitted that he has no full control over his daughter. She was too spoiled and pampered growing up. She witnesses less cruelty in the world if not for Liam, who teaches her how to resent someone.


    "I don''t know what my daughter can do if Alessandro seeds in assassinating her fiance. I think you''ve already heard the fight between Liam and my daughter in P Country."


    Alex nodded. "Yes, uncle."


    "My daughter, who really ends Liam''s craziness. So I''m afraid Hailee would put justice in her hands one more time. What would she do this time? I don''t know how far her anger will take her after seeking revenge."


    Jacob paused for a moment. He tilted his head to the side and looked at the sky past the French window. Lingering his eyes to the clouds above, Jacob went on.


    "There is only one solution I am thinking of at this moment. I am more afraid of what damage my daughter can do to the association. Shun and Nichs are working hard to unite every continent and take control of every territory. It''s not a simple job to guide every lord. As you can see, Alex¡­ There are still secret organizations that want to bring down the Alliance and High Royal Family. That includes yours, mine, and Shen."


    "You were nning something, Uncle Jacob." Alex couldn''t wait for Jacob to finish his speech. He need not guess, but he wanted to hear it from Jacob''s mouth.


    The older man nodded. "Yes. But I''m not doing this for her protection. I am doing this to protect the world from my daughter."


    Alex''s head filled with confusion. He couldn''t fullyprehend what Jacob meant about that. Jacob, on the other hand, understood that Alex was confused and curious.


    However, he couldn''t share the information he learned from Lady Isabe. This morning, thedy made a phone call which she rarely would do.


    The call is a warning.


    A warning of the near future happenings.


    And an envisioned by someone from three hundred years ago.


    He would not believe it if Lady Isabe''s predictions were wrong. But all of what she envisioned happened. And the people surrounding here could either travel to the past or the future¡­


    And his daughter''s future is filled with blood.


    As a father who wishes only for his daughter''s happiness, he would not allow that to happen. He would do anything to change his daughter''s fate.


    Jacob pulled out his phone and dialed Shun''s contact number. After ringing twice, the other line connected.


    * * *


    Extra: (This is a glimpse of one of many scenes I deleted and nned not to publish in the end...)


    "Uncle Jacob?" Shun answered the call.


    Jacob, who was nervous in the other line, could not wait to hear any updates regarding the n of apprehending the assassin Alessandro hired to do the job.


    "How are things going?" he asked.


    "Don''t worry, Uncle Jacob. We still had ten hours before Vincent''s nended in Hungary. My men are already on standby. However, I''m still waiting for Madison toe back. She went to the future, three monthster, to investigate how Vincent died today."


    Listening from the other line, Jacob grew restless. Then, Shun added...


    "I won''t let anything happen to him."


    However, Jacob could not calm down. He could also sense the tense voice of Shun. He dered, "I''m going to attend the Council meeting. I am nominating myself to be an Elder."


    Shun remains silent on the other line, letting Jacob continue and exin further.


    "Shun, do you think the Davies Corporation, Davies Group, and Dream City will be in good hands if I resign and appoint my daughter as the Chairwoman?"


    At the other line of the call, Shun doesn''t want to answer when he isn''t sure of the perfect answer.


    "Uncle Jacob, I would be delighted if you be an Elder. I need your guidance and experience in the association. On the one hand, Hailee would go berserk and use Davies''s power to raise a war against me. The only thing I could assure now is to save Vincent Shen''s life for the third time. I hope after today, we have all the answers we were seeking all these years..."


    Shun trailed hisst sentence¡­


    "Preventing Vincent''s death leads us to a better future¡­."


    "I understand," Jacob answered, and Shun exchanged a few words before he ended the call.


    Jacob leaned on the couch and closed his eyes. Hopefully, Shun seeded once again.

 Chapter 296 - ASSASINATION (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 296 - ASSASINATION (Five)</h4>


    Present Time


    Suddenly, the stillness of the wind was disturbed when the 24.1 millimeters bullet was cut in half by a particr bullet that countered the shot.


    And this bullet continues traveling straight to the man hiding in the clock tower.


    "I missed it!" he yelled on the radio before the bullet hit his right eye.


    He groaned in pain. But what he was upset about was someone able to counter his shot.


    ''Who could that be?''


    He knew no one in this world who could make a clear shot to counter and cut a bullet in half in perfect timing.


    Unless this person already expected him to fire, and he was in the perfect location opposite him. Then, they are aware of their ns, and someone knows the ce he''s hiding! The assassin made a realization.


    Even though his right eye was bleeding and giving him a blind spot, the assassin hurried to get up from lying on his stomach on the floor. However, before he could sit up, a hard kicknded on his stomach. With that force, he grunted in pain.


    Now the assassin, whose name is only known as Hawk,y t on his back. He lifted his gaze to identify the man who kicked him. His pupils shrunk upon recognizing him.


    "You¡­ I know who you are..." he hissed at the man. Blood already covered his face, but he was still grinning.


    "I know who you are too! Nice to meet you, Mr. Hawk. How are you feeling?" asked the man in a mocking tone.


    Hawk felt ridiculous about the way the man sounded. He sneered at him, attempting to fight back. But the man kicked his left side. He bent his body as a wave of pain surging on his abdomen.


    The man squatted and grinned at him. "So¡­ Did you see that? My wife is still the best sharpshooter in long-range sniper. She''s still the number one and not you, Mr. Hawk!"


    Hawk looked at the man with a ridiculous smile. He could not believe how this man sounded like a child, and he was boastingly telling him about his wife.


    But Hawk mulled over his brain to recall any female sniper holding such a title with what he mentioned.


    "Still not ringing the bell?" asked the man. Then he added impatiently, "She retired three years ago and has never been holding a long-range sniper rifle until today. But as you can see. She''s still sharp! She is still undefeated. She could still be able to cut a bullet in half, Mr. Hawk. My wife is truly amazing!"


    Hawk wanted to sputter with blood at how the man was praising his wife. However, now that he mentioned this man''s wife, who retired a few years back. He indeed knew one woman.


    This woman is one of the best Mafia Alliance Section 15 agents; at the same time, she is an instructor to all young members during Training Camp every summer.


    He knew all of this information because she was the person he had to avoid. This woman holds a reputation in the Mafia world.


    "The Red Sparrow." Hawk is somewhat unsure, but there is one woman who he could never defeat in a long-range sniper shot. "Are you talking about her?"


    The man in front of him is iming that Red Sparrow is his wife. Then there is no doubt. This man is¡­


    "You are Daichi Isagawa. One of Master Shun Crow''s right hand among the Five Directors."


    Daichi Isagawa broadened his smile and gave him a salute. "That''s right! You did know a lot of information about the emperor. Anyway, I am here to bring bad news to your life. Shun would allow no one to mess up the world he was trying to rebuild. Now, it''s time for me to deliver you to your employer."


    Two other men help Hawk stand on his feet, and Daichi puts handcuffs around his wrists.


    "How did you know?" asked Hawk.


    However, instead of an answer, someone hit him on the back of his neck that caused him to lose consciousness.


    "Make sure that man doesn''t wake until we bring him to the boss," Daichi ordered the five men he was with, who nodded at him in response.


    They carried Hawk to the ground floor and put him in the back of a ck SUV. They tied his foot and covered his head with a ck cloth to make sure he had no way to escape, and even when he woke up, he would not know which ce they brought him in.


    Meanwhile, Daichi rides on his motorbike, puts on his helmet, and turns on the engine. "I have to back them up!"


    He yelled at the men before he fully throttled his motorbike.


    Meanwhile, on the bridge¡­


    Flying bullets are exchanged by two groups of convoys while crossing the bridge.


    "Please, stay down, Mr. Shen!" Jerry cried out at Vincent. He asked for a gun and insisted on helping to fight back, but Jerry rejected his request. "We are instructed to make sure you both are alive, Mr. Shen!"


    Vincent frowned. Clearly, these men are after him.


    "Vincent, just stay down!" Fred yelled at his son. Although the car is bulletproof, they still have to take precautions from the raining bullet shot. "Son, think of Hailee and your children. Don''t insist on helping to fight back!"


    Fred had already anticipated that someone would wee him and Vincent. But he never imagined that their enemy would send a toon of mercenaries to assassinate them! They were serious about killing him and his son!


    In the middle of the heated battle, Riley Isagawa, who has a great clear view from a castle tower, aimed her bullets at every car driver who pursues Shen''s convoy.


    So far, she sessfully stopped three cars; however, more motorcycle riders are persistent in following them.


    The convoy is shooting back at them. But their pursuits were too many! They already know assassins wille to get them. But they receive new information.


    Duke Martini is not the only one who plotted for Shen''s assassination. There is another group that ns out an ambush for them.


    "We need a backup over the Szechenyi Chain Bridge!" Jerry made a call.


    "I''m on my way!" Daichi shouted on the other line. He caught up at them now. His motorcycle was personalized, built, and loaded with machine guns and bullets.


    Daichi pursues the motorcycle riders, aiming his guns at them. Riley focuses on the scope to have a clear view of her husband.


    "Honey, there are snipers at the speedboat below. Be careful!" Riley notified her husband.


    "Thank you, honey!"


    Daichi raises a thumbs-up. He then shoved his hand on his motorcycle to get a grenade and pulled out a pin. With his wife''s guidance, he was able to spot the enemy''s boat. He threw three grenades in a row, and the boat made a loud explosion.


    Now, the patrol and coast guards had alerted. They responded to the scene and pursued those who attempted to escape. The convoy continued on their tracks.


    After two hours, they finally reached the Chateau owned by Lady Isabe, where the Elder Council meeting would be held tonight.


    Arrived safely at their destination, Vincent presses his back to the car seat, closing his eyes while calms himself.


    He got into an ident twice already. And as to open his eyes, it felt like he wasing back to life one more time like those times before.


    "Son, are you alright?" Fred asked his son as worries painted on his face. After Vincent nods at him, he breathes with a sigh of relief.


    Fred studied his son''s face. Vincent didn''t show any fear. Instead, he was calm and had no emotion disyed on his face, so it made him wonder what his son was thinking now after what they''d been through.


    "Vincent, this is my normal life before I married your mom."


    The one who drove the car and Jerry had already gotten out of the car, left the father and son to give room to breathe.


    Listening to his dad, Vincent turned his head in his father''s direction. He blinks his eyes, trying to process the new revtion his dad confessed.


    After his brain could digest this new revtion, Vincent pursed his mouth and shook his head.


    "This is not the life I want for my family," he muttered.


    "That''s why I begged the elder to be free from the association to give you a different normal life," said Fred. He stretched his arm and ced it on his son''s shoulder.


    "However, son¡­ This is your and Hailee''s life. The reality you both cannot refuse, nor can you escape from it forever. I know Hailee had realized this already. She wanted to live a peaceful life like you¡­ But the real world in our circle is just the one we got through. It won''t always be happy days, and I know you understand what I am talking about."


    "Then, what should I do, dad?" Vincent is more likely to tell his dad if the solution is to get involved in the association, which is thest thing on his mind to do in this life.


    But Vincent sighs with relief when his dad states this¡­


    "You need nothing to do but continue the life you want for your family. Dad is here to help you."


    Vincent stared at his dad with admiration. Ever since he was a little kid, his dad showed how he cared for him. His dad would always be there to teach him everything he knew.


    At a young age, his dad trained him already. He used to think that maybe because he is the only son and the one to carry the Shen name, his parents were too strict and showed extra care toward him than his sisters.


    But now, he understood that there was a bigger reason for that.


    He is the sole heir of the royal blood from ancient nobility¡ªhe who would continue the Legacy before going extinct in this world.


    "Dad, are you going back to the organization?"


    "If this is the best solution, our family won''t go extinct. Jacob and I have already decided on this." Fred opens the car door and gets out. He leaned on the car and said to Vincent, "Let''s go. I will introduce you to my brother."


    Vincent followed his dad''s gaze. In the chateau patio, two noblemen are standing¡ªone is in his mid-30s, and one is in his 70s but still looks younger by twenty years old.


    Of course, he already knew these men. But they rarely went out in public or showed their faces to the world.


    The former and present Mafia Emperor. The two people who change the entire system of the association. Now the organization has be noble.

 Chapter 297 - Different Woman

    <h4>Chapter 297 - Different Woman</h4>


    "Frederick!" Nichs Crow called out to him.


    With hurried steps, Fred climbed the staircase, spreading his arms to embrace the man. "Brother¡­"


    "It''s been a while, Frederick." Nichs smiled and returned the embrace. He patted Fred''s back before he let him go to look at the man walking behind Fred. Nichs shifted his attention to Vincent.


    Fred nodded. He introduced Vincent to Nichs. "My oldest child and only son, Vincent..."


    "It''s an honor to meet you, Master Crow." Vincent politely greeted the man immediately, stretching his arm for a handshake.


    Instead of epting Vincent''s hand, Nichs embraced him tight. "You grow up well." He said in a cheerful tone. He even sounded proud. "You look just like your father when he is younger."


    Vincent smiled, a little embarrassed. Everyone tells him how he looks like his dad and something he got used to already. But it was strange he felt shy to be said by someone like Nichs Crow.


    Probably, his presence intimidated him to feel this way.


    "Mr. Shen, wee back." Shun extends his hand toward Fred.


    "Thank you, Chairman Crow." Fred takes Shun''s hand for a handshake, then says, "I guess I don''t need to introduce my son."


    "Of course." Shun smiled. He shifted his gaze to Vincent. "I''m d to see you once again, Vincent."


    "It''s my pleasure to meet you once again, Chairman¡­." Before he could finish, he was stopped by Shun.


    "Shun¡­ Just call me by name, okay? You and my cousin are getting married. We are a family now." Shun said that it gratified both Fred and Vincent with the warm wee they''ve received.


    "Shun¡­. It''s been a while. Thank you for the assistance you sent to Metro Cities. The entrapment seeded, and Liam apprehended smoothly."


    Shun smiled at Vincent, then replied, "Small thing. Thanks for your cooperation. Liam was easily arrested."


    Vincent somewhat felt awkward exchangingpliments from the Mafia Emperor. dly, Shun realized this as well.


    "Why are we only standing here? Let''s go inside and get something to drink. We have more hours for a chit-chat before the Elders arrive," said Shun; he led them into the Salon and offered some liquor when they got inside the room.


    Nichs and Fred choose to sit on the sofa in the corner of the room while Shun leads Vincent toward the bar and offers one of the stools to sit on.


    "Any particr drinks?" He asked Vincent once he stood behind the counter.


    Vincent replied shortly, "Anything is fine."


    Shun turned around and stretched his arm to reach a bottle above his head from the shelves, then carefully poured the spirit into the two clean sses and offered one to Vincent.


    He dly epted the liquor, gulped the content in one go.


    When Shun poured his ss once again, he also hurried to empty his ss for a second time.


    Vincent sighs with satisfaction. The liquor washes away the tension he''s only concealing all this time.


    Honestly, he is terrified to think that he''s going to die. He could still recall those sounds created by changing bullets.


    Not this time¡­ He thought.


    He owed Hailee a wedding. He wanted to see his children. He wished to grow old with her and watch their children grow, marry, and meet his grandchildren before he died.


    This realization is a prayer from the bottom of his heart. Vincent heaves a long sigh, then says to Shun.


    "I wanted to make a call to Hailee to let her know we''ve arrived," Vincent told Shun after his thoughts pulled him away.


    Shun nodded and patted his back. "Go ahead."


    Vincent stood up, then walked toward the French window. He pulled out his phone from his trench coat pocket, then dialed Hailee''s number.


    His chest aches the moment he hears this sweet voice.


    *


    Perth, Australia


    A few hours ago¡­


    "Dad¡­" Hailee hugged her dad tightly.


    "Don''t worry, princess. Shun will allow no one to harm Vincent." Jacob did his best tofort his daughter. He is worried it will affect her pregnancy. "Don''t overthink, okay? Think of my grandchildren. Next week, we can confirm how many babies you have here! Dad will be there that day and Vincent as well."


    Hailee nodded and smiled. She understood her dad says these to calm her down, and it''s working.


    After she nuzzled her dad, it was Alex she stuck into this time. Alexbed her hair and saidforting words like Jacob to soothe her.


    Both men are worried that she will do something behind their back. Somehow, in this passing year, they notice Hailee bes capable of many things using her very own strategies and connections.


    At the window, Hailee watched the car leaving the mansion.


    Just like that¡­ Alex suddenly arrived in Australia. Just like that, Alex flew back to Hungary. And this time, her dad is with him.


    Now that the car disappeared through the gate, Hailee sat down on a love seat near the window.


    Andre, who remained silent the entire time, leaning on the wall in the corner, finally moved and walked closer to her. He received a firm order from his brother-inw not to let Hailee leave the mansion until they returned.


    Hailee remained silent even after he sat down next to her. Andre studied her face, and he could tell that there were few changes in her.


    The energy emitting from her body is overwhelming. She was in deep thought, and it intrigued him what it was.


    His brother-inw is right. Hailee might do something behind their back, and so he has to watch this girl closely.


    Andre stood up, walked toward the console table, and poured a ss of water for Hailee.


    "Princess, drink this." Andre hands the ss to Hailee; she epts the water in silence.


    Andre blinks his eyes. Honestly, he is not used to seeing her solemn facial expression and quietness. He missed that sweet little girl who wouldn''t stop bothering him and the other men.


    Now, she''s bing mysterious in his eyes.


    "Andre¡­"


    Andre sat upright on the sofa after hearing Hailee''s crisp voice. It was like a bucket of ice poured down his back. Now a cold ran down his spine.


    He didn''t blink but waited for Hailee to finish her words.


    "I will hunt down every person who is involved in Vincent''s assassination. I know uncle Alessandro is not alone in nning this out. He will not have the guts to fight, dad, if he''s alone."


    Andre was dumbfounded listening to Hailee''s speech. In fact, he could not recognize the woman seated next to him. At this very moment, he sees a different woman.


    ''Who is she?''


    There is no trace of that little girl crying in the corner and is reluctant to share her sadness, but she keeps silent and takes the pain to herself¡­ Or that girl who looks pitiful after being rejected to ride a skateboard.


    Now he is seeing a grown-up woman¡­ a woman he never heard talking viciously before.


    Hailee is looking outside the window. He didn''t see the grim looming in her eyes.


    For the first time, Andre is hesitant to touch her head and brush her hair. When Hailee was feeling down, he would immediately coax her. But this time, a wavering feeling crept into his chest.


    A year ago, he only saw a helpless girl, feeling down after being betrayed by someone so close to her. This time, he sees a woman who is ready to avenge even against her own blood, who''s nning to harm the man so dear to her.


    "Princess, it''s time for lunch!"


    Gratefully, the door in the Tea Room was pushed open by Pitt. The tension that Andre felt finally washed away. But Hailee''s behavior truly made him speechless.


    Hailee made an abrupt stand from the sofa and cheerfully walked toward Pitt. "Are they adding a lot of shrimps?"


    She excitedly asked Pitt, who raised a thumb as a positive response. She turned around and looked at Andre.


    "What are you doing, Andre? Come on! Let''s eat!"


    Andre blinks his eyes several times. He would like to make sure that there''s only one woman he talked to in this room. That woman is now smiling at him enormously, which is different from the woman seated next to him just a few seconds ago.


    Now he knows well that Hailee learned how to conceal her emotions in front of everyone. Not only that, a shadow is hiding inside her heart.


    She was now looking at him with sparks in her eyes and a warm smile on her lips. It differed from the woman a while ago.


    "Andre?" Hailee gives him a questioning stare after he remains seated on the sofa.


    Seeing the meaningful look she is given to him, Andre forces himself to curl his thin lips into a smile, then says, "Coming!"


    Hailee appeared in the dining hall, hooking her arms on Andre and Pitt''s elbows.


    "Hailee, try this! Hope you like our cooking!" Sheena was confident that the dishes they prepared were tasty. However, she is slightly nervous if Hailee would like it when she is pregnant and is picky about her meals now.


    "Hmm¡­ Smells great!" she said, then excitedly tasted the stir-fry noodle. Hilda ced a te of it in front of her. "Thanks, mom!"


    Hilda''s heart skipped a beat when Hailee thanked her with a sweet smile on her face. "You''re wee. I''m hoping you will like it. Vincent would like it a lot if I added more shrimp."


    Hailee''s eyes glimmered with what Hilda had said.


    "I love it too! I noticed that Vincent and I had the same dishes."


    "That''s good then¡­." Hilda smiled before she lowered her gaze and watched Hailee eat. When Hailee didn''t stop stuffing her mouth, she hurriedly poured her a ss of water. "Just eat slowly; you might choke."


    "I''m really starving, mom. Your grandbabies like the food too!"


    Hilda''s heart dances with Hailee''spliments. She sighs with relief inwardly that Hailee had eaten everything they''ve prepared.


    Meanwhile, Andre was eating silently while observing Hailee''s behavior throughout lunch. He could not believe that Hailee could act like this.


    He understood Hailee chose not to tell her future inws that Vicent and his dad''s life were in danger. It won''t help if they learn about it. They will only be in a panic and will worry a lot.


    As the girls stayed in the kitchen all morning, no one noticed Alexander''s arrival. Even Gigi and Kelly didn''t hear the news, and it''s best that way.


    Only he, Tom, and Pitt knew what was going on. And so, they tried their best as well to pretend that everything was pretty normal.


    Hailee cried after receiving the phone call she''s been eagerly waiting for all day by the evening.


    "Hubby¡­" She didn''t stop her eyes from streaming with fresh tears.


    "Shhh¡­ Hush now¡­ I''m fine. We''ve arrived safely. Dad and I were in the Chateau, and I am talking with Shun now."


    "I''m d." Hailee didn''t hide when she sighed with relief. She breathes in and releases the air from her lungs. "I missed you already."


    Vincent''s heart ached to listen to her sweet voice. He already misses her flirty voice, purring against her chest while ying on the buttons or cor of his clothes.


    "I missed you too, so badly. I''lle back very soon."


    "Hurry, please¡­." she begged.


    Vincent chuckled. They''re not separated yet for twenty-four hours. But yes, he wanted to return to her arms as soon as possible. He already misses the taste of her lips and the sound of herughs. It gives him heartache to hear her cry.


    "I''ll be home soon..."

 Chapter 298 - A Glimpse Of His Future

    <h4>Chapter 298 - A Glimpse Of His Future</h4>


    Vincent put back his phone in his trench coat after the call. He went back to the bar counter; Shun poured a whisky on his ss this time.


    "Thanks¡­" Vincent picks up the ss, toast in the air, and then says, "How honored I am to be served by Chairman Crow."


    Shun chuckled. He shook his head after he emptied his ss. "The honor is mine, Vincent. As I''ve mentioned already, we are a family now¡­ I need not say this¡­ Nothing I want from you but to make my cousin happy."


    Vincent smiled, then with a serious gaze, he told Shun. "Of course¡­ She''s my existence. I live until today because of her."


    Shun was satisfied with his retort. He patted Vincent on the shoulder, poured another ss of whisky. They were discussing the projects he was working on in Dream City.


    Crow Corporation is one of its major investors. ording to Shun, the Davies Corporation can fund the city''s construction without other investments. But it will be wise to get the giant corporation involved, gathering a solid foundation by having powerful business associates.


    That is why Hailee built the Davies Group as a sisterpany of Davies Corporation. Davies Group is only focused on building the city, while Davies Corporation continued its operation to their investments worldwide, particrly as a leadingpany in Australia.


    Hailee is the sole heiress of a multibillion telmunicationpany in Australia. The Davies Corporation is a major investor in many real estates all over the Oceanic Continent, including hotels, modern apartments, high-end beach resorts, logistics, and international industries.


    Where did the Davies get all of their wealth?


    Hailee''s forefathers are the first miners in Australia.


    "I guess I need not mention what minerals and gemstones Hailee''s great grandfather''s dig in thatnd," said Shun. Vincent nodded in response.


    He needed not say a word as hepletely understood what Shun had been talking about. He doesn''t want to think about the tons of gold under Hailee''s name, or diamonds kept somewhere inside an underground facility somewhere in Australia.


    He did not dare to imagine how many millions of tons of minerals they''ve dug already for in a hundred years.


    He is aware of what kinds of gemstones are found in Australia. The Shen wealth is just tens of Hailee''s inheritance. That is why the Elders disagree with their marriage.


    Whoever marries Hailee can notpare to a king, but he could have the title of an Emperor.


    However, he''s never after Hailee''s wealth. In fact, it was a great pressure on his part to prove himself to be clean and had pure intentions.


    Then, Shun went on¡­


    "Don''t mind what everyone throws at you once the entire world knows you are the man Hailee will marry. It will be you and her and not them."


    Vincent''s eyes glimmer at Shun''s advice. No wonder he''s the one seated on that throne. He has a better judgment, knowing he is Hailee''s family; he was delighted Shun did not misjudge him but trusted him¡ªhe could make Hailee happy.


    After a few more sses as their talk went on, Shun could read he had something in mind but was reluctant to fire away from his out of curiosity question.


    "Just spill it out." Shun encouraged him.


    Vincent chuckled, pondering whether to let out what was on his mind. Later on, he shared his thoughts.


    "During our flight, dad shared with me many secrets regarding the Council of Elder and the High Royal Family history¡­ And he mentioned that¡­." Vincent couldn''t help but trail off his entire sentence.


    Shun smiled, then continued the words Vincent left off¡­ "¡ªthat Lady Isabe is my original wife in my first life?"


    Vincent nodded.


    Shun looked outside the window. After a few seconds, he turned his gaze back to Vincent and replied, "It was all in the past where I could remember nothing, whereas she had all the memories in the past three hundred years."


    Vincent didn''t leave his gaze but listened to Shun intently as the guy went on¡­


    "All I have in my heart is one woman¡ªI would follow whatever timeline she was reincarnated next..."


    Vincent did all the means to ponder Shun''s exnation. Their history is messy and beyond the ordinary person''s ability to measure the depths of the mystery¡ªthe Elders have been hiding from the world.


    If he didn''t meet Hailee and fall in love with her, he would probably grow old and die in this world without learning these secrets.


    But then, he realized one thing about this talk. There is somethingmon between him and Shun¡ªthey wanted to be with the same woman even in their next life and the next life.


    Also, he remembered what Hailee often says to him¡­


    "I don''t want to be part of Shun''s worlds¡­."


    He literally doesn''t understand what that means, but now it is slowly sinking Hailee''s quote into his head.


    He would also choose a peaceful and ordinary life with his entire family. He would surely pamper and spoil his children but not risk their safety because of the silent dispute among powerful lords and royal blood.


    *


    (A supposed to delete scenes)


    Rendering his silence, Shun understood that Vincent did not fully ept the reality of the world he was living in. With the fact, he was weighing whether he shared the truth or hid what Lady Isabe predicted from Vincent''s future, why he was doing everything to save his life.


    As he could not decide, Shun was relieved when someone joined them.


    "Hey, Vincent Shen!"


    Vincent turned his head to check out the guy calling out to him. He didn''t know him personally, but he is very familiar with him as one of Shun''s most trusted right hands.


    Daichi Isagawa throws a knuckle on him, which he dly nudges back while expressing his gratitude. "Thanks for the help."


    "No problem!" Daichi replied. He raises a thumb before he pours himself a ss of whiskey, then makes a toast with him. "It''s my honor to protect Shun''s future great-grandfather."


    Vincent was choked with the liquor he was drinking. His eyes widened from shock, unable toment on that.


    ''Great, what!?'' Vincent screamed in his head. ''What is going on here? Is this a prank?'' He shifted his gaze from Daichi and Shun. However, thetter is dead serious while Daichi said it casually like tomorrow is a sunny day.


    On the one hand, Shun, who was still pondering whether to share the truth with Vincent, rolled his eyes. Now that Daichi mentioned it, it''s no use to hide it any longer.


    "Don''t worry about that¡­ Think that you never heard it," Shun told Vincent as he smiled afterward. Then he added as he patted his back, "I guess it''s about time to change appearance. Once in a while¡­ I have had this face in these past three hundred years. It''s good to be different next time."


    Staring at Shun, Vincent blinks his eyes while trying to process everything.


    ''Is that a joke? Is this even true? Then, it appears I was drinking with my future great-grandson? Is this some kind like in the movies? Whose future self came to the past to warn his younger self what will happen in the future? Or someone in the future came to the past to help himself make things right so that the future is in a better flow?''


    His face didn''t hide how he had a perplexed facial expression, thinking it over. And he could not care much about it furthermore when, after Daichi emptied his ss, he resumed chatting with him, and this time it was about Hailee.


    "So, how was the princess? Congrats! I heard she''s pregnant with more babies?" Daichi had a big smile on his face while his two thumbs raised as a gesture of, "You are great, Vincent!"


    Vincent finally loosens up from his messy thought. He smiled and replied to Daichi''s queries. It seemed like the news of Hailee conceiving not only one child spread rapidly among her circle of friends.


    Now it would not be surprising if her knights also heard about it. Then, would they be happy for her, or are they going to roast him like how her executives did to him?


    Vincent heaves a long sigh inwardly. His battle isn''t finished yet.


    Evening...


    At the top floor of the Chateau, known as the Tower Hall, the Council of Elders gathered inside. Since they were waiting for the rest of the elders, they greeted each other, then formed into small groups to discuss secret information among themselves, including the assassination attempt of Frederick and his son.


    Not long after, everyone had arrived. Shun and Nichs entered the Hall, then took their seats below the tform facing the door; both sides were long rows of chairs, and single tables served tea and pastries.


    Soon after, Lady Isabe entered the hall. As usual, she is wearing a red dress, hat, and gloves up to her elbows.


    The Elders who came from all over the world couldn''t help but gasp to have a glimpse of thisdy who is already a couple of hundred years old.


    They would always be awed as she stayed young, beautiful, and never got old since the day they first met her.


    As their grandfather once told them¡ªthedy never thinks that her immortality is a blessing. Instead, it was a curse after the crime shemitted against her sister.


    Living for hundreds of years is punishment for living in this world where she could never be together with her true love but witness his death over again. Her curse was never to be with him but to watch him from a distance, where he never remembered her.


    No one knows when she is going to die or how to end this curse. No one had the answer. But to carry out her lifetime task to watch over this world and look after her sister in her next reincarnation all over again to take care of her to pay for her sin.


    Lady Isabe is now seated on the tform, silently observing the council. She elegantly held the fragile porcin teapot and poured on the porcin teacup ced in front of her.


    Now that everyone is seated, Shun begins his speech¡­

 Chapter 299 - Rebellion (One)

    <h4>Chapter 299 - Rebellion (One)</h4>


    "Good evening. Thank you foring tonight. Since we all know why we all gather here, I would not take this long with pleasantries and acknowledgement... All of you summoned my cousin to speak with her because she is getting married, which none of you actually has anything to do with her decision because it is my cousin''s happiness."


    "You are speaking on her behalf... We could see that, Shun," said Duke Martini. "It was her second attempt to get married. We wanted to speak with her to guide her to have the right decision. Look at what happened to her first engagement?"


    "We need not mention or bring that up, Duke Alessandro. It was in the past, and we are discussing the present time when the fact is, any of you have no right to meddle in my cousin''s life."


    "But she is a member of the High Royal family! Jacob has no other heir. It is our job to protect the princess''s safety and future! And that includes someone''s interest in the princess!" Duke Martini insisted. This time he''s making a point that is supported most by the elders.


    Annoyed, Shun remained calm and did not change his facial expression. Some elders scoff inwardly at Duke Alessandro''s remarks, but they didn''t show any other emotion but a poker face.


    The tower hall fell into silence for half a minute, but then augh echoed in the four walls, and a man stepped out from the dark corners.


    "You are talking about interests, my dear cousin."


    Duke Alessandro was caught off guard by Jacob''s appearance. The beating of his heart suddenly sped up. He never expected that Jacob woulde tonight.


    After the failure of the assassination, all his men vanish, either were hiding or caught by Shun''s men. Now, no one can report to him about the outside happenings like Jacob''s arrival in Hungary...


    "Jacob! You made us humble in your presence!" Said, one Elder.


    "Of course. This council has summoned my daughter. On her behalf, Ipletely support my daughter. However, because of the sensitivity of her pregnancy, she is not allowed to travel far. And so, on behalf of my daughter, I am here to represent her as well to show my full support to my future sonw."


    "What? The princess is pregnant?"


    "Is this true?"


    The elders have been shocked, most especially Duke Alessandro Martini. He is wearing a poker face the whole time; however, his palm forms into a fist above his royal cane.


    He underestimated the possibility that his niece''s rtionship with Vincent Shen must be just a shallow one.


    In this passing year, he is well informed about her heartbreak. But then, out of the blue, the princess got engaged again, and this time, she was bold enough to announce it to the entire world.


    Duke Alessandro cast a nce at his fellow elders. However, they avoid making eye contact with him.


    He is not stupid. These elders are withdrawing from him. They abandoned him and would wash their hands as no involvement in the assassination.


    The duke shrunk his pupils in a fury. But it was just a mere second as a few eyes were observing him.


    Lady Isabe had her gaze on him. And he knew that this woman has keen eyes to read someone''s emotion.


    It was a big mistake he consulted her before this council meeting. It''s toote for him to regret it now. But of course, he would admit nothing.


    As the tower hall is filled with whispers, the door opens, two men walk inside, Frederick and Vincent.


    "Greetings, mdy."


    The moment Frederick reached the front, he bowed to Lady Isabe, gave Shun and Nichs respect; next, he turned around to face and greet the elders.


    "On behalf of my ancestors, I introduced my only son, Vincent."


    Vincent walked toward his father and greeted Lady Isabe and the rest of the people inside that hall.


    Bowing, it surprised Vincent each time he looked up, as he recognized most of the elders. Some of them are the wealthiest businessmen and women in the world. And some of them are from the royal family.


    "It''s been a long time, Frederick."


    "Your son has grown up well! He''s actually a talented architect! I''m impressed!"


    A few of the elders made small talk to Fred and even praised Vincent. But some of them remained silent and chose just to watch the drama.


    "I extend my thanks foring tonight to meet us. Unfortunately, our life was threatened the moment we arrived in the country. Lucky enough, Master Shun provided enough security to protect us. In these passing decades, I live a peaceful life. I followed every condition the Elders have given me. But I don''t understand why someone wanted my son dead."


    "Are you using us, Frederick?" one elder voice out a question.


    "Yes." Frederick boldly replied. He went on, "My family is from the royal bloodline of Emperor Xing. I brought the symbol of the Xing Royal family and the sword of the emperor as proof."


    As Frederick said this, Daichi Isagawa, with the help of his wife Riley, brought in a golden box with a carve of golden dragons. They ce it on the table in the middle of the tower hall.


    "This is the symbol of the Royal family Xing that I kept for three decades. I brought them with me and ced them before you¡­ As I humbly request your presence to be my witness... From this night onward, I officially pass down to my son as the new Head Family of the Xing."


    The elders did not anticipate that there would be a royal rite to hold in their presence. Vincent, on the other hand, was also surprised as much as the elders. He thought that the formalities he was going to attend tonight were his presentation to the elders.


    But the presentation that just happens is more likely crowning him as the new emperor of the Xing Royal family.


    "Kneel, son," Frederick whispered to Vincent. He followed in an instant. Now that his son kneeled on one foot, he went on. "I may request thedy to honor my son."


    Upon Frederick''s request, the elders had no choice but to stand from their seats and follow the rites'' flow.


    Lady Isabe stood from her chair and walked toward the father and son.


    Frederick opened the golden box, took out the golden sword, hundreds of years old, and offered it to thedy.


    Thedy drew the sword from its sheath. Like a sh of light, memories of the past fill her head. It''s been a very long time since thest time she saw this sword.


    Lady Isabe proimed Vincent as the new Master of the Shen Household with the short rites, then cing the sword''s edge into his right and left shoulders as the climax.


    The elders p their hands and congratte Vincent. Lady Isabe put back the sword to the sheath and gave it to Vincent before she walked back to her seat.


    Vincent lifted his two palms, epting the sword from Lady Isabe. He stood on his feet and thanked everyone. It was a rare asion the elders have been witnessing a ritual like this.


    The time is changing fast, and only a few royal families observe a sacred ceremony.


    Since the rites are done, Jacob steps forward one more time.


    "Now that Frederick has finished introducing his son to the elders, it is my turn to extend my purpose ofing here. I warned all the elders to stop meddling in the life of my daughter and her future husband, Vincent."


    After then, Jacob faced to his left side, where Duke Alessandro was seated at.


    "Duke Alessandro Martini, under thew of Mafia Association, I, Lord Jacob Davies, arrested you for an attempted murder of a High Royal Family member."


    "What!? How dare you use me, Jacob! You are just a lord! You cannot arrest an elder who is your superior!"


    Jacob replied, "I have every right as long as I have the evidence and witness."


    "Is that so?" Duke Alessandro remains resolute even of the usation. It made him wonder what kind of evidence Jacob could garner for being bold in apprehending him in front of everyone. He turned to the tform and asked a question... "Shun? What is the meaning of this!? How could you allow a lord to humiliate an elder!?"


    Shun cast a sideways look at him and said, "Every elder knew that the Alliance followed a protocol."


    "Huh! Protocol? You have no evidence against me!" The duke continues to deny the crime hemitted. ''I would never yield!'' he thought to himself.


    Duke Alessandro was shocked when he recognized the man who appeared at the door.


    "You? What are you doing here, Alex!?"


    The duke''s hands, holding the golden royal cane, began trembling uncontrobly. He need not guess that his beloved nephew turned him in.


    "I''m sorry, Uncle Alessandro. But we have different points of view in life. We didn''t share the same principles, and you should see that Hailee is always my little sister. I could never lie to her nor bear to see her sad."


    The duke was on the brick of throwing a fit. For him, Alexander''s principles are the stupidest thing he ever heard in his entire life. Survival is the most important thing rather thanpassion.


    "You are stupid, Alex!"


    "No, uncle. This is not how I would live as a king."


    Duke Alessandro cannot retort to that anymore. He could only grit his teeth as he clenched his jaw. Soon, Riley and Daichi took Duke Alessandro and escorted him outside, where a helicopter was waiting.


    They will bring him to Italy to lock up inside the Mafia Alliance Headquarter, just close to the Training Camp.


    However, everyone was surprised to see fifteen super-fast cars lining up in the driveway.


    "Prince George?" One elder called out to him.


    Prince George Robertson is the third in the line of the British throne. He nodded and greeted the elders.


    "Good evening!"


    "How can we amodate the princes''?" asked one elder.


    "You need not! We are only here to pick up Vincent Shen and ry the princess'' message."


    "What message?" asks the elders.


    Soon, countlessser lights were aimed at the elders, most especially at Duke Alessandro. Tenser lights are pointing at him, and even Shun has received one.


    The elders explode in anger.


    "What is the meaning of this?" asked one.


    "This is rebellion!" they eximed.


    "Jacob! How dare your daughter to disrespect the Alliance!"

 Chapter 300 - Rebellion (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 300 - Rebellion (Two)</h4>


    All of a sudden, tension was put up between the two groups. The elder''s private bodyguards and the alliance agents couldn''t make a move or act at the moment when at least thirty snipers were aiming at them.


    Vincent swept his gaze to the vastness of forest in front of the chateau. Based on the positions of theser lights, it was where they came from.


    Then, his gaze moved to fifteen noblemen below and fixed his eyes on Prince George. If he isn''t mistaken, he is also Hailee''s cousin, like Prince Alexander, which the guy had mentioned to Hailee earlier.


    From his perception, Alexander is the one who reported to Shun about the assassination plot by his very own uncle.


    Vincent turned his head when a man patted his back; it was Alexander.


    "Come on."


    Before he followed the prince, Vincent nced at his dad and future father-inw. Both are nodding at him.


    Now that the elders have recovered from the shock, they''ve started questioning the younger princes and even Jacob.


    "What is your daughter nning, Jacob?"


    "You spoiled your daughter so much! Look what she is doing now!"


    The elders could not believe that this spoiled brat heiress did nothing in the past but show off her wealth and how many billions she spent just for her capriciousness.


    All she only did was travel the world either by her private ne or by yachts. She also loves posting her super fast car collections that cost several millions of dors each.


    They only see a super spoiled princess who Jacob and her countless knights have overly pampered her in the passing years.


    But tonight, that girl actually has the audacity to disrespect them. She is the only one who has the tenacity to order a group of descent noblemen to point a sniper at them! The spoiled princess is dering war against them, the Council of Elders!


    "What is the meaning of this, Jacob? Is your daughter nning to separate the Mafia Association and High Royal Family?"


    "Is she breaking off the Alliance?"


    Jacob did not answer any of their queries. He already had a feeling that Hailee would not stay seated and silent. To be honest, he was also shocked that his daughter pulled a stunt like this. But Lady Isabe''s prediction is undoubtedly urate.


    Hailee would fight against Shun and the elders if Vincent died today. If they haven''t saved him, his daughter will go through an all-out war against the alliance.


    "Why aren''t you answering, Jacob?"


    One elder pulled him out of his deep thoughts. However, he only shrugged and replied, "I don''t hold my daughter''s decision. She had her very own principles, and she stood on what she believed in."


    "I seconded that!" Prince George chimed in. "However, the elders have nothing to fear about."


    Prince George raises his right hand, then theser lights disappear, which the elders are relieved of. He went on,


    "This is just a fair warning from the princess. She didn''t wish for the Alliance to be broken off. But she will keep an eye on all of you. Once you provoke her again, god knows what will happen."


    The elders tighten their jaws. They remained furious but chose not to retort in that statement.


    The princess made a big move toward them. Of course, they would feel threatened, and that puts an excessive rm on all of them.


    Anyhow, despite the tension and threats, some elders remained silent the whole time. They have a better judgment in the situation, but they need not say a word.


    One of them is Duke Mikael Romanoff of the Russian Monarch. It surprised him to see this young prince.


    "Mitchell, you are here as well."


    "Hello, grandpa." Mitchell Romanoff salutes his grandfather.


    Back in Russia, Mitchell was treated as Prince of Russia. Among the royal bloodline remaining alive, he was famous for his active works in the nation.


    Seeing him tonight, Duke Romanoff was quite happy. He is one of few elders who were pleased to see these princes stand up on their own feet without fear of fighting against the elders. He believes that this is not about disrespect, but these men are fighting for better principles the older men failed to practice any longer.


    The duke would love to give his grandson a thumbs up. However, he must hide his delight and remain adequate as part of the Council.


    But it does make him happy to see his grandson made better choices in his life. He was gratified that the High Royal Family had a better future, thanks to the boldness of the princess.


    She is the only one who could boldly lead these young princes to fight the elders.


    The Council of Elders has been here for over two hundred years, even before the European Union and Mafia Association.


    In this generation, Princess Hailee dared to threaten the Alliance using the unified princes from the High Royal Family members.


    After a few more talks, Alex and Vincent had now joined the other princes. Since the elders are their respective grandparents or aunts and uncles, the princes did not forget to bid their goodbyes.


    "Vincent, ride with me!" Prince George waved his hand, gesturing for Vincent toe to him. The prince''s car was in the middle of these fifteen supercars lining up.


    Prince George climbed into the driver''s seat; Vincent opened the door on the passenger seat and sat down.


    "Thank you," said Vincent in a polite tone.


    George chuckled. "Don''t feel stiff around me. Don''t forget that you are a prince yourself. The blood running in your veins is from a line of noblemen."


    Vincent smiled awkwardly. He was stiff around him, not because he was a prince, but because he was Hailee''s cousin. He would only be polite to Hailee''s knights if they were her rtives. But from tonight, Vincent decided to be friendly to all of her knights.


    Now he was d that he didn''t burn those frames. If it weren''t because of those photo frames, he would not recognize them. The sixteen young noblemen who showed up tonight are Hailee''s knights.


    Hailee hangs up those photos with a great purpose, and that is to make everyone recognize they are on the same boat.


    Vincent didn''t notice that they were already halfway from the chateau. He wondered where George and the others would take him to.


    Along the way, he and George had discussed random stuff. The prince also asks him about his own business, and George is impressed by everything he does.


    George has told him he did nothing in his life but he has to follow the Royal protocols and duties as Good Prince. Heined about many things and said to Vincent that he was lucky to hide his royal blood identity. He has more freedom to walk on the earth without thinking a lot that he is a prince.


    "However, your days of freedom are about to end," said George.


    Vincent chuckled. He understood what George meant about that. He will tie himself with someone through marriage, and that girl is not just an ordinary person.


    She is Hailee Davies, and the world knows who she is. His life would dramatically change, and that was beyond ordinary life.


    His marriage with Hailee would always be in the eyes of the media and paparazzi.


    Being Vincent Lopez Shen is already exhausting for him when the P Country media is watching him. Now it was the entire world who would follow his life.


    In the blink of an eye, they arrived at their destination. Inside the hangar, several sports cars and rovers park inside and outside.


    Vincent immediately could tell that the over thirty people hanging out inside the hangar were the ones who aimed theser light earlier. Of course, they were showing off their sniper rifles to each other. Theypared which one must have the best gun and how much severe impact it would cause to their target.


    "I will introduce you to everyone," said George.


    But Vincent was a little hesitant to get out of the car. These over thirty men are Hailee''s knights. He perfectly memorized each face on that wall.


    So this is Hailee''s European knights.


    Vincent heaves a long sigh before he steps out of the car. He was grateful he did not listen to his jealous heart burn those photos. Now he must thank all these men.


    He understood the power and influence they were holding in their hands. If there are still assassins out there, following and targeting him, they will not dare toy their ns in the presence of these princes.


    How many countries and kingdoms do they have to deal with? There would be no sleep for them but to run for their life.


    *


    Davies Mansion, Perth Australia


    Hailee rolled on her left side. As usual, she just wanted to sleep all afternoon. She feltzy and lonely. She was still restless, thinking Vince wasn''t by her side.


    She was lying on her side for a bit longer already, but she felt something was missing. The pillow she was hugging disappears in her arms.


    Last night, she had difficulties falling asleep. All she did was hug Vince''s pillow to breathe through his scent. Now, where was that pillow?


    Hailee moves her hand on the space next to her. She holds onto something; she grabs it to snuggle it. However, she wondered why it was sturdy.


    She slowly opened her eyes, and a handsome man greeted her.


    "Hi¡­"


    "You''re home!"


    "Yes. I am home¡­."


    Hailee threw her arms around Vince''s neck and kissed him passionately. Vince was very careful not to put his weight on her.


    With his right arm ced above Hailee''s head to support his weight, his other arm traveled her back down to her waist, then upward to her face, holding her chin to deepen the kiss.


    "I missed you so much," Hailee mumbled between her gasps for air after the feverish kiss.


    Vince smiled. He brushes her cheeks and ces a gentle kiss on her lips. "I missed you too, Mrs. Shen."


    Hailee only held back her tears and finally let them go. She buried her face in Vince''s warm chest. ''This is the real one.'' She thought to herself. Being away from him when she had these pregnancy moods is bing hard for her to deal with.


    "Say it again¡­" she mumbled between her sobs.


    "Mrs. Shen¡­" Vincent said it was more tender this time.


    It was like beautiful music in her ears. She tightens her embrace and even squeezes herself inside Vince''s arms, staying snuggled.


    Later on, Hailee could start hearing loudughter from the backyard infinity pool. She slightly parted from Vince to look at him. The guy is only smiling handsomely at her.


    Hailee gets off the bed and steps out to her balcony. She could not believe it! All of her European knights were here!


    The men are now crowded in her pool. Some of them upied the lounge chairs, and a few of them began grilling barbecues. She could also see her Australian knights.


    It excites her to see James in the open kitchen in the backyard''s corner, just next to the infinity pool. She could tell the guy was making her favorite Japanese dishes.


    "I can''t believe this!"


    Vince wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered, "I love your European knights more than your Australian knights."


    Haileeughed out loud. She could understand Vince''s sentiment. Her Australian knights were there longer with her, more than the rest of her other knights. They were emotionally attached to her more than anyone else¡­


    "Let''s join them downstairs!"

 Chapter 301 - Hes The Man!

    <h4>Chapter 301 - He''s The Man!</h4>


    Before Hailee could take a step forward, Vincent stopped her track. She looks up at him with questioning stares in her eyes.


    Vincent did not answer, but his eyes traveled from her face down to her legs. She did not understand at first.


    "Is something wrong?" she asked curiously, wondering if she needed to wash her face. Or maybe had a shower? But she already did that a couple of hours ago, and so she didn''t smell of anything, and Vince''s reason made her confused.


    "It''s getting windy. Maybe something thicker is better?" He replied.


    ''Thicker?'' Hailee tried to figure out. ''Is he mean my clothes?''


    Hailee is wearing a bikini underneath a see-through halter dress. She wanted to feelfortable around the house, and since she was only staying in her bedroom all day, she only put a little effort into getting dressed.


    Besides, she didn''t feel bothered changing clothes either since she wore a two-piece bikini countless times in front of her knights.


    But Vincent insisted for her to change her clothes, and Hailee did not protest norin. She just could see that he was a conservative man. So she let Vince ravage her closet to pick out a dress that was appropriate to the asion. In the end, she likes what Vince chooses for her.


    After changing her dress, Hailee hurried downstairs.


    "Hey, guys!"


    "Princess!"


    Her knights greeted her cheerfully, raising a bottle of liquor or a ss of champagne. After Hailey mingled as much as she could with all of her knights, she walked toward the open kitchen where five of her knights were currently busied to grill and prepared food for everyone.


    "George!" Hailee called out to him.


    The prince is seated on a stool, immersing himself in watching James making sushi while stuffing his mouth with the dish.


    "Hey, princess!" George got up from his chair, opened his arms wide, and snuggled Hailee inside. "I missed you, cousin!"


    "Hi! I missed you, too! Thank you for responding to my call," she hugged George in return and thanked him.


    After she made a phone call to him, asking for his help to gather the European knights, he was actually pretty happy. He used this as an excuse to escape from his royal duties and had a break once in a while.


    "You are very wee, princess. I''m just a call away!"


    Hailee smiled and let go of George after she remembered Vince got jealous if she was intimate with other men. He made a promise to her that he would try to be friendly with everyone. So she need not guess; Vincent is only concealing his frown.


    After Hailee greeted George, she gave Alex a brief warmed hug before turned to her other cousin, Simon Gramont of the French monarchy.


    "Hey, princess." Simon kissed her cheeks and hugged her tight. He actually doesn''t care if Vincent is keenly watching them from behind.


    "I''m so happy to see you, Simon. It''s been a while."


    "Yeah..." Simon is naturally sweet to her. He didn''t let Hailee go, but Vincent found an excuse to separate them.


    "Darling, aren''t you hungry? James! Give the princess a tter of what you are making."


    James shed a re at Vincent. ''Don''t you dare to order me around, punk!''


    But James didn''t voice out his thoughts. He only shes a big smile.


    Hailee hangs out with her cousins, Vince and Andre, at a round table while her seventy knights scattered around the garden and pool area.


    "Princess, we''re going to spend the night on your yachts!"


    "Sure, guys!" she replied, and everyone cheered.


    "Yeah! Party 24/7!"


    Half of her knights now headed and upied her two superyachts. The mansion has several rooms, but many choose to stay afloat in the ocean not to create so much noiseter.


    They would stay drinking till morning. It would mean that they will make so muchmotion after getting drunk, and they don''t want to bother the princess and her future inws, Vincent''s family.


    Hailee''s knights were always this thoughtful, especially after learning that her pregnancy was a sensitive case. They were showing consideration. It was something Hailee loved about her knights. They were always sensible toward her.


    Meanwhile, looking outside the window, Sheena and Deana would asionally check out the party in the infinity pool area.


    The sisters joined their mom upstairs since they weren''t allowed to do anything but wait for the maid to serve them.


    When Vincent arrived earlier with these men, they were extremely shocked.


    "I was still surprised to meet Prince George as Hailee''s cousin!" said Deana gleefully.


    It''s not the first time she met the British prince in person. The prince never missed watching a ser game. He showed full support to the team, and he really gave attention to them.


    On many asions that Wace brought her, Prince George was also attended those gatherings, so by then, the prince already recognized her, and she felt honored.


    Sheena also recognized Hailee''s wealthy friends from Paris, Italy, Spain, Germany, Russia, and other European aristocrats.


    To be honest, it is not too shocked for them who grew up as princesses themselves, but it''s different having the royal blood and the world knows, which their case, it was a secret.


    Even so, the truth still overwhelmed them that their sister-inw is not just a typical wealthy girl but a super-rich girl with super friends and aristocrat rtives!


    "Mom, we need to spend a lot of fortune for my brother''s wedding!" said Sheena to their mom, who was only silent the entire time. They grew wary, but the sisters weren''t sure what was on their mom''s mind. They knew how she would love to show off.


    "Of course. As we could see, the European aristocrats would be there to witness your brother''s wedding because the woman he is going to marry is someone who greatly influences the entire world." Hilda''s remarks. "Not only that, all billionaires that listed in Forbes Magazine will going to be there as well."


    Sheena and Deana shared a nce. Rather than worrying, their mom was sounded even prouder and delighted about this wedding of the century. Well, they knew why their mom was not bothered about it¡ªher future daughter-inw is someone like Hailee Davies.


    Anyway, what she said was true. That''s why Hilda only immensely upied herself on her iPad, checking every wedding detail to make everything is perfect.


    Janise is keeping her updated every day. At the moment, she was checking out the progress of Hailee''s wedding dress. Soon, Kelly would fly to Metro City with them to help Janiseplete the dress. Then, Hailee would have a first fitting of the dress.


    No one may notice, but Hilda was actually ted to see Hailee on the dress.


    *


    Later in the evening¡­


    The world was wonder-struck after Hailee Davies'' official ount on Instagram posted several photos.


    The first one is a snapshot of Hailee talking with five men, which only one of them is holding her by the waist. So they are curious what was their rtionship.


    Her followers were in the hype because these three men are the princes from Europe, her noble cousins.


    Soon, they were curious about the other guy. Since they could notment on her post, no one could reveal that he was Hailee''s handsome and young uncle.


    But that is not the only one that got their attention. It was most especially about the man who was all over her.


    And their curiosity soon answered when Hailee posted a second photo kissing her fiance with the caption "My LOVE¡­."


    Same as in the first post, they could notment to ask if who is he?


    Finally, the third photo she posted is a stolen shot where she could clearly see the face of her future husband as she put a caption "HUBBY¡­."


    Finally, the whole world met the mysterious fiance. Immediately, theizens dug about him.


    And since Hailee tagged Vincent Shen on her posts, they started to stalk his Instagram ount. Many have begun following him, and they were fascinated with his contents, mainly about the projects he was working on in the past and present.


    They see on his profile that he is from P Country and he is doing many international projects, and the newest one is in Dream City, Australia.


    With this information, they tried to guess when their rtionship began?


    Anyway, one thing is for sure... Hailee Davies is marrying the architect she hired to work for her.


    Several tforms and Instagram ount users reposted the post. Many put a caption that possibly the love bloomed after Vincent Shen signed a contract with the Davies Group. And many were malicious posts only.


    But many are also took Vincent''s side and defended on his behalf.


    "You should see he owns his ownpany! A yacht''s business!"


    "He owned countless skyscrapers across P Country!"


    "His mom''s family is the most wealthy family in P Country! Don''t underestimate their hierarchy!"


    "Still, it could notpare to Davies'' wealth! They are one of the wealthiest families in the world!"


    "We are certain Mr. Shen did note after Miss Davies'' money!"


    The hot topics would be going on in the next few days.


    On the other hand, the news only surprised a little among the billionaire''s circle. They already knew Vincent Shen. What only shocked them was him being Hailee Davies'' lover all this time.


    "What a lucky man!" Their hearts filled with envy.


    In their minds are questions of how Vincent Shen courted an aloof princess-like Hailee Davies?


    Every single tycoon man in the business circle has been trying to woo her, but they could not pursue her as much as they wanted because of Liam Huo.


    Now it made them realized. Vincent Shen feared nothing. It must be something why he won over the princess''s heart.


    Based on his Instagram posts, they''ve already been together for almost a year.


    Looking at the dates, he was already showing it off to the world about this girl he was living with. He has posts with the girl''s hand intertwining his while they are walking on the beach. Or a blurry picture of a woman he is with at a party and many more asions, but he would only show their, hands and it looks perfect together.


    *


    Metro City, P Country


    When the news exploded, Jake, Lloyd, and their buddies were at M Country Club for a drink. Except for Jake and Lloyd, all of their friends have just learned that Hailey Hillson is actually Hailee Davies.


    She is not just someone an investor of DV Inc, but she is the actual owner of this gemstonepany.


    "Holy shot! I could not believe it! We are actually hanging out with this heiress in these passing months?" asked one of Vincent''s friends after reading entertainment news on his phone.


    "Yeah, dude! I can''t believe it either! Ah! No wonder she beats me in our race! Dammit! I love her supercar collections!" another friend of Vincent chimed in.


    There was a bet in the past. The winner would take home two million in P Country currency, whereas the loser has to pay.


    On behalf of Vincent, Hailee epted the stake, and she won. They are so jealous of Vincent to find a beautiful girlfriend that is actually a drag race driver.


    She was only clinging to Vincent''s side every time they all hung out. But her shyness fooled them! She looks lovely and elegant.


    But during the race, she beat their asses!


    "Damn! Look at her friends! They were tycoons in the business world!"


    "But our friend is also a tycoon! They could not be superior to him. Our dude could stand on the same level as them!"


    "Damn negativements! I wanted to fire back!" chimed in by one of their friends at the same time, Vincent''s business partner.


    "Snapped it out, Ben. Just let them throw whatever they would like to say. Our friend never gives a fuck about these trolls."


    "Yeah. Lloyd is right. We better have a toast for our king! He''s the man!" Jake echoed.


    Vincent''s friends raise their sses and cheer, "Long live, King Vincent!"


    It was more likely a joke to their friend, but none of them actually knew that he truly had the royal blood in his veins, which the entire world didn''t know as well.


    Anyways, it would just be a matter of time¡­

 Chapter 302 - Ultrasound Result

    <h4>Chapter 302 - Ultrasound Result</h4>


    The news did not die down even after a few days. In P country, the media waited outside the Shen Group building and Shen establishments to interview the employees.


    As they could get nothing from Vincent''s staff, they started ambushing the Lopez n. Even the mayor of Metro City was bombarded with questions regarding Vincent Shen''s mistress''s true identity.


    The media was in chaos just the other week when the news exploded regarding Eva Lan being apprehended in Australia because shemitted a crime against a big shot. Everyone has a mixed feeling when they learn it is Vincent''s mistress, Hailee Hillson.


    At first, Eva and Zenaida''s friends started a hype, using Hailey of stealing someone''s husband. But when the news came out that Eva was associated with a terrorist who bombed a hotel in Las Vegas and threatened Metro City as well, those posts suddenly disappeared, and Eva''s friends hid somewhere.


    The Lan family was sentenced to life imprisonment because of the attempt to murder Vincent Shen, associated with Liam Huo.


    So the media is curious about the couple''s status, now that Eva Lan, once Mrs. Shen, was behind bars and her family because of the crime theymitted.


    The media began guessing that there would be a wedding soon based on Hailee Davies''s posts on her Instagram captioning "HUBBY".


    Everyone''s presumption was answered when Vincent posted on his Instagram. It was a photo of his hands intertwining Hailee''s, wearing an antique jade ring and bracelet with a caption, "Mrs. Shen, I love you¡­."


    Several media tforms reposted the photo a hundred times, and onement caught everyone''s interest.


    "OMG! That ring and bracelet is an heirloom of the Shen family; they gave it to their daughter-inw who bore a Shen heir."


    Everyone is waiting for confirmation that Hailee is pregnant. But no answer.


    Until now, the two families remained silent, and none released any information. After they learned that the entire Shen family was in Australia, they were guessing that a wedding would be soon to happen since a possibility that Hailee Davies was pregnant.


    One morning in Australia, the Shen and Davies family were back in Dream City.


    Today is Hailee''s prenatal. While they wait for the couple toe out from the OB-Gyn''s clinic, Sheena, Deana, and Hilda anxiously sit in the lounge with Fred and Jacob.


    The two fathers came home after the closed-door meetings with the council twice. Shun finally gathers evidence to prove that Duke Alessandro is not the sole elder involved in the assassination. There were other elders, and all were locked up in Italy.


    With the new Council of Elders, Shun makes sure that the newly appointed Elders are loyal and trusted men.


    Jacob and Fred ept the role of an Elder. They were given the task to travel to every part of the world to meet every lord in a country and evaluate if they were fit for the title. Whoever caught that did not follow thew Shun implemented years ago would receive a punishment.


    So then, the two fathers had to entrust everything to their children entirely.


    Jacob appoints Geoffrey as the new CEO of Davies Group, while Hailee is the Chairwoman of Davies Corporation. With this new appointment, Jacob assigned Vincent as the new CEO of Davies Corporation to help Hailee manage it.


    Vincent doesn''t want to ept this... Davies Corporation is a hundred times bigger than Shen Group or fifty times bigger than Lopez Corporation. It was a significant role, and he was worried that everyone would raise an eyebrow for the promotion he received.


    He was just the contractor yesterday, but tomorrow he is now the new CEO of Davies Corporation. His role skyrocketed in a blink of an eye.


    "Then who should I appoint instead? The other man I have in mind that fits the job is Bryan... I think my daughter has no problem working side by side with him once again since she didn''t ept his resignation."


    Vincent has rendered speechless. His father-inw learned an effective trick on how to make him say yes.


    The Davies Corporation headquarters is in Sydney. If Hailee is often in Sydney and left in Dream City, how many days he only has to be with his wife and children?


    There are only eight days of Saturday and Sunday in one month. Is that only the days he could spend with his family? Not to mention that Hailee would always be out of the country to take care of their multinational investments and her very ownpanies.


    So, in the end, Vincent agrees.


    Jacob had a huge smile after his threats worked. He sees Vincent as a jealous man. It''s easy to use his weakness against him. And so Jacob won.


    Vincent would grab the opportunity that he could guard his wife. He is always overworked to set a border around Hailee away from her knights, so Jacob learned the trick.


    But he absolutely trusted Vincent. He knew he would be a great help to his daughter. Besides, no one would inherit his wealth but his grandchildren. He believes in Vincent. He will be not just a good husband and father but also a great teacher to his children.


    "Thank you, dad," Vincent told his father-inw. He was overwhelmed and left speechless for the tasks entrusted to him. Managing a worth of trillion euros corporation is not something for him to ck off. He would actually be even busier than before.


    But these changes would not be in effect yet. Hailee was still in a sensitive pregnancy, so Jacob would train Vincent about how Davies Corporation operated in the entire world.


    And as for Shen, Deana and Sheena have to move back to P Country to help manage the Shen Group. Fred will train his daughters to run theirpany.


    Since Vincent would manage a giant corporation, Sheena has to help her brother run his yacht business and look for his buildings, apartments, and restaurants.


    But Sheena has nothing to worry about. Vincent gives Stephen a three-story building to move his restaurant to P Country. Sheena is too happy for her brother''s generosity.


    Hilda also wanted her daughters to live in the mansion so that she could watch her grandchildren. The girls were too happy at what their mom had said. Of course, the mansion is too huge just for Hilda and Fred.


    Sheena and Deana giggled in secret. Their mom is just making excuses. Their dad would often be out of the country with his new role in the world, so their mom knew she would be often left alone as their dad''s task was dangerous.


    But they were happy that they would be a big happy family from here on¡­


    "These journalists and paparazzi would literally be shocked after they would learn that brother is the new CEO of Davies Corporation," Sheenamented after she read a bunch of articles about her brothers, most of which are only ndering him.


    "Stop reading those unworthy articles." Hilda had received a lot of reports regarding these articles.


    The Shen PR Department asked her to hold a press conference, but she rejected the idea. "Let these scoundrels die in anticipation. We have more important things to take care of than to give them what they want."


    Aside from interview invitations from the TV station news program, there are also live interviews from many talk shows, but Hilda rejected all.


    "What are you nning, mom?" Deana asked Hilda. She was aware of how chaotic everything was back in Metro City.


    Everyone is dying to know about Hailee and Vincent''s n now that he is divorced from Eva.


    "I will hold a press conference when we get home in P Country. But we have not announced our arrival. And we have to n it out well," Hilda exined.


    "You are right, mom." Sheena and Dean concurred.


    Those journalists and paparazzi would love to get a piece of them once they got a sight of them.


    Meanwhile, inside the OB-Gyn''s clinic, Hailee was lying down at the examination table, and Dr. Dave Thomas was currently performing an ultrasound. Vincent was observing closely to the monitor and listening keenly to everything that Dr. Thomas had said.


    After half an hour, the couple finally came out of the clinic.


    "How is it going?" Hilda has been on the edge of her seat, waiting for the result. Now she was very excited to know what the ultrasound showed.


    Vincent and Hailee shared a look before one of them shared the result.


    "Mom, I''ll be a dad of three¡­."


    "Oh, my gosh!" Sheena and Deana have been jumping in happiness. "Congrattions, brother!"


    They hugged their brother, then they turned to Hailee, "Congrattions, Hail! You''re a mom of three!"


    Hailee''s eyes were also flooded with fresh tears. She was already sobbing inside the ultrasound room after she saw her babies on the monitor.


    But it was Vincent who cried first. His heart filled with joy at seeing three healthy babies growing inside Hailee''s womb.


    On the other hand, Hilda was also delighted by the news, at the same time worried. She knew Hailee would not be an easy journey to have three babies growing inside her.


    "Be extra careful from now on," Hilda advised Hailee.


    "I will, mom. Thank you." Hailee replied to Hilda, and the two women had a warm hug afterward.


    Jacob and Fred were also delighted to hear the splendid news.


    "Congrattions, son!" Fred embraced Vincent tight. Seeing his son happy also brought great joy to him.


    Meanwhile, Jacob is the happiest grandfather. It was his first grandchild, and he was given three right away.


    "Princess, congrattions. I know you will be a great mom."


    "Thank you, dad." Hailee hugged her dad so tight. She wished her mom were here, which she believed was watching over her. "Mom surely was proud of me."


    "She is, princess. I know your mom is also thrilled for you." Jacobforted his daughter.


    That night, the two families had a nice dinner on the rooftop to celebrate the addition to the family.


    The future princes or princesses¡­

 Chapter 303 - Give Away Day (One)

    <h4>Chapter 303 - Give Away Day (One)</h4>


    Hailee was reading a blog about pregnancy on her iPad when the girls showed up in her apartment. It was evening, and she was waiting for Vince to arrive to have dinner together.


    "Hail, hurry up!" Kelly rushes inside, but she walks directly to her bedroom instead of talking to her in the living area.


    "What''s going on?" She asked in confusion.


    Kelly didn''t answer her, but she could hear the running water in her bathroom. It looks like Kelly is filling her bathtub.


    "You should get ready now." Kelly peered at her bedroom door; then, she disappeared again. She urges Hailee.


    "Hey! Where are we going?" she called, but Kelly remained in the bathroom. She turned her head toward Sheena and Deana, who was filming everything. "What was she up to?"


    The sisters only shrugged a shoulder, then Gigi appeared at the front door with a box in her hands.


    "Come on, Hail! We''ll help you try them on!" Gigi persuades her, helping her get off the sofa and dragging her to the bathroom.


    The four girls dress her up, do her hair, and apply light makeup on her face. When she was done, Gigi ced a crown flower on her head.


    "What is going on here?" Hailee had started a wild guess. But she quickly discarded them from her head. For her, it is impossible that Vince would propose to her again, and he has done that countless times already.


    But no one answered her. The girls just busied themselves to make her beautiful.


    Hailee looks at her reflection in the mirror. She was wearing a beautiful white dress, and her long hair rested on her back. The flower crown made her look like a bride.


    "What is this, girls?" She is really dying to know!


    "You''ll know when we arrive at the ce." Deana winked at her, a bright smile stered across her face.


    Hailee had guessed that this had to do with Vince, but she wasn''t sure what it was. It made her wonder if there were other things to do aside from their engagement party and wedding ceremony soon, which they nned to hold during Hilda''s birthday party. And the announcement of the wedding date will be during the Tallest Tower''s Groundbreaking ceremony next month.


    So what is another marriage activity that can be celebrated before the actual wedding?


    Although curiosity is killing her, she stops questioning the girls when they put a blindfold around her eyes. She just let them take her somewhere she doesn''t know where...


    "Watch with your head, Hail." They were guiding her to climb into the car.


    Not long after, the car stopped; they led her out of the vehicle, then escorted her to enter a door.


    ''What surprises is this?'' Hailee could not stop herself from thinking. Is there another surprise Vincent wants to give her?


    But Vincent has nothing to surprise her anymore since her future mother-inw took care of everything in their wedding preparation.


    "Alright, Hail. Here we are!" Gigi announced. She is holding Hailee''s left arm while Kelly is on her right side. Her friends have been guiding her since she sees nothing.


    Kelly took the blindfold. Finally, she will find out what they were up to. But she was disappointed when they just took her to the Dream City Pce.


    Now,?they were standing at the entrance door. She wondered what next.


    Behind them are Sheena and Deana, who continued filming all the happenings they started at the apartment.


    "What is this?" For thest time, she wanted to know what was waiting for her behind the door.


    Instead of getting a reply, Gigi ces a pink basket in her hand. Kelly knocked on the door, and then it was wide open.


    Instantly, tears formed in the corner of her eyes.


    "It''s your GIVE AWAY DAY!"


    Hailee nced at Kelly with a question in her eyes, ''What a Give Away Day?'' She did not know what it was, but the ce was somewhat like she was going to an enchanted ce.


    The pce was in darkness when they turned off the chandeliers and wallmps. However, the aisle was lit by candles and beautiful fiberssnterns in different sizes on both sides, which made the ce enchanting, whereas the carpet is filled with pink and white petals of roses, peonies, and other beautiful flowers she knew¡­


    Looking at this beautifully decorated aisle telling her that there was something magical that awaited her inside, and so Hailee stepped on the carpet and followed the trail.


    "Hey, princess. Congrattions!"


    "Bruce!" Hailee threw her arms to hug the guy. She thanked him and wanted to ask a series of questions, but her other knights were waiting for her.


    Ah, her P Country knights! Keith, Kristian, and Andrew were here, too! Maynard and Brent are here too.


    Hailee takes a nce at the long line, but she could not see the bottom line¡­


    Her knights are lining up on both sides of the carpet, holding a red rose in hand. They''re wearing a suit, and they look too handsome.


    Well, all of her knights are good-looking men, the reason girls envied her, Liam hated them, and Vincent was jealous of these men because many of them are too clingy around her, so he always draws a borderline to chase them away from her side.


    Thinking about that, she could not help but chuckle. Her husband is too cute.


    Hailee sighs happily. Ah, everyone was here!


    She was ted that her married knights were present as well¡­ This made her teary eyes happy.


    Hailee continued walking. Every time she passed each of them, they put the rose in the basket, congratted her, and wished her all the happiness in life.


    Hailee is almost in the Main Hall door; she could now see her cousins and the Australian knights.


    She was already feeling a little numb exchanging hugs to her hundred knights, but it didn''t dissipate her enthusiasm.


    She hugged George, Alex, Simon, her other distant rtives, and her European knights. After she greeted her knights from Canada and the US, she moved toward the executive knights she grew up with here in Australia. She was closer to them because they had been here since she was ten years old.


    "Princess!"


    Hailee hugged James tight. This guy always made her smile. His sense of humor and silliness toward the other knights are on top of the world.


    After James, Hailee next hugs Tom, Hansen, and then she moves to Leo, Chester, Trevor, Josh, Kelvin, and the rest of her executive knights.


    Now she''s moving to Geoffrey. The guy wipes the tears from her eyes and tucked in the strands of hair that mess on her face.


    She smiled and kissed Geoffrey on his cheek that made James grumbled behind because Hailee didn''t kiss him. Everyone chuckled at hisint.


    "It''s unfair!" James pouted.

 Chapter 304 - Give Away Day (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 304 - Give Away Day (Two)</h4>


    Hailee nced behind her¡­ All the knights are now gathered in front of the main hall door. With this realization, she returned her attention to Geoffrey and searched for his face.


    She smiled. She was truly biased because, among them all, Geoffrey had a special ce in her heart. If she were to ask, Geoffrey is boyfriend material.


    If Bryan is a bad boy type, Geoffrey is the nice guy.


    Any girl would feel too lucky to have this prince charming as a boyfriend. He was too gentlemanly. He is also intelligent and an outstanding leader.


    In her High School days, all the girls at the school were crazy about him. They always look forward to the ss ending for the day because Geoffrey picked her every afternoon.


    People thought he was her boyfriend rather than Bryan, who became her fianceter. Geoffrey always has a poker face with other girls. Unlike James, Pitt, Leo, Hector, and the other boys. They always had a broad smile on their faces and flirted with the girls, but Geoffrey was only cold to all girls he met.


    But Geoffrey''s aloof attitude draws more girls than those flirty men.


    Before she meets Vincent, or if there is no Vincent in this world, she would choose to teach her heart to love Geoffrey more than Bryan.


    Geoffrey is a perfect man. But same as Bryan, she could only think of him as a brother.


    Hailee tightened her embrace when Geoffrey whispered something into her ear.


    "I wish all the best for you, princess. I love you. But I know it is not the love you need from me."


    She let the tears drenched her cheeks one more time. She already realized Geoffrey''s feelings for her, but she could not return to it, no matter what. The love she has for him is only a brotherly love.


    She hugged Geoffrey once more before he let him go and turned to Pitt.


    The guy is crying, so typically, her sobs be a cry. Here is the best brother she could not ask for more.


    "Pitt..." She hugged the guy even tighter. He was one of the best men¡ªPitt is the one who is always by her side through happiness and sadness.


    "Congrattions, princess. I promise to watch your daughter."


    Hailee cried hard. If her daughter wanted to sail around the world, she had the best guy right here. She will be at ease to think it was Pitt who would apany her daughter on her adventures.


    "Then, you should get married as soon as possible and have a son to apany my daughter." Hailee winked at Pitt, who dropped his jaw on the tiled floor.


    And Pitt didn''t understand her statement. Well, she is worried for her daughter on the one hand because she knew Pitt would be strict toward her daughter, probably more than Vince.


    She could already imagine Pitt scolding her daughter, then reprimand her not to do this and that, especially having boyfriends.


    She already thinks Vince would be too strict with their daughter, as he is a jealous man. Just thinking about that, she could picture her daughter would not have fun.


    So, if Pitt had a son, there is someone the same age as her daughter to hang out with. Then, it would be great! Her daughter needed someone to help her escape if her dad forbade her to go out.


    "Princess, what you were thinking, huh?" Pitt pokes her nose. Shees back to the present time.


    "The future..." Hailee smiled and said meaningfully before she moved to her next knight.


    She had a broad smile on her face. But when she realized who the only two men left for her to meet, tears once again raided her eyes and wet her cheeks.


    Hailee dropped the basket that was now full of red roses. She ran to the guy standing on the right side of the door and cried into his arms. She now drenched his gray suit, with the tears didn''t stop flooding her eyes.


    "Bryan..." she continued sobbing.


    "Hello, princess..."


    Bryan''s eyes are also wet with tears. He lifted his head to push back the tears, but they continued falling on his cheeks.


    He gently strokes Hailee''s hair, persuading her to stop crying.


    Bryan lowered his head to kiss her hair and said, "Hush now... You should hurry inside. He''s already waiting for you...."


    She need not guess what Bryan means by that. With what he had said, Hailee lifted her head to meet his eyes. Bryan''s gazes are tender and loving. He always has this look in his eyes that he is really in love with her. She just understood this after she admitted to herself that she was falling for Vincent.


    She realized Bryan truly loves her... However, she is meant for someone else, and she knows Bryan is destined for another girl.


    Whoever this girl is, once Bryan forgets about her and opens his heart for someone else, she knows he will love that girl more than how much he loves her now.


    "You are a great man, Bryan. I will pray to heaven for you to find the right girl."


    Bryan smiled at her. ''You are the girl I want to love.'' It is what is on his mind. However, she belongs to someone she fated to spend the rest of her life with.


    It saddens him that they are not meant for each other in this lifetime. And it looks like, even in the next life, she would still belong to someone else.


    "I want you to be there..." Said Vincent to him on the phone the other day. He added, "But always keep in your mind that she belongs to me, and even in our next life and the next life, I am the one she will be with once again."


    Bryan chuckled at how arrogant and confident Vincent was. He replied to him,


    "Alright. I will keep it in mind. All I want is to see her happy. Remember this as well. I will steal her from you if you break her heart."


    "I''m not seeking my death. I will never cheat on her either if that''s what you were thinking."


    Bryan hissed at the other line. Vincent always has a way to add salt to the wounds and dig into the memories he tried to bury deep inside his heart.


    He always wanted to protest, but Vincent was the man who could make Hailee happy.


    Bryan ced a warm kiss on her forehead before giving her to Andre, thest guy to give her away inside the hall.


    "Andre!"


    "Congrattions, princess. You give me three grandchildren at once, huh!"


    Haileeughed out loud between her tears. She told Andre, "Don''t worry. You are the most handsome grandpa in the world."


    Andre chuckled. He ced a kiss on both of her cheeks before he brought her closer to the door, then knocked on it.


    Slowly, the giant door opens¡­

 Chapter 305 - Hide Your Hot Husband

    <h4>Chapter 305 - Hide Your Hot Husband</h4>


    "My princess..." she had a warm smile when she saw the man behind the door. Hailee rushed inside andnded in the man''s arms.


    "Grandpa... Are you also joining my husband''s surprise, huh?"


    Allenughed and denied nothing. He said proudly, "I like him, and I could see he was a good man. And these sparks in your eyes. He is the one who makes you smile like this."


    His granddaughter is a bubbly person and has a gentle soul. Nothing he prayed for but for her to live a fulfilling life. His granddaughter deserves all the happiness in the world.


    After Allen ced a warm kiss on her left cheek, he passed Hailee to her dad. It''s not the wedding day yet, but Jacob has been too emotional already.


    "Princess¡­" Jacob opened his arms wide and locked her daughter inside. "Sometimes, I''m still wishing that you were still that sweet teenager who is always bugging me with your capriciousness. But I must ept that you don''t need dad anymore."


    "What are you talking about, dad?" Hailee parted slightly from her dad to meet his gaze. "Your grandchildren would love to y with you. Watch over them and then send them to school."


    She already has these imaginations in her mind. Soon she had to perform her position as the chairwoman of Davies Corporation, and Vincent was the new CEO. With this new task, they will be even busier than before.


    Jacob, on the other hand, his eyes glimmer upon hearing his daughter''s words. He loves the idea. Soon he started working on his new role. He will always be out of the country, and he isn''t sure when toe home. But if ever he is¡­ He will make sure to spend every minute of his time with his grandchildren.


    With that thought, Jacob embraced his daughter tightly. But he let her go right away. Hailee was only seven weeks pregnant, but her belly looked like twelve weeks old.


    The three babies in her womb are growing so past. And he could not wait to meet them soon.


    Jacob nted another kiss on Hailee''s forehead before he let her walk toward the man standing in the middle of the hall.


    Hailee made a graceful sway, walking on the red carpet. Around them were candles inside sses, and beautiful white and pink roses filled the entire floor. She thinks they are ten thousand roses and ten thousand candles. It was a magical moment.


    "What are you up to, Mr. Shen?"


    Vincent was facing his back to the door, so he didn''t see her when she entered inside. At this moment, the giant door of the main hall closed.


    When she walked toward Vince, instruments yed. Hailee guessed that a group of people was on the second floor, ying this soothing music.


    Vincent turns around, and he has those loving eyes staring back at her. He walks closer to her, takes her hand, kneeling on one foot before he kisses the back of her palm and then her belly.


    He isn''t proposing. Hailee knew this, and Vincent kneeled on one foot just for him to kiss her now visible baby bump.


    After he ced another two kisses on her belly, each one for their children, Vincent finally stood on his feet and put her inside his arms. Later on, they were slow dancing.


    It was the perfect time Hailee waited to fire away the questions hanging on top of her head. She ces her arms around Vincent''s neck, lifts her chin to brush her lips above his before she starts her queries.


    "So, how were you able to gather all of my knights?"


    Vince had this proud smile on his lips as he answered, "I asked George, Alex, and Andre''s help."


    "I see¡­ You got the right people to back you up, huh?" Hailee teases him.


    But she was truly delighted at how clever her husband was. Having George and Andre brought her knights all together, none can say no to them.


    Hailee gaped at Vince. The guy could tell that she had another question she was itching to ask, but it was a little sensitive, so she thought it might not be the right moment to fire it away.


    But she is obvious to him, so Vince encourages Hailee to let out what is troubling her.


    "You had something on your mind." Vince initiates to open up. Somehow, he already had to guess what made her curious about everything that happened this evening.


    "It''s about Bryan¡­"


    Vince ced a kiss on her forehead. With a smile, he replied to her, "I was the one who invited him."


    Hailee softens her gaze to Vince. She was happy that he waspletely open to her knights. Gazing at him passionately, she told Vince,


    "I love you, Vincent Shen."


    "I love you too, Mrs. Hailee Shen."


    Hailee is joyfully responding to Vincent''s kisses in the next minute. They parted after both could not breathe from the fervor kiss.


    "I want everyone to ept me and see that my love for you is genuine. I have been waiting for four whole years to find you once again, and I would not waste all my chances to be with you forever."


    One more time, fresh tears falling down her eyes. She appreciates Vince''s hard work to persuade all of her knights, especially the Australian knights, who are emotionally invested with her.


    Vince nned it out thoroughly that there were no more hard feelings from her knights. He wants to make everything perfect on their wedding day. The men have no objections ormotion, so he intentionally holds this engagement party attended by her knights.


    After tonight, he could finally have peaceful nights without worrying that those men sabotage his wedding and suddenly kidnap Hailee on the day of their wedding.


    He admits that what he thinks is full of madness. But it''s better to be sure and prepared. He wanted to tell the world that there is only one wife for him, which is the woman who holds his heart.


    After dancing for a half-hour, Vince brought her toward the other hall where the food serves.


    Hailee cheerily greeted Hilda and her step-grandmother Andre. The two were discussing the wedding and stopped when she and Vince showed up. She moves to another table where Gigi, Kelly, Janise, Sheena, and Deana are seated with a brief talk.


    She didn''t know that Janise was here as well. But now that she saw her, she guessed that the white dress was designed and tailored to her. She was just a little surprised that the dress was so fit for her with her baby bump.


    "Thank you. But how did you get my measurement right?" she asked Janise curiously.


    Janise giggled, then her lips pointing at Kelly. Now Hailee understood why Kelly took her measurements the other day.


    She looked at Janise and uttered, "Did you just make this dress for one day?"


    Janise nodded, then replied, "Yeah. When Hansen informed me he would take me back and exined Vince''s n, I immediately started making that dress."


    "Aw, thank you so much. You are so great, pretty godmother!" Hailee embraced Janise and ced a kiss on her cheek. She is grateful and admires how talented a dressmaker she is.


    During her stay in Metro City, she loved all the dresses she sent over at Vincent''s request.


    "Let us do a maternity fashion show!" Out of the blue, Hailee came up with this idea. She looked at Kelly and said, "Together with a new set of jewelry collections!"


    Both Kelly and Janise cheerily agreed to her proposal.


    "Mrs. Hailee Shen, thank you for being such a genius businesswoman! You are making us even richer!"


    "Of course. The fashion show should have a cause," she informed the girls.


    Kelly has known Hailee since they were in elementary days. She is generous and kind. Even after they established their business, doing charity work is always on her mind.


    The girls continued discussing the project. Vince walked to their table and ced a tter of food in front of Hailee.


    "Wifey, you should eat first. Tonight is our pre-engagement party, and so no business talks," he reminded the girls.


    However, as the night gets older, Vince cannot stop making business deals with a few of Hailey''s knights. Mitchell is interested in his yacht business and ns to invest in Vince''spany.


    Mitchell was talking about luxurious sailing yachts for rent, starting from Russia and anywhere in the world.


    Vincent quicklyid out a business n. Other men were also interested in his proposal on the spot, and so tonight, he closed a deal of a few billion euros into his ount.


    So when the party was over, he had a bright face when they went back to their apartment.


    Vincent gives Hailee a warm bath before they go to bed. She could not take her eyes off him but stare at him lovingly.


    Later on, Vince finally notices that she is staring at him, and he lowers his head and gives her a soft kiss.


    "You were so happy," she asked afterward. She already knows the reason. Vince warned not to talk about business, but he himself actually made a deal tonight. But she let him be. She was happy that Vince was mingling well with her knights.


    Vince didn''t hide it. He had grinned across his face and made a cheerful retort, "I could finally stock up a year''s supply for our babies."


    He was talking about diapers and forms. Hailee cannot sustain breastfeeding three babies long, so they must rely on form milk.


    Hailee was stunned to realize that Vincent was actually worried about this. She also heard Vincent mumbling about the best nannies in the world and how much sry they would get.


    Listening to all of his ns and setups after she gave birth, Hailee couldn''t stop kissing him feverishly, thinking how fortunate she was to find such a man.


    "Let me meet you in my next life," Hailee muttered lovingly into Vince''s ear.


    "I would definitely ask God to meet you in my next life."


    Vince carefully put her down on an ent chair inside the walk-in closet, then helped her dry her hair with a bath towel before he used a hairdryer. He also helps her put on a nightgown.


    "Hubby, I''m hungry."


    Vincent quickly gets out of the room to get her food in the kitchen. There are lots of desserts at the party, and they take home some of them.


    When Vincent came back, he brought a tray full of desserts. Hailee drooled over the sliced strawberry cake, macaroons, a ss of milk, grapes, and there was also bottled water.


    Hailee secretly filmed Vince cing a table on the bed, then the tray full of food. She posted it on her Instagram to regret it a few secondster, but she couldn''t take it down after many of her followers viewed it already.


    dly, she disabled thements. People were frustrated that they could not express their thoughts, so they reposted it and put a caption like this¡­


    "That body is enough for dessert before bed!"


    Vince is only wearing a lower pajama, and so, his upper body was exposed. Hailee received DMs from her friends saying,


    "Mumma, you need not make us envy you!"


    "That was dangerous, Mumma! You made girls drool over your husband''s muscled arms!"


    "That t belly is tasty!"


    Hailee rolled her eyes. She absolutely learned her lesson, and she would never post Vince''s half-naked body to the world...


    That''s why she keeps mumbling between stuffing her mouth with desserts.


    ''Better hide your hot husband inside your closet!''

 Chapter 306 - Reason She Wants To Have More Children

    <h4>Chapter 306 - Reason She Wants To Have More Children</h4>


    Hailee snuggles inside Vince''s arms after having a midnight snack, now waiting to fall asleep.


    Vince is brushing her hair while she runs her fingers over his bare chest. The guy was aroused, but he suppressed his desire, as he was more worried about making love with Hailee with a sensitive pregnancy. Not to mention she is carrying three babies in her womb.


    Hailee looked up to search Vince''s face. His expression is calm, but she knows he is only concealing his hunger deep down, and that pained her.


    She also wanted to make love with him, but she felt it was dangerous when conceiving, not just one baby. And so Hailee thinks of some distraction.


    She started sharing her memories of growing up with Vince. Hearing Hailee''s childhood stories from Andre in the passing days always excites him, and Vincent listened intently.


    "Dad and mom are too busy taking care of our businesses around the world. But they are inseparable. I heard from adults that my parents were more likely to travel abroad to have their honeymoon instead of taking care of our branch offices. So, dad appointed mom as his assistant in his private affairs. Mom always apanies dad on his business trips since mom is good at interpreting. After dad deals with the matters in our branches abroad, he will apany mom to go shopping and then dine in the most extravagant restaurant in the ce."


    "Now I understand why dad insists on appointing you as the new CEO of Davies Corporation to help me out. While I am the Chairwoman of the Board, and you are the President, he wanted us to enjoy how couples work together. But the time wille... And we have to retire from working. By then, I want to travel the world with no work-rted matters. And so, I won''t be against training our children early and appoint them to take care of ourpanies ording to their interests. But they must be willing to ept the responsibility. That''s important."


    "Hubby, I was so lonely growing up. When mom died, I was even sadder because I had no one to y with and give my attention and love. I have a huge house, beautiful clothes, delicious food, countless bodyguards, maids and servants, and wonderful grandparents. However, I don''t have siblings. That''s why I want to bore more babies as long as my body is capable of giving our children more siblings so they won''t get lonely when we are always away."


    "And if timese and our children can manage our businesses, then we can divide the workload, and they have someone by their side to help them out during periods of crisis in thepany. I don''t want to limit us from having children. I learned something as an only child. How can I manage these multi-trillion euros worth of corporations? I was scared about running thepany alone because I had another line of business I am more interested in managing than Davies Corporation."


    "I want to focus on my jewelry and cosmeticpanies. However, I have to inherit Davies Corporation. So I am thinking... I want to bore more children to let them have a choice and enjoy their lives without worrying about running a trillion eurospany. If I did not make business deals with my wealthy friends... I know I would have trouble hiring trusted people to work for me since Andre joins the Air Force instead of helping dad manage thepany."


    "Hubby, let''s produce a dozen of children so that, if half of them have no interest in running ourpanies, then we have half of them to help each other manage all our businesses..."


    "You know, I am so happy I found you, and you are the one I could share this life with. You are so smart when ites to business, as well as a very talented architect. Not to mention you are so good to me."


    Vince''s heart is dancing with joy at the praise he receives from Hailee. He leaned over and kissed her lips passionately.


    "You are my life¡­ My existence is to love you until myst breath."


    He stretches his arm and takes her hand to his lips, nting kisses on the back of her palm before their fingers intertwine.


    Watching their perfect hands held together, a train of thoughts passing his head¡­


    Now hepletely understood why Hailee wanted a dozen children.


    First, she is an only child, and that makes her too sad to have no ymates.


    Second, she is alone to deal with this big corporation which she is more interested in managing other businesses. And so, he will give everything he got to help her run a multi-trillionpany.


    Third, Hailee doesn''t want to burden their children but has a choice. She believes her children deserve to enjoy their life aside from burying themselves with so much work at thepany.


    Fourth, she wanted a healthy life for them by having an adventure once in a while. For her, it is a must because she learns many things when she goes away to explore new things. She wants her children to experience the same and grow up from it.


    And he agreed with Hailee on that aspect. Having more siblings would be a lot of fun.


    On his part, he doesn''t have brothers, but he has a lot of male cousins. When they all be businessmen, in times of hardships, they help each other. Being a member of a big n bes a great advantage for them.


    But in Hailee''s case, she has to trust the surrounding people.


    Although his life growing up was not perfect, he had no regrets if his mom raised him with strict rules. It was honestly quite a sad life as his adventure was less, but books were hispanion for most of his days.


    As he grows up, his teenage life is only studying and beating his ass toplete a few courses. And despite his sess inter years, it was lonely deep inside.


    His life only had colors after he met Hailee. Although she wasn''t his girlfriend yet in those years, she already had a special ce inside his heart as the dearest one in his life.


    Having this thought all the time, somehow, made him feel alive.


    Of course, fear was there. How if she is already married to someone else? This realization came to his mind. However, his heart doesn''t want to stop hoping that he will meet her once again and one day she will be his.


    For many years, Hailee bes the moonlight in his dark times.


    And now, finally, she became his...


    Having had this train of thoughts, Vince ced a warm kiss on Hailee''s forehead. He felt her tighten her embrace around his waist. After a brief pause, Hailee was ready to continue sharing more of her childhood stories, and so he let her carry on.

 Chapter 307 - Bryans Assignment

    <h4>Chapter 307 - Bryan''s Assignment</h4>


    "When mom dies, and dad is lost where to start without her, which he also has to deal with me, dad struggles to keep his position. Many people took advantage of him and caused trouble. Dad is not worried about money, and we have so much of that. However, it is still necessary to have reliable and trusted allies."


    "As the sole heir, I must protect what my forefather has built for our family. It was their sweat and blood that they invested in what I enjoyed: a luxurious life today. And so, if I made little friends, many would take advantage of me. So, growing up, it came to my mind that if everyone became my brother, then maybe I could rely on them if I needed strength one day. So I am d that my friends supported me when I n out about building Dream City."


    That was true. She truly is a pampered princess, looking childish and impulsive in the past. But she is not blind to what kind of world she is living in, and she is aware of what she has to do.


    However, she missed out on noticing that there are actually differences between having a man by her side.


    What she needs is a lover¡­


    And meeting Vince made her feel these feelings she never had before. She realized that she only took the boys for granted. But she is happy to have them as her good friends, allies, and partner in crimes.


    And the most significant crime they did was threaten the Alliance for rebellion. But that is because they provoke her.


    No one should touch Vince because he is her bottom line.


    Thinking about these, Hailee nced at Vince. The guy was stunned when she climbed on top of him and leaned over to kiss him feverishly.


    *


    The following two days, Hailee invited Bryan to talk about his n to resign.


    Today, Vince need not hurry to go to his office when Shen Group Dream City HQ is just the next building of this one. Besides, every morning, he made sure that Hailee had her breakfast.


    Also, he is watching might her morning sickness attacked, so he would like to be there by Hailee''s side tofort her and help her wash and change intofortable house clothes. Now, her baby bump is more visible with each passing day.


    When Bryan appeared in her apartment unit, it was Vincent who opened the door. Hailee was in her study, sat on a sofa.


    "Hi," Bryan greeted Hailee before he took the single couch across from her.


    "Bryan, I want you to look at it. I made drafts of an important project I want you to handle."


    Hailee pushed a folder toward him, and he picked it up and began flipping through the documents inside. While he was studying the documents in his hand, Vincent often appeared in the room.


    First, he brought two sses of water, and next is tea. The third time, he brought a te of sliced fruits for Hailee.


    Bryan starts to think that Vincent has be Hailee''s personal secretary. Or should he say, her servant?


    Anyway, what makes him angry is that it interrupts his concentration because Vincent Shen makes sure to show off in front of him, something it urges him to flip the table from annoyance and jealousy.


    He could tell Hailee made these requests. Every time she types on her phone, Vincent enters the room carrying something in his hand.


    Although Hailee tried not to make it obvious. But Vincent would lean over and kiss Hailee every time she thanked him.


    This really pissed him off, because Vincent did not need to show off his affection to Hailee in front of him.


    Of course, he has no right to get angry or jealous, but Vincent does know how to break his heart over again.


    Well, he is aware that this will happen if you fell in love with your best friend, but she falls in love for another guy, and you don''t want to end the friendship.


    So then, the only thing he could do was bear it and restrain himself, not throw the coffee table at Vincent every time he came in.


    Too obvious. Vincent achieves his goal of making him jealous. The guy is clever, and he knows that deep inside his heart is frustration because he is supposed to be in Vincent''s ce.


    All of this is his role in Hailee''s side before, which another guy now took over.


    Bryan heaves a long sigh. He shrugs off his frustration and concentrates on what he is reading. After sinking into deep thoughts in about fifteen minutes, he closed the folder and ced it on the coffee table.


    He grabbed the ss of drinking water and emptied the content.


    "I will ept it." He announced afterward.


    "Thank you, Bryan."


    Hailee had a gentle smile on her lips. Bryan was in a trance, staring at her soft facial expression.


    Before he broke her heart, she always had this huge smile and bright eyes for him. But now, the smiles that would appear on her lips are just a genuine smile for a friend without a special role in her life.


    It aches his heart, but he has to move on and ept that things have now changed. Maybe with the assignment, Hailee gave him, he couldpletely ept that she now belongs to someone else.


    Davies Corporation has a foundation head office in Cape Town. Hailee is sending him to South Africa. She is giving him a task to build schools in the most deserving viges, especially the isted ces across the continent.


    This includes finding volunteer teachers to assign in those schools. The foundation will give generous allowances to these volunteers. But as the education they will teach to those kids is better lessons, volunteers should graduate with excellent grades and have teaching experience, even just as a practicum teacher.


    Bryan''s assignment will be within one to two years. If he wishes to extend his stay, it''s up to him.


    "Your position as Vice President will remain vacant until youe back," Hailee exined further... "You already know that dad made changes regarding the management of Davies Corporation. Geoffrey will be the new CEO of Davies Group, but I still need you."


    Bryan smiled at Hailee. Although what she said was not what he wished to hear, it still made him happy that Hailee wanted him.


    "I will not disappoint you this time, and I will do my best to fulfill your dreams." In this way, they still have a connection.


    Hailee has always been nning to build schools across Africa. This project is too huge and actually a heroic one. But he is determined to be part of her excellent cause.


    "Thank you, Bryan."


    Bryan nodded. Though sadness shes in his eyes. This is what he needs for now¡­


    To be away from her for the time being...

 Chapter 308 - Back In Metro City

    <h4>Chapter 308 - Back In Metro City</h4>


    The following day, Vince worried that Hailee would overwork. He apanied her to thepany for an important meeting she scheduled in the afternoon.


    Inside the meeting room attended by her executives with their assistants and secretaries, everyone cannot withdraw their eyes from her.


    Whenever she called a board meeting, she consistently applied heavy makeup or wore a wig at a corporate meeting. But today, she is only wearing nude makeup and lipstick. Starting today, she will never hide her face anymore.


    The secretaries who rarely see her bare face don''t want to leave their gaze and forget to write a note of their meeting today. They were mesmerized at how angelic face she has without heavy makeup.


    Sitting in the corner two meters away from Hailee, Vincent sometimes furrowed his brows. But most of the time, he was maintaining his expressionless face. It was because the female secretaries were stealing a nce at him, and Hailee is aware of it.


    However, Vincent was also upset because male executives and assistants ignored his sharp res. Their eyes remained to stare at Hailee, and a few of them were drooling at her.


    Honestly, both are unaware that their feelings are mutual. Vince hates men staring at Hailee for a longer time.


    On the other hand, Hailee cursed inwardly to see those secretaries stealing nces at her husband.


    "Alright. I know you all have already heard that there are a few changes in thepany soon. Dad gave me the position as Chairwoman of the Board; I oversee thispany and mainly the Davies Corporation. It means I''ll be out of the country more often."


    "As for the changes in Davies Corporation, Vince is the new CEO and handles the matter in the main office. As of the Davies Group, you have your new President, and Geoffrey will be the new CEO living his position as COO, and so," Hailee nced at Geoffrey to nod at him.


    She went on, "There will be someone who has to step in. However, this is not the only matter; we have to work for the changes in the next few years. I gave Bryan a particr task, so the vice president''s office needed an acting administrator. As the VP''s job often works with our international investors, I will assign two of you to divide the work until Bryan is back."


    When Hailee exins this, a few of the men are frowning. Bryan did not remove from his position but was still giving a particr treatment.


    Hailee knew that there were silent protests among the men. However, she could only overlook it because Bryan was very helpful to her. Besides, she doesn''t feel any contempt toward him now.


    Hailee discussed another agenda before she ended the meeting.


    Bryan has to take care of many things, so he will stay for a few months to hand over his position after selecting an interim VP.


    Inside Hailee''s office, Vince was massaging her lower back. She was just pregnant for almost two months, but she started suffering from lower back pain, not to mention the fatigue on her legs.


    "Wifey, tell me right away if you feel ufortable on the other part of your body."


    Hailee stared at Vince with dazed. She saw the profound concern on his face.


    Her pregnancy was indeed a little difficult. She was just on her eight weeks, a long way for them before she could get through from this. And so, Hailee always motivates herself to stay calm and not to make Vince worry a lot.


    "I am fine now, hubby. It''s just that our babies seem to grow too fast. Each day I could start feeling a little heavier." She smiled at Vince. But looking at his sad expression, she wanted tough.


    Vince, on the other hand, made a quick family tree survey.


    Shen has twins in their family, and his dad has twin aunts, and his dad has twin cousins. And in the Lopez family, there are male twins and female twins as well.


    However, on his part, he has triplets.


    "Wifey, do you have rtives that are twins or triplets?"


    "Yes. But they are distant rtives. So, always possible."


    Now Vince was even worried about her, and he couldn''t bear watching Hailee throwing up every morning or sometimes at night. And so he prayed that subsequent pregnancy, he''s asking God for one at a time.


    *


    GROUNDBREAKING DAY


    Attended by representatives from all construction firms that Hailee hired to build Dream City and her business partners around the globe, the Shen Group hosted the groundbreaking ceremony of the La Merveille Tower.


    In French, La Merveille means The Wonder. Its other meanings are dream and marvel.


    Hailee chose this name as her forefather originally named this isted ce the first day he set foot a hundred years ago.


    With a twenty billion dors budget, Vincent made a huge modification of the tower. Instead of one building, Vincent added two buildings on each side that connected to the main building.


    In the distance, La Merveille will look like the crown of a Queen.


    Today''s celebration, there are no reporters Hailee invited to witness the groundbreaking ceremony. She knew it was best to hype the tower, but her mood swings have risen each day.


    She doesn''t want to see many people, especially amotion from reporters and paparazzi. And so, her PR Department filmed and recorded the entire ceremony.


    Seated next to Hailee in the small stage the Shen Group has prepared, Vincent kept wiping the sweat on her forehead. There was also a fan in his hand to ensure that Hailee would not feel too hot from the scorching sun.


    Across the stage are their guests. Everyone''s pair of eyes didn''t leave Vincent. Until now, they could not believe that someone like him could win the princess''s heart.


    Even until the ceremony ended, the guests went home with curiosity in their hearts about how Vincent Shen wooed Hailee Davies. In their eyes, he isn''t qualified.


    As the Davies Group and Davies Corporation posted several photos of the groundbreaking ceremony, all the media tforms, and entertainment TV news also gave their opinion about Vincent.


    Hilda explodes in rage. They were ndering Vincent, calling him a gold digger. They said Hailee owns tons of gold and an unimaginable cubic of diamonds so that Vincent Shen would live like a king.


    With the news spreading around the world, Hailee made a phone call overseas.


    "Princess?"


    "Shun¡­"


    Shun need not guess why Hailee called him. Obviously, this is regarding the news about Vincent only after Hailee''s money.


    "I''m sorry for asking too much," said Hailee afterward.


    "What are you talking about? Who else would help each other but us?" Shun made a cheerful reply from the other line. "Don''t worry, Princess. Leave it to me."


    "Thank you."


    Shun chuckled. "What are you saying? I should be the one to thank you for the help you lend me."


    Shun was still fascinated with the drama her knights performed the night Duke Alessandro Martini was apprehended.


    Hailee informed him she was going to give a warning to the elders. He did not expect Hailee''s n to scare the elders by aiming long-range sniper rifles on their heads.


    Also, someone aims a gun at his head to make it looks real. Remembering the incident puts a grin on his face.


    Hailee''s moves are too effective. The Council of Elders are well behaved now, and he knew everyone would be cautious not to offend Hailee from then on.


    Since the inte mainly published all the ndering news about Vincent, a piece of cake for Shun to deal with all of them.


    It was just the beginning. For a week, their site kept crashing, and they couldn''t do anything to revive their system. Shun has no n to let them off fast, so they would not recover their sites for a month.


    *


    Metro City, P Country


    Hailee''s private jetnded at the airport. Vince gently held her when they descended on the stairs. No one knows they were back in the country for Hilda''s birthday celebration.


    Since they arrived at midnight, there was no traffic on the road. The three limousines with two SUV escorts ran smoothly on the pavement and arrived in Shen Mansion shortly.


    "Hail!!!"


    At the entrance, three young girls rush toward her. Hailee did not expect that she would see these girls upon her arrival in the mansion.


    "Hazel! Nadia! Liza!"


    Seeing the three girls running toward Hailee, Vince frowned and panicked for a few seconds. It worried him they might m their bodies on her, and he was d that they stopped two feet from her.


    "What are you girls doing here?"


    Standing above the stairs, Janise replied to Hailee''s query.


    "They were helping me make your wedding dress, and I have to finish it in less than two months."


    "Really? Can I see it?" she asked excitedly. However,


    "No!" the girls answered at once, including her mother-inw and sisters-inw.


    Hailee was disappointed when all the girls, including Kelly, who flew ahead of them, rejected her request.


    But her eyes twinkled when she saw Alexander descending the stairs and halt next to Kelly; then, he ced his arm around her shoulder.


    She thought the boys were just making fun of Alex when they were talking about him chasing a girl, the reason he was suddenly gone in a few days now.


    Her cousin actually flew to P Country to be with her best friend! But how does it happen? She wanted to know the whole story!


    Meanwhile, seeing that Hailee was smiling charmingly at her, Kelly shrugs Alex''s hand on her shoulder and shoots a warning re at the guy.


    Alex only smiled at her, then walked toward Vincent, and the two men shook hands.


    "Hope you enjoy your stay," said Vince to Alex.


    Hailee blinked her eyes. It seems like her husband knew about it all! Men were too cunning! It looks like Vincent asking Alex''s help is not free but a favor to return!


    While talking to Alex, Tom, Carl, and Pitt, Vincent feels a burning stare throwing at him. He turned his head, and he met Hailee''s eyes. He smiled faintly. The way his wife looks at him suspiciously, he has a story needed to share.


    "Alright. Hailee, you should take a rest now. It''s not healthy for you to stay thiste." Hilda encourages everyone to retire for the night.


    Although the girls wanted to chat with Hailee, they have to wake up early tomorrow to go to the university ande back to help Janise and Kelly.


    Everyone is going in different directions. But before Hailee reached thest stairs of the second floor, her eyes caught two people whispering downstairs. Hailee''s eyebrow raises upward, and Nadia is flustered talking to Pitt.


    But since Nadia is the caretaker of Pitt''s unit in Crescent Penthouse, she shrugs off the wild thoughts running in her head.


    She chooses to believe that Pitt must be just asking about his unit, that''s all.


    However, Hailee couldn''t sleep that night. She was itchy to gossip with the girls. Just in a short time, but it looks like too many things are happening! She also suppressed her curiosity to ask Vincent.


    "Wifey, are you ufortable?" Vince, who is hugging her waist, could feel her dilemma. He was trying to fall asleep as he had to go to thepany early tomorrow morning for a meeting.


    Feeling guilty, Haileey on her side, facing Vince, then cuddled him. She whispered, "I''m fine, hubby. Let''s sleep now."


    The following day, she managed to wake up before Vince could go to thepany. And she could not wait to talk to the girls!

 Chapter 309 - Alex And Kelly (One)

    <h4>Chapter 309 - Alex And Kelly (One)</h4>


    Hailee sat up on the bed and called out for Vince. The guy was inside his walk-in closet, putting on his suit. He rushed to her side with a worried look on his face.


    She extends her arms, sping around Vince''s neck, and nts a kiss on his lips. "Good morning, hubby."


    "Morning, Wifey. How are you feeling?" he asked with worry in his voice.


    Since Hailee often had nausea in the morning, he watched her closely every day to attend to her needs. Seeing her beautiful smile this morning eases the worries lingering in his heart.


    "Where do you want to have breakfast?"


    "In the garden. I want to chat with the girls," she replied coquettishly. But soon, she pouted at him, "Anyway, there is something you didn''t share with me."


    Vince smiles faintly. He truly felt a pang of guilt in his heart, and he would not deny what he did. He lifts his right hand and brushes her hair. He uttered, "I''m sorry. But Kelly is your best friend. Alex is afraid you will meddle in¡­ So, he asked for my help, but I have to keep it from you."


    Hailee pondered what Vince exined to her. She would not meddle if Alex persuaded Kelly. In fact, she will help Alex win Kelly''s heart. But remembering all she did for Vince behind his back, she has no right to get angry.


    Besides, Alex wanted to woo her best friend with his own charm. She understood it was the case. Kelly''s attitude is more snobbish than hers. She is nd and straightforward to men. That is why she and Pitt are never on the same page but constantly bickering when you ce them in one room.


    Hailee had realized this. She thought they would be like enemies turn lovers. Their personalities are always shing as they truly treat each other as pure enemies.


    When she was heartbroken, Pitt and Kelly were there tofort her. She thought there was progress, but now, those two didn''t have a crush on each other.


    Well, if Kelly ends up marrying Alex. She would be the happiest best friend and cousin in the world. Kelly would be the Queen of Fen Country. She would support them.


    Meanwhile, Vince was waiting for Hailee''s anger to blow up. What he sees instead is her sweet smile. Vince sighs with relief to know that she is not angry at him.


    They promised to hide nothing from each other, but he was trying to impress her cousins, which is why he kept it from Hailee.


    Vince leans over and kisses Hailee''s forehead. He made a promise. "Next time, I will ask for your backing if one of your cousins or friends asks for my help."


    "Promise?" Hailee mouthed while looking up at Vince. She remains seated on the bed while Vince stands next to the bed.


    "I promised." Vince raises his right hand to seal their covenant.


    "Alright! I''ll take a shower. I''ll be quick!" After she said this, Hailee headed to the bathroom.


    "You want me to help you batch?" Vince followed Hailee, peeping at the door. His eyes were burning upon watching Hailee stripped in front of him. Her baby bump is now visible. Nevertheless, Hailee remains desirable. However, he has to suppress his needs.


    Vince went back to the closet to get a tie and put it around his cor. When Hailee finished washing, he helped wipe the water in her body and applied a body moisturizer.


    Next, he gets a hairdryer and begins blow-drying Hailee''s hair.


    Hand in hand, they emerge from the indoor pool area where everyone is having breakfast. Hailee had a massive smile on her face the entire time of the meal.


    There is no doubt in her heart that Metro City is her other home. She was delighted to share breakfast with her inws and her new family; then, her friends were also here.


    After breakfast, the three younger girls head to the university. Since her driver picked up Hazel, Liza joined her, but Nadia was with Pitt to visit his unit.


    Hailee was itching to chat with Nadia or Hazel and Liza, as she knew these girls had gossip for her. However, she has to wait for a perfect time. And so, it was Kelly who she bombarded with questions after they arrived at the greenhouse.


    "So?" Hailee had a teasing smile on her lips. Her eyes twinkled, and her ears were almost pping with excitement.


    However, Kelly only rolled her eyes as a way of dodging her question. But she knew Hailee wouldn''t let her go until she would share nothing.


    *


    It was the day when Hailee''s European knights arrived in Perth City. She was taking a shower in the guest room in the left-wing of the mansion.


    The room faced the ocean and had a beautiful balcony view of the east direction.


    She came out of the bathroom, confident that she was alone in the room. While she was putting on her clothes, the door in her room opened, and a man walked in.


    She screamed in shock, and the man also was stunned to see her inside the room. It was clear from his expression that he didn''t expect someone to upy the guest room.


    Soon, Kelly recognized the man.


    "Alexander?"


    Alex unconsciously scanned her from the head down to her toe. She was only wearing her underwear. Even though she is used to wearing two pieces on the beach, her hands unconsciously cover her body.


    The shock messed up her head, and she forgot her temperament for a few seconds. After she recovered, her glib tongue was back.


    "Can''t you knock? And why are you still standing there? Get out!"


    However, Alex only raises an eyebrow. He met her re and replied, "Why would I knock in my bedroom?"


    Kelly was dumbfounded for a moment, then recovered. This time, she already wrapped her body with a bath towel.


    "Your bedroom? This is a guest room! Anyone can stay here!" she roared at him.


    Alex frowned. He reasoned afterward, "I always stayed in this room if I came for a vacation."


    Kelly could not believe it. She scoffed and said, "But I came in first! You can leave now!"


    This guy is not a gentleman at all! Instead of leaving quickly after seeing an almost naked woman getting dressed, he stayed and even leisurely scanned her body once in a while! She was too irritated.


    Kelly walked toward Alex and pushed him out of the door. She was really pissed off.


    dly, Alex did not protest and stepped out of the door. Kelly mmed the door shut and locked it. She marched back to the closet and picked up a pair of jeans and a knitted cami top. Her topplimented her thin waistline.


    Kelly wasbing her hair when someone knocked on the door. She got up from the stool to open the door, but her eyes caught a suitcase.


    She blinks her eyes. The person knocking on the door must be Alex, as he forgot to bring his suitcase.


    Kelly opened the door and prepared to yell at the guy. But all the words she wanted to say remained hanging at the tip of her tongue when the person in front of her door was Gigi.


    "Why are you hiding here? George is here!"


    Kelly''s eyes lit up. When she and Hailee studied in Paris, George often visited them. Or, they who will sail toward Ennd to spend holidays or the weekend breaks.


    George is such a gentleman, too different from Alex.


    Now that she learned George was here. Kelly went back to the dresser and applied light makeup and red lipstick. When they arrived at the pool area, she immediately looked around to find George.


    "Kelly!"


    A huge smile immediately appeared on her face.


    "Hi, George!" She met the guy halfway, and they exchanged hugs. "Long time no see!"


    "Yeah."


    George also has a big smile on his lips. The two of them chatted for a while. Later on, she began greeting the other knights, and she ended up drinking champagne with Mitchel and Giovanni, a noble from Italy.


    The entire time she was chatting with Mitchel with the other knights, she could feel someone keep staring at her. When she looked up, it was Alex.


    She immediately takes back her gaze and ignores him all night. When the men move to the yachts, Kelly escapes from the crowd and heads to her bedroom.


    She has a low tolerance for alcohol, and so she could not walk properly. She''s holding tight to the railings upon climbing the stairs.


    Kelly sighs with relief when she arrives in the guest room. She shook her head to clear her mind. She walks to the bathroom and starts stripping her clothes off to wash. She could smell her body reek with alcohol, and she could not fall asleep feeling sweat all over her body.


    But she sobered up after realizing that someone upied the shower room. Kelly''s eyes widened upon distinguishing the man froming out of the shower room.


    Alex was shocked to see the naked woman standing in front of the shower room. It was like her feet nailed on the floor.


    After she recovered from the shock, her gaze traveled to the naked man in front of her; she screamed.


    Kelly covered her face then squatted on the floor to hide her nakedness. She buried her head on her knees and kept yelling. "Pervert!"


    Alex rushes outside to give Kelly privacy. He cursed inwardly. But it was not his fault! He only took a quick shower to freshen up. Everywhere is crowded. There is no vacant room as the other men upy it.


    He didn''t expect that Kelly woulde back and went straight to the bathroom to wash. He knew that Kelly''s anger worsened now.


    And Alex is right. Kelly was staring at him fiercely. She seemed prepared to murder him.


    "Why are you still here!" she roared at him, clenching her teeth from anger. "You''ve seen enough! Now get out!"


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to¡­" Alex found it difficult to exin. Initially, he wanted to give a good impression to Kelly. But he keeps messing up. "I only borrowed your bathroom for a short time¡­."


    Kelly is not interested to hear him anymore. She lifted her arm and pointed to the door, "Scram!"


    Alex pursed his lips. He scratches his head. Suddenly, he looks pitiful. "There is no more avable room. So¡­ Can I share a room with you?"


    Kelly explodes in anger.


    "You pervert! Shameless!"

 Chapter 310 - Alex And Kelly (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 310 - Alex And Kelly (Two)</h4>


    Kelly''s face bes red from anger. Alexander''s shamelessness was on a different level.


    Pitt always annoys her, but the guy never crosses the border of being a pervert. He only teases her, but Pitt somewhat stays away from embarrassing her like this.


    Yes. She felt embarrassed!


    This guy is much shameless than Pitt! The guy loves to taunt her, but it''s only like child''s y. But Alex tantly asked her to share a room with her.


    What does he think of her? A cheap woman?


    After seeing each other''s naked bodies, he has really had a thick face asking to share a room!


    Even if he is the future king of a country, that didn''t impress her!


    She had countless suitors from royal Arab families, but these handsome and outstanding men never passed her taste! Howe she would give attention to this guy and letting her stay in the same bedroom as her?


    This man is dreaming!


    "I won''t repeat myself. Scram!" she roared at Alex once again.


    However, the guy didn''t move. He just remains seated on the bed, staring at her without blinking. Somehow, she hated herself because she suddenly felt furious that this man wasn''t speaking.


    It was hard arguing with a person who was not returning a word, and it was weird for her. But probably she was just used to Pitt''s behavior that never backed down.


    It is easy for her to quarrel against Pitt because she could read the guy. But as she could see, Alex was a profound person.


    His silence made her ufortable. She didn''t know what he was thinking now. And so, Kelly has no words to shoot at him because the only mistake he made was barging into the guest room without knocking.


    And as she was confident that she was the only one upying this room, typically, she would not mind stripping in the bathroom. But she didn''t expect to see him there, naked.


    "Why aren''t you moving? Get out now!" Kelly was desperate to chase Alex away. As the guy won''t speak, she also would not waste her words on him.


    Kelly grabbed some clothes and went back to the bathroom to change there. She sighs with relief when shees out. Alex wasn''t in the room anymore. However, she frowned when his suitcase was still in the room.


    She spent the entire night having a video call meeting with her staff in Dubai, then read her emails. When she was ready to bed, she heard light knocks on the door.


    She gets up from the bed to check who it is. And the moment she opened the door, the pungent odor of alcohol caught her nostrils. The man standing in front of her was evidently drunk.


    Her beautiful face instantly twitched with disappointment. She wondered if this man would still insist on sharing the room with her. That would never happen! It is inappropriate, and if her father knew this, he would immediately urge this guy to marry her!


    "Get lost!" She nned to m the door in his face. However, even Alex was drunk, his reflexes were still fast, and as a man, he was really strong.


    He quickly put his foot on the door, stopping to shut it, and his right hand held the doorknob and put force on it.


    "What do you want? If you insist on sleeping here, that would never happen! Go, look for your own room to stay in!"


    "I''m sorry," Alex muttered in his drunken state.


    Kelly, who did not expect this, was shocked for a moment, forgetting her n to close the door. Instead, she was trying to process her head.


    She tried to figure out what he was apologizing for? She was thinking of epting his apology. However, what he said next, her annoyance returned.


    Alex added, "I will pretend that I saw nothing."


    A heavy pnded on his face. Kelly''s eyes shrunk from anger. The guy was still arrogant. She actually felt happy that the guy came to apologize.


    However, the hope he gives onlysts shortly because, in the end, he pisses her off again. And so Kelly mmed the door closed.


    Alex, on the other hand, pursed his lips and smiled bitterly. "I deserve that!"


    He yelled at the door, hoping Kelly would hear him. Although he feels that it''s not totally his fault, he will take responsibility for making her angry.


    *


    "So? Is that all?" Hailee was impatient... She felt that there was more to this! She senses that something happens more than those encounters! But Kelly would not reveal it to her!


    Thetter is still reluctant to share it with Hailee, but she would pester her all day if she didn''t tell her.


    *


    The following day, Kelly nned to avoid Alex, and so she invited Sheena and Deana to go shopping in the central city. Gigi cannot go with them because her assistant and General Manager of Chan Enterprises brought a pile of work for her to sign. Also, she had a series of virtual meetings with her executives. She has been away from S Country for a long time.


    That day, Kelly avoided Alex, but in the evening, she cursed inwardly.


    She just arrived from shopping and was exhausted. She was resting her back and legs on the sofa when she heard the bathroom door open.


    Kelly''s jaw dropped upon seeing Alexe out of the bathroom. He was only wrapped with a bath towel around his waist. Their eyes meet, and she immediately withdraws her gaze after she sees the smile ying on Alex''s lips.


    She was distraught at the moment, but she had no energy quarreling with this man. She could only curse inwardly, as she was too tired from shopping.


    ''This guy thinks my bedroom is his walk-in closet!''


    Kelly realized that Alex''s clothes were now inside the closet. It looks like, when she was away shopping, this guy was in her bedroom, putting his things in the closet!


    Kelly hissed inwardly. ''What are we? Newlyweds sharing a closet now?''


    She wanted to confront the guy, but the bath towel around his waist loosened, and he appeared naked in front of her again!


    Kelly didn''t dare to move on the sofa. Her body froze and pretended to look at the beautiful clouds above the ocean. The sun had just set, and it left beautiful scenery in the sky.


    She struggles not to move her pupils to the corner of her eyes to peek at the naked man in her bedroom. She gritted her teeth when Alex seemed nning on taking his time to put on some clothes!

 Chapter 311 - Alex And Kelly (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 311 - Alex And Kelly (Three)</h4>


    She wasn''t sure what he was searching inside the closet, and he did not put on even his underpants or a boxer yet.


    Later then, Kelly just had a realization.


    Instantly, cold sweat appeared in her hands and her heart pounding loudly. Could it be that he opened the drawers in the closet and found her lingerie?


    All day, Alex was alone in the bedroom, and she could not help having wild thoughts. How if Alex has an undergarments fetish and steals one of her panties?


    Oh, god! She was too careless and left the door unlocked because she had no spare key to the bedroom! Besides, even though she brought a few jewelry pieces worth a million dors in total, the Davies servants were all trusted people. She didn''t worry at all.


    However, the guy thinks he can get in and out of her bedroom anytime he wants and as it pleases him!


    Kelly was in her train of thoughts when her phone rang. Without looking at her phone to check out who was calling, she just pressed the button on the screen.


    "My love!"


    Kelly sat upright upon recognizing the voice on the other line. She brought her phone in front of her face to realize that it was a video call.


    "Papa?"


    "Yes, I am. Why are you surprised?" Mr. Amir Varghese asked his daughter. He wondered why his daughter was shocked when she could read his name on her phone screen. "Are you alright, love?"


    "Ah! I am, papa! It''s just that¡­ I''m a little tired."


    "Tired? Why?"


    "I¡­" Kelly was about to tell her father that she went shopping with Hailee''s sisters-inw. However, she noticed that her father''s eyes suddenly widened, and she looked shocked for a moment.


    Kelly was startled when her father, Mr. Amir Varghese, yelled at her all of a sudden.


    "Kal Varghese!"


    Kelly frowned after her father dropped her Arab name. But she was curious why her father looked in panic for a second.


    "What is it, Papa?" Kelly asked softly. She wondered if she had done something wrong in the past and his father had just remembered.


    "Who''s that naked man in your bedroom!?"


    Kelly sunk her body into the sofa as beads of cold sweat formed on her forehead. How did her father know!?


    There was no way that her father would see Alex with the position of her phone. Perhaps her father learned that Hailey''s European knights were here, and he has wild thoughts that she fools around with one of them! Maybe her father was only guessing.


    Kelly was still struggling to deny her father''s ims.


    "Papa, what are you talking about? I''m alone in the room¡­" she was prepared to lie. However, she was caught red-handed.


    "Then who is that man in the mirror?"


    Kelly bites her bottom lip. She forgot about the massive mirror behind her! Oh, god! How would she exin it to her father? Would he believe Alex is only here to use the bathroom? Her father would not!


    Alex was standing in front of the closet. It was too apparent that he was taking out his clothes, and he actually purposely moved slowly.


    Kelly nced at the guy with contempt. Alex wore jeans now and was pulling out a shirt from the closet, and now she had a better look. To the left side were her dresses, while Alex''s clothes hung on the right side.


    She cursed inwardly. It was evident that they were sharing the room! Now she was at a loss, and it would be useless if she exined it to her father.


    Meanwhile, Alex was about to put the shirt around his head when he felt sharp res shooting at him. He turned his head and met Kelly''s eyes, and the girl quickly withdrew her eyes and shifted her gaze back to her phone screen.


    "Who is that man, Kal? You are not answering me yet."


    Kelly frowned when her father kept dropping her real name. She nced at Alex one more time, and she found him smirking at her.


    She realized Alex could hear the conversation with her dad. Now the guy closes the closet, but he leans on it while staring at her. She rolled her eyes, but then, her father scolded Kelly.


    Mr. Amir thought Kelly rolled her eyes because of his persistence to know who the man she shared a room with was. Kelly felt like she was pushed in the corner where she had no direction to go.


    If she exined her father was mistaken, he would not believe her. But if she made up a story and would not deny it, she was scared that her father would make an impulsive decision.


    And that is to force Alex to marry her!


    Although her family lives in a modern environment, her family is still conservative in many aspects, like sleeping with a man outside wedlock is a no-no, but marriage first.


    Now, what is she going to do? Her father misunderstands her!


    Kelly could feel that her annoyance toward Alex was worsening. This guy is putting her in aplicated situation! She wanted to run toward Hailee and ask her for help. But she learned from the servants that Hailee took a rest early because she was not feeling well.


    She felt helpless. The facial expression of her father darkened each second that had passed.


    Biting her lip, Kelly swallowed the lump in her throat. She still didn''t find any alibi she could use to reason out to her father. She heaved a long sigh, then spoke up.


    "Papa¡­ It was Alex, Hailee''s cousin." Kelly''s voice was nervous. Even so, she squeezed a faint smile.


    Hearing the name, Mr. Amir fell into his own thoughts, racking his head as if the Alexander he knew was the same guy.


    "It''s Prince Alexander Gabril Martini." Kelly worried her father would not remember the guy, so she mentioned his royal highness'' full name.


    Mr. Amir remained silent for a long time. Kelly''s chest tightens from the anticipation she is feeling at the moment. She was worried if her father was thinking about what was on her mind.


    "Kal. You should havee back to Dubai, and let''s talk." Mr. Amir was too serious when saying this. It gives Kelly a shudder in her heart.


    "Papa, I am helping Hailee prepare her wedding¡­."


    Her father didn''t let her reason out. He cut her midway through, and his words were like a bomb explosion to her ears.


    "I want to talk to your boyfriend!"

 Chapter 312 - Alex And Kelly (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 312 - Alex And Kelly (Four)</h4>


    Kelly was unsure whether she would cry or roll outughing because one thing she knew, her father would never listen to her exnation if she reasoned out that Alex was not her boyfriend.


    She grew up in aplicated system, and being caught by your parents with a naked man in your room is a serious matter.


    She was lost. She is naturally snobbish and has a glib tongue. But knowing her father and the culture she grew up with, she is helpless.


    "Papa... I will go home soon." But she has no n to bring Alex at all. She would not exin for now nor deny anything but in person. "Then, let''s talk," she added afterward.


    She knew her father would be angry at her, but there''s nothing to be exaggerated too much. Kelly made up her mind.


    She was about to hang up, but her grandmother Farah and mother Jam Varghese showed up.


    "Is it true that Kelly finally has a boyfriend?" the two women asked excitedly.


    Kelly wanted to shrink from the sofa or disappear in front of the phone. It was distinguishable how her grandmother was too happy with the news.


    Lately, her grandmother has fallen ill, and she is always asking when she would introduce her boyfriend, then get married before she dies.


    Her grandma would reason out that she wanted to see her granddaughter walk down the aisle in a beautiful wedding gown. However, she was too picky when it came to men.


    Her father tried to arrange a few noblemen for her engagement, but she strongly rejected every one. As the only child of the family and pampered by her parents, her father cannot force her into an arranged marriage.


    She would proudly reason out to her father, "I am a self-made millionaire, Pa. I have a beautiful career, and I don''t need these men."


    But now, this situation is a mess! Her family believed entirely that she was in an inappropriate rtionship.


    She knew the reason her father wanted to speak with Alex was to talk about marriage!


    Well, even if her family would not ept her exnation, she will endure the punishment she will receive from her father. Although her father never hurt her, the issue is different.


    Ugh! What kind of situation was she in?


    God... Now she could think of what Hailee shared about how she and Vince got into a fake rtionship thatter became real because Vincent was already in love with her. And Hailey falls in love with themter on.


    How if?


    Oh, geez! Why does she suddenly have this crazy thought in her head?


    She does not like how her heart seems confused, and she was in dazes just thinking about Alex.


    Can it be possible that Alex is attracted to her?


    Kelly was lost in her train of thoughts when she felt a huge silhouette standing next to her. A shock shed her eyes. She wanted to scold Alex foring closer to her, but she could not open her mouth.


    Dammit! Why am I so flustered having him near me?


    However, if she acted arrogantly and rude in front of her family, her father would scold her to behave like a properdy in front of her man.


    Kelly remains ufortable and helpless, as she cannot chase Alex. In front of her parents, she must always put her attitude in check.


    And so, she could only gnash her teeth inwardly. She could not smile at all in front of her grandma as she struggled to hide her irritation.


    All she could do was stay silent while her family was talking to Alex. She red at him, but when she returned her gaze to her phone, she received a warning stare from her father.


    "Hello, Mr. Varghese, Madam, and grandma." Politely, Alex greeted the three people on the other side of the call.


    And once Alex spoke to her family, Kelly''s shoulders sank. The attitude they are giving to Alex is not what she expected, and instead, they were actually very weing.


    "Nice to see you, Prince Alexander."


    Kelly fell on her jaw. Her father had this massive smile on his mouth when he returned a greeting to Alex. She had a bad feeling about it, but her father''s words were filled with formality.


    "I request my daughter to visit us soon. I hope Prince Alexander has spare time to meet us."


    When her father said this, Kelly wanted to dig a hole and hide there forever. She had a bad feeling about this!


    Kelly nced at Alex nervously. She wondered what reply would this guy give to her father. Honestly, she prayed Alex would reject her father''s invitation. However¡­


    "It would be my honor to meet you, sir." Alex agreed. Delight exhibited in his face, and his answer also made Kelly''s family thrilled.


    However, it causes Kelly to panic. Her chest-pounding rapidly almost choked her. She wanted to stop this insanity and yelled at Alex; however, all she could do was let things go to the flow.


    She is straightforward and bad-mouthed to others once a person irritates her. But when her father was around, she could not behave like that; but showed how obedient a daughter she is, who acted as a refineddy.


    Kelly doesn''t want to


    Finally, the call ended. Now it was her chance to confront Alex.


    "You need not go," she said.


    "What? I promised your family to visit them. I don''t want your father to have a bad impression of me." Alex exined.


    "You need not show a good impression on him! You are not my boyfriend, so no need to meet them." Kelly''s voice was stern and firm, making Alex crease his forehead.


    Alex frowned then said. "I have a word, and it would be a bad image of mine if I would not stand on my promise."


    "I just said it to you. Have you not understood it? You have no obligation to visit my family." She has to convince Alex to prevent a moreplex situation for her.


    "Why not? Can''t you see I am willing to help you out?"


    "Help me out?" Now it confused her what Alex''s point was.


    He exined, "Isn''t your father mad at you? Then I''m willing to help you."


    "You don''t understand why he''s angry!" She is losing her patience with this guy!


    If she goes home with Alex, there is only one thing her father would like to happen. He will push a marriage between her and Alex!


    Although it''s Alex''s fault for insisting on sharing a room with her, she could not reason out to her father now this happens.


    And the guy was only smiling at her; even displeasure was written all over her face. She was fuming right now, but the guy seemed to enjoy the show!

 Chapter 313 - Alex And Kelly (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 313 - Alex And Kelly (Five)</h4>


    "You are wrong. I perfectly understand," said Alex, which caused Kelly''s heart to beat fast.


    Kelly stood on her feet and looked straight into Alex''s eyes. She asked, "You said you understand? This is not some kind of joke, Prince Alexander."


    "Absolutely!"


    Kelly scrutinized Alex to reach the depth of his possible thoughts, but she could not guess what he was thinking at this moment.


    The guy stayed calm. His beautiful gray eyes were intense like he was trying to drown her in the way he was staring at her. She makes a great effort to snap herself to get back to her senses.


    Even though she was determined to push Alex away and put a wall between them, she didn''t like how her heart was hopeful a little and contracted to what her head thought of him.


    With thisplicated feeling, Kelly scolded herself.


    "I will repeat. She has no n to entangle her life with him! You are not my boyfriend, and so you are not obliged to see my family!"


    "How if I wanted to meet your family?"


    There is a meaningful smile ying on Alex''s lips that causes Kelly''s heart to flutter.


    "It was your father who invited me. You can''t stop me." Alex added that made her speechless.


    Kelly pursed her lips in frustration. She looks at Alex for several seconds, weighing what best words to say to him. Right now, frustration is growing in her heart.


    ''Dammit! What situation did I get into?'' Kelly thought. She badly wanted to talk to Hailee and ask her for help and advice. But now that she has a husband and has a sensitive pregnancy, she could not just run to Hailee and share her feelings.


    *


    "Why would you think like that?" Hailee pouted. Her voice filled with hurt, and it upset her that Kelly thinks that way.


    But remembering how she also lied to Kelly for almost a year when she was entangled with a Mistress Contract, she has no right to get mad. It was just her mood swing triggered at this moment.


    "Even if I am married and have children, there should be no changes in our friendship, right? We are still the best of friends. Don''t forget, we are also business partners, and our love for each other is better than siblings. Of course, I would love to hear what troubles you, and I would be angry if you seek advice from others over me."


    Hailee''s mouth is twitching as she sulks. Kelly stretched her arms and hugged Hailee. She exined,


    "I''m worried about you; that''s why I choose not to share anything yet. Of course, I n to tell you, but I am looking for a perfect time."


    It made her happy to hear from Hailee that there would be no changes, even if she had a family of her own now.


    "I want to clear my mind and make a better n of how I could exin to my family that Alex is not my boyfriend. Papa seeing him inside my bedroom naked is just an event we both did not expect to happen, either. It was more likely an ident. So, I flew to P Country in secret to avoid Alex."


    And she had more reasons. That is why she was hiding from the guy.


    *


    After that night, her father caught Alex in her bedroom, mistaken as her boyfriend and believing they were already doing those things. The guy is pestering her the following days.


    "Hey, my love¡­."


    Kelly would immediately cover Alex''s mouth and drag him to a corner. "What are you doing? How if someone hears you and they misunderstood!?"


    Looking at her irritated face, Alex could not help contort a smile on the corner of his mouth. He took her hand, covering his mouth, then he would say,


    "I''m only practicing. How would your family believe I am your boyfriend if we are awkward to each other?"


    "Let my hand go." She tried to withdraw her hand, but Alex would only grip on it even tighter.


    "As I''ve said, we should practice being intimate with each other."


    Kelly gasped when Alex''s warm breathnded on her neck, and she quickly bit her lower lip. And to cover her embarrassment, she lifted her other hand to push him away. But Alex is quick to reach for her waist, then clutches his palm into her hips, pulling her closer to him.


    "Let me go¡­." Shot! She hated how she would only stutter her words every time she was inside his arms.


    She hated herself for only behaving flustered in front of Alex. Her glib tongue only retreated, and this gave her a feeling of being not herself.


    If Pitt would act like this in the past, she would already kick between his legs and give him a heavy punch. But when ites to Alex, she is in a daze and has conflicted feelings.


    Kelly''s train of thoughts interrupted when Alex spoke up. She pulled herself back to her senses, and then she realized Alex''s face was too close to her.


    "What are you doing?" Again, she only stammered her words!


    Alex replied, "How many times I would say that we need to practice." There were sparks in his eyes, and his mouth parted with a yful smile when he had said this.


    And before Kelly could retort, Alex already covered her lips and kissed her. Having a taste of his mouth froze her for a long moment.


    Of course, this is her first kiss! She was stubborn and snobbish to men; typically, no one had the interest to court her. And she had no interest in entertaining them either.


    Alex''s mouth is too hot on top of hers. She did not respond, as she didn''t know what to do first. However, Alex didn''t give up and was possessive about kissing her. She felt like he was encouraging her to imitate how his mouth moved on top of hers.


    Of course, like what he said, they need to practice.


    Wait¡­


    This isn''t right! They don''t need to kiss in front of her family! So they need not practice! This guy is just making excuses and seizing the opportunity that he can kiss her!


    *


    Kelly shook her head upon recalling everything that happened in these passing days. She chooses not to tell Hailee about it, but she carefully shares what is only necessary to share.


    "Hey,dies! Fresh juices and freshly baked blueberry pie." Alex showed up in the greenhouse carrying a tray of snacks.


    "Oh, my gosh! My favorite blueberry pie!" Hailee immediately drools, looking at the pie, and she could not wait to have a taste of it.


    "Don''t tell me, you are the one who baked that?" asked Kelly with curiosity. She wondered if this prince had spare time to step into the pce kitchen.


    "Of course! This is a family recipe!" Alex was very proud when he said this.


    Kelly had doubts at first, but as she sees, Alex is actually not that timid prince, the reports say. Honestly, she looks forward to discovering more interesting traits he had.


    "Here¡­" Alex sliced the blueberry pie. He serves one slice for Kelly and three pieces for Hailee. "Each one for the babies."


    Alex was staring at her when he said that. She rolled her eyes, mumbling in her head.


    ''Like we''ve done it already.''

 Chapter 314 - Alex And Kelly (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 314 - Alex And Kelly (Six)</h4>


    Hailee was happy to see that Kelly gave Alex a chance to court her, and the two of them became familiar with each other.


    Alex is serious about courting Kelly. He already liked Kelly even before, but he had no courage to flirt with her because of how snobbish she is to men. He recently found a great opportunity, and he didn''t waste his chances to persuade Kelly.


    When she suddenly disappeared in Australia, he followed her to Metro City after Pitt''s help¡ªwho knew where she went.


    Pitt also learned from Hansen. He noticed Kelly in the background one time he had a video call with Janise.


    He immediately asked Vincent for help.


    *


    Alexander''s POV


    Metro City International Airport


    "Prince Alex! Rodney Lopez," he extended his arm, which Alex quickly epted for a handshake and said¡­


    "Thank you for picking me up," he thanked Rodney and apologized after. "I''m sorry for troubling you."


    Rodney replied, "Nah. Don''t mention it. We are actually honored with your visitation. Come on. I''ll drive you to the Shen Mansion. Whatever you need, just contact me or ask the Shen butler. Vincent had already given instruction."


    "I''m grateful to my cousin-inw," Alex muttered while he was climbing into Rodney''s ck Range Rover''s passenger seat.


    "Of course. Vincent is always helping his family," Rodney replied. He started the car and followed the traffic flow out of the airport premises.


    His mind was drawn to the past situations when the Lopez businesses faced a problem several times, and the first man to act was Vincent. When he bes Shen Group''s CEO, he will use his position and influence to control the damages and issues.


    In their n, they value the importance of family, and so, all cousins were always helping each other.


    After Alex heard Rodney''s statement, he pursed a smile and retorted, "Yeah. We are family now, and I am happy Hailee found such a man..."


    Alex would like to say something, but he chooses not to voice out what is in his mind but to keep it to himself because it is about Bryan.


    Although Bryan extremely pampered Hailee and spoiled her by always giving in to her capriciousness, he opposed marrying Bryan.


    When Hailee and Bryan broke off their engagement, he was happy because he believed someone deserved to marry Hailee. Even he loves Hailee very much. But Hailee does not love him.


    Then, Vincent Shen came into the picture. Instantly, he could tell that Hailee was in love with the guy, and Vincent genuinely loved his cousin. For him, that is most important, and they love each other.


    In the following seconds, Alex set aside his thoughts but paid attention to the city. He listens to Rodney''s boast, and the guy is pointing to the skyscrapers they''d passed Vincent''s projects these passing years.


    Alex understands Rodney wants him to impress Vincent, which is unnecessary because he already likes the guy.


    When they arrive at the mansion, it''s alreadyte at night.


    "Good evening, Prince Alexander. My name is Roberto, the butler of the Shen family, and I''ll be serving his highness."


    Alex smiled at Roberto and said, "You need not be too polite to me. Prince Alex is fine, and you need not address me as his highness."


    Roberto opens his mouth to say something, but he is a little hesitant if it is appropriate to say it. But this matter is killing him. So when he gathered enough courage, the old butler exined,


    "My apologies, his highness, if I be excited. My family has been serving the Shen even before they escaped China and sailed toward the south seas. But since the Shu family and Xing princess''s family and thest Xing crowned prince arrived in P Country, my ancestor has to stop calling the family his highness and majesty. To look back, I was sad as I envied my ancestor. Living in a new identity, my forefathers had to stop addressing the royal family as his highness and his majesty."


    Alex could see Roberto''s point. "Alright. You can address me whatever you wish."


    Butler Roberto was thrilled. In the past, he can address the two misses as princesses, but Vincent is different. As he is growing more mature than his age, he doesn''t want to be called ''prince,'' especially when they are outside.


    It was the time when he was in sixth grade. His ssmates heard Butler Roberto calling him Prince Vincent. Since then, he would tease in the ssroom as his highness. And so on, Vincent warns him not to address him as a prince.


    "Thank you, your highness. Please, follow me; the miss you are looking for has now retired to their rooms on the second floor."


    When they arrived on the third floor, Butler Roberto saw that the two maids that stand outside the Girl''s Room were pressing their ears on the door.


    "Ahem!"


    The two maids shiver when they hear someone cough behind them. The two maids'' faces immediately turned pale as they were caught eavesdropping. Well, they were listening because they were intrigued by what the girls inside had been gossiping about.


    "Knocked on the door and informed Miss Kelly that¡­." Midway, Butler Roberto was intercepted by Alex.


    "No need. Let me knock myself. If you announce my presence, that girl would only hide and lock the door." In these passing days, he was bugging Kelly, and he learned more cute behavior than Kelly had.


    "Then, I will take our leave." Butler Roberto bowed, then called the two maids toe with him. Being dismissed from their post, the maids knew the butler was going to lecture them.


    Now that the butler and the two maids left, Rodney bid good night at Alex. "I''m staying in the mansion. If you need anything, Carl and I are here to apany you."


    Alex understood. Rodney is inviting him for a drink, but he needs to talk to Kelly first. The woman is hiding from him, and he ns to punish this girl.


    Meanwhile, inside the huge bedroom, Kelly was chatting with Hazel, Liza, and Nadia. The former asked many questions regarding Hailee''s stay in Metro City, then how she and Vincent were in the rtionship.


    The three girls were very enthusiastic about telling the love story they''ve witnessed in these passing months. As their voices are loud, even the maids could hear them outside.


    Later on, they heard a knock on the door. They thought it was the maid, so they paid little attention but waited for them to enter the room.


    However, the moment they saw the man step into the room, Kelly screamed and then hid under her nket.


    On the other hand, the three girls were shocked to recognize him. They wish to scream because of excitement. Their eyes twinkled with delight to meet this handsome prince in person.


    In the past, they were daydreaming while looking at Prince Alexander''s photo on social media. But as they remembered that, the three girls blushed. They had just realized that those times they were praising and dreaming of meeting this prince in front of Hailee is actually embarrassing.


    They wonder what Hailee thinks of that time. Now they had no face to show to her after they openly drool over her cousin many times!


    "Hi!" Alex initiates to greet the three girls when they remain in a trance while staring at him. He used to be stared this way. But being gazed at dreamily by these three girls, he found it cute.


    Vincent told him that Hailee''s ssmates stayed in the mansion to help Janise work on the wedding dress. Then, the three teenagers Hailee got in close to are these girls.


    "My name is Alexander Martini, Hailee''s cousin." He didn''t include the ''prince'' to introduce himself, and he wanted these girls to not feel shy around him. But the girls'' response made him chuckle.


    "We know who you are!" the three girls said at once, eyes twinkling with delight.


    Alex said, "Nice to meet you, Hazel, Liza, and Nadia?"


    Alex was actually looking at the girl when he mentioned their names. They could not believe that their dream boy knew their names.


    "Well, can I talk to Kelly?" Alex was itchy to be alone with the girl. However, he doesn''t want to sound rude to these teenagers, so he hopes they can read the atmosphere.


    "Of course! We will stay at sister Janise''s bedroom tonight!"


    Janise was staying in the room where she made the dress because most of the time, she just stopped embroidering on the upper dress with real gems when it was past midnight. The room was too spacious and had two beds, and there would be no problem if the girls stayed there, too.


    "Good night, Prince Alex!"


    Alex had a big smile when he nodded at the three girls, who ran fast to the door and then disappeared. But before they could get farther, he heard them squeal and giggled.


    He shook his head and chuckled. He was satisfied that Hailee had cute friends here in P Country, and he was happy she found good friends. No wonder she didn''t feel bored but enjoying her stay in the country.


    ''Now it''s confrontation time...'' thought Alex.

 Chapter 315 - Alex And Kelly (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 315 - Alex And Kelly (Seven)</h4>


    Alex walked toward the bed opposite Kelly and sat down.


    On the other hand, Kelly''s heart beat so fast after the girls left to give them privacy. She wanted to escape from here, but Alex quickly blocked the door.


    Now she wondered what the guy would do now that they were alone. On the one hand, she''s thinking how he found out she was here in Metro City and not in Sydney because it was what excuse she told everyone.


    "Ahem. You can hide under your quilt all night but not forever." Alex said afterward. His lips curled into a smile.


    Kelly gritted her teeth upon hearing the guy quoted that. Later, she pushed the nket down to her neck and peeked at the guy who was now sitting on the bed across from her.


    "What are you doing here?" she asked. On her face, she is disying displeasure.


    "Do you think you can escape from me?" Alex returned a question instead of replying. His tone is a bit like ridicule, on the one hand, amused.


    Kelly red at Alex. She twitched her mouth, then roared at him. "It''s like I owe you some money!"


    Alex looked at Kelly with a bit of intent, and he remained silent and did not retort. But because of his silence, this actually upset Kelly. The girl pouted her lips in annoyance.


    This is what she hated about Alex, and he would choose to keep silent instead of voicing his thoughts.


    The truth is, Alex is familiar with Kelly''s attitude, and he knows her mouth, so he chooses not to speak a lot.


    Besides, as his upbringing was to speak appropriately, follow etiquette, act elegantly, and talk, it became his habit not to speak and choose the words that woulde out in his mouth.


    That is why, even though many things he wanted to say to Kelly, he kept quiet as he didn''t want to argue with her.


    As for Kelly, she was extremely irritated by his silence. When she roared at him, he would instantly shut his mouth. If the guy is Pitt, she was now in a race of higher pitch andpeting who threw a thousand ridiculous words at each other.


    Indeed, she prefers arguments as she can read between words what the guy is up to. But Alex¡­. He is too timid andzy!


    "Have youe just to stare at me?" She may have sneered at him. But deep down in her heart, she was hoping the guy would take the hint that she wished for him to speak up about what was on his mind.


    But another minute was only wasted, and Kelly grew bored. She cannot settle her mind, and her heart argues against her head¡­


    Yes. She was quarreling with her inner self, as she thought that what if this is the kind of husband she has? It made her wonder what progress she would get?


    Can this guy even know how to read her mood? How if she was angry and wanted to be coaxed? It seemed like a lonely marriage!


    Kelly doesn''t like how her head starts running wild. She bit her bottom lip with a thought, ''Am I developing a feeling with Alex?'' The way her heart flutters is she hoping that Alex likes her too.


    But¡­. Ah! Why is she thinking of these things?


    Kelly was engrossed in her own world; she didn''t notice that Alex had already moved to her bed and was now seated close to her.


    "What are you doing?" She tightened her grasp on the nket.


    Alex noticed her action. He smiled but said nothing. Again, she was upset and sneered inside her heart. Indeed, there is a reason she felt frustrated.


    But she denied these feelings because she wasn''t sure if Alex was sincere. Also, it was because this rtionship is fake.


    He only said that he would help her by pretending he was her boyfriend. True, after he said that, he started making advances in the form of annoying her, then he reasons out they needed to practice.


    And she hated herself because she didn''t want it to be just a pretense. Yes. She would admit to herself now. She wants an actual rtionship, and her mind and heart are messing up because of this thought.


    "I missed you." All of a sudden, said Alex.


    Kelly was stunned when she heard that. She isn''t sure she heard it correctly, or maybe her ears are ying tricks on her.


    "What did you say?" she stuttered, and she scolded herself.


    "I said I missed you."


    ''That''s all?'' Kelly thought, and she was even more frustrated because she wanted to smack her own self for wishing the impossible, Alex''s confession.


    She clears her throat, then asks after a long silence. "Why would you miss me? You are only my fake boyfriend."


    But when she said that, a big lump stuck in her throat. She coughs to hide her irritation.


    Alex gaped at Kelly. After he was satisfied, he depended on himself. "You can continue to think of me as your fake boyfriend, but as for me, you are my real girlfriend."


    Kelly gritted her teeth. It''s not because she was angry, but because she wanted to smack the guy with a happy heart. However, she maintains a poker face to hide her true feelings.


    "You were just forced to feel that way because you pitied me."


    During the video call. Her grandma told Alex that she wished to see her granddaughter walking down the aisle before she died.


    Then, Alex replied to her grandma, "I''m only waiting for Kelly to agree, grandma."


    Alex''s answer put her under great tension, giving her a severe headache. With that, she was in a difficult situation as she would have a hard time exining to her father he had only mistaken Alex as her boyfriend, but the truth is, they had nothing to do with each other.


    But now, Alex is saying she is his real girlfriend? That causes her heart to keep fluttering.


    "Get up," said Alex, which rmed Kelly for a second, then she frowned afterward.


    "I want to sleep now. I have to visit the store tomorrow." After she said that, she pulled the nket and covered her head, then she freaked out when Alex pulled it open and slid inside. "What are you doing?"


    Alex chuckled, looking at her wide eyes that obviously, she feared he would do something to her.


    "You want to sleep? Then let''s sleep," he said in a soft voice.


    "What are you..."


    Before Kelly could finish her words, he ced two fingers above her lips and uttered, "Don''t worry. I just wanted to lie next to you, and I won''t touch you until we get married."


    "What did you say?" She thinks her ears were ying with her, and she heard weird words from Alex''s mouth.


    Alexughed softly. Then he exined, "I know your tradition. So I will respect that."


    Kelly has rendered speechless. She understood what Alex meant, and her cheeks instantly blushed¡ªwhat Alex had said made her happy. However, she didn''t want to hope much. And so she blurts out.


    "What I am asking is, are you really serious about pretending to be my fake husband?" Yeah, not a boyfriend anymore. We are leveling up!


    However, instead of an answer, she would receive, Alex knocked her head.


    "Fake husband? Where can you find someone as handsome as me just to be your fake husband?"


    She sensed the hurt in Alex''s voice that made her feel guilty. This time, her voice softened.


    "But you don''t like me..." she bit her lower lip after she said that. The words she stutters cause heartache in her chest.


    "Yeah. I don''t like you," said Alex.


    The little hope she was trying to hold on to now vanished. With a heavy heart, she turns around not to see Alex''s face but the guy''s hand grasping her waist, pulling her closer.


    Then, she heard Alex carried on¡­


    "Having a crush on someone for so long¡­ You wouldn''t notice that it develops for love."


    Kelly blinks her eyes. Again, she wondered if what she heard was correct. Why are her ears so yful tonight?!


    She breathed inwardly, then pursed her lips. "What are you saying? Who is your crush?" she asked.


    Kelly lifted her gaze to meet Alex''s eyes. The way he was looking at her, she felt like her heart melted, and it was tender and sincere.


    "I love you, Kal¡­."

 Chapter 316 - Dining Together

    <h4>Chapter 316 - Dining Together</h4>


    Hailee was in a good mood. She was delighted to see Alex and Kelly getting along well and had a mutual understanding.


    Kelly confessed how afraid she is as Alex was her first boyfriend, and she thinks he will be herst man.


    Hailee understood what Kelly''s concern was. She felt simr feelings from the past. She also had no boyfriend before, but only a fiance because she isfortable with Bryan around.


    That is why, when she develops a feeling for Vincent, she gets scared at first. This feeling is new to her, and when their fake rtionship bes real, she is worried it willpromise because of the secret she hides from him.


    But in Kelly''s case, she is afraid that Alex would be disappointed in her because of her stubbornness and glib tongue.


    Most of the time, she could not control her temperament but argued even over small things.


    When Kelly mentioned this, Hailee was happy. It only means that she cared about this rtionship, and she wanted to progress it well.


    With this, she believes that Kelly truly had sincere feelings for Alex, which her cousin was obvious how in love he was with her best friend.


    The two were actually a match. Alex is a mature man and has a good understanding of Kelly''s attitude. And as for her best friend, she could see Kelly was trying to behave in front of Alex.


    It only means Kelly is ready to change herself to have a good rtionship with Alex.


    After their talk in the morning, Kelly and Gigi left to have a board meeting at DV Inc. Asia HQ.


    Feeling so lonely that she was left alone, Hailee made a n to sneak in on the third floor, where Janise tailored her wedding gown.


    Hailee is slowly climbing the stairs to the third floor of the mansion. However, she was only disappointed to see the butler standing on the railings.


    Also, two bodyguards lounging on the sofa. Obviously, they were guarding the hallway toward the right-wing of the mansion.


    "Young madam, do you need anything?" Butler Roberto queried right away the moment he saw Hailee. Although his job is to prevent her from seeing her wedding dress, the butler won''t dare to embarrass the young madam.


    Hailee smiled nervously. She answered, "I just wonder if I can see Janise¡­." She didn''t finish her words, as she was certain that the butler understood what she meant.


    Butler Roberto bowed and said, "I''m sorry, young madam. Miss Lopez instructed you are not allowed to see your wedding gown until its final touch."


    Hailee dropped her shoulders to her sides. She was getting bored staying in the mansion as she could do nothing. She wanted to go to thepany or visit the store, but she could not do that freely anymore.


    Reporters from different media tforms and paparazzi would chase her for interviews. It''s not good for her to stress herself in dealing with them.


    She heaves a sad sigh. Everyone left for work, and Vincent was having left and right meetings. The girls were at the university untilter in the afternoon.


    Pitt meets Keith for a board meeting at Cole Holdings, Inc. while Alex and Tom apany their girlfriends.


    And her inws, Sheena and Deana, helped to organize the uing grand party for their mom. Although everything was taken care of already, Hilda wanted it to be perfect.


    The celebration will be held at the Grand Pce hotel. All the Lopez family from provinces and different cities wille, including those living in other countries like the US and Europe,ing home to attend Hilda''s birthday party. Even the Shen who settled back to China will also be there to wee Hailee into the family.


    Everyone was busy except her.


    Hailee turned back and headed to the study after she was rejected to see Janise. As nothing she could do, she browsed her phone to see the news and updates of those she followed on Instagram.


    After a few minutes, a broad smile appeared on her lips. The fresh gossip that was published on the news sites was about Alex and Kelly.


    Paparazzi got an excellent shot of the new couple walking in the mall, holding hands. Theizens were ecstatic to see them together.


    Kelly, as co-founder of DV Gem, was looked up to by young girls. Her goddess skills in jewelry designing were recognized by aristocrats and billionaires all over the world.


    The DV Gem''s sess was because of Kelly''s contribution as the chief designer of thepany. All of their craftsmen and designers were hired by her.


    And with her sess, she got many suitors. However, as Kelly was snobbish and stubborn, secretly, they retreated.


    Kelly was a demure finedy and obedient daughter in front of her father, but behind his back, she would sneer and insult these men in front of their faces.


    Hailee searched the inte and read all the articles about her best friend and cousin the entire morning. She was satisfied with what they''ve written, and it improved her mood.


    The people from Fen Country warmly wee Kelly as their future king''s girlfriend. In fact, many express their delights and praises that Kelly is perfect to be the future Queen of Fen Country.


    Everyone keepsmenting that Alex and Kelly are match-made in heaven, and this really pleases her.


    "Hmm¡­ I wonder what made my wife happy aside from seeing my handsome face?"


    Hailee didn''t notice that Vincent had entered his study room, and she quickly threw her arms around his neck and kissed him.


    "Hubby, I''m so bored here," she purred after the passionate kiss they shared.


    The corner of his mouth pulled into a smile upon hearing herin. She is a woman who is used to moving around, and as she was restrained not to work too much, her system was itchy to do something.


    Vincent lifted his right arm and brushed her cheek, then said, "There''s a lot of reporters and paparazzi who wish to ambush you for an interview."


    Hailee knew about this. It was reported that countless reporters were standing by at the gate of Metro Real Estate Vige.


    "Then, you are having a hard time entering the vige?" she pitied Vince. She could imagine the scene in her head when reporters storm his car.


    "It won''t stop me froming home to have lunch together," Vince said lovingly.


    Hearing this, Hailee''s mood is a lot better now. She knew Vince still had countless meetings today, so she restrained herself from furtherining that she was too bored doing nothing.


    She guessed Vince feels her boredom, so she must be grateful that he put aside his work to apany her for lunch.


    After the butler informed them that the table was ready, Vincent brought her to the dining area. While eating, she could not help to sweep her eyes to the long table.


    In the past, after her grandmother died, and the boys were in college and her father even busy in theirpany, she was so lonely eating alone at their grand dining table.


    It was then the reason she constantly pesters the boys to go somewhere just to have a meal. She wantspany, and eating in a restaurant with many strangers surrounding her table actually made her happy.


    And at present, she was so touched that Vincent came home to have lunch together.


    She was actually too jealous that her friends here in Metro City were having lunch at La Fleur Restaurant. Pitt picked up the girls at the university, and the three heartless teenagers posted many pictures on their Instagram. They had no idea how itchy she was to join them.


    She wanted to go, but she knew it was not wise when the media watched them, and these reporters and paparazzi would tail them everywhere.


    Anyway, having Vincent by her side, everything is perfect already. Soon, she and Vince would not be alone sitting at their long table.


    There will be three cute angels who will brighten their dining hall with theirughter.


    In the near future, she will be dining together with her very own family.


    Thinking about that, she could not wait for that day toe....

 Chapter 317 - Birthday Gifts

    <h4>Chapter 317 - Birthday Gifts</h4>


    Now that the Metro Estate Vige is crowded with reporters, Mayor Lopez sent a team to help the residents get in and get out without trouble.


    Having the reporters day and night guarding the gate, they also interviewed the other residents who were willing to answer their questions.


    But since Gigi Chan, Kelly Varghese, and Prince Alex stay in the Shen Mansion, the Lopez family has to protect them who have to leave the mansion every day for work.


    As Madam Hilda Shen''s birthday is just a week away, gifts are being sent every day. The tea room has now filled half of its space.


    "Madam Shen, another gift was delivered," the butler informed Hilda.


    Roberto is holding a giant box. He put it down on the table, got a cutter to open the package.


    "Who is the sender, butler Roberto?" Sheena asked excitedly.


    "From Janelle, young miss."


    Sheena covered her mouth. Janelle is the top brand of bags in the world. The most expensive bags they made are worth millions of dors.


    After the sisters heard Roberto, they came over to the table.


    "Mom! You are so lucky! Everyone is sending you all these gifts!" Sheena feels thrilled for her mom.


    "I wondered how much the bag cost!" Deana echoed.


    Robert took out arge white box and ced it on the table. Didn''t waste another second; the sister unboxed the gift.


    Deana, who opened the box, and Sheena filmed everything. She is actually nervous because it has been many years since thest time she was in the limelight. Lately, she started a YouTube channel, and now she has gained a lot of subscribers.


    After getting pregnant early, she hid from the world to avoid the issue.


    "Hi, guys! Young Miss is here! Check it out! JANELLE sent mom a gift! We are unboxing it now. I''m pretty nervous! I mean, I am a fan of this brand. All of their bags are awesome! And the price¡­ You guys know what I mean. So,e on and join us!"


    Sheena was currently on live streaming. Her subscribers stormed thements with messages, and most were praises. Like her, they were excited to find out what kind of bag JANELLE would give to Madam Hilda Shen as a birthday present.


    "Oh, my gosh! Mom, this is lovely!" Deana couldn''t help but burst out in excitement. She took out the bag and showed it to their mom, who was currently having tea.


    "Mom, the bag is named after you!" Sheena eximed after she read what was written on the card.


    "Dear Madam Shen, please ept this small gift from us¡­."


    Sheena read the rest of the card, which contains birthday wishes. And in thest paragraph, it says like this,


    "We are delighted to dedicate ourtest collection after your name¡­." Sheena continued then, finished reading the card. After that, she focuses the camera on her face.


    "This is awesome! This bag hasn''t been on the market yet! So I don''t know how much it is!"


    Sheena''sment section flooded with messages from her subscribers. They started guessing the price. Then onement made everyone ecstatic. Most of them sighed with envy, as they could never afford it.


    "The price of that bag once it goes to market would be more or less two million US dors. No confirmation yet, but the cost would y around that."


    "OMG! That''s insane!"


    "What the hell of a price!"


    Then morements follow. Sheena continued her live streaming when Roberto announced.


    "Ahem. Second young Miss Sheena, there are another two boxes here. One address for you, and the other is for the first young Miss Deana."


    "What? For us?" the sisters said at once, shocked. They lowered their gazes to the boxes Roberto ced in front of them. Indeed, it was a dress for them.


    Excitedly, the sisters opened the box, and the bags they found inside were thetest collection JANELLE releases this month.


    Sheena and Deana look at each other. They knew the prices of these bags. They aren''t a million dors, but the prices are at least five hundred thousand US dors.


    Still, that was a fortune. And they were fortunate to receive them for free! Their family could afford it, but it is different from being given as a gift!


    These are the privileges of being Hailee Davies'' inws!


    "My gosh! I would love to take this when I go to thepany! Soon, I''ll be managing my brother''s yacht business and his several apartments and rental skyscrapers across P Country! And this is perfect! Thank you, JANELLE!"


    After Sheena''s live streaming of unboxing?JANELLE''s birthday gift for Madam Hilda, the news spread like wildfire.


    Those other giant leading brands that also prepared a gift for Hilda were encouraged to send gifts to the two Shen princesses.


    Evening the following day¡­


    "Madam Shen, Jeremy Blocks sent a representative to give you a gift personally."


    Sheena and Deana look at each other. The moment they heard this brand name, only one thing registered in their heads. Jeremy Blocks are known for producing stilettos with genuine gemstone on them.


    "Alright."


    Butler Roberto left the Tearoom to get to the representative waiting at the mansion''s entrance hall. The guy stood on his feet the moment he saw the butlere back.


    "Please, follow me, sir. This way¡­"


    Soon, the representative entered the Tearoom and greeted Madam Shen and her two daughters. Not wasting his mission, he immediately ced a huge box in front of Madam Shen and showed the shoes inside.


    As what the sisters had guessed, it was indeed a stiletto with a diamond on the straps.


    "We hope that Madam Shen likes our gift to wear to her grand birthday party," said the representative humbly.


    Sheena, who was too itchy to check every detail of the shoes, remarked in her head. ''Who else would not like it? The shoes were stunning!''


    Hilda fit out the pair of color gold stilettos, and it was perfectly her size, as well. It feltfortable on her feet. After trying it out, she lifted her gaze at the representative and said,


    "Of course. It was lovely. I like it very much. I would definitely wear it during my special day." Madam Hilda nodded elegantly at the representative, who was named Mr. Clifford. "Butler Roberto, please serve some tea for our guest."


    Butler Roberto bowed, then walked toward the pastry inside the Tearoom door. Meanwhile, Hilda returned her gaze to Mr. Clifford, then smiled.


    She said, "Please, send my utmost gratitude to Mr. Jeremy Blocks. I never expected to receive a special present from the top shoe brand."


    "It was our honor, Madam Shen," Mr. Clifford retorted politely.


    "Please, take a seat, Mr. Clifford, and have tea with us." Afterward, Hilda offered the empty couch on her left side.


    "Thank you for your warm amodation, Madam Shen. But before I forget, I also have something for Miss Sheena and Miss Deana."


    Mr. Clifford ced two boxes in front of the sisters. Deana and Sheena were surprised. That is why it pleased them to receive a gift as well.


    "Oh, my gosh! Can you see it, guys?" Sheena, who also filmed this encounter, couldn''t hide her surprise. "This is too cute!"


    The theme on her mom''s birthday is the color of gold and yellow gold evening gowns. The Jeremy Blocks shoes she received is an emerald green shoe with gold clip peacocks.


    ''It was too pretty!'' Sheena thought happily.


    On the other hand, Deana received a ck stiletto with gemstone detail on its straps. Pleased with their gifts, both sisters thank Mr. Clifford.


    In the past few days, more gifts have been sent for Madam Hilda and her daughters. It is obvious that this is because of Hailee''s influence.


    Hilda is a long customer of these famous brands; however, it was different now that she became the mother-inw of Hailee Davies. The girl who is a dream of every mother to marry their tycoon son.


    "Mom, look at Sheena''s YT subscribers! It was a million just in a day!"


    Hilda looked at Deana, then lowered her gaze to theptop on the table. Sheena dreamed of bing a professional model and influencer. But because of what happened, she left the industry too early.


    And now that she gathered her courage to go back to what she loves to do, the people epted her.


    Their family has always been staying away from the limelight, so everyone is curious about what kind of daily life they have been through every day.


    One evening, Sheena finally epts these requests. She began filming even a simple routine the moment she woke up in the morning. Now that her husband and three kids had arrived, she happily introduced them to the world.


    "Second Young Miss, please ambush Miss Hailee and your brother! Grant us a special content of the princess'' presence!"


    "Yes, Second Young Miss Sheena! We love to have a sneak peek at them!"


    One subscriber boldly started asking for this request. Now, with the request, they flooded Sheena''s channel.


    After she talked to Hailee, her sister-inw agreed. They will ambush her brother in the evening.


    Holding her camera, Sheena heaves a long sigh, then smiles.


    She whispered, "Alright, guys. I am now standing outside of my brother''s bedroom door.. He arrived from thepany thirty minutes ago, so I am going inside to ambush what he is up to now. Let''s go!"

 Chapter 318 - Live Stream

    <h4>Chapter 318 - Live Stream</h4>


    Pushing the door open, Sheena slowly walks inside the bedroom. She already notified Hailee she wasing in, and she received a reply that they were at the walk-in closet.


    Sheena was careful not to make a noise. She takes off her shoes and walks barefooted toward the room.


    As she is getting closer to the door, she can hear the sound of a hairdryer. Sheena covers her mouth from shock. She couldn''t believe what she was seeing. Is this her brother?


    While they were anticipating the live stream, Sheena''s viewers were astounded at what they''ve witnessed.


    "Oh, my gosh! Mr. Shen is so sweet!"


    "Ah! What a perfect husband!"


    "God! My husband never did this to me! Huhuhu¡­."


    "I was so envious! Would you please tell me if Mr. Shen has a brother?"


    "Sorry, sis! Mr. Shen is the only son! And a guy like him is extinct already!"


    Comments from women filled Sheena''s live stream.


    The moment Sheena took a peek inside the closet, they found Princess Hailee satfortably on an ent chair in front of the dresser, busying herself typing on her phone while the lucky Mr. Shen held a hairdryer in his right hand and a brush in his left hand.


    Studying Vincent''s movement, they could tell that he didn''t do it for the first time. He looks very skillful at drying his wife''s long hair.


    The entire female viewers went wild, looking at him immersed in what he was doing. As Sheena zoomed in the camera to her brother''s face, they could see clearly the tender look in his eyes.


    Meanwhile, as he trained himself to be vignt ever since he was a teenager, it was easy for Vincent to sense that they were not alone in the bedroom.


    He raised his head and then looked at the walk-in closet door. After he catches who is spying on them, Vincent frowns at his sister and interrogates her. "What are you doing? Why are you holding a camera?"


    He had a bad feeling about it, and he could already guess what was going on. Lately, Sheena opened her YT Channel, and he heard she was doing well and gaining many subscribers every day.


    Sheena''s fans and followers from the past instantly search for all of her social media ounts for them to follow her once again and show their support.


    ''Could it be that she is filming them for hertest content?'' Vincent thought; he was waiting for an exnation his younger sister would provide him.


    And now that she was found, Sheena could only disy a sweet smile on her lips.


    "Hello, brother! Just continue what you are doing! Just think that I wasn''t here." She waved her hand in the air.


    "You didn''t ask my permission." Vincent tries not to get mad nor speak coldly to Sheena, even though he doesn''t like that she barges into their bedroom without knocking.


    Seeing the indifference in her brother''s facial expression, Sheena got worried. Maybe this is a bad idea. But that''s why it was called an "ambush"!


    And so, she froze on her feet, smiling awkwardly at her brother. She needed help! So she nced at Hailee with pleading eyes.


    Hailee could see the pitiful look on Sheena''s face through the mirror on the dresser. She turned her head toward the camera and smiled brightly.


    "Hello, everyone!" She lifted her left hand and waved in front of the camera.


    The viewers became ted when the princess greeted them.


    "Oh, my gosh! Miss Hailee is so pretty!"


    "Thank you for blessing us with your presence, our Queen!"


    "Look at her dresser! Those skincare products! I am so dying to buy them! So, I am saving up a lot now!"


    "Those are Miss Hailee''s skincare products! I wish I could afford it!"


    While everyone was immersed inmenting and replying to other''sments, Hailee looked up at Vincent with a sweet smile on her lips.


    "Hubby, do my hair into a bun," she requested afterward.


    Vincent nodded. Immediately, he put down the hairdryer andbed Hailee''s hair, then gathered all the strands on his palm. He reached for an stic band, tied Hailee''s hair, and followed the steps he learned from YT.


    It was only a simple bun, and with a few tricks by Hailee, not it looks perfect. And the viewers went wild once again.


    "Am I seeing right? They are giving us too much dog food!"


    "I can''t believe this! I know no CEO who has done this to someone''s hair!"


    "I know, right?"


    "I want someone like Mr. Shen who knows how to do my hair! Now the husband material in my mind has changed!"


    Sheena''sment section was flooded further. The number of viewers andments has skyrocketed in just a few minutes of her live streaming.


    As the girls whined, the male audience busied themselves to reply to singledies''ments.


    "Come on, girls! I can be Mr. Shen as well! I am willing to be my wife''s servant." And thisment was followed more.


    "Should I consider kicking out my husband?"


    "How about I change my husband?"


    Out of the blue, The Wives Club formed in Sheena''s Channel, discussing their husbands''. Hailee shared a look with Sheena, and both giggled inwardly.


    Meanwhile, Vincent wanted to protest and scolded his sister. Sheena knew how he hated being in the spotlight; however, he could not embarrass her. Also, it would have a bad impact on Hailee if he acted like a killjoy. And so Vincent kept silent and watched the girls interacting with the viewers.


    Hailee, who is already known for Vincent''s temperament, faces the camera and broadens her smile.


    She was wearing a pink bathrobe, sitting on the ent chair, crossing her legs, showing how her skin illuminated under the lighting.


    "Hello, guys! How is everyone? My name is Hailee Davies. I am honored to be a guest today. Before anything else, don''t forget to click SUBSCRIBE on the button below!"


    Hailee sweetened her smile and made sure to look charming in front of the camera. Vincent sees how she behaves, and he wants to frown, but he can only ster a solemn facial expression while watching Hailee interact with the viewers.


    "Well, the purpose of this episode is to ambush Mr. Shen, as many of you requested to have a peek at our daily routine."


    Hailee nced at Vincent, then winked. The guy was caught off guard by what she did. His wife is acting cute at him like she is seducing him to kiss her.


    After Hailee looked at Vincent, she continued speaking in front of the camera.


    "And what did you see just now¡­" she paused, then turned her head to the left to show her hair that was styled into a bun. "I can''t ask for another husband¡­ I have the perfect one right here."


    Hailee held Vincent''s hand and looked at him lovingly. Instantly, Vincent meets Hailee''s gaze and looks at her with a tenderness in his eyes.


    The viewers squealed to see their sweet interaction. They truly felt blessed to watch this couple today, and they believe they were absolutely a match made in heaven.


    "Did you see that? I died in envy!"


    "The way Mr. Shen looks at our Queen, undoubtedly he''s in love!"


    "Absolutely! And our queen looks melted by his passionate gaze!"


    Truthfully, Hailee felt overwhelmed that she officially publicized her life with Vincent. The viewers'' witnessed how Vincent only showed a serious expression, but when he looked at her, his face quickly softened, and a smile appeared on his thin lips.


    Now that her subscribers and followers saw enough, Sheena brought the camera in front of her face and made a closing speech.


    "Thank you for apanying me on today''s Livestream! Thank you as well for subscribing to my channel. And to those who didn''t subscribe yet, you can click the button below! But before I bid my farewell for today. I have a surprise for everyone!"


    Everyone held their breath when Sheena paused.


    "Did you see these skincare products right here in my sis-inws dresser? She sponsored our surprise special event today, and twenty will receive a set of these products! But make sure that you are a subscriber of my channel... Of course, it will be unfair to my lovely subscribers." Sheena giggled; herment section was flooded with emoticons ofughing and hearty eyes.


    Then, she added, "And whether one of the lucky winners is a guy, you can give that to your wife or girlfriend¡­ If you are single, how about your mom? Our mom deserves to be pampered once in a while¡­ Of course, us wives too!"


    "Yeah!" The Wives Club flooded thements, agreeing with Sheena.


    And then, morements follow¡­


    "Omg! I''m so excited!"


    "I''m so nervous! I''m praying I will be one of the lucky twenty!"


    "Oh, please! I want to win! My mom''s birthday ising soon! I think this is a perfect gift!"


    "Alright, guys! I will exin the criteria in my other post soon! Thank you for joining me today! Bye!"


    Sheena turns off the camera and heaves a long sigh. Then, her face instantly showed a pitiful look.


    "Brother¡­ I''m so sorry! My subscribers made a request which I can''t turn down."


    Vincent raises an eyebrow. But before he could say a word, Hailee spoke up on behalf of Sheena.


    "Sheena asks me about this, and I give her my permission. So, you don''t need to scold her."


    Vincent blinks twice. He could see that Hailee took Sheena''s side, and this was something he could not refute.


    ''This girl sure found a defender!'' Vincent thought helplessly.


    Can he argue with Hailee? Can he confront Sheena when Hailee had already put words on her behalf?


    He felt defeated.

 Chapter 319 - Her Dad Is Humble Despite Of His Money

    <h4>Chapter 319 - Her Dad Is Humble Despite Of His Money</h4>


    The day before Madam Hilda Shen''s big day... Kelly, Gigi, and Fraine, Leticia, and Dana had locked themselves inside the DV Gem store vault for a meeting.


    On the sofa, the five girls hold documents with the information of the Lopez and Shen n.


    "The mom of President Zaijan Lopez is born in July, so we are giving her a jewelry set of Ruby," said Kelly. In her hand is the basic information of Madam She Lopez, such as her favorite food, flowers, zodiac sign, birthstone...


    "Next is Madam Filicia Lopez, mom of Director Rodney Lopez. She was born in April, and her birthstone is a diamond. We will send her ourtest diamond collection," Gigi continued.


    The other month, Kelly had finished designing a new jewelry set, thetest DV Gem Summer Collection. She and Hailee had the idea, and instead ofunching theirtest designs, they dyed it.


    And tomorrow night, this collection will be worn by Lopez and Shen madams. Most of the Lopez and Shen ns are already in the Metro Pce Hotel. So then, today, they have to deliver these pieces of jewelry to their hotel suites.


    As Hilda wanted to gather the entire Shen and Lopezes n, they closed the mall and hotel to amodate the over five hundred people attending her birthday. Since yesterday, the mall has been closed to the public but exclusively avable for Lopez and Shen families and their specially selected guests.


    When the announcement was made a month ago, everyone was amazed. Indeed, money and power can do impossible things.


    At the moment, there is a mini-concert for the families in the Metro City Garden Park. Known artists and bands were invited to y for them exclusively.


    Hazel, Liza, and Nadia, who apanied Hailee shopping for two days now, were still in a daze, meeting all Vincent''s rtives, especially the celebrities from local and international.


    Some of them are doing well in Hollywood, while others are International professional models.


    Meanwhile, at the entrance of Metro Pce Hotel, three limousines with four SUV escorts had arrived. The media and paparazzi were in chaos to take several photos.


    They were on standby outside the mall and hotel, hoping to ambush an interview with any of the two ns or their guests.


    The reporters received an initial list of guests at Madame Shen''s birthday party. All of their foreign investors will attend the asion. They will never miss this opportunity to meet Jacob Davies and his princess, Hailee Davies.


    "Live from Metro Pce Hotel! We are now witnessing Mr. Jacob Davies and his father-inw''s family, the Hillson. As we could see now at the entrance, Mr. Frederick Shen warmly weed their special guests! CEO Vincent Shen''s future inws!"


    While the reporters enthusiastically reported live, the ce was also crowded with fans who were to have a glimpse of these families.


    "I love you, Captain Andre Hillson!"


    "Marry me, please!"


    These are what was written, and the fans shouted the moment the car stopped. Pitt, who picked them up at the airport, burst outughing on his stomach.


    Andre cast a sharp re at Pitt, shook his head, then stepped out of the limousine. He looked up and swept his gaze toward the hundreds of people in front of the hotel.


    "Oh, my gosh! Miss Hailee''s uncle is so hot!"


    "I think I''m going to faint!"


    "He is so handsome!"


    The reporters who heard these girls only shook their heads; however, this is a beautiful story for them to publishter.


    The crowd was even in chaos when Andre lifted his right hand and waved at the crowd. They squealed and even louder this time.


    "Oh, my, captain!"


    However, the joy they felt was immediately reced with disappointment.


    Andre leaned over at the car. Soon, a woman got out of the vehicle and was now standing next to him. In an instant, it broke their hearts.


    "Who''s that girl?"


    "Wait, guys¡­ Look!"


    "Are you guys thinking of what I am thinking?"


    "Isn''t she Jennifer Wright?"


    "You are right! She is the most beautiful female Air Force in the entire world!"


    "Oh, gosh! I am shipping them!"


    Then the rest of the girls concurred and now shouting, "We will support you!"


    "This is our new ship!"


    "They are so perfect for each other!"


    Positively, the fans immediately epted that Andre was no longer avable, and they could not fantasize about him either. Instead, they happily supported them as a couple.


    *


    "Dad! Grandpa!" Hailee cheerily greeted them and hugged each of them. "Hello, grandma Anna¡­ Andre!"


    Hailee looked at the woman who held hands with Andre. She need not guess, and she is the rumored girl Andre wanted to court. But looking at those intertwining fingers, there is no doubt. They were officially a couple!


    "Hello, princess." Andre hugged Hailee and kissed her left cheek. He releases her from his embrace, then introduces the woman next to him. "Princess, meet Jennifer Wright, my girlfriend."


    Hailee''s eyes twinkled. She was right! These two are in a rtionship already!


    "Hi, Jennifer! I am happy to meet you, finally!" Hailee warmly weed thedy Air Force, hugged her tight, and then held her hand. "I am actually dying to meet you."


    "It''s my pleasure too," Jenniffer replied shyly. She actually has been following Hailee Davies on her Instagram, and she admires everything she has been doing all these years. And when she agreed to be Andre''s girlfriend, she didn''t imagine, and it shocked her to know that Hailee Davies was Andre''s niece.


    "By the way, I want you guys to meet friends in the university." Hailee introduced the three girls, who remained flustered while shyly greeting her family.


    Of course. Who would not be ted? Hailee''s dad is one of the most wealthy men in the world! And it is overwhelming to see that he looks humble and a very kind man despite his money.


    "It was nice to meet you, girls. Thank you for being a good friend of my daughter. Don''t feel shy to tell me if you want to visit Hailee in the future. As you heard, she had a sensitive pregnancy, and she must stop traveling soon. And so, anytime you want to see her, I will arrange your ne. You can stay in Australia as much as you like."


    The three girls shared a nce. Hearing this from Hailee''s dad, they could not stop jumping from excitement. Davies Corporation owns Oceanic Air, so they don''t need a ne ticket to fly to Australia! Hailee owns it!


    "Thank you, sir!"

 Chapter 320 - I Am So Blessed

    <h4>Chapter 320 - I Am So Blessed</h4>


    Jacob nodded and smiled. He already grew fond of these girls even before he met them. After Hailee shared her life in P Country, he instantly wanted to meet her friends here. The way his daughter''s eyes spark every time she mentions these girls, he could tell how precious they were to her. And so, he will do everything for these girls as he knows it will be his daughter''s happiness.


    Well, the girls didn''t know what was on his mind, but they thought highly fo him and thought he was such a cool dad.


    Not long,


    "Dad! I''m sorry, I wasn''t able to pick you up at the airport."


    Walking in a hurried step, Vincent instantly apologized to his inws. He shook hands with them, then ced his arm around Hailee''s waist, then kissed her.


    Jacob smiled and said, "It''s alright, son. I know you are busy turning over the management of yourpany."


    He actually gave him a big responsibility. Picking him up at the airport is unnecessary at all. Jacob patted Vincent''s and coaxed him.


    "By the way, dad. I want to introduce my cousins." Vincent nced at the four men behind him. They took the initiative, and one by one, introduced themself.


    "Hello, sir. Zaijan Lopez... Wee to Metro City Garden."


    Jacob took Zaijan''s hand and shook. "Thank you, Chairman Lopez. It was great to be here."


    He is actually a little familiar with Zaijan Lopez. They both attended several tycoons and business conferences, and they may not associate with each other. However, both showed respect despite the age gap and the length of time they were doing business.


    Meanwhile, Zaijan was surprised that Jacob had already heard that he was the new chairman of Metro City Group of Companies. But as Keith, Hansen, and Pitt are Hailee''s knights, it is small information for someone like Jacob Davies.


    "Tyler Lopez, Director of Lopez Steel Corporation¡­ It was an honor to meet you, Chairman Davies."


    Jacob smiles at Tyler and epts his hand.


    "The honor is mine. I saw the sample materials you will provide for La Merveille Tower. It was high-quality materials, and so, I am satisfied. I''m happy that Vincent has reliable cousins he worked with. He mentioned to me that you are all like his real brothers, and he trusted you all. And so, I am at ease to hand over thepany to Vincent."


    "Sir?"


    "I''ll be retiring soon," Jacob told Vincent''s cousin, then he exined, "After my daughter gives birth several months from now and has enough rest, she will take my chair after then."


    "Oh. Mr. Jacob has other ns?" asked Tyler.


    Before Jacob replied, he nced at Rodney Lopez. Of course, they know each other through the Underground World.


    "Yes," he replied after a brief pause.


    Tyler did not need to expect that Jacob would borate on his answer. The moment Jacob looked at Rodney, he instantly understood.


    "Wee to P Country, Mr. Davies."


    "Thank you, Mr. Lopez." Jacob epts the hand Rodney extended toward him. They shook hands and exchanged a few words.


    "Just call me, Rodney, sir."


    "Alright. Rodney." Jacob nodded and smiled.


    Then, another cousin of Vincent stepped forward and introduced himself. "Rick Lopez, Director of Lopez Tech, sir¡­ A pleasure to meet you, sir."


    "Pleasure to meet you, too, Mr. Rick."


    "Then, let us have lunch," Vincent announced after his cousins finished introducing themselves not only toward his father-inw but the rest of Hailee''s family. He looked at Hailee and asked her, "What lunch would you like?"


    "I want curry and chicken macaroni sd with lots of mayo," she replied gleefully. Shortly, she added other dishes.


    "Alright. Then, let''s go to a Chinese restaurant." Vince nodded; he turned his head to the others. "If dad and grandpa prefer other dishes, all the restaurants in the mall are open to serve you."


    "It''s alright. I would love to have Chinese cuisine." Jacob replied.


    "I''m fine with it too." Allen agreed to the food his granddaughter had a craving.


    Andre chimed in, "I''m okay with that, too. Fried chicken vored with spicy garlic is best."


    "Then?" Vincent looked around to know if everyone wanted Chinese food for lunch.


    "How about you girls?" Hailee took the initiative to ask the three girls when she noticed them whispering in the corner.


    "Um¡­ Can we eat Italian cuisine, Hail?" Hazel whispered at her.


    Hailee pursed her lips into a smile; she replied, "Of course! You guys can dine at any of these restaurants, and you don''t have to mine. It was free."


    "Okay, Hail! Mr. Shen is the best!" Hazel tried to lower her voice as much as she could.


    Hailee giggled then whispered to Hazel, "It''s mom Hilda''s idea."


    "Oh¡­ Madam Shen is the best!"


    Honestly, Hilda actually could hear them, but she pretended to hear nothing but continued talking to the organizers of her birthday party in a low voice.


    After they had lunch, Jacob strolled the mall with Hailee. While walking around, Jacob took his daughter''s hand and said, "I just realized that we haven''t gone shopping anymore."


    Hailee rested her head on her dad''s shoulder and replied, "It was because we both were busy with our ownpanies. Besides, most of our clothes are handmade. And so, we need not go shopping most of the time." Unless she was visiting Paris or Italy, she bought a lot of clothes from the brand stores.


    That night, Hailee had a massive smile while she cuddled Vincent.


    "You were happy¡­." Vincent lowered his head and kissed her hair, and he felt Hailee''s head nodding in response.


    "I''ll be meeting all of your rtives. But what I am happy about is that my family was here too." And she was delighted because finally, she had a big family. She will have hundreds of inws soon after marrying Vincent.


    "I am so blessed, hubby," Hailee said from the bottom of her heart.


    "I am so blessed, as well. I love you, Hailee Davies."


    "I love you too, Vincent Shen¡­."


    Vincent lowered his head and kissed Hailee passionately.


    The following day¡­ Finally, it was the most awaited birthday party of Hailee Davies'' mother-inw, Madam Hilda Lopez Shen¡­

 Chapter 321 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (One)

    <h4>Chapter 321 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (One)</h4>


    Grand Hall, Metro Pce Hotel


    Everyone was dressed elegantly, from children to the Old Masters from the Shen and Lopez families.


    Since there are so many children, a special ce was set up in the reception area so that even kids running around cannot bother the adults.


    All enjoy this wonderful evening, have a good time, and shareughs with your loved ones. It can notpare to how great it feels to be around family.


    *


    6:00 P.M.


    At the Grand Hall lobby, professional photographers and experienced camera operators from Metro City Group of Companies were on standby to take a Red Carpet photoshoot of all the Lopezes, Shen, and attendees on Hilda''s birthday.


    As this was only an exclusive birthday celebration, Hilda didn''t allow any reporters from outside. Even so, the MCGC, Lopez Corp., and Shen Group website and social media ounts are active in posting the ongoing party.


    Now that the entire world knows Hailee''s lucky fiance,izens worldwide are waiting for theirtest post.


    On their posts, dazzling evening gowns and pieces of jewelry are shing on the red carpet. Even the kids are all lovely.


    Finally, Vincent arrived in the lobby, walking on the red carpet with Hailee and her family.


    In front of a luxurious, beautiful backdrop, Vincent and Hailee pose for a picture. Then, the photographer asks Jacob to join the couple. Next, Andre and Allen joined them. After that, Anna Hillson and Jennifer Wright requested to join them.


    After a few more poses, Vincent remained on the spot and had a photoshoot with Jacob and Allen on his left side while Andre was on his right side.


    When it was posted on social media, everyone couldn''t help butment on the photo. They praise how the men are all handsome, despite their age. Others were saying pleasant words. They could see that Vincent had a good rtionship with Hailee''s family and remarked how lucky he became Jacob Davies'' son-inw.


    The photoshoot continues until everyone has arrived. And even after it ended, the photographers continued taking snapshots and visited every table for family pictures or random shots with the other guests.


    Sat at their table, Hazel, Liza, and Nadia were still in a daze watching these wealthy people walking around to greet rtives or someone from the special guests.


    After ogling at Vincent''s handsome men''s cousins, their eyes shifted to Hailee''s cousins and friends. This morning, Prince George arrived in P Country, and it was a surprise, so the media didn''t see iting.


    Not only that, a few of Hailee''s executives are here! And all are handsome!


    Hailee''s three executives talked in low voices, standing not that far from the girls'' table. James nudges Geoffrey''s arm when he sees Vincent''s two cousins areing to them.


    "Good evening, Mr. Wilson! Tyler Lopez." Tyler extends his hand.


    "It''s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Lopez." Geoffrey lifted his right arm and shook hands with Tyler.


    The guy replied, "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Wilson." After saying this, Tyler shifted his attention to the other guy. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Liang."


    "Nice to meet you too, Mr. Lopez." Chester took Tyler''s hand and shook it.


    "I am thrilled to give you a tour of our Lopez Steel Corp. nt," said Tyler.


    Geoffrey was in the country to visit LSC to observe the ntation. He will inspect all the materials that LSC made. Although the sample was already sent to Dream City, their goal was to have a deeper rtionship with their contractors.


    Besides, LSC is Vincent''s family''s business. It was something that was a huge advantage of Shen Group. Their family produces all the materials they need for their projects.


    Meanwhile, Nadia stares at Hazel with awe. "Hey, Hazel! Snap it out!"


    "What?" Hazel, who was in a trance, came back to her senses after Nadia snapped her finger close to her face.


    "Enough drooling over Hailee''s CEO of herpany."


    "Huh? I''m not!" she denied.


    Nadia and Liza shared a look. Both had an ugly grin on their faces, then returned their gaze at Hazel. "Even you deny it. We already caught you!"


    "What are you guys talking about? I am not! And how can you be sure I am staring at Davies Group CEO? I am looking at someone else." Hazel pouted, and she cast a re at them.


    But, of course, Nadia and Liza knew Hazel very well. Even if she would deny it to the death, they knew it was the opposite of what she was saying.


    "What happened between you and Jake?" Liza mentions the guy. Hazel''s delicate face soured.


    "Humph. I realized that my feelings for him were just puppy love, and it''s not worth forcing it to mature."


    "Really?" Nadia mouthed. She was sipping on her fruit juice leisurely as she listened to the gossip.


    "I thought you guys would be official soon?" Liza asked between stuffing her mouth with mousse chocte cake. She needs to fill her stomach while interrogating Hazel for juicy gossip.


    However, as her two friends asking further, the more the frown on Hazel''s deepened.


    "That guy has countless girlfriends. It''s so annoying that different women approached us when we went on a date, and this girl acted as if she never broke up with Jake! I realized I could not control my temper as I got jealous easily. Also, I never had a boyfriend before, and so I could not understand him. I am still inexperienced, and I feel like I can''t keep up. All his past rtionships involve physical¡­ You girls know what I mean." Hazel shared.


    Liza and Nadia nodded in unison. They were eager to listen to this drama, and they wished there was popcorn they could munch while gossiping.


    And before Hazel continued, she hurled a deep breath. "I''m not ready to be in that kind of rtionship, and I better stay single."


    As she says this, Hazel sees Jake entering at the door. Her eyebrow rose upward to see that he wasn''t alone but had a date.


    She really likes Jake. She had had a crush on him for many years, and so she could feel a bit hurt inside her heart. But she is determined to forget this feeling. She isn''t ready to gamble for love. And maybe there is a deserving man to be her first love.


    Like Hailee, even she was engaged to her best friend before, but there is no love, and she only had felt this for Vincent, her first love.


    Then, she has plenty of time to find the right guy, and she need not hurry.


    Meanwhile, Liza and Nadia noticed her silence but eyes fixed somewhere. When they turned their heads, they saw Jake and the guy on a date.


    "Well, we are still young for serious love. There are plenty of men out there!" Liza, who had no experience with love as she is younger than Hazel, gives advice. "We need not hurry, you know."


    "Yup!" Nadia echoed, but soon, she was teased by Liza instead.


    "Shut up, girl! Like your eyes don''t twinkle every time you see Mr. Cha!"


    Nadia dropped her mouth open at Liza''s statement. She quickly looked around and might have heard someone. She is grateful that the tables are not closer to each other.


    "What are you talking about, Liza? That''s not true!" This time, it was she who denied the tease. She exins Pitt is just her employer, but Liza teases her further.


    Watching her two friends, Hazel had a huge grin on her face. Now the table turns, and Nadia, who was put in the gossip chair.


    "Okay, girls! Just carried on! I''m going to the restroom."


    Staring at Hazel''s receding back, both Nadia and Liza shared a meaningful gaze.


    Meanwhile, on Hazel''s way to the restroom, she meets Jake''s eyes. She noticed Jake attempted to step forward, but the woman holding his arms pulled him back.


    Hazel immediately hastened her steps and ignored them. As she avoided contact with Jake, she didn''t see when the guy forcibly took back his arm and threw a dark re at the woman.


    Inside the restroom, Hazel heaves a long sigh. She stared at her reflection in the mirror, scanning her face to see if she looked beautiful tonight.


    She put effort into looking like a mature woman with a ss. However, she still looks like a teenager who knows nothing but is only pampered all these years. Her family isn''t super-rich, but her parents give her everything she needs.


    If it wasn''t for Hailee, there was no way she would be invited to this extravagant birthday celebration of Madam Shen, where her long-time crush was also here.


    Hazel shook her head and shrugged the heavy feelings lingering inside her chest. She is determined to stay away from Jake.


    After making up her mind, she left the room.


    As she was trailing the aisle back to the Hall, Hazel stopped on her track.


    "Hazel¡­"


    She was surprised to see Jake leaning against the wall. ''Is he waiting for me?'' She muttered.


    The guy walked closer to her, but she was not in the mood to talk to him. Hazel resumed walking, but Jake held her arm.


    "What do you want, big brother Jake?"


    The guy darkened his expression. He muttered, "You are not my sister."


    "You are my older cousin''s best friend."


    Jake assumed he didn''t sense the coldness in her tone. He spoke up, "Why aren''t you replying to my text and ignoring my calls?"


    "I am busy with school." Her excused.


    "I ask you to drive you home if you don''t want to have a meal together."


    "It''s unnecessary. I have a car." She reasoned out stubbornly.


    With what she said, Jake furrowed his brows and even darkened his face. "Why are you avoiding me?"


    Hazel finally meets Jake''s gaze. The entire time, she only looks away, as she doesn''t want to see him in the eyes. Might she suddenly change her mind.


    "You can ask someone else for a date."


    Jake pursed his lips and said, "Are you jealous?"


    "Why would I?" she denied. And she has no n to exin this matter to Jake.


    Jake scrutinizes Hazel, trying to read her mind. However, the girl just frowned and looked away.


    "If you are jealous, I was with another girl. Why are you avoiding me and rejecting all of my invitations?"


    Hazel straightens her back, then clears her throat. She said, "We may aren''t in a rtionship yet. But I want to break up with you already."


    Jake has rendered speechless. ''It''s the first time I heard such a thing,'' he thought.


    Jake was lost for a moment. Before he could open his mouth, someone spoke behind Hazel.


    "Hazel, is everything alright?"


    Hazel''s eyes lit up after she recognized the man. She pursed her lips into a smile, then turned around.


    "Yes. Everything is fine. I¡­ I just lost bnce, and so, big brother caught me and held my arm to steady my stand."


    She knew her exnation wasme. And the way James shifted his gaze from at Jake then back at her is obvious he didn''t believe her. But she has to continue these lies and pretend.


    "I''m going back to our table. Let''s go together." After saying this, Hazel gathered her courage to walk toward James and hold his arm.


    James, on the other hand, did not ask further but nodded, then walked with her. However, Jake grabs her other arm when they pass him.


    "What are you doing, big brother?" she asked Jake with big eyes, acting like she was confused.


    "Stay¡­"

 Chapter 322 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 322 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Two)</h4>


    James nces at the hand that holds Hazel''s arm. He lifted his gaze and looked at Jake, who stared at him with intent. He said, "Sir, I don''t know what your problem is. But you can''t treat a woman this way."


    Jake contracted his eyes, and he didn''t like how nosy this guy was.


    Meanwhile, Hazel was in a trance, staring at James. She doesn''t understand, but her heart flutters inside her chest after the guy addresses her as a "woman" and not just a girl.


    Jake frowned upon seeing Hazel looking dreamily at the other guy. This guy is one of Hailee''s executives, and he doesn''t like the way Hazel looks at him.


    ''Is she liking this man? That is why she is avoiding me?'' he muttered to himself; displeasure appeared on his handsome face.


    "Hazel and I are dating, and I just wanted to rify some things with her," said Jake. His gaze never left James.


    She was seeing the two men wrestle gazes. Hazel began having a bad feeling.


    "Sir, I could see that Hazel is not willing to talk to you. Then, you can''t force her to stay, and I won''t leave her alone with you."


    Jake sneered inside his heart. ''Who does he think he is? This guy is such a nosy!''


    "I know who you are. I have respected Hailee. But you have no right to meddle in other people''s business!" Jake snorted.


    James replied, "You are wrong, sir..."


    It was surprising that until now, he remained calm. But he knew he was not in his ce, and he was in someone''s territory. That is why he keeps a cool head while arguing with Jake.


    Then he added, "Miss Hazel is the princess''s very close friend. And so, it is my responsibility to protect her on my watch."


    "And why do you need to protect her?" Jake roared at James. He went on, "Do I look like a man who can hurt a girl?"


    James curled his lips and said, "Who knows? I can''t let my guard down. My priority is to keep Hazel''s safety."


    Jake gritted his teeth. This guy is such an annoyance! However, he could not create a scene. ''If it isn''t Aunt Hilda''s birthday, this guy will know his ce!''


    He didn''t ept he lost in this encounter, but Jake let Hazel''s arm go.


    On the other hand, Hazel sighed with relief when Jake didn''t argue anymore and withdrew his hand that held her.


    Jake clenched his palm into a fist. He gritted his teeth with displeasure. If this isn''t an important celebration, he already punched this guy. He would never go back down, but he could not disappoint Vincent nor Hailee, and so, he had to give up quarreling against the guy who took Hazel away.


    He didn''t like how Hazel was staring at the other guy. He could tell that she admired that guy, and tonight, he lost his face in front of Hazel, and he felt a total rejection.


    Meanwhile, James and Hazel are heading back to their table. James lowered his gaze to the woman, who was tightly clutching at his arm.


    He pursed his lips into a smile and asked, "Is he your boyfriend?"


    Hazel did not expect he would question her all of a sudden. She looked up but didn''t reply. She remained in a daze while staring at James'' face.


    Until now, she felt like floating in the air. In her eyes, James is so cool! She doesn''t understand, but her chest is filled with joy just to think he will protect her.


    Although it''s her privilege to be Hailee''s friend, still, her heart is acting strange and is assuming...


    Honestly, her first impression of James is not that great. But after tonight, and James is a hero.


    "Thank you." She muttered with genuine gratitude. She knew James heard her conversation with Jake. But the guy pretended so that she would not be embarrassed.


    James smiled. "You''re wee. You can tell me if that guy bothers you. I meant it."


    Hazel nodded. She immediately lowered her head as she knew she was blushing now and could feel her cheeks burning.


    When they arrived at their table, both Nadia and Liza were dumbfounded to see her intimately holding James'' arm.


    The two girls eyed her meaningfully, but Hazel only rolled her eyes and said, "Stop looking at me like that."


    "There is a story behind that," said Liza excitedly. She could not wait to hear the gossip.


    Jeez! She should have known these girls! "It''s not what you guys are thinking," she denied.


    "Hmm....." Nadia and Liza hummed in unison, entirely not believing her. "Spill it out, girl!"


    Hazel rolled her eyes. She sipped on her juice, contemting whether to share what happened outside the restroom.


    Looking at her friends giving her that kind of look, Hazel sighed. "Fine!"


    Nadia and Liza move to her side and keenly listen to her story.


    "I saw Jake outside the restroom, and I think he was waiting for me. He confronted me about why I was avoiding him. However, I refused, and he grabbed my arm, forcing me to talk to him. Then¡­"


    Hazel paused, biting her lower lip as she recalled what happened just a while ago. She then shared what James did and how he argued with Jake.


    "Oh, my gosh! Your knight in shining armor!" Both Nadia and Liza squealed. But they lowered their voices not to attract the other guests'' attention.


    "Then, he is such a gentleman!"


    Hazel replied dreamily. "I think so¡­ His character is not what you see on the surface. But deep down inside, he is apletely mature man."


    "Hmm¡­ You really like mature guys." Nadiamented.


    "And what do you think of Mr. Pitterson Cha?" Liza teases Nadia.


    She rolled her eyes and muttered, "That''s the point here! He is way older than me!"


    The girls continued teasing each other.


    Meanwhile, the world was in the feast after Metro City Group of Companies posted Hailee and Vincent''s red carpet photo with a caption,


    "FAMILY of FIVE!"


    Theizens stormed the post with a millionments, congratting the happy soon-parents.


    "OMG! Five? Then, our queen is preggy of triplets!"


    "Congrattions, queen!"


    "So excited to meet the three princes or three princesses!"


    "Congrattions to the happy mom and dad!"


    Just posted a few minutes ago, Hailee''s pregnancy of triplets is the most trending topic on social media.


    Finally, it''s time for Hilda to appear in the hall. The host for the celebration was thrilled to announce the arrival of the birthday celebrant.


    "Madam Hilda Lopez Shen!"


    The crowd apuded.. Hilda is wearing a beautiful yellow gold evening dress and the jewelry she is wearing tonight is the one Hailee designed herself.

 Chapter 323 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 323 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Three)</h4>


    Loud apuse greeted Hilda as she entered the hall with Frederick. She held her husband''s arm, smiling and nodding at her family, inws, and guests.


    Frederick led her toward the stage. Hilda lifted her skirt, climbed the stairs carefully with her Jeremy Blocks gold yellow stiletto with genuine gemstone around it.


    Hilda stood in the middle of the stage, then delivered her speech, king everyone foring tonight.


    And in her speech, it was specially mentioned by the Davies and Hillson family.


    When Hilda mentioned Allen and Andre Hillson as Hailee''s mom''s immediate family, everyone had the conclusion...


    Hailee is using her mom''s surname to hide her true identity as Hailee Davies. Now they knew her secret entirely.


    All these years, she pretended to be just an ordinary girl named Hailey Hillson, not for everyone to know who she was.


    Until now, the entire n of Shen and Lopez was still amazed how Vincent was able to capture the heart of someone like Hailee Davies.


    To look back, they started in a forbidden rtionship. However,ter the truth came out that Eva has a rtionship with different men and is even associated with an international terrorist named Prince Liam Huo.


    Now that Hailee''s name is cleared out of being a mistress and Vincent was freed from the arranged marriage, they all think that the two of them deserve to tie the knot.


    They all are happy for Vincent.


    As an aloof man who never goes on dates and never heard of him flirting with someone, Vincent shows how romantic a guy he is. Tonight, they''ve witnessed how attentive and caring a husband he was.


    He makes sure that Hailee isfortable. He always supported her, even just to sit down or get up. Tonight, they have indeed seen a different side to Vincent.


    Then, they learned she was pregnant with three babies. So they believed Vincent''s overprotection is not an exaggeration but a valid reason he must worry all the time.


    "Everyone, before I closed this speech... I have a special announcement. You are invited to Vincent and Hailee''s grand wedding on August 28, 2026, at Dream City, Australia."


    Upon hearing this great news, the hall filled with apuse. Everyone was ted, and excitement crept to their hearts to attend the wedding of the millennium.


    At that very moment, everyone started contacting famous designers to design a special gown for the grand wedding.


    After Hilda ends her speech, the male host invites her toward her cake to blow the candle. The female host was led by her very own niece, a famous actress who sings Happy Birthday.


    Hilda closed her eyes to mutter her wishes, then she blew out the candles, and everyone greeted her with a happy birthday. Officially, Hilda''s birthday celebration has started.


    Everyone went to their tables and sat down. Several servers brought out the food and ced them on the table.


    At the main table, the Davies and Hillson family shared the table with Frederick and Hilda.


    Hailee had enjoyed the food, as everything is what she craves in the passing days. At first, she felt sorry for them sharing her table as they forced her to eat what she liked to eat tonight¡­


    No tomato and tomato sauce dishes.


    Their table was purposely away from the others so that her nose would miss the food odor that would trigger her nausea, and everyone was notified about this.


    "Mom. Thank you for considering my pregnancy." said Hailee to Hilda, her eyes shifted to herpanion to say, "I am really feeling guilty that you guys have to eat not-so-special food."


    "What were you saying, princess? The food is delicious!" said Jacob, and he was telling the truth. "The chef is using another method, am I right?"


    This made Hilda''s night even more pleasant to hear Jacob''s praise.


    And so, Hilda pursed her lips and said proudly, "It was Sheena''s husband who especially prepared these foods for Hailee. Since Hailee had food she didn''t like during her pregnancy; my son-inw earnestly studied how he could still make the food savory even with fewer spices and without tomato sauce."


    Hailee contorted a smile on her lips upon sensing the proudness in Hilda''s tone. Vincent shared with her how Sheena''s husband, Stephen, wasn''t epted by their mom. But now, it was apparent that her impression had changed, and she fully epted Stephen.


    After dinner, Hailee enjoyed the dessert that was specially prepared for her. Vincent, seated next to Hailee, leaned over and licked the corner of her mouth.


    Hailee was stunned for a moment. Then she recovers fast as she figures out why Vincent has to do that.


    Although they were in an intimate rtionship, she still would blush if Vincent pulled that kind of stunt.


    She didn''t mind that they would kiss in front of their parents. But Vincent licks the corner of her mouth!


    "You had something on your mouth, so I have to clean it," Vincent exins. Ultimately, she understood. However, still embarrassing Vincent being this bold in front of everyone!


    The entire night went well. Hilda actually did not remain at their table but mingle with her cousins. Frederick takes Jacob to meet the elders of both ns. Vincent and Hailee, on the other hand, went to meet their rtives.


    Hailee was still in a daze, interacting with everyone. Indeed, the Lopez family is too big, and she tried to remember everyone''s names.


    After she meets everyone, Hailee tells Vincent that she will go to her friends'' table. Vincent didn''t stop her, as he also noticed that she was tired now.


    "Hey! What are you doing here on the corner?" Hailee asked Geoffrey after she noticed him went to istion.


    "Hi, Hail. I am trying to contact my assistant about an important contract." Geoffrey exins with a smile.


    "I see. You were still working, huh?" said Hailee.


    Geoffrey smiled. He pondered that he had to bury himself to work, as it was only his way of relieving himself from heartache. Of course, it was because of Hailee. But he already epted that she already belonged to someone else, and he would never have her himself.


    Geoffrey and Hailee chatted when his phone rang. He looked at his phone, and it was his assistant.


    "Hail, I have to answer this in a quiet ce."


    "Okay." Hailee nodded and smiled. She watches Geoffrey''s receding back, disappearing in her sight. In her mind, she prayed for Geoffrey to meet the girl that was destined for him.


    Meanwhile, Geoffrey was in a hurry to take a right turn in the hallway. He didn''t notice that a woman was taking a turn to her left¡­

 Chapter 324 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 324 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Four)</h4>


    Geoffrey made an abrupt turn. It surprised him when he bumped into someone. Fortunately, he had good reflexes; his arm unconsciously reached for the woman''s body and stopped her fall.


    Looking into each other''s eyes, both were blinking in surprise.


    "Vera?"


    "Geoffrey?"


    Geoffrey straightens up, pulling Vera up to stand properly. He then apologized afterward. "I''m sorry. I actually didn''t look at the way."


    Vera smiled. She shook her head, then replied, "It''s okay, and I''m not looking either."


    She raised her hand, holding a phone. Geoffrey nodded, showing he understood. As she walked down the hallway, she looked only at her cellphone and was busy typing on it. That is why it was partly her fault.


    "I''m d that you are here as well," said Vera after a brief silence. She pursed her lips into a sweet smile as she added, "I''m actually thinking of only showing up then going back to my suite as I don''t know everyone at this party."


    ''Howe?'' Geoffrey chuckled as he thought, how coincidence is this. He said, "We''ve been thinking the same. I came to inspect the Lopez Steel Corp. so that it will work for me after tonight."


    "I see." Vera nodded.


    There was a pause of silence as both felt shy toward each other.


    "Are you going in, right?" Geoffrey asks to hide the awkwardness he is feeling in front of Vera.


    She exined, "Yes. I am here to meet Hailee. It isn''t advisable for her to travel around now that she is pregnant of three."


    "Yes. She has to watch her condition. Then, I will lead you the way." Geoffrey concurred. He then offered his arm.


    "Thank you," Vera muttered. She lifted her arm and held onto Geoffrey''s elbow.


    As those delicate fingers wrapped around his elbow, he felt inexplicably warm in his heart. He could not retract his gaze at Vera as he noticed that Hailee and Vera had a little resemnce.


    For a moment, Geoffrey was in a trance.


    "What''s the matter?" Vera asked Geoffrey, looking at him with curiosity in her eyes as he only stared at her delicate face. She is a little conflicted about why Geoffrey is staring at her with intent, and she''s a bit ufortable because it causes her cheeks to flush pink.


    Coming back to his senses, Geoffrey smiled. "Ah. You look lovely."


    Vera''s pink cheeks instantly be like a bitten red. It surprises her to hearpliments from someone like Geoffrey.


    Geoffrey was known for his aloofness around the female circle in the business world, as he didn''t enjoy mingling with women. They could only see him standing next to Hailee, in which Bryan was always herpanion on important events.


    Most of the time, Geoffrey is more likely the third-wheeler. But Hailee falls in love with someone else.


    She thought that Bryan or Geoffrey would be the lucky man. However, Hailee only loved them as a brother even after she got engaged to Bryan.


    That is why Geoffrey''s praise truly shocked her because his eyes only fixed on Hailee, and he seemed never to look at other women.


    Walking down the hallway toward the Grand Hall, Geoffrey broke off the silence between them.


    "So¡­ I heard Hailee ns tounch her new skincare products."


    Vera nced at Geoffrey. The guy was staring at her again, and this really made her wonder. Now she was shy about being around him.


    ''I''m just overthinking.'' She convinced herself.


    Vera gathered her thoughts in one ce. She smiled and nodded. "Yes. So, I was here to discuss it with Hailee, and she asked my help to choose a beautiful girl''s name for our new products."


    "I see." Geoffrey nodded while he contemted something. "Hailee wanted to name the new products after her daughter."


    "Yes. She was excited to know the gender of her babies. But if it will be all boys, she can be pregnant again." Vera didn''t leave her gaze at Geoffrey''s solemn face. She knew he was in love with Hailee. And so she guessed Geoffrey had a heartache seeing Hailee was with someone else.


    This guy was actually pitiful. He only kept his true feelings for Hailee for many years, and he never attempted to confess. Instead, he let himself be in the brother zone forever with hundreds of women in the business circle who tried to get his attention, but they never seeded.


    Geoffrey Wilson is from a wealthy family in Australia. Being an heir to Wilson Group, he served Hailee and was her left hand. He did everything for Hailee, and that''s out of his love for her.


    Poor guy. Hailee is getting married to another guy soon, and she wonders what Geoffrey feels about it. She is curious to know if he has already moved on or continues loving Hailee in secret.


    Thinking about it, Vera didn''t understand why there was a pain in her heart. Why was she affected that Geoffrey would remain in love with Hailee?


    Why would she have a feeling like this? She has no right to feel this way. She and Geoffrey are actually not that close, but they met because of Hailee.


    "Were here¡­"


    Vera''s train of thoughts was disrupted when Geoffrey suddenly spoke, announcing their arrival at the Grand Hall door.


    There is two hotel staff guarding at the entrance, and they immediately open the door.


    Vera swept her gaze to the entire hall that was decorated ostentatiously. She''s been to many parties on different asions, even at royal gatherings, but this one is something beyond extraordinary.


    "Hailee was here when I left to answer an important call. Let''s go to the table I shared with her friends, and maybe she was hanging out with them."


    When Geoffrey mentioned Hailee''s friends instead of ours, she immediately guessed that he meant the three girls she got close to here in Metro City.


    "Vera!"


    "Hi, Daisy!" Vera broadened her smile to see Daisy.


    Daisy is her roommate back in her college days at Oxford University. She was happy to have an acquaintance she was too close to.


    "Ah! I missed you, girl! Oh, my gosh! You didn''t tell me you already had a boyfriend."


    Vera dropped her jaw on the floor after Daisy made that joke. She wanted to pinch this girl, but it was embarrassing to do that. They weren''t young girls anymore, but adult women.


    With blushing cheeks, she nced at Geoffrey with apologetic eyes. She just knew that this guy only likes Hailee, and so she didn''t dare to make a joke about him. There were situations like this in the past when other girls wanted to assume, and Geoffrey remained indifferent and cold toward them.


    But she was surprised once again. At times like this, Geoffrey is supposed to wear a poker face or a solemn facial expression. However, Geoffrey had a faint smile on his lips.


    It confused her, but she shrugs off the assuming thoughts ying in her head.


    "She was only joking," she muttered nervously at Geoffrey.


    She wanted to make it clear to him, but shyness hit her hard as the beating in her chest acting weirdly, and she did all her best to calm it down.


    ''What is wrong with me?'' Vera keeps scolding herself to have unnecessary hopes in her heart. What she is feeling would be in vain, as it will only be unrequited love. She knew that there was nothing to look forward to.


    "Vera!"


    Vera smiled at the beautiful, preggy woman walking toward them. She met Hailee halfway and hugged her tight. "Congrattions, cousin! You are even pretty now that you are pregnant."


    "Thank you, cousin." Hailee ced a loud kiss on her cousin Vera Davies'' cheek. The two women release each other. "I''m d you are here. Come. You should eat first."


    Hailee leads Vera to the table where Gigi and Kelly are chatting with the three young teenagers.


    "Vera, hi!" Gigi slowly got up from the sofa, as she was also pregnant now.


    When Tom saw her throwing up one morning in the bathroom, he immediately guessed she was pregnant. She has no idea yet, but seeing how bright Tom''s face was, she immediately had a check-up to confirm if their assumption was correct. And she was now five weeks pregnant.


    Tom was so happy that he would finally be a father as well.


    "Oh, god! You and Hailee surely had talked about getting pregnant at the same time!" Vera teased. Soon, she realized she said something awkward, as she was a singledy with capital letters. dly, they were used to joking around with random things.


    Gigi and Hailee only giggle, and both hug her.


    Meanwhile, Hailee noticed how Hazel, Liza, and Nadia dropped their mouths open. Of course, these girls knew Vera through social media.


    "Ahem. Girls, I want you to meet my cousin Vera Davies¡­."


    "She is the beautiful Director of Davies Cosmetic Company!" Step forward to see Vera closely; Hazel burst out gleefully.


    As someone obsessed with Hailee''s skincare products, she followed Vera Davies and idolized her. Now that she met her in person, she confirmed that Hailee and Vera have a little resemnce. "I''m Hazel Khan, and I love all of your cosmetics and skincare products!"


    Vera smiled. "I heard from Hailee that you have been using our products ever since weunched ourpany."


    Hazel nodded happily. Lately, she, Nadia, and Liza received aplete set of cosmetics and skincare products from Hailee, delivered as a surprise parcel. And in the package, there is a handwritten card from Vera.


    Vera, on the other hand, scanned Hazel from the head down to her red stiletto. After then, she turned his gaze to Hailee and said,


    "Hail, your friend here is beautiful. I think she would be perfect to be an ambassador of our new products."


    Hazel widened her eyes. Suppose she didn''t hear wrong. Vera meant she could be a model.


    Not just a simple model, but a cosmetic and skincare model!

 Chapter 325 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 325 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Five)</h4>


    Hazel couldn''t believe her ears. She looks at Hailee to confirm if her cousin isn''t just joking with her or if this is a prank. But Hailee had a sweet smile on her lips. Besides, Hailee never jokes on them!


    "Hail¡­ Did your cousin truly say I am beautiful?" She whispered, but enough to hear from the surrounding people.


    Of course. She was dying in anticipation at the moment. So, she thickened her face to ask this in front of everyone.


    And instead of Hailee to reply, it was Gigi, and Kelly confirmed it. "Yes, you are." They said to her with a sincere smile, and Liza and Nadia seconded this.


    Hazel was truly gorgeous. She is tall, and at twenty, all the curves in her body were in the right ce.


    This is one of many things that Jake had attracted to her. She was beautiful and had a sexy body.


    Seeing the little doubts on her face, Vera steps closer to Hazel and reaches her jet ck hair. Hazel had only ponytail her hair, and she ran her fingers over the strands and felt satisfied.


    "Your hair is lovely. If I am not mistaken, you were using our bath products, right?"


    Hazel nodded excitedly. "Yes! I loved the wild berry scent!"


    "Love it too! And with our new products, you will love it more."


    Hazel''s eyes were full of admiration for Vera. This girl is the one who formted most of those products, and she idolizes how genius she is. She isn''t just making the best skincare essential products but also puts her heart to help many women to feel beautiful. And being beautiful added to the confidence they are feeling.


    "I think I''m going to shift courses in the next school year. I want to be your apprentice, Miss Vera, so I''m going to be a Cosmetic Chemist!"


    Hailee and Vera shared a look. Then, a smile appeared on their lips.


    "Are you not pursuing a modeling career? It would be best to prepare yourself after weunch you as our new brand ambassador. I could already imagine that many fashion houses will be interested in you," said Vera.


    "Oh. Do you mean it, Miss Vera?"


    "Yes, I am. You are resembling Aishwarya Rai."


    Hazel was stunned for a moment. Her big brown eyes are staring marvel at Vera. Tonight, she was constantly receiving praises from the most amazing women in this world.


    Hazel subconsciously looks at Liza and Nadia. Her mouth formed, ''Did she really say I look like the famous Miss World?''


    Both Liza and Nadia nodded gleefully. ''We heard it too.''


    Aishwarya Rai is a remarkable woman as well. Every girl who joins a beauty pageant has idolized her.


    However, she has a problem. Although her dad is purely Indian and her mom is a mixed race, she wasn''t born in India nor a citizen of the country. Either way, she can''t represent P Country.


    Then, it doesn''t matter even if she would not be a beauty queen of those big pageantpetitions.


    "I don''t need to dream of bing a beauty queen. Being a brand Ambassador of Davies Cosmetic Company, I would already feel like one!"


    After saying this, Hazel looks at the five beautiful women in front of her.


    Hailee Davies is not only famous as an heiress of unimaginable inheritance, not to mention her very own hundreds of billion dors'' worth ofpanies. She was incredible in every way! And a very kindhearted and warm person.


    Kelly Varghese is also an amazing woman. Her talent in designing jewelry is superb! She has the temperament to watch, but she is very cool as a friend! She was only snobbish toward men most of the time because she had no patience with their ttery, and she was not interested in flirting with them.


    Gigi Chan. She is an outstanding female CEO in Western Asia, and she is also a most followed influence on social media because of her fashion. The same as Hailee, she is also a warm person.


    Janise Lopez. She is a goddess designer. All of her collections were now recognized internationally. She started receiving works by famous International models and actresses. Even CEO Hansen Park was impressed with her designs. In fact, the disy in her store window attracted CEO Hansen Park''s fashion interest. The reasons he looked for the designer to order personalized suits, which the incident inside her office and the arrest by the police the next day brought their path into a dramatic love story.


    Then,st but not least, is Daisy Vasquez. She is not a businesswoman, but she was the real beauty queen. After she graduated from college, she went back in training to be a beauty queen. A few years back, she became a Miss Universe. Now she is happily married to her childhood friend, Keith Cole. Daisy is actually a senior ambassadress of Davies Cosmetic Company.


    And Hazel was excited to be trained by her!


    One more time, Vera scanned Hazel. She who heard her statement just now felt delighted. She nced at Hailee, then said, "I like her personality. And she is pretty too, as you describe her to me."


    Hailee smiled. "I know you would like her after you meet her in person. So, I said only a little."


    Hearing Hailee''s words, Hazel looked at her with astonishment. It can be possible that Hailee set her up to meet Vera at this party for a purpose.


    Hazel reached for Hailee''s hand and coquettishly leaned on her shoulder and muttered, "Hail, I really love you. I will take care of you and these babies in your belly."


    Hailee giggled at how she acted. She patted her back as she replied to her. "Silly girl. I have my husband to take care of the babies and me."


    "I know that, Hail. But I want to stick on your side like glue." Hazel still doesn''t want to let go. But Liza patted her back.


    "Hazel, are you leaving Nadia and me alone next school year?" Liza pouted as she said this.


    Hazel releases herself from Hailee. Suddenly, she felt the obligation to exin. She took Liza''s hand and coaxed her. "Of course, we will chat every day and hang out during holidays and breaks from school. Besides, you and Nadia will go to Paris next year, and then we will be together again!"


    "Hazel is right, Liza. We will just endure one year not seeing each other," Nadia chimed in.


    Now that Nadia mentions this, Liza sighed with relief. Hailee offered them a sponsorship to master Culinary Arts in Paris. As well, to study French and Italian.


    The three girls happily embrace each other. They giggled and started making ns for what they would do on weekends once they were all in Paris. It was still far away, but they were already eager to tour France and its neighboring country.


    Listening to their chatter, Hailee nced at Kelly, and Hailee listened and Hailee and Daisy as memories of her college days in Oxford and Paris flooded her head.


    "Hail, thank you so much for helping us reach our dream!"


    Hailee has assigned Nadia and Liza to help train the future service crew members of Dream City when it opens to the world soon. It is a big role that is ced on their shoulders, and that is why they are determined to work harder to acquire all the knowledge and skills they need aspetent as more experienced instructors to hotel and restaurant service crew.


    They were fortunate to work for Hailee. And so, they didn''t want to disappoint and embarrass their friend.


    As the night gets more profound, the party even bes lively. Everyone had enjoyed Hilda''s birthday celebration. It was really a great idea that the majority of the guests were just the Lopez families and Shen n.


    Everyone has not worried about getting drunk as they need not drive home.


    While the girls continued chatting at the round table, the men also had a good time drinking to their heart''s content at the next table.


    Of course, Hilda was also delighted as she was the star of the night which she all she heard werepliments that her daughter-inw was someone like Hailee Davies.

 Chapter 326 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 326 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Six)</h4>


    As the party continues¡­


    Several from the Lopez family performed different presentations as the highlight of the night. One can not deny that they are from super-talented families.


    They are not just excellent at running a business, but many family members have unique talents such as singing, dancing, and ying all kinds of instruments. And at the moment, Vince''s thirteen-year-old niece is ying the piano.


    Hailee, who just returned from the restroom, ps her hand loudly after the girl hits thest note. Vincent''s niece is ying her piece well.


    Listening to the beautiful melody, her heart filled with warmth and delight that Vince''s family had all these talents. She couldn''t help but imagine that her children would inherit these great genes!


    Thinking about it, her hands unconsciously touch her belly. She lowered her gaze, and her lips yed with a satisfying smile.


    Vince, who was talking with Tyler Lopez and Allen Hillson, excused himself and walked toward Hailee.


    "What''s wrong? Are you feeling ufortable? Did your stomach hurt?" Instantly, Vince asked a series of questions. His face is full of worries and anticipation. He even lifted his arms to snuggle Hailee and stroked her back.


    Hailee''s eyes flickered at what he did. She looked at Vince tenderly and shook her head. She ced her arms around his neck, then kissed his lips.


    After the kiss, she whispered, "I''m just too happy. I think the babies too."


    Vince''s face looked rxed after she said that. He sighs with relief as he ponders about the possibilities of why she felt ufortable.


    Hailee went to the restroom with Gigi, and so he did not apany her. She was only in her first trimester, but he couldn''t stop panicking now and then.


    "We need your nannies to follow you around, especially when times I can''t apany you," Vince suggested to her.


    Hailee nodded and didn''t object, which surprised Vince a little.


    Well, if it was said when she wasn''t pregnant, it is just an ordinary day. She would throw a tantrum and persuade Vince she did not need them.


    Ever since before, she doesn''t like to have nannies following her around, and this is something her dad was helpless about because he could not assert if she said she didn''t want anyone to follow her.


    But this time, she will listen to Vince. She doesn''t want to make him worry. She understood Vince was worried about her pregnancy, and he was only concerned about her condition, and that''s why he''s doing this.


    Seeing that, she had no objection. Vince broadened his smile after she agreed. He actually thought Hailee would reject his suggestion because his father-inw once shared with him how Hailee doesn''t like being followed or apanied by nannies when she goes out.


    And so, he is a little worried she might be in a foul mood after he brought up the nannies thing...


    Lately, her mood has been stubborn because of her pregnancy. And so, it needed a little patience. He considers that carrying three babies at the same time isn''t easy, and he heard that even those only single fetuses could make someone have difficulties¡ªthen, more of Hailee conceiving three.


    "Come on. My cousins will present more of their hidden talents. You should have taken a seat."


    "Okay."


    Vincent gently held her as they walked back to their table. But her eyes caught the woman seated in the corner, with only a nurse apanying her.


    "Hubby, can I join Aunt Sol''s table instead?" she asked with a bit of worry.


    Vincent takes a nce in the direction where Tyler''s mom is seated. He smiled at Hailee and nodded. "Of course."


    It made her happy that Vincent agreed. Hand in hand, they approached the olderdy and greeted her warmly.


    "Hello, Aunt Sol." Vincent greeted his first aunt, Sol Lopez, his mom Hilda''s older sister.


    "Vincent..." Sol smiled shyly at his nephew; her eyes gleamed after she recognized him. She is only a nearsighted person, and so she could distinguish no one from afar. Although Tyler can bring her to another country for advanced treatment, she chooses not to.


    "Hi, Aunt Sol." Aware of the olderdy''s condition, Hailee greeted Sol with a warm smile.


    Sol moved her gaze from Vince to Hailee. After she recognized her sweet voice, she returned with a warm smile. "Hello, Hailee."


    "Can I sit next to you, Aunt Sol? Being pregnant made me toozy to walk around and got me tired fast." It''s only partly true as she didn''t feelzy at all to walk around, meeting Vince''s entire family.


    However, she wanted to apany Vince''s first aunt, who chose not to mingle with her rtives. It''s not that she has had no good rtionship with them, but because of her condition since Tyler was a kid.


    Sol smiled timidly and said, "Of course. You need not ask permission. We are family..."


    The olderdy trailed herst word. And upon hearing this, Hailee felt the warmth from Sol''sst words. It can sense that Sol was unsure if she should mention this, and so Hailee quickly added.


    "Yes, Aunt Sol. I am so happy I will be part of Vincent''s big family soon, especially you." She sat on the dining chair that Vince pulled for her.


    Sol gaped at the couple, who were sweet to each other. She could see Vincent doted on his wife, and it was evident that Hailee was in love with him the way she coquettishly thanked him while her eyes were twinkling looking at him.


    Sadness shes in Sol''s eyes, but she quickly conceals it. Lately, she can finally control her emotions in crowded ces like this. Besides, her time had already passed to find happy love life. But she already epted the truth after she realized how blessed she was already to have a wonderful son like Tyler.


    And so, she always prayed that Tyler would find a suitable wife soon, who would be kind to his mother. With that, she would feel relieved and happy.


    Now that Hailee sat downfortably, Vincent ced a kiss on Hailee''s head as a habit then said, "I will get you some dessert."


    Witnessing this, Sol cannot help but smile and bury the little envy that crept in her heart. It''s just that she never receives this kind of affection, and so, she is happy to see a young couple as intimate as this.


    Hailee caught Sol staring at her with intent. She smiled at the olderdy. Before this party, Vince had shared a little story about his mom''s siblings.


    And so, she couldn''t help feeling sympathy for them. That is why she is watching her emotions toward Sol.


    "I''m happy that Vincent finally fell in love," Solmented after a brief silence.


    Hailee nced at the buffet table, where it disyed all kinds of a dessert she could imagine. She could see that Vincent seemed frozen on the floor as he swept his gaze at the long table. She need not guess; he was having difficulty choosing what dessert he would bring over for her.


    Looking at Vince''s back, a heartfelt smile appears on her lips. "I''m madly in love with him too, Aunt Sol," she confessed from the bottom of her heart.


    "I could see that¡­." Sol smiled. She extends her arm and reaches for Hailee''s palm. "I hope you will have the patience to get along with Hilda. Please, understand her temperament."


    Hailee already knew that her mother-inw had a unique temperament. But hearing about it from the older sister surprised her a little bit, so she smiled at the olderdy as she replied. "Mom, Hilda is kind to me. I could also feel that Sheena and Deana liked me a lot, not because of who I am."


    Studying Sol''s expression, Hailee sees how the older woman felt relieved.


    Sol remained silent for a while as she tried to process what Hailee had mentioned just now. Tyler and Jessa used to tell her that Vincent''s wife was from a super-wealthy family. She didn''t learn how to use a gadget, and she did not see any news about Hailee.


    However, she could tell that her nephew and Hailee genuinely love each other.


    Hailee is wealthier than Vincent, so there is no way she is after his money. On the one hand, she knew Vincent very well, so she would never think that her nephew was only after Hailee''s money.


    "Hilda might be snobbish and behaving superior all the time. But she has to harden her heart. She is the second youngest, but Hilda acted more like our oldest siblings. However, she is very kind to us." Sol paused for a moment. Upon seeing Hailee that was listening keenly to her story, she continued.


    "Her older sister and older brother are such weak people. If she does not teach herself to be strong, she might end up like me." When Sol mentioned an older sister, she was referring to herself.


    Hailee softens her gaze after Sol says this. She only heard the story from Vince, which broke her heart. But listening to more of that story from his aunt Sol''s very mouth, it feels more heartbreaking.


    Seeing the emotion appear in Hailee''s eyes, Sol squeezes a faint smile.


    "Hilda is the one who is always there for us. Our parents were assigned to the US, so instead of me, who should watch over Hilda. It was her who was watching over me. HILDA WAS THERE FOR MY CHILDREN when I was lost in my own world for a long time. Tyler grew as an excellent man because of Hilda. My daughter Jessa has be an aplished actress because Hilda is watching over her."


    "Hilda is truly strict with the children. But she doesn''t know how to express herself. The tragedy she witnessed pushed her to be an indifferent person. I know why she always puts up a wall around her. She is afraid she might end up like me, who bes mentally unstable because of love. And her big brother, my younger brother, also lost sanity because of love. And because of us, Hilda closed her heart for love. But even if she never showed it. I am certain she loves Fred."


    Hailee nodded. She believes it too!

 Chapter 327 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 327 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Seven)</h4>


    "Hilda was afraid that love would destroy her. She thinks that marriage needs no love and be emotionally invested in each other because it will make someone go crazy... Like her older siblings." Sol went on.


    Hailee pressed her eyelids to push back the tears that threatened to escape her eyes.


    How sad is that? She thought with a heavy heart.


    A marriage without love and deep feelings for each other canpare to a lonely journey to an isted road.


    She had just realized this.... Even if she and Bryan treat each other well. Still, it will be different because her love for him is not the same as she felt for Vincent.


    She was happy when she was with Bryan in the past. She has no doubts about Bryan because it is just one call away, and he would show up not long. Bryan is always there for her¡­


    However, it never flutters her heart like how it beats when she is with Vincent.


    Now, she cannot imagine that she is almost married to Bryan. Sometimes, she wanted to thank Liam and Eva for being the thorns in her life.


    Because of them, fate brought her toward Vincent.


    Sol noticed the emotion exhibited on Hailee''s face. Somewhat, the girl lost in her world, but her eyes remained to stare in one direction, which showed the love she felt toward the man that until now was in a bit of trouble about the dessert he should pick out for his wife.


    After a moment of silence, Hailee was pulled back to her senses when Sol spoke up again.


    "I could see how much you love my nephew. It makes me happy every time I think about it. Vincent deserves to find happiness. I may be timid about caring for other people. But I always prayed for Heaven to send, even if it''s not a perfect woman as long as she would love Vincent with all of her heart. Also, I prayed God protects this woman destined for him, and the dayes, and their path would meet. And I am d that my prayers have not only been answered, but heaven sent an angel."


    Hailee was moved by what the olderdy had said. Her right palm was still inside Sol''s hands. She ced her other palm on top of the olderdy''s hand, then rubbed it.


    They say it is more powerful if others will pray for you. Now shepletely understood why herte grandma was constantly reminding her to pray for others.


    Sol squeezes Hailee''s hand and says, "Jessa told me you own the store that lends us these exquisite pieces of jewelry. Thank you. I feel beautiful once in a while."


    Hailee was stunned to hear this, and it was as if his heart was being squeezed with grief.


    "Aunt Sol, even if you would not wear any jewelry, you are already beautiful." Hailee doesn''t want this olderdy to think low of herself. She understands it has been a long time that she imprisons herself in her own world, which is why shecks confidence.


    "Thank you, Hailee. You are a sweet child, and no wonder you were able to melt Hilda''s heart."


    Hailee was delighted Sol thought that. She looked at the olderdy with so much warmth in her eyes.


    "After the party, I will immediately send back these pieces. They were too expensive, and I''m afraid I might have lost them."


    "Don''t worry, Aunt Sol." Hailee smiled. "You need not send them back. I am giving them to you as a gift."


    Sol was stunned. Even her nurse was also surprised when Hailee announced that.


    "I... I don''t think I deserve them¡­." Sol was hesitant to ept such a luxurious gift. Her family can afford expensive things, but she isn''t used to living like that, as she still prefers simple things. And so now, she feels like she cannot ept such things.


    But Hailee was determined to persuade the olderdy. "Aunt, you deserve more than this¡­."


    And that is love and warmth from people around here... It was what Hailee wanted to convey to the olderdy.


    "Madam Sol, the young madam is right. These pieces of jewelry are given to you out of young madam''s love." Judy, the private nurse, chimed in.


    Since Judy heard about the real identity of her young master''s girlfriend, she''s been reading all the news about Hailee Davies. She even started following her on Instagram, and she found out how nice a person she was.


    In all the articles she read and videos she watched, everyone always praised her, and when she met her in person, she proved how down-to-earth a person Hailee Davies is despite her status.


    Hailee Davies is very unique from many people Judy knew in high society who love to show off, even those who could not afford to live a luxurious life. Still, they were boasting everywhere and acted superior to others.


    Sol nced at her private nurse, then returned her gaze to Hailee. The girl is smiling warmly at her. And in her eyes, Hailee, who arrived in their family, was like an angel.


    The tears that she is holding have been freed. Sol reached for her eyes and wiped her tears, and Hailee handed her a facial napkin.


    "Thank you... Now you made me remember when I was younger. When our parents are not home, I will bring Hilda to our mom''s wardrobe, and then we will try on all of her jewelry. During those times, I would dream that one day, I would buy my own jewelry. After I graduate from college and start working and earning, I will buy only beautiful things. However..."


    Sol stops when distant painful memories sh in her mind that cause her to choke and sobs. Judy was a little in panic, but Sol shook her head, then smiled at Hailee as she went on.


    "But I fell in love at such a young age, and the marriage is a mess. I forgot to take care of myself and reach for my dreams. I''m d that Hilda is thinking more maturely than me. Hilda never forgets to buy me beautiful things to cheer up in the passing years despite what happens to me. But your gift is very special among everything else. Don''t tell her I said that."


    Hailee giggled and nodded. "I''m happy to hear that, Aunt Sol. And don''t worry. It''s our secret." She said, then winked at the nurse, who smiled delightedly while listening to their talk.


    Judy was touched by this interaction with her madam and Hailee Davies. For a long time that she was working at the Lopez first family; this is one of the rarest times that her madam didn''t restrain but opened up herself and had a warm talk with someone.


    Hailee Davies is truly an amazing person. Her madam is not a fan of gadgets. She didn''t learn to use social media sites or love to browse her phone, so she had no idea how famous the person she was conversing with.


    Judy was even impressed by Hailee, and she witnessed how this princess cared less that she was a famous person in the entire world.


    Meanwhile, Tyler often nced at his mother, even when he was busy talking to his cousins and their business partners. Then, he noticed his mother wiping her eyes.


    Tyler looked for an opportunity to excuse himself and walked toward his mother. He is already worried that her emotion got triggered at the party, the reason his eyes don''t leave his mother''s table. He wonders what they''re talking about, and his mom is shedding tears.


    In the past, he often found his mom breaking down in the corner of her bedroom. Since then, he is always worried about his mother, abandoning his chances to be the President of Lopez Corporation in the main headquarters as the first grandson of the third generation.


    "Ma?"


    Sol lifted her gaze and looked at her son, who was approaching their table. She smiled and proudly narrated the gift she received.


    "Tyler, look! Hailee gave them to me."


    Tyler was stunned for a moment. But then he sighed with relief after figuring out what was happening. Looking at the jewelry that Hailee''s staff sent over for his mother to wear to this party, he didn''t expect that Hailee would generously give them instead.


    And to see the big smile on his mom''s lips, he could not hide the emotion he only showed around his mother. He pursed his lips and smiled.


    "They look even more beautiful as you''re wearing them, Ma." Hispliments brought glimmers into his mother''s eyes.


    "Tyler, do you think Hailee would like the flowers I grow in the garden? Would she ept them if we brought some of them to her?"


    Tyler was amused to see his mother behaving like this and all of this because of Vincent''s wife. His mother has never been as lively as this, but only toward her immediate family, which she felt secure with.


    He looked at Hailee and smiled with gratefulness at her for having the patient speak with his mother. He is confident that Hailee heard his mother whispering about how she could return her gratitude.


    After bing the director of Lopez Steel Corporation, he used his influence to search for what is best to do if a family member has a case like his mother. He learned that maybe gardening could help improve her emotions.


    Since then, instead of purchasing designer clothes and bags and shoes for his mother, he bought all kinds of rare flowers and nts in the world. He also learned how to grow and take care of them to teach their local gardeners how to raise those rare nts. Right now, his mother''s garden is hectares wide, and it earns a great result. His mother''s emotions are a lot stable now.


    "Ma, I think Hailee would love your phenopsis orchids," Tyler suggested.


    Both Sol and Hailee''s eyes gleam.


    Hailee uttered, "Myte grandma has all the kinds of orchids in her greenhouse, and they were still growing well at grandpa Allen''s Vi."


    Upon hearing this, Sol was delighted. She was about to say something but realized that Hailee was having a sensitive pregnancy. She would love to invite Hailee to see her garden, but Vincent wanted to limit their trips in her condition.


    Hailee noticed the sadness in Sol''s eyes. She thought of the reason the olderdy was sad. And so she tried to console her.


    "Aunt Sol, after I give birth. I will visit the South Ind to see you and all your nts."


    "With the babies?" She got excited thinking of Hailee and Vincent''s triplets.


    "Yes, Aunt Sol. Province has the freshest air. The babies surely would love it there."


    Sol nodded and pursed her lips into a smile. She looked at her son, and Tyler gave his mother a knowing smile, like saying, ''Ma, you are great!''

 Chapter 328 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Eight)

    <h4>Chapter 328 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Eight)</h4>


    Vincent finally came back with two tes of assorted desserts after he had difficulties choosing, and it was worth his efforts when Hailey''s eyes widened with delight.


    She quickly got a small fork and pinched a portion of cheesecake with blueberry jam on top.


    When the cheesecake melted in her tongue, Hailee sighed with satisfaction. She looks up to smile at Vince. "Thank you, hubby."


    "You''re wee. I asked a server to bring you bottled water," said Vince tenderly while putting a hand on Hailee''s shoulder.


    Not long after, a male server carried a tray with the bottled water and a clean ss. Vincent gestured to ce them on the table, and then he dismissed the server.


    Vincent opened the cap and poured the content into the clean ss..


    "Hi, everyone!"


    A beautiful woman in her early thirties approaches them, and she stops behind Sol and ces her hands on the olderdy''s shoulders.


    "Don''t you feel cold, Ma?" asked the beautiful woman.


    "Jessa... Don''t worry, honey. The air conditioning in this hall is fine."


    "Ah, great!" After Jessa talked to her mother, her attention shifted to Hailee and Vincent. She greeted them gleefully. "Hi, cousin! Hello, Hailee."


    "Hi, Jess." Vincent greeted back...


    Then Hailee nodded, parted her lips into a sweet smile. "Hello, Jessa."


    "Guys, I have something to talk to you about." Jessa is hesitant to bring it up, but she takes this opportunity to talk to her cousin Vincent and Hailee.


    She went on, "Look, guys! My boss talked to me. He gave me a task to get your consent for an exclusive interview with my program. We know that every entertainment news and magazine in this world, including the fashion industry, has invited you already for an exclusive interview. Well... I am trying my shot to invite you both to my show. Actually, I am not that confident that you guys said yes just because we are a family."


    Jesseughed nervously; then she bit her lower lips as she continued, "But as a talk show host, I have this dream to interview you guys! So..."


    Vincent and Hailee look at each other. It was Vincent who spoke up to ask a question. "If we agree, can the interview be held here in Metro City?"


    "Yes, cousin! I know Hailee should avoid traveling a lot. And so, I ask Aunt Hilda''s opinion first. She agreed I could have a tour of the Shen Mansion as a special feature in my show, and then we could pick out the perfect ce inside the mansion to hold the interview recording. So, how was it?"


    Jessa exins what will happen on the House Tour and then the question during the interview.


    "We will prepare questions, but I will consult you guys if you approve of being questioned by these¡­ Actually, after Mr. James Ryan informed me about this idea. It came to us to ask you guys very personal questions about how your rtionship began and then if there are secrets in your family that the world hasn''t known yet¡­."


    After Jessa mentioned this, Vincent and Hailee shared a knowing look. They both know that Jessa''s boss is Shun''s very close friend. Besides, Shun is a part-owner of that TV Station in Maind City where Jessa works as an International Actress and Model.


    Jessa Lopez Schwarz is married to a Swiss businessman living in Maind City to run his family''s branchpany, and she moves to the country after the marriage.


    Now Vincent and Hailee had the same idea as why Jessa was appointed to invite them for an exclusive interview. It is all Shun''s ns of exposing Vincent''s real identity to the entire world.


    Even so, they are given the say to reject the invitation. However, it was the best opportunity to reveal to the world the secret of the Shen family.


    Hailee has already guessed that Shun came up with this idea to make things easy for Vincent once he took over the position in Davies Corporation as CEO.


    By then, many people would raise an eyebrow for him to get the role so quickly because he is the great son-inw.


    ''And so, maybe this is not a bad idea,'' thought Hailee.


    On the other hand, Vincent fell in deep thoughts if it was a great opportunity to show the world that he has no ulterior motive, but his love for Hailee is genuine.


    "Cousin, if mom agreed, then I have no problem with it. However, this is all up to Hailee."


    Vince epted the interview to have a rification on a few things. But if Hailee refuses, then that is fine for him. He and Hailee more likely chose a low profile. And so, this interview will reveal so many things about them.


    Jessa was happy that Vincent gave her a positive response. However, it was, of course, up to Hailee if she would allow her to run the interview and answer such essential questions.


    Everyone at that table was anxiously waiting for Hailee''s response. Sol, who is not interested in everything in the entire world, got excited to hear that her daughter would interview Hailee.


    If Hailee agreed, and the interview took ce at the Shen Mansion, then she wanted to see what her daughter was doing all these years.


    She knows she is doing acting and modeling and even hosting a talk show. But she wanted to see her in person while she did all of these things¡­


    In her children''s life, she was never there for them, and instead, she became a burden to her children. Despite her shorings as a mother, she was grateful that her children grew well and seeded in their lives.


    Meanwhile, Hailee has to reflect on it carefully. She had never epted any invitation before; it will be the first time she appeared in a talk show interview.


    In the past, the only interviews she epted were through magazines and articles. She never appeared in any TV shows or lived interviews because she wanted to keep her secret identity.


    After a long thought, Hailee nced at Vince, and then she fixed her eyes to Jessa.


    "Jess, this will be the first talk show I will ever appear to, and so I will talk to dad and my PR team first."


    "I understood, Hailee. You can think about it first, of course." Jessa smiled at Hailee. She knew very well that Hailee Davies had never appeared in any TV interviews but rejected all tv show invitations, even those very famous TV shows in Hollywood.


    She didn''t expect Hailee would say yes. But why would she not try?


    She may be recognized internationally; however, more famous actresses and supermodels are making names than her. There will be no harm, but there will be no result if she loses hope just like that.


    "Alright! I''ll go make a call to my boss and report the initial result of my first attempt to persuade you for an interview," said Jessa to Hailee and Vincent. "Catch youter, guys! Ma, I have to go outside to make a call. I wille backter. Brother Tyler..."


    Every one of them nodded at her. She was excited to inform her boss about the possibility that she could persuade Hailee for an exclusive interview.


    "Hello, Director Isagawa? Can I speak with Chairman Shun Crow?"

 Chapter 329 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Nine)

    <h4>Chapter 329 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Nine)</h4>


    Hailee looked up at Vince. Their eyes meet and converse. Even though no words wereing out of their mouths, both understood what was on their mind.


    Both were thinking about the possibilities if they epted the request to be interviewed by Jessa. They have to reveal theplicated start of their rtionship.


    And these include the issues she has that start with Liam, whichter on involves Bryan and Eva, which made them all connected, and they have no idea nor anticipated it.


    If Liam did not use Eva to trick Bryan¡ªVincent should have divorced soon.


    However, if Eva didn''t trouble her that ended them breaking up apart, she should have married Bryan now¡ªsomething at a point of no return if she meets Vincent and falls in love with him inside her marriage to another man.


    That is why Hailee wants to think thoroughly about it first if it was a good idea to have this interview.


    She needs to discuss this with her dad. Maybe with her knights as well, as she is opening more of her life to the world. Including Vince, who lived in silence all these years like her.


    Vince could see Hailee having a deep thought, and he already guessed what was running through her mind.


    He is also hesitant to approve of this interview because of what happens in his life.


    May the marriage is only arranged, and he never lives with Eva. Still, he was legally married once, and he had a rtionship with Hailee even before he got his divorce.


    But the dy in his divorce is because of Liam, which is a sensitive part on Hailee''s part.


    But if it helps to clear both his and Hailee''s name, they have to reveal it to the world.


    Of course, he will not let Hailee''s name get stained because of his first marriage, and they have an affair.


    Although his mom came up with the idea to marry him off, his marriage has only be an agreement between him and Eva to shut up the people who question his sexual orientation and calm down his mom, who is constantly throwing a fret because of this news.


    Hailee, on the other hand, already had some things ying on her mind. People would question Vincent''s arranged marriage, but she had a rtionship with him.


    Although they already met in the past and Vince had fallen in love with her since then¡­


    She had a purpose why she came to get closer to Vince, and it happens, he was Eva''s nominal husband.


    All she wanted was to offer him a project. She did not know the architect she was looking for, and Eva''s husband, who she wanted to milk money for, was the same person.


    It was a sensitive matter to her because she isn''t used to destroying someone''s name like doing a revtion in public. However, she knows she can not avoid this if they want the truth to be revealed.


    Well, everything will be alright in the interview if they thoroughly n out what things they will reveal to the world, especially in Liam''s case.


    It was something she didn''t want to remember, but she could not hide from it forever and could move forward if she would hide it for the rest of her life.


    Liam killed many people because of her, and apologizing to their family is not enough. Either way, she knew that arge amount of money and all support she could offer would never bring back the dead.


    But she''s hoping that in these genuine gestures, her knights who died for her will be in peace.


    Hailey heaves a long sigh, recalling the past. For a moment, her heart tightened with pain, and this must be her emotion that got triggered because of what was running in her head.


    Liam killed some of her knights, protecting her from Liam. Also, a few of her business partners who showed an interest in her were killed by Liam.


    It happens, even though she already rejected them. They were still persistent in courting her, and then it ended up with them buried in the grave.


    Hailee shook her head. It was a crucial matter she needed to talk about with Shun, as it is a serious issue that her dad tried to hide and cover up everything.


    But there is a possibility that Shun is also behind in this interview. Then Shun prepared to face the consequences.


    Besides, Liam Huo was already convicted, and his cousin Calvin Huo and all associated with these cousins create trouble for her and her loved ones.


    Maybe after the interview, she can finally haveplete peace of mind, and the weight on her shoulders lifts, and she finally would have a clear conscience.


    Hailee was lost in her train of thoughts; she didn''t notice Vince''s worried look.


    Vince massages Hailee''s shoulders as his way to convey his message of reminding her to calm down and put aside whatever on her mind that causes her sadness.


    They need not hurry to be interviewed, especially with the condition she has now, and it will only make him worry all the time.


    Hailee was pulled back to her senses after Vince gently pressed the muscles on her shoulders. She looked up and smiled at Vince, and she reached for her right hand and rested her head.


    Later on, she continued eating her desserts while Vince and Tyler discussed something while Aunt Sol went to the restroom with her private nurse.


    "Hey, Vincent!"


    Vincent and Tyler turned their heads to the man walking toward them.


    "Rodney¡­ What''s up?"


    "Bro, your father-inw wants you over there¡­." Rodney tilted his head in the direction where Fred and Zaijan talked with a few of their international investors.


    His father-inw was standing between his dad and cousin. Vincent scrutinized the older men. At first look, he could tell that these men came up with a partnership, and they wanted to involve his father-inw.


    May they were their biggest business partners for a long time already, but he doesn''t want to be careless to use the Davies Corporation''s influences with others'' interests. It''s something he has to watch out for in the near future.


    Vincent lowered his gaze, and it was also the time Hailee looked up at him.


    "Go ahead. I will continue chatting with Aunt Sol," she said withplete understanding.


    It cannot help that it was supposed to be a bonding night for his family and friends.


    However, people like them who wake up and sleep with the mindset of making business the next day could not stop themselves from discussing partnership tonight.


    Vincent stared at Hailee''s delicate face for a long time before he nodded. "Okay. But if you felt ufortable or getting tired, and do you need anything, call me right away."


    Hailee could not stop admiring her husband. Every day and even at night, he never fails to show how thoughtful he is toward her and how he worries for her every time.


    "I will... Don''t worry," she told Vince to reassure him. She reached for his hands to feel the warmth from them, and Vincent immediately held her hands tight. Squeezing them, then kisses the back of her palms.


    Tyler and Rodney look at each other. They shook their heads and rolled their eyes, murmuring inwardly, ''Showing off!''


    Anyway, they have also witnessed how Vincent never had a love life before. And after he felt love at first sight toward Hailee, his heart has only been beating for her since then.


    He looked at no other woman but only at a mystery girl''s picture saved on his phone.


    That is why they understood their cousin was head over heels after this girl appeared in front of Vincent.


    Tyler and Rodney could still remember Vincent''s reaction when he saw a woman who looked like the girl on his phone.


    Without saying a word, he just left them like they did not exist at that moment. Then, news reached them that Vincent went to the Security Room to look for this girl and monitor where she went.


    And once he found her, he trapped himself inside the elevator with her.


    During that time, Tyler and Rodney rush to the Security Room to watch the surveince video footage in the elevator.


    Upon recalling what happened back then, both conceal not to grin in front of these lovers.


    They used to think it was impossible to find true love.


    But witnessing someone have a fate like their cousin, they cannot help wishing that there is a right girl for them as well¡­

 Chapter 330 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Ten)

    <h4>Chapter 330 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Ten)</h4>


    When Sol Lopez came back to the table, Vincent kissed Hailee on the lips before leaving with Tyler and Rodney.


    "Call me if you need anything." Vincent reminded Hailee one more time before he left with his two cousins.


    Tyler and Rodney could only shake their heads. Falling in love is such a scary thing, and it was what they were seeing.


    How Vincent behaves around Hailee or his actions even though he is only going nearby looks exaggerated in other people''s eyes.


    But the people who understand this feeling know that it is how a person acts toward their opposite sex.


    Vincent, who is madly in love with Hailee, always loses his head for worrying about her¡­


    However, it was understandable why he became like this¡ªHailee is carrying his child, not one but three.


    "Hey, bro... If ever Hailee epts Jessa''s exclusive interview. I don''t mind taking part."


    Listening to Tyler, Rodney raised an eyebrow upward. "Taking part of what?"


    Tyler replied with a smirk. "The interview¡­"


    Rodneyughs mockingly. "Are you really willing to give your statement? Or you just want to be seen on TV?"


    Tyler raised an eyebrow at Rodney''s insult. "How dare you? If I want to be on TV, I already join the Entertainment Industry, and Jessa and I would be the Famous Twins."


    Rodneyughed out loud. Tyler lifted his left hand to smack Rodney at the neck. However, the guy''s reflexes are much better than any of the cousins because he is strict about training himself every day. As a Mafia Lord, he has to have unimaginable strength to fight anyone, especially those who n to assassinate him.


    Vincent did not join the cousins'' jest but watched them amusingly since he was used to it already.


    "Hey! What are you men talking about?" asked Carl, who caught a few words of what they were discussing. He joined them, going in a certain direction.


    "Jessa invited Vincent and Hailee for an exclusive interview. I don''t mind taking part to reveal the secret story of their love." It was Tyler who answered Carl.


    "Is that so?" Carl eyed Vincent with a knowing look.


    "What? Why are you looking at me like that?" asked Vince, synchronously with his left brow raised upward.


    "Duh. Nothing¡­ I just felt like I knew so little, but these two men here were very informed." Carl''s voice sounded like he was sulking.


    Vincent shook his head. He stretched his arm and patted Carl''s shoulder. "Your mouth is the reason I did not tell you."


    Carl rolled his eyes. "You knew you could trust me."


    Vince grinned. He knew that very well. However, he wants to avoid Carl slipping out his tongue in front of his parents. Most especially his mom, who has a sharp sense of when a person keeps a secret or something.


    And so, Carl only knows he is looking for this girl. But he didn''t reveal to Carl that he had already found her.


    "I know that, Carl. But I only protected you from mom''s scrutinizing gaze at us." Vincent appeases the guy.


    "Humph! I should take part in the interview too! The world should know that we are all good-looking men, and we are high-breeds, dude!"


    Tyler and Rodney shook their heads. They weren''t sure either tough or cry because of Carl''s statement.


    "Shut up, Carl! Still, I am way more handsome than you!"


    Carl twitched his mouth, looking at Rodney from his head down to his ck leather shoes. "Tsh! Said whom?"


    Sol, who watched these men retreating backs, shook her head and parted her lips into a big smile. She could not see them clearly in that distance, but she caught some of what they were talking about.


    She fixed her gaze on Hailey and said, "Except Carl, who grew up in the US. These three men were very close as they grew up together. Every summer, Hilda brought Vincent to the Old Mansion on the ind for a vacation. But Hilda brought a bunch of tutors to give Vincent regr lessons, including the other kids whoe to the ind for a vacation. But because of this, the cousin''s rtionship was even so good."


    Sol paused for a brief moment as distant memories passed her mind. Soon, she went on,


    "They attend the lessons obediently in exchange for letting them do whatever they want, such as swimming in the river or going into the nearby woods to y. Some idents happen, but mostly, everyone is covering it, not for Hilda to know. Good thing that Hilda has many works abroad as Director of Lopez Corporation. However, Hilda became so strict with Vincent when he reached High School."


    Hailee smiled. She said, "It was understandable, Aunt Sol. Vincent has to prepare for college."


    "You are right, Hailee. I may not be mentally stable all the time, but I always ask around if the kids are doing well, including news if they have girlfriends." Sol paused as she reached for Hailee''s hand.


    "Vincent never had a girlfriend in the past, and I know it''s not just because of Hilda being too strict and nagged all the time. But I know Vincent is very picky in courting women. You are the only one I heard he got close to and even fought his mom to protect you. Vincent never disobeyed his mom, and it was the first time he did not allow his mom to manipte his life. He chose love."


    Hailee felt her heart filled with warmth at what Sol had said. She smiled at the older woman, squeezing her hand.


    "Hailee, please don''t hate Hilda if whatever she did in the past. My younger sister only sees what her older siblings have been through because of love. I know Hilda only was afraid that love would destroy Vincent''s life. Each of us didn''t share the same fate. I may be unfortunate in love, but I could tell that you and Vincent truly love each other."


    Hailee nodded and smiled. "Vincent is also my first boyfriend, Aunt Sol. I love him genuinely, and Vincent''s love made me feel secure."


    For a moment, sadness shes in Sol''s eyes. It is what she begged for, love, but she failed to get a hold of it. Seeing others'' love made her not hate the world. Instead, she always thinks that love is a beautiful thing in life.


    She may have closed herself from the world. But she only refused to let go of her first love, which destroyed her.


    Sol stretched her arm and reached for Hailee''s hair, finely resting on her back. She ran her fingers into the strands while saying, "I will always pray to heavens that yours and Vincent''s love will continue to bless and prosper."


    "Thank you, Aunt Sol." Hailee blinks to push back the tears that threaten to fall from her eyes. She feels sorry for Sol, even if she should not.


    But this aunt has such a warm heart, and she thinks it is unfair that this olderdy has suffered from a broken heart for so long. She could imagine the hard life she had been through.


    She believes Sol deserves to find happiness.


    "Aunt Sol, have you ever thought of remarrying or looking for a new love?" Hailee could not stop herself from asking such a question. Then, she sighed with relief to see the olderdy smile.


    "I just prayed that in my next life, I finally found my soulmate. Maybe we are not destined to meet in this lifetime."


    Hailee stands up from her dining chair and walks toward the olderdy. She throws her arms around Sol for a warm embrace.


    "I will help you pray, Aunt Sol! And don''t worry. I never hate mom Hilda. I understood the reason she didn''t like me at first. For the belief that I am her son''s mistress even if just an agreement between¡­ I¡ª"


    ''OMG! Why did my tongue slip out?''

 Chapter 331 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Eleven)

    <h4>Chapter 331 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Eleven)</h4>


    Hailey smiled awkwardly at Sol. Suddenly, she got nervous when the olderdy gave her a confused look. Understandably, Sol is curious about what she wants to say.


    "I think Vincent and I should ept this interview," she stated after a short thought.


    "Really?" The olderdy''s eyes shine.


    Sol got excited to hear this. Finally, she could watch her daughter do an interview. She once wanted to be a journalist, and she is happy that her daughter, Jessa, became a host in a famous international Talk Show here in Asia. It was like that her dreams also came true through her daughter.


    "That sounds exciting."


    "Yes, Aunt Sol. But first, I have to consult dad and my PR to discuss it. There are many sensitive parts in our lives, both me and Vincent. So it will be a closed-door sit down with Jessa''s team and her boss."


    "I see. People once named you the Mistress. And so, Jessa must be careful with the questions she will ask you and Vincent."


    "I don''t mind, Aunt Sol." Because I am the only one who knows the truth back then about Eva''s kind of woman, Vincent should not have a bad reputation, and it is time to clean that up.


    Now she understood why Shun wanted this interview. People must hear the real story from their side.


    Hailee''s train of thought stops after Sol speaks again.


    "Then, I would love to stay in Metro City for another week or two¡­." Sol nced at her private nurse, who pped her hands from happiness.


    Judy was happy that she could also stay longer in the capital city. It''s not that she hated living on the ind, but it''s rare for them toe here, and so it excites so much that her Madam Sol is willing to stay longer.


    It was actually the first time her madam voluntarily wanted to stay longer in the city. And so, she is a little emotional with the big progress that her madam is showingtely.


    Meanwhile...


    "Dad?" Vincent calls out, approaching Jacob and Fred. Immediately, his father-inw smiled at him.


    "Come on, Vincent!" Jacob patted Vincent''s back. "I believe these gentlemen came up with a really perfect project."


    "What is it, Dad?" he asked curiously.


    Jacob exined, "We''ve discussed setting a meeting sometime next month. However, since you are now in training with me, could you handle this matter instead?"


    After saying this, Jacob turned his head to the men in front of them. He told them,


    "Soon, Vincent will be the new CEO of Davies Corporation. After the wedding, he will learn everything he needs to know about how I run thepany." Jacob paused for a moment to look at Vincent. "I have huge faith in Vincent¡­ With new ideas and direction, Davies Corporation is in good hands."


    The investors of Shen Group and Lopez Corporation shared a knowing look. The moment Jacob mentioned Vincent was appointed to be the next CEO, their heart leaped in joy.


    Vincent''s new role is an advantage to them. They have been business partners for so many years, and having him by their side means more prosperity through getting an investment from Davies Corporation.


    These gentlemen''s smiles widened while looking at Vincent. They congratted him and said a lot of pleasant words.


    "Congrattions, Vincent! You deserve this position!"


    "Mr. Davies, you chose a perfect man! We have known Vincent ever since he was a kid, and you can assure that he is capable of running a business even as giant as Davies Corporation."


    "I second that! Look at how prosperous Metro City is now?" someone echoed.


    "Not only this city, but it''s the entire country! His ideas are actually constructive for the rapid group of P Country!" another one chimed in.


    "Vincent was like an emperor! Ruling an empire is a piece of cake for him!"


    Vincent thinks they were exaggerating to impress his father-inw. He could only smile faintly at these older men and just ignored their overpraises.


    But as thesepliments said in front of his father-inw. It cannot help that he flustered once in a while. Somehow, it feels proud that he had these achievements to boast to his inws, especially a magnanimous businessman like Jacob Davies.


    On the other hand, Jacob was pleased with what he heard. May his head kept nodding as he was delighted. He believes Vincent performed very well in the passing years.


    As a father-inw, he is very proud as well. He has high expectations of Vincent that he will impress the Davies Corporation business partners, and with these praises, he ultimately believes that people would see Vincent''s efficiency.


    Fred, who was only listening on the side, was very proud of his son, and he could not stop himself from¡ªsomehow patting himself as a father who gives more time to teach his son how to run a business than giving him the life of a typical teenager.


    Other fathers would teach their teenage sons how to y a sport. But Fred brought Vincent to y golf instead of learning how to pursue a client or impress a potential investor.


    Somehow, his being too strict with Vincent helps his son to achieve such sess.


    However, Vincent is not that happy as his maternal father and father-inw.


    The first thing he wanted to avoid with his new role is that people think they can do whatever they n because of their past partnership.


    The battle that he will face soon is an unimaginable hardship. He has to prove to everyone that he is not just Jacob''s son-inw but ispetent to handle the Davies Corporation''s affairs in the business world.


    He is efficient, and it''s something he must prove to every Davies Corporation employee, especially to the Board and stakeholders.


    After that, Vincent excuses himself to get something to drink. Zaijan, Rodney, and Tyler followed himter to the bar area.


    "You are pissed¡­." Tylermented.


    Rodney nudged his shoulder, but Tyler just raised an eyebrow at the guy. He is the oldest among them, so he was used to giving the word first.


    "Let''s go sit over there." Zaijan tilted his head toward an empty table. "Rodney asked the waiter to send drinks over."


    The cousins walked toward the table and sat down on the crescent sofa. Not long after, their other cousins join them. After bottles of wine, whisky, brandy, and vodka were served, they chose their drink and nk of sses heard after.


    "Cheers!"


    Fifteen men now upied the table. All are Vincent''s cousins.

 Chapter 332 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Twelve)

    <h4>Chapter 332 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Twelve)</h4>


    Sitting around the table, Vincent let Rodney pour him drinks on his ss, which he drank at one go.


    "You got annoyed with those investors," Zaijan repeated what Tyler said earlier.


    "I told mom to invite just our rtives," Vincent groaned. "See what happened now?"


    He already perceived what could happen in a massive gathering like this one. He just wanted to spend time with all of his cousins and uncles close to their ages. Most of all, his father-inw was here. Those business partners would take this an opportunity to talk to him, and as he already predicted, they cannot control themselves to bring up a partnership.


    "Just rx and enjoy the rest of the night," Zalde patted his back, a cousin two years younger than him. Zalde poured Vincent a drink, then clinked their sses.


    "Everyone now thinks they can take advantage of my new position," Vincent grumbles after he empties his ss.. His tone contains irritation.


    "Being a son-inw of a giant businessman like Jacob Davies is not just something simple. We understood you, cousin." Danny Lee chimed in.


    "Danny is right. We know the pressure that you are going to experience," Tyler echoed.


    "So cheer up, dude! Just focus on your beautiful wife. And soon, you are a father of three. That was absolutely a blessing, bro." Jayden Lopez joined them, and he sat down next to Tyler. "I heard Jessa is going to interview Vincent and Hailee."


    Jayden spoke to Tyler, to whom the guy nodded as a response. So then, Jayden went on. "I want to coborate if Jessa''s boss will hear my proposal. I want the exclusive interview to be a documentary of Vincent Lopez Shen and Hailee Davies. The Legendary Couple..."


    Jayden Lopez is a famous film director and producer in the P Country Entertainment Industry, and he also does international work and even indie films.


    Vincent only wanted to listen. However, upon hearing the title Jayden made for them, he couldn''t help to scoff. Everyone is being exaggerated toward him. But he didn''tment on it but fell into deep thoughts as everyone continued chatting while pouring him a drink.


    "What do you mean, documentary?" After a bit of a while, Danny raised a question.


    "This is a perfect chance for Vincent and Hailee to do their Pre-Nup Videos. It will be a short film to show Vincent and Hailee''s life since their childhood days." Jayden exined to them. After then, they give their impressions.


    "That was a good idea," Zaijanmented. "Everyone must contribute good words for Vincent."


    "And with this documentary, our faces should show up in the film." Rodney had this massive grin on his face that earned him ridicule.


    "Shut up! You just wanted to boast!"


    "You are single, that''s why!" Teased by his other cousins, that made Rodney frown.


    ''I have a girlfriend!'' he wanted to shout at everyone''s faces, but he held himself. Rodney nced at Zaijan before he fixed his gaze on the woman across the hall.


    She was too beautiful in her gold evening dress. It isn''t as revealing as most of the dresses tonight, but the dressplimented all her curves. Its design was just perfect for her personality.


    Meanwhile, Fraine could feel someone was looking in her direction. She turned her head, and she caught Rodney staring at her.


    She pursed her lips, unsure whether to smile or nod at him. However, her eyes caught Zaijan staring in her direction as well.


    She withdraws her gaze and ignores them both. She is working at the moment. Vincent''s aunts from both sides inquire about the jewelry Hailee lent to the older women from Lopez and Shen families to wear to this grand party.


    "I will work on the papers tomorrow, Mrs. Lopez," said Fraine. This olderdy loved the jewelry she got and wanted to purchase it.


    "It was the only design in the entire world, right?" the beautiful olderdy queried. The jewelry she is wearing is exquisite. Instantly, she fell in love just at first nce.


    "Yes, Mrs. Lopez," Fraine replied politely.


    "Then, I am going to purchase it!"


    Fraine smiled. She could not stop grinning inwardly as Hailee''s promotion was sessful. Tonight, this is the fifth set of pieces of jewelry that she sold.


    Back at the men''s table, Rodney smiled bitterly. In these passing days, he didn''t have a proper talk to Fraine.


    But she was avoiding him, and he knew that she only used her work as her excuse.


    ''We need to talk after the party.'' In the end, he could not stop himself from sending Fraine a message.


    He waited for five minutes before Fraine replied.


    ''I''m busy. Please don''t disturb me.''


    Rodney clenched his jaw. She''s making things hard for him again. Annoyed, Rodney put back his phone on his coat inside his pocket and drank the brandy Tyler poured for him.


    The men are just discussing random stuff at the moment, and so he lost interest in joining.


    Sitting across from him is Zaijan. The guy gives him a knowing look. Rodney smiled faintly, and he felt too sad. Among his cousins, Zaijan, who knew him really well.


    Indeed. It is not like him to be quiet in his seat. All the time, he is one of the noisiest among these men.


    Rodney gritted his teeth and sighed inwardly, attempting to ignore what he felt right now.


    Rodney drowns himself in liquor while listening to his cousin''s jokes.


    "Vincent, give me your other bank ount number!" All of a sudden, one of Vincent''s cousins asked for his bank ount number.


    "Why?" It was Tyler who returned a question.


    "Just spill it out, man." Danny urges Vincent.


    "Yes, just say it!" said the rest.


    "Why do you want Vincent''s bank ount number? I have mine here!" Rodneyughs. The men shook their heads, and they could see that he was already drunk.


    "Dude! You look like someone just dumped you!" Tristan Lopez jokes on Rodney. As the youngest, he cannot read the atmosphere surrounding Rodney. Tristan shut his mouth when his cousin threw a sharp look at him. ''Did I add salt to the wounds?'' he thought inwardly. Tristan snickered, but he didn''t show it to Rodney. Of course, he knew this guy''s temperament.


    Vincent nced at Rodney. It also made him wonder why the guy was suddenly in a foul mood. Earlier, he had a broad smile and even constantly threw a joke on him.


    Rodney stood up and left them, ignoring everyone. It shocked them when he walked toward Fraine and dragged her out of the hall.


    Vincent and all the men at that table shared a knowing look. They saw when Rodney dragged Fraine outside. Now, all of their eyesnded on Zaijan.


    Until now, they were still curious about how Zaijan and Rodney dealt with their affairs. Except for Vincent and Tyler, who knew everything.


    Zaijan, on the other hand, emptied his ss before he put it down to the table, then stood up from the sofa.


    "I already wired my contribution," he said before he walked away. "Vincent''s bank ount number is¡­."


    The twelve men at the table typed on the ount number on their phones.


    "What is this for?" Vincent is already very curious about what his cousins are up to.


    Not long after, his phone receives several notifications. He pulled out the gadget from the back of his pants and opened the messages.


    After seeing those money transfers, itpletely changed his mood. Now he has an enormous grin on his face.


    "Thanks, brothers!"


    "Now, I paid you off." Rick Lopez jokes on him.


    Vincent chuckled, shook his head. When Rick got married a year ago, he gave a considerable amount to contribute to his wedding, and now everyone is returning the favor.


    Anyway, it has be the n''s tradition since their forefathers, and now every generation continues practicing this family legacy.


    "Thanks, bro! But, guys, don''t get married in the same year. I have to save up after this." He told the men who are still single until now.


    "Get married? Don''t curse us, bro!" Both Jayden and Danny groaned and rolled their eyes, and it was they who didn''t want to tie down to a woman.


    Vincent raises an eyebrow. He grinned and said, "Be careful, brother. Lovees at the most unexpected time."


    "Jeez! Stop lecturing us, lover boy!" Dannyins firmly.


    *


    Meanwhile¡­


    "What are you doing!" Fraine attempts to get away from him, but Rodney even tightens his grip on her elbow.


    "Let''s talk now," he mutters under his breath.


    Fraine frowned after her nose caught the odor of his breath. "You are drunk!"


    "I am sober."


    "I don''t care whether or not you are drunk. Would you please let me go? Now!" Fraine tried to get free from Rodney''s grip. However, she can''tpare her strength to him.


    "I want to talk to you¡­." Rodney lowers his voice.


    "We have nothing to talk about. You are disturbing my work!" Fraine sneered at him. She braced herself not to show a soft spot in her heart.


    "Is giving my life to you not enough?"


    Fraine was stunned for a moment. Rodney''s words cut her heart. However, she must not get affected no matter what.


    "You should not listen to what my mom told you." Rodney''s tone is even softer this time.


    Fraine bit her lower lip so as not to lose herself once again. She snorts, "All she said would never hurt me or affect me. They know nothing about me."


    Rodney darkened his face, clenching his fists on his sides. "Fraine¡­"


    "I need to go back to my work." Fraine turned around, prepare to head back to the hall when Rodney pulled her and wrapped his arms around her body.


    "Rodney, what are you doing!?" She struggles to get away from him, but she fails.


    "This is a party! I don''t permit you to work!" Rodney ranted close to her ear as he tightened his embrace.


    "Are you my boss?" She gritted her teeth in annoyance.


    "I know Hailee won''t allow you to work tonight either."


    Even how Rodney coaxes and persuades Fraine but she is as stubborn as he is. "If I don''t do my job, I am not supposed to be here. Madam Hilda has no reason to invite me¡ª"


    "You are my date here tonight!" Rodney cut her words. He was too annoyed with her stubbornness, and she never listened to any of his exnations, which frustrated him.


    "Rodney... What are you doing?"


    Fraine quickly pushed Rodney after she heard Zaijan speak behind them. She didn''t look at Zaijan but was determined to get away from them.


    "Fraine!" Rodney attempted to follow her, but Fraine snapped at him.


    "I''m going to thedies'' room!" After saying this, she resumed walking without looking back.


    "Rodney!"


    "Shut up, Zaijan!" Rodney sneered, throwing sharp res at the guy.

 Chapter 333 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Thirteen)

    <h4>Chapter 333 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Thirteen)</h4>


    Zaijan contracted his pupils, gazing at Rodney with intent. After staring at each other''s eyes, it was he who broke the silence. "This is Aunt Hilda''s birthday party. Stop making a scene, especially putting Fraine in an unlikely situation."


    "I am not, and you don''t have the right to lecture me," Rodney scowled at Zayn. He turned around and walked toward the hallway where Fraine headed to.


    "Leave Fraine alone," Zaijan''s tone is full of warnings.


    Rodney turned his head at Zayn, and he red at him and did not hide his displeasure toward his cousin. Even in such a situation, he remains calm as nothing has happened, and it''s one thing he hates about the guy.


    "I could take care of her myself! I can do what you cannot!"


    Sharp res sh through his eyes¡ªZaijan darkened his face.. He lifted his right arm and reached for his necktie to fix it. It is his habit every time he is upset or mad at someone, and Rodney knew this very well.


    "Things are already going well with Fraine in the passing weeks." Zaijan warned, "Stop making things hard for Fraine again."


    Rodney frowned. He wanted to open his mouth, but he saw She Lopez, Zayn''s mom, approaching them.


    "Zayn! What are you both doing?"


    "What do you want, mom?" Zaijan asked his mother coldly. Still, he was upset about what she had done recently.


    "Stop this craziness, Zayn! And even you, Rodney!" The olderdy scolded them. "Many people saw when you dragged Fraine away just like that in front of your elders!"


    She is talking to Rodney. Then her gaze returned to her son. "And what are you doing? Can''t you just let that girl go? Do you think I will ept that woman even if you chose her over Jessie?"


    "She has a name, mom." Zaijan''s facial expression is getting colder, and it can see that he is only controlling himself to show respect to his parents despite the dispute between them.


    But She only ignored this¡­


    "You have been engaged to Jessie for a long time already! But what you did, instead? You didn''t tell me you went to the Rodriguez family and cut off the engagement! You don''t give us a face!"


    Zaijan pursed his lips. "I''ve already said before, mom. There will be no marriage between Jessie and me."


    "You never listen!" She is losing her sanity. Her son would choose their rtionship as mother and son would shatterpletely, which she could not allow! No outsider can destroy their family! "I am warning you, Zayn! If you cannot kick that woman out of your apartment, thene back to the vi!"


    "She, enough already." Finally, Zaijan''s dad spoke, who was only standing silently behind his wife.


    She throws a dagger look at her husband, Zed Lopez. "Are you siding with your son now?"


    "I do not. But this is my first cousin''s birthday party, so we can not create any scenes." Zed''s voice is low, but it can sense the firmness in them. "Let this important asion pass. If you want to talk to our son, then speak in private!"


    Displeasure is written all over Zed''s face as disappointment keeps knocking on his head. In all these passing years, his son performed so excellently at running the Lopez Corporation.


    However, he could not control one thing, and that is his private affairs. Above all, he doesn''t care that his rtionship with his fiancee would mess up, which brought a scandal to their family after someone from Michaels''s family appeared again.


    Zaijan only made a quick nce at his dad to say, "Bring mom back inside, dad."


    "No. I''m going to thedy''s room." She was distraught that her son was only treating her like she was the stranger in the family!


    "Dad¡­" Zaijan looked at his dad with a sullen expression on his face. Both his parents are stubborn as a mule, but he isn''t afraid of them anymore, and he inherits that obstinacy, anyway.


    He started to disobey and be rude to his parents after the past numbed his heart. They once destroyed his life, but they cannot take control of everything forever, especially his decisions in his life.


    "Let''s go, She." After Zed wrestles gazes against his son, he first gives up and gives in. Zed clearly knew that no one could stop Zayn anymore, not even She.


    "Zed!" She had no n to yield, but she was alone, and her husband showed no interest in reprimanding their son any longer!


    And that was true. Zed chose to ignore his wife''s furious re. Instead, he reached for his wife''s arm and pulled her back to the grand hall. "Come on."


    However, She only struggles and jerks her arm to get free from her husband''s grip.


    "I''m going to use the restroom! You¡ª" She stated annoyingly.


    "You just wanted to talk to Fraine," Rodney cut in. He walked toward the middle of the hallway to block his aunt if She nned to follow Fraine.


    She, on the other hand, sneered inwardly inside her heart. ''These men be as hard as steel because of that woman! They aren''t listening to their elders anymore!''


    "You ungracious nephew!" She rebuked. "Are you fighting against your elder now, huh, Rodney? You don''t respect us anymore!"


    Rodney is not just Zed''s nephew. Rodney''s dad is Zed''s twin brother, and his mom is her sister.


    Zaijan and Rodney are not just first cousins; they are more likely siblings as they grow up too close to each other, like their parents. That is why Rodney is like Zaijan''s shadow, and he is always tailing him around.


    "I''m sorry, Aunt She, but I won''t let you get near Fraine."


    She was furious, listening to her nephew. Zayn already gives her a headache, and Rodney worsens it!


    "Both of you have guts to threaten your elder just for a woman?" she sneered at them.


    "Enough, mom. I won''t repeat myself. You can''t touch Fraine, nor can you chase her away."


    She snapped, "And if I would? Are you threatening your mother, Zayn?"


    "Yes, mom. I won''t forgive you this time. You''ve ruined my life once. But you can''t do that again."


    After saying this, Zaijan nced over his shoulder and looked at Rodney. "Let''s go back."


    Zaijan walked ahead; Rodney followed him not that long after he sizes up his aunt and uncle. "Excuse us, uncle and aunt."


    She could only grit her teeth and clenched both of her palms into fists on her side.


    "Did you see that, Zed?" She cannot fret, but only in front of her husband.


    "She, your son is right¡­ You almost ruined his life before, and this has to stop. You''ve done enough damage already."


    "What do you mean by that, Zed?!" she snarled at her husband.


    "I said, enough! Our son is already in his thirties, and he isn''t married yet nor has a child!"


    "But if he married Jessie a long time ago, we already have grandchildren now!"


    "She¡­" Zed raised his hand and reached for his nape to massage it violently. "Can''t you see it didn''t earn a good result, no matter what we did in the past? It even makes our son distant from us! He''s our only child, but we have no good rtionship with him!"


    "It''s all because of that woman!" ''She should note back!''? She recalled the distant past, and every time she remembered them, the more she became furious.


    "Enough. Let''s go back now." This time Zed lowered his voice. It happens; Zaijan and Rodney remained outside the door of the grand hall, watching them.


    Obviously, they wanted to make sure that She would not attempt to go to thedy''s room now that they had left them behind.


    She was too frustrated. But she could not make scenes in front of everyone, so she controlled her mood and headed back to the grand hall with head high.


    She red at Rodney when she passed him. "Your mom has been depressedtely. You are an ungracious son who doesn''t know how to pay back your parents!"


    Rodney didn''t retort. He is done arguing with the elders. He already made a choice, and no one could stop him, even his own parents.


    Zaijan also only ignored his mom. He walked back to the table where his cousin gathered around after ensuring that his mom went back to their table.


    That is only what he needed to see, as he knew his mom. She would pretend as if nothing happened, even though everyone''s expression disyed how eager they were to hear the drama of their family.


    Meanwhile, Zaijan and Rodney are back at their table, and everyone shares a meaningful look at each other.


    They knew that something was happening outside. But as they could see that these two didn''t have bruises on their faces, now they could rx and breathe properly. Of course, it also worries them if they fight.


    Somehow, Zaijan and Rodney''s rtionship truly amazed them. They proved that their blood was thicker than fighting for one girl.


    "Where is Vincent?" asked Zaijan after he sat down.


    "There¡­" Tyler replied; his hand was hanging in the air as his thumb was pointing at the corner.


    Zaijan and Rodney followed the direction Tyler pointed at. They saw two silhouettes under dim lights three tables away from theirs.


    "Is he drunk?" asked Rodney.


    "Yeah¡­" the cousins are somewhat guilty.


    "Are you guys, idiot? Why did you give him more liquor?" Zaijan scolded them.


    Tyler, who is older than Zaijan, scratched his temple. "He was too happy after we all wired him some money."


    "Hailee is pregnant! You guys forgot she has a sensitive condition!" Rodney lectured them.


    ''Jeez¡­ We all just wasted our time and heart worrying about these two men; might they break each other''s bones.''


    *


    Meanwhile, Vincent had a massive grin on his face.


    Hailee could only stare at Vince helplessly. "You''re drunk."


    "I''m sorry, darling. I''m just too happy tonight."


    Hailee''s left eyebrow lifted upward after Vince used this endearment. ''He''s ying I am Hailey Hillson?''


    "You are so beautiful tonight."


    Vince murmured near her ear. His hot breaths awaken all her senses. Added to that, his palm is also rubbing her lower back.


    ''He''s really drunk!''

 Chapter 334 - Madam Hilda Shens Birthday Party (Fourteen)

    <h4>Chapter 334 - Madam Hilda Shen''s Birthday Party (Fourteen)</h4>


    Vincent lowered his head to kiss Hailee, but she quickly leaned back. He is reeking with alcohol, so Hailee avoids being kissed.


    The corner of her eyes caught a tter of fresh fruits on the table. She picked up a raspberry and put it in Vince''s mouth.


    Hailee stared at Vincent while he chewed the fruit sexily. She added one more and again, which Vince didn''tin about but ate everything she put in his mouth.


    The way he''s munching them plus licking his lip, Hailee has to swallow her saliva. Clearly, Vince is seducing her. ''What a flirty husband!''


    She knew Vince was doing it on purpose. His burning gaze made her feel like he was undressing her at this very moment. ''This guy!''


    Hailee could only sigh inwardly. She bit her bottom lip after she inhaled Vince''s breath that is now smelled of raspberry, which enticed her to taste them.


    She lifted her chin and reached for Vince''s lips, initiating to kiss him. He? instantly responded passionately the moment Hailee''s lips touched his.


    Soon, he deepened the kiss, pushed his tongue inside her mouth, where Hailee got a taste of the berries that were mixed with the liquor he had drunk earlier.


    Hailee moaned at what Vince did inside her mouth, and she seemed to get drunk tasting Vince''s mouth.


    ''This must be what they called love drunk.'' she thought, satisfied with the way Vince kisses her lips.


    At a distance, Hilda rose an eyebrow upward. She reached her forehead and ran light massages to calm herself not to march and scold her son.


    Hilda heaved a helpless sigh while watching the couple. She wanted to proceed to the next program of her birthday party.


    This time, family members should be called to go to the stage to deliver their meaningful messages for her, and it should start with Vincent. But she heard from Carl that Vincent was drunk and now pestering his wife. As she could see, he thinks that no one is around but he and Hailee alone in this grand hall.


    She is supposed to approach her son to reprimand him for getting drunk when Hailee is pregnant. However, it will be awkward if she goes toward the couple when they are making out in front of everyone.


    "I guess your brother should be sent back to his suite to sober up," Hilda told Deana and Sheena, standing by her side.


    "I will look around for those who have not drunk yet, mom. Everyone was getting intoxicated."


    Since most of Lopez and Shen need not drive and go home, the men had nned to drink till morning. Only fifteen men were seated at the table, but now over twenty men gathered around, drinking andughing to their heart''s content.


    Deana shook her head as she swept her gaze to the table to check who was still sober. dly, Rodney had a high tolerance for alcohol. Although Tyler and Zaijan were still looking calm, she could see they had drunk a lot already.


    "Maybe Hailee''s knights?" Sheena suggested to her sister. She nudged Deana''s shoulder, pointing her lips at another table where Vera Davies, Kelly Varghese, and Gigi Chan''spany were seated at.


    "Go ask Rodney to help carry Vincent back to the suite, and I will ask James to help Rodney."


    "Yeah. That''s a brilliant n!"


    Deana and Sheena nodded at each other before they carried out their goal. The sisters approached the table and whispered to the men, who quickly looked in the couple''s direction.


    The cousins raise their eyebrows. They looked at each other and shook their heads in amazement. Vincent undoubtedly is enjoying his life.


    Anyway, he was the only one who was never in a rtionship, so they all understood. Actually, they were happy for him that, atst, he finally united with the girl he dreamt of being with.


    "Alright. I''ll be right back." Rodney gets up from the sofa and walks toward the intimate couple. "Hey, bro!"


    Rodney paused after Vincent shot a warning re in his direction. He rolled his eyes and mumbled inside his head.


    ''Jeez. After disying too much PDA, now he wants to murder me with his dagger looks.''


    Not long, James came and began scolding Vincent. Rodney was shocked for mere seconds, watching James fearlessly lecturing Vincent; then, the corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk.


    ''Heh. It looks like this guy hasn''t tasted Vincent''s fist yet.''


    At that very moment, Rodney came up with a n. All of a sudden, he has an exciting idea of what kind of Bachelor party they must throw for Vincent.


    And at this party, Hailee''s knights must take part, as they will be the highlight.


    Rodney is just thinking about it; he cannot conceal his huge smile. Soon, he must share it with the other men to n it well.


    "What are you snickering about? Are you mocking me?" Vincent sneered at Rodney as he misunderstood him. But he knew this guy very well. He is certain Rodney came up with something, and if he isn''t mistaken, it''s about him.


    And Vincent is right. Indeed, Rodney began listing inside his head what activities they should do at his Bachelor Party.


    "Nothing, bro! Come on! We will escort you back to your suites." Of course, he would deny it and keep it a secret for now, which Vincent kept throwing suspicious res at him.


    "That''s not needed. Besides, the party hasn''t ended yet."


    "Really? Have you not realized that you made Hailee worry?" He wanted to point out that he was making too much public disy of affection, which makes single men anddies jealous.


    But he chooses not to voice out this, which James is also thinking the same.


    Vincent fixed his gaze on Hailee, searching for something on her face. After he stared enough, guilt struck his chest after Hailee''s eyes pleading at him to go. Sure thing, he made her worry by acting mischievously at the party.


    He is actually aware that his hand has been rubbing Hailee''s smooth legs, but he could not control himself. As he was staring at the worried face of his wife, he wanted to punch himself from his foolishness.


    ''The heck, am I doing?'' "Okay. Let''s go." He did not argue anymore.


    Vincent got up from the sofa and stretched his arm to help Hailee stand up. He steadied himself to walk properly, but he was dizzying.


    Vincent shook his head to clear out his vision, but Hailee caught him.


    "Are you okay? Can you still walk?" She noticed when Vince pressed his eyelids and casually shaking his head twice. Literally, she would worry about him.


    Vincent shook his head and smiled At Hailee. He stretched his hand and hooked them around Hailee''s waist.


    "Yes. I can properly see the floor," he said confidently, which Hailee doubted that.


    But she didn''t say any word and quietly walked toward the exit door. However, even though they still tried to keep it low that they were leaving, many noticed that Vincent was drunk.


    And among those unhappy with Vincent''s behavior tonight is Geoffrey. He already swears to himself not to feel affected or showed too much concern toward Hailee; however, it was already imprinted in his system to worry about this girl.


    Since Hailee was eleven years old, he witnessed her grow up. The sister''s affection he felt for her bes crushedter on. He knew it bloomed into love but just turned into unrequited love because Hailee only thinks of him as a brother.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hilda was annoyed. It was her birthday, but Vincent disappointed her. She could not believe that her son would lose control of himself tonight, but she also guesses that this was because of his cousins.


    Vincent would not get drunk just like that if he weren''t encouraged by his cousins, which these men can drink until morning.


    "Hilda, your face is frowning."


    Hilda red at Fred after he whispered in her ear. She pursed her lips and mouthed, "I can''t believe that your son forgot to hold on to his liquor. He knew he couldn''tpete with his cousins!"


    "You have rights to fret, but remember that his inws are here."


    "That''s the reason I am fuming! His inws were here, but he didn''t control himself! He didn''t even consider that Hailee had a sensitive pregnancy!"


    ''The wind truly changes its course.'' Fred muttered to himself. He was very amused to see Hilda fret because she was very concerned for Hailee. Fred quickly concealed the smirk ying in his mouth when Hilda scrutinized him.


    "You wereughing at me."


    Fred wasn''t surprised anymore. He is used to Hilda''s sharpness.


    "It''s not just your birthday, Hilda. I know your son was delighted because we are also celebrating his engagement to Hailee for the second time, and most of all, the great news that he is now a father of three."


    Indeed, the media still cannot settle down from publishing the good news. Every social media tform posted the news, including those giant fashion houses reposting those stunning photos of Hailee and Vincent.


    Known designers are praising Janise Lopez for being a skilled designer. Tonight, it''s not just Hailee and Vincent earning arge sum of money but also Janise for buying the royalty of these lovely creations. She received many orders, and it was something she must work on after Hailee and Vincent''s wedding.


    The party proceeded with what was already on the program.


    The good thing is that Sheena made a video message for her mom. These passing days, she visits everyone in their suites to film a quick birthday greeting.


    Sheena yed the video that caused Hilda to shed tears. But it was just brief because she was so good at controlling her emotions throughout these years. She is fragile inside, but she cultivated herself to remain calm and firm the whole time, whatever the situation is.


    Hilda thanked her daughters for the surprise birthday gift. Actually, it was more likely a documentary about her life.


    Sheena and Deana were asking the elders to describe what kind of person their mom was.


    Despite Hilda being known for her fierce temperament, the elders think it only suits her, as she is the Head of the Lopez n.


    "Thank you, everyone! Now, the real party has just started!" Hilda announced.


    A few of Hilda''s nephews and nieces, famous artists, took over the stage, and one started ying upbeat music.


    "It''s disco time!" They screamed and began rapping and singing pop songs.


    The young ones now began crowding the dance floor, including Hazel, Nadia, and Liza.


    The party is just getting exciting and so the couple inside their hotel suite...

 Chapter 335 - Her Slave Forever

    <h4>Chapter 335 - Her ve Forever</h4>


    As the party continued, the younger ones took over the dance floor. They were only waiting patiently for the older people to stop ying bads and dance with a waltz, then tango.


    The Lopez and Shen family are blessed to have such talents. They don''t just know how to y instruments; they can also dance well and sing.


    One of Vincent''s cousins performs as a DJ while the others y electric guitars, drums, and keyboards.


    Jessa went to the stage and started singing upbeat songs with her younger male cousins, blessed with golden voices.


    Soon, Kelly, Gigi, Janise, and Vera join the teen girls on the dance floor. Hazel saw Jake walk toward their group, and she immediately rushed into the middle. She pulled Nadia and Liza to help her out, and the two friends understood what she was trying to convey to them.


    Jake sours his face when Hazel''s friend is intentionally blocking his way while dancing..


    Nadia elbowed Hazel when Jake retreated in his tracks. Hazel smacks her heart and hurls a long sigh. Now she''s worried about how long she could avoid Jake.


    Meanwhile, inside a cold room¡­


    Hailee bit her lip, pressing her eyelids as she moaned and sighed helplessly.


    Earlier, she sent Vince to take a cold shower, and she thought he was already sleeping. But when she finished washing up andy next to Vince, the guy suddenly got up and leaned over her.


    Vince kissed her feverishly.


    It surprised her when Vince suddenly pulled her body to the edge of the bed and knelt on the floor.


    At first, after she realized what Vince nned to do, she blushed even though they had done it many times. However, they have to restrain themselves from doing it; Vince is doing it orally while pleasuring himself.


    She felt somewhat guilty. She once told Vince she would try to do the job, but he doesn''t want her to do things she is notfortable with yet...


    Vince was considerate to her because she could not help falling in love with him over again. Also, she knew he had high respect for her, and that''s why he would not allow this kind of thing as the basis of their rtionship.


    "Vince¡­" she sighed with satisfaction after she released the wave of pleasure forming in her core. Soon, she heard Vince grunt heavily, followed by a pleasured groan after he reached his climax and released him.


    Hailee stared at Vince''s solemn face. The way he looked at her was tender, but the deep affection was there. She knew he was not fully satisfied.


    She''s unwilling to remind him because her hormones are on the rise tonight. She could only helplessly cry pleasurably to feel Vince''s fullness inside her.


    Gratefully, Vince sobered up, and he only made gentle thrusts. Actually, Hailee believed that Vince only faked being drunk to find an excuse to take her back to their suite.


    She should have remembered that her husband is somewhat cunning in some way.


    Doesn''t he manage to make her sign a Contract Mistress without her doubting that it was only a trap?


    "Uhn¡­." Hailee reached for Vince''s neck and ced both of her hands, holding on to him tight. She lifted her bottom to meet Vince''s thrusts.


    Under his heavy breath, Vince reminded her, "Don''t move. Justy still and let me do the job."


    Hailee bit her lip and nodded. She was ying with Vince''s earlobe while watching his beautiful, pleasurable facial expression.


    It satisfies her, gazing at his sexy figure, working hard to please her.


    He couldn''t control his longing, but Vince ensured he didn''t overdo it but did it with extra caution.


    *


    The following day, Hailee concealed the amusing smile ying on her lips.


    Vince looked pitiful in front of him,r and she didn''t know whether to cry orugh at his cute expression.


    He was highly guilty of what he didst night.


    "Wifey¡­ I promised I would not drink too much again."


    Hailee blinks her eyes. She remained serious while staring at Vince''s pitiful look. She badly wanted tough out loud, but she wanted to take this as an opportunity to punish him.


    Scrutinizing her reaction, he could only sigh inwardly. Hailee didn''t show she hated him, but he could not read what was ying on her mind.


    And so, before he fell asleepst night, he instructed Tim to order a bunch of flowers to deliver in their suite.


    Their bedroom and living room are filled with roses, peonies, and tulips, Hailee''s favorite colors.


    Their hotel suites actually smell so pleasant. Vince''s way of coaxing her moved her, but she must show neutral threats toward him.


    "Wifey¡­ I love you."


    Hailee curled her lips into a quick smile when Vince kneeled in front of her and leaned over to kiss her slight baby bump. She wipes out her smile when Vince lifts his head and looks at her pleading smile.


    "I will behave in the future." He promised.


    She wanted to tease him by acting coquettishly to seduce him. But she knew he suffered already.


    "Okay." She finally spoke up, causing Vince to heave a sigh of relief.


    "I would not go to work today, and I will apany you the entire day." He told Hailee, willing to be her ve for a day. No, it will be an entire week or even for a year.


    He waited for her response patiently, as it would be the key to a great process to strengthen their rtionship.


    On the other hand, Hailee was tempted to part her lips into a joyous smile. But her act would go to waste if she gave in now.


    "Ahem. Alright¡­e here, hubby."


    Hailee patted the space next to her. Vince quickly stood on his feet and sat down. He had no idea that it would turn out to be torture.


    Hailee sat on hisp and asked him to feed her with the fruit on the table.


    She was smiling at him delightedly. But he could not stay at ease. The fruit Hailee made him feed her was raspberries, the same fruit he ate sexilyst night.


    Indeed, he was drunkst night, but he clearly remembers everything.


    Vincent swallowed the lump that was bothering his throat. It went dry, but he could only clench his jaw, staring at Hailee''s red lips seductively moving while she gnawed the fruit inside her mouth.


    "Hubby, they were so sweet!"


    Vince furrowed his brow. It was apparent Hailee was teasing him, and this made him out of control.


    He did not hold back anymore. He lowered his head and covered those tempting lips with his. Hailee is gasping for air after the long kiss.


    "You promised to behave."


    "But I did not promise not to kiss you." ''Especially when you were seducing me!''


    "Then you lose hubby." Hailee curled her lips.


    Vince pushed the corner of his mouth. "I know, and I will be your ve even in our next life¡­."


    Hailee was not able to utter a word when Vince sealed her lips.


    Later at noon, Vince and Hailee went to the mall to have lunch with their parents. They heard that most of the men stayed all night to drink.


    Hailee left a message on the group chat asking what happened after they left. It was Nadia who replied that the men started ying games and spending millions on them.


    Soon, the group chats are filled with photos of the events ofst night. Hailee saw James and Rodney half-naked, along with the others. In fairness, all men have a body that could make every woman drool over them.


    Sheughs that Andre also joins the game, and as an air force officer who needs to maintain a good shape, her uncle proves he is superior when ites to abs.


    Hailee was immersed in chatting with the girls and looking at a bunch of photos in the group chat.


    Last night, they all came up with a game, "Stop Dance" and participated with a couple. A piece of paper is given to each of them to fold until only one couple is left and dered the winner.


    However, there is a twist to that. The men will slowly undress their upper clothes. It started with the coat, next to the vest, then the tie and shirts that ended them half-naked until only one couple remained on the dance floor.


    And the winner of the game is Andre and Jennifer.


    Anyway, it didn''t end there. The men came up with more hrious games. Hailee wished she was there to watch. She heaves a sad sigh but then giggles at photos Nadia uploaded.


    Hazel then exined that whoever lost the round had to strip and drink a ss of vodka, the reason most of the men got drunk.


    Ah! Such a festive party she missed out on the fun!


    But she cannot me Vince for being naughtyst night. She was satisfied and happy. Meanwhile, Hailee didn''t notice that the guy sitting next to her was frowning, staring at her phone screen.


    ''How dare they send my wife half-naked men!''


    Vince sulked in his seat. Hailee looked so happy looking at those pictures and watching the videos. She was giggling and trying to suppress herughs.


    He could not take it anymore to remain calm and silent. "Wifey, can I borrow your phone? I left mine in our suite."


    Hailee looked at Vince with wonder. Earlier, she saw him putting his phone in his jeans'' back pocket. However, she did not say a word and simply gave her phone to Vince.


    As she had guessed already. Vince deleted those indecent photos for him, which left none.


    ''Damn¡­ I knew this would happen.''


    After he deleted all the attachments in the group chat, Vince leaned over and spoke near Hailee''s ear.


    "Wifey, in the future, you are only allowed to ogle at my naked body."


    Hailee rolled her eyes and pursed her lips. She looked at Vince in a daze. ''I was actually ogling at him even though he was all dressed!''

 Chapter 336 - Another Project

    <h4>Chapter 336 - Another Project</h4>


    In the following days, Hailee''s PR Team arrived in Metro City to work on the Documentary interview about her and Vincent.


    James Ryan, CEO of Maind City Broadcasting Company owned by Crow Corporation, was also in the country to personally discuss the documentary filming with Hailee and Vincent''s PR Team.


    Jacob agreed to do a short film and give the total authorization to cover all the preparation for Hailee and Vincent''s "Wedding of the Millenium"? assigned to Jessa Lopez Schwartz.


    It will make the couple feel at ease as Jessa was very close to Vincent. She knew many things about him, so she had all these ideas of what she should only tell the world.


    After Hilda''s grand birthday party became the talk of the entire world, she was busy organizing everything in the Shen Mansion.


    Jessa will first film the House Tour, which will feature Hilda in the Documentary to show around the mansion. That is why all the servants were busy cleaning the entire ce, and even thendscaper was busy cutting the grass and trees in the garden.


    And while everyone was busy preparing for the documentary, Hailee and Vincent continued working..


    Vincent showed Sheena around to all businesses he owned, while Fred taught Deana how to manage the Shen Group. And since it was a big task for his sisters, Vincent hired Jake Vsco to help organize its international affairs.


    Jake was shocked, but Vincent fully trusted his best friend. He had to resign from his work in New York and came back to live in Metro City; however, he would still often go on business trips abroad.


    "Bro, are you really sure to appoint me with this position? Maybe you are running a fever? Or aren''t you sober up yet?"


    Lloyd Khan smacks Jake on the back. "You were the one who looked like you were still drunk from the party, and maybe I should beat you up again for you to wake up."


    Jake frowned when Lloyd reminded him of what stupidity he did at the party. "I apologized already."


    Lloyd red at Jake, then threatened the guy. "Try to kidnap Hazel again. I will put you in a drum with a lot of holes, then dump you in the South Bay!"


    "Brother, I promised I would behave from here on." Jake kneeled in front of Lloyd, and he was also tugging the sleeves of his coat.


    "Stop doing that, a**hole!"


    Vincent shook his head and chuckled, letting his friends banter like little kids. They were at M Resort having a lunch meeting. He misses his wife; he pulled out his phone from his coat and texted Hailee.


    "Wifey, have you done having lunch?"


    "Hmm¡­ But I haven''t had my dessert yet."


    Vincent dropped his jaw. Hailee sent a picture of a bowl of raspberry. ''Dammit.''


    Hailee is teasing him again. It seems like she wants him not to forget the night; he lost control of himself and made love with her despite the danger it will cause to Hailee''s pregnancy.


    "Wifey¡­" Vincent sent a lot of crying emoticons. ''Spare me for once!''


    Hailee giggled uncontrobly. Herpany was looking at her with amazement.


    She has never been this distracted during a meeting; even those who texted her were Bryan, Geoffrey, or Andre. But now, she was acting like a teenager who had her first boyfriend.


    But to think about that, Vincent is her first boyfriend, soon her official husband.


    Hailee was having a lunch meeting with Vera, Daisy, Hazel, and the Davies Cosmetics PR team for Hazel''s debut soon. After a few more texts, she finally ced down her phone.


    "Alright. Let''s resume." She gestures her hand for the PR team to continue sharing their ideas.


    After two hours, the meeting finally ended. Hazel will have a photoshoot for the new products that she is going to endorse. Since Hailee is busy with her wedding, she has other things to do, filming her and Vincent''s life story.


    "Hail, Jessa''s production team is asking for a schedule of a meeting with you. They wanted to discuss the title of this documentary film."


    "I see. Thank you, Tina."


    "Do you want to call a break first?" asked Tina Larsson, Hailee''s assistant. Hailee had another meeting, and this time, it will be with DV Inc. Asia Branch executives.


    Hailee picked her teacup and took a sip. "Yes. I''m going to take a walk."


    Hailee strolled around the garden, and Tina followed her to give her reports about some matters with all of herpanies.


    "Tina, what was the gossip regarding Vincent taking the CEO position in Davies Corporation soon?" Hailee asked Tina after her reports.


    Tina was silent for a moment, and she was contemting how she put everything into the proper words.


    "I know the majority is against it. And so you need not hold back, Tina. Just spill the beans."


    "Ahem. Miss, many words are circting in thepany that they will cause trouble once Mr. Shen works in Davies Corporation."


    "Aren''t they all stupid?"


    Tina was surprised. This is the first time she has heard Hailee speak harshly. Hailee is always a soft-spoken person, but seeing her anger is new to her. Hailee is the person who chooses to stay calm.


    But in her observation, Hailee is just overprotected to Vincent. She and Hailee were ssmates since middle school, and she witnessed how everyone only pampered Hailee.


    She was like a fragile princess who only lived with everyone''s protection. But by what she is seeing, she is an entirely different person.


    "Tina, tell them to keep an eye on everyone who talks trash about Vincent. Especially to those who encourage other employees to arise once Vincent takes the CEO position."


    "Note, Miss Hailee."


    *


    That evening, Vincent found Hailee in his study room. She was seated behind his desk, immersed in what she was working on at the moment.


    He remained at the door, leaning on it to watch Hailee working diligently in front of herptop. Later on, she finally lifted her head after she felt a burning stare on her face.


    "You''re back!" She instantly stood from the leather armchair and met him halfway.


    "Yes," Vincent replied, with a gentle smile on his lips.


    He opened his arms wide and snuggled Hailee while kissing her longingly. After the long kiss, Vincent brought Hailee to the love seat, and both sat down.


    "How was your day?"


    "It was tiring, but it felt great! At least I would not feel bored," she replied happily.


    Vincentbed her hair with his fingers. He leaned over to kiss her forehead. "I''m d to hear that. But you were still working until now."


    Hailee broadened her smile. She parted from Vince''s embrace and got up. "I will get myptop."


    "Wait... Let me get it for you." Vince stopped her before he could even get up. "Just sit here."


    Vince came back with herptop, and Hailee flipped the keyboard and showed the screen to Vincent.


    "I have a new project for Dream City, and I want you to be the one who makes the selection."


    "Selection?" Vince was confused.


    "Yes. I will post an announcement soon. So I am drafting my ideas to consult my executives one of these days after Iplete the ns. And I want you to handle the decision-making of this project."


    "Wifey, are you sure about this?" Vincent got worried if he was the right person.


    The head of the nning Department is Geoffrey. The guy was the new CEO of Davies Group, and Geoffrey had more rights to do anything regarding Dream City projects.


    He may be the next CEO of Davies Corporation. Still, Dream City ispletely under Geoffrey''s management. He was only the contractor at the end of the day, and his wife was his boss.


    Then, he has no choice, does he?


    "Alright, Wifey. What should I do?"


    Hailee could see that Vincent was worried, and she knew he was already under pressure with his new role as her husband and Jacob Davies'' son-inw.


    Moreover, a big responsibility was ced on his shoulder, not only the entire Oceania Continent watching him but also the entire world.


    "Hubby, I want to build the widest amusement park in the entire world. And as this will be like a yground for our children, I want you to oversee this project. However, the bidding will only be open to the other firm. But as the father of this city, it was your job to make sure that all the rides are safe for the children."


    Vincent was surprised at first, but he understands now. Hailee is right, and he could not hide how proud he was of this girl. Her maternal instinct started functioning on her.


    And the idea of having an amusement park in the city is too brilliant. Finally, he agreed as he had, and he had no more reason to decline.


    "Okay. I will ept this task. Thank you for trusting me."


    "Of course I do!" Hailee smacks a kiss on his lips.


    "Is that all?" Heins. "I should have a hugepensation."


    Hailee curled her lips yfully as her fingers also yed with his tie. "Hmm¡­ Maybe some..."


    Vince swallowed after Hailee trailed herst words. She whispered in his ear and looked at him seductively.


    ''Ugh. She is sending me to hell! Buddy¡­ behave.'' Vince heaves a long helpless sigh.

 Chapter 337 - Seducing Each Other

    <h4>Chapter 337 - Seducing Each Other</h4>


    Seated behind Vince''s desk, Hailee did not leave her eyes to the man setting up a conference table inside his study room.


    Vince was installing the office chairs; Hailee need not have guessed that he had done this a hundred times as he didn''t look at the instructions anymore; he just pulled out all the parts from their boxes to set them all up.


    After hours ofbor, Vince finally finished setting up all ten chairs.


    He can actually assign someone from hispany to do the job or ask for some help from his cousins. However, Vince considered this room sacred as he was meticulous with everything he put inside his study.


    Hailee licked her lips when Vince pulled up his shirt above his head, then picked up a clean hand towel and wiped the sweat on his upper body..


    Vince nced in her direction, and he caught her ogling at his body. He pushed the corner of his mouth into a smirk.


    Hailee was holding a red pen in her right hand. She smiled seductively and bit the pen. Her eyes were shining brightly as she was staring at his half-naked body hungrily.


    She knew very well that Vince was seducing her, and she never forgot what he whisperedst time. Vince expressed how he doesn''t as she would look at other men''s half-naked bodies.


    But the truth is?


    Only his body she was physically attracted to even she already saw hundreds of men''s abs before. Vince is the only man to cause the beat her heart wildly, and butterflies flutter inside her stomach. She drools and ogles even though he was all dressed.


    Since they were in an actual rtionship, she need not secretly peek at his naked body every time he disyed it in front of her.


    In fact, she was very bold now to meet his gaze with affection and showed in her eyes that she lusted for him as much as he was to her by traveling down her eyes to his t stomach and then, below that¡­


    Vince shook his head and chuckled. He was the first one to surrender because he would be the one to feel the guilt if he gave in to the temptation that was offered in front of him.


    He and Hailee have been seducing each other, and he will be the one to yield.


    Vince walked toward Hailee and halted behind her. He leaned over to kiss her enticing lips. Hailee rose from the leather chair and took the hand towel in Vince''s hand.


    She helped him dry his sweat, wiping his neck down to his t belly. She lifted her fingers and ced them on Vince''s left shoulder. From there, it traveled down to his bare chest, down to his stomach.


    It takes all of his sanity not to lose control, which his lower body has denial over his head. With what Hailee did, he had a semi-hard now.


    It''s visible as he was only wearing cotton short pants since everyone flew to the South Ind the other day to film at the Old Mansion in the province as Vince''s second home since his mom was born and grew up.


    And so, they both are carefree at home. Hailee was only wearing a short halter dress, and she didn''t wear any bra.


    He battled to take control of his body, not flip Hailee over and push down on his desk to make love to her right here, right now.


    She is making things hard for him, and it takes all of his energy not to listen to his desires and not submit to her seduction.


    Vince hurls air from the deepest part of his lungs.


    "Wifey, I have to take a shower. I smell so bad."


    "Okay! I will head back to our room with you. I need to get dressed. Vera and Hazel are halfway already."


    "Alright."


    Hailee smiled and held Vince''s hand, their fingers intertwined.


    When they arrived at their bedroom, she also went to the bathroom. She washed her face and brushed her teeth while Vince was inside the shower room, all naked. She wanted to continue teasing him, but she had to restrain herself from acting childish.


    Vince was already suffering because of her seduction. She must stop here now.


    Hailee finished dressing up; she applied light makeup when Vince joined her in the closet.


    "Do you want me to help you dry?" She offered a hand, but Vince only refused her.


    "It''s fine, Wifey."


    ''Hmm¡­'' She smiled. Of course, she understood that he was trying to keep a distance from her. And she knew the reason he took a little longer showering. ''Damn. More potential fetuses are just drained on the waste pipe.''


    *


    Hailee and Vince were standing on the front porch, waiting for Vera and Hazel. Not long after, two cars entered the giant gate and parked in front of them.


    "Hey, guys!"


    Hailee waved her hand at the second car. Pitt drove the car, and James was seated in the passenger seat stand as her cousin''s bodyguard since reporters and paparazzi were still camping outside the vige gate.


    James and Pitt got out of the car, and they opened the backseat door; Vera and Hazel came out after.


    "Hey, Hail!" Hazel climbed the stairs in a rush. "Look! James said he will prepare our dinner!"


    "Really?" Her eyes immediately lit up with excitement. She loves to eat the sushi rolls from the Japanese restaurant at Metro Pce Garden, but James cooks the food tastier like it is magically added to them.


    One time she jokes to James that he should put up his own restaurant with his skills.


    James replied to her, "I will think about it. Maybe when I settle down or if you don''t need me anymore."


    She was pouting, felt ridiculous at his answer. "What are you saying? Of course, I want to eat Japanese food as much as I want to eat French and Italian cuisine and Chinese dishes!"


    "I see. You just wanted me to put up a restaurant basically for you."


    "Yes!" That was true, anyway.


    Hailee pulls herself back to the present. She has that smile recalling them¡­ it was such beautiful memories.


    "Hey, Vincent! You should help us make them!" Pitt calls out to him. Hailee immediately intercedes before Vincent can reply.


    "He should not be holding a knife."


    James and Pitt shared a look. They were used to her spoiled behavior, but she was never shown someone overprotected her. In the past, she just let them pamper her, but now?


    Their princess is pampering someone!


    "Wifey, I can grill some barbecue." Vincent somewhat understood that knowing look on James'' and Pitt''s faces.


    Hailee has treated him so differently ever since. She was giving him protection, which it was he who should have done. However, what happened is the opposite¡ªHailee, who makes sure that no one can harm him.


    "Wifey¡­ Don''t worry. I will not hold a knife, but I will do somebor." He coaxed her like an obedient lover, and it was the least he could do not to trigger her swing moods.


    "Okay." She finally agreed.


    Later in the evening, after Hailee had a video conference with all of her executives at Davies Cosmetics Company, including Hazel as their new Global Ambassador, they joined the men in the pool.


    Nadia and Liza came back from the university. Gigi and Kelly also arrived from thepany, as well Jake and Lloyd went to the mansion to report to Vince.


    As James and Jake had a silent dispute, the two men did not bother each other to greet and have a talk. Unlike Lloyd, he had a great conversation with Tom and Alex while drinking champagne at the patio area.


    Nadia and Liza keep elbowing Hazel, giving her a questioning stare.


    "What? Can you girls spill out what you wanted to know?" Hazel rolled her eyes. These girls obviously wanted to hear another gossip of her love life, which none.


    "You and James had lunch together, right?" they asked her excitedly.


    "It''s apany lunch, and it''s not just James and me," she corrected them. Liza and Nadia only shrugged their right shoulders, then giggled.


    "So, who are you going to choose?" asked Nadia with a teasing tone.


    Once again, Hazel rolled her eyes. "Stop, girls! There''s no WHO I am going to choose! I choose to focus on my career. If I would worry about my love life or even attempt to have one? I know it will only give me a headache, and possibly it will be a hindrance."


    "Why would it be a hindrance?" asked Liza.


    "Look, if I fought with my boyfriend, I would cry all night. Then what will happen to me? My eyes would swell from crying, and then, the worst results from no sleep are dark circles around my eyes," Hazel exined.


    "Okay, fine. Convince yourself, girl." Nadia mouthed. She looked at Liza; both snickered.


    "And what do you mean by that, Nadia!?"


    "Nothing!" Nadia grinned.


    Hailee, who only listens to the girls, a smile appears on her lips. It made her happy that these girls were still the same, even after learning who she was.


    They didn''t show how overwhelmed they were to know that she was a bigshot. They remained as those silly teenagers she befriended at the university.


    Oftentimes in the past, she was afraid to show her real identity. Either they would try to take advantage of her or avoid her. But these girls are simply enjoying their youth.


    Hailee picked up her phone from the cocktail table and aimed at the front camera.


    "Girls,e on!" They took a couple of selfies then Hailee posted them on her Instagram.


    "Good friends are gifts from heavens..." is the caption of her post.

 Chapter 338 - A Bad News

    <h4>Chapter 338 - A Bad News</h4>


    When James and Pitt finished preparing dinner, Hazel, Nadia, and Liza, the three younger girls, helped set up the table. Since they were studying Hotel and Restaurant Management, the table arrangement canpare to a five-star hotel.


    As a person who needed to follow table etiquette, she has be obsessed with exquisite table settings. Every day, she requested fresh flowers to arrange on her dining table.


    "You girls are amazing!" Hailee praises the three girls gleefully.


    She was right to hire them even before theypleted their courses. They were undoubtedly creative and skilled in this line of career.


    As their future boss, she was very proud of her friends.


    "Wifey, try this squid barbecue. Did I cook just right?" Vince is cutting the squid to let her have a taste of the grilled squid..


    "Be careful, hubby." Before she opened her mouth, she reminded Vince first.


    "Don''t worry, Wifey," Vince said to make her feel at ease.


    He continues cutting the squid with an amusing smile ying on his lips.


    Vincentpletely understands why Hailee doesn''t want him to hold a knife or sharp object in the kitchen, neither let him help her cut even an onion.


    At first, he was a little taken aback to grant her request to add a use on their second agreement that he would do no work in the kitchen.


    Now he knew the reason. It''s all because she was eyeing him to work and design for her city.


    But Hailee didn''t know that since he was in adolescence, he was trained with different self-defense techniques, and part of them was using des, including a dagger.


    Butler Roberto is a swordmaster, and he was the one who taught him the steps of Dragon Dance or Sword Dancing.


    As he remembers now, maybe he has to show that to Hailee one of these days.


    Vince finished cutting the squids, and he ced them neatly on a tter before adding the sauces and spices.


    "Wow. You did great, hubby!"


    Vincent was very proud of himself after Hailee praised him too and smacked a kiss on his lips as a reward. Meanwhile, the other men at the table rolled their eyes, especially Jake and Carl.


    Hailee gets her chopstick and picks up a piece of squid. "Hmm¡­ It was perfectly cooked, hubby."


    "Okay. I will grill more."


    "Hummed! Our babies were happy to have more."


    "Alright." Vincent kissed Hailee''s forehead that caused the single men to fret.


    "Show off¡­" Carl mumbled.


    Jake, who was eating quietly across Hazel, was infuriated looking at James. The guy keeps putting food on Hazel''s te. After what happened at the party, Hazel is even avoiding him. Now he heard that these two are dating!


    He wanted to meddle, but Hazel ispletely ignoring him. What he could only do was gritting his teeth from annoyance. Hazel epts all the food James is giving her. They were actually intimate with each other!


    He was pissed he wanted to beat up James, but he didn''t want to disappoint Vincent, especially Hailee.


    But Carl is a real piece of a teaser. He nudged Jake''s arm and whispered, "Someone is stealing your girlfriend. You are so slow."


    Jake was pissed off at this guy. He could see that he was already burning to punch someone, and now he even added firewood to the fire.


    "Shut up, dude! Look at yourself! You also don''t have a girlfriend!" To Jake''s irritation, Carl is only grinning at him, and he ignores the guy and speaks with Lloyd instead.


    The meal was sumptuous. But Hailey felt the guilt that she wasn''t able to control herself. Now she started feeling bad.


    "What''s wrong, Wifey." Even though he was talking to the men, he didn''t neglect to check on Hailee. The reason he immediately noticed her silence and looked conflicted.


    "Hubby, I am going to gain so much weight soon. My face will be round. My hips and my legs¡­."


    Vincent chuckled. She was worried about these changes. And so he coaxed her. "It will be just normal, Wifey. It''s not just one baby you were feeding, but three."


    "But¡­"


    Vincent immediately ced a finger on her lips. He already knows what she will say after. She started getting insecure and lowering her self-esteem because of her hormones that made her extra emotional.


    "You will be the most beautiful woman in my eyes because you carried my children. I love you."


    Hailee was moved that Vincent was trying to pamper her when she acted selfishly. She had already promised herself that she would work hard to act more mature in front of Vince and not to make him worried about her.


    She is grateful that Vince is patient and has the high EQ to understand her capriciousness.


    Now that she is a mother, everything is not about herself anymore, but what is best for her children.


    So what if she gained weight?


    She must focus on nourishing the babies inside her belly rather than being anxious that she would get ugly after her curves are gone but reced with fat.


    Now that she feels better. She should not stop herself from craving some desserts. Hailee cut a portion of the cheesecake and put it in her mouth, and she finished all the berries, then gave the entire cheesecake to Vince.


    "I must eat more healthy food from now on."


    Vince brushed her cheeks and kissed her lips. Carl, who is seated next to him, coughs. Vincent turned his head toward Carl and curved his mouth into a mocking smile. The guy rolled his eyes, but then his phone rang.


    "I have to answer this."


    Carl stood up and walked toward the patio corner before speaking to the caller, whom Vince saw who it was.


    "What''s wrong, hubby?" Hailee noticed Vincent was in a trance while looking at Carl, currently answering a call.


    Vincent snaps himself back to his senses. He looked at Hailee and shook his head with a smile. "It''s nothing."


    Hailee did not believe it, but she told herself that Vince had a reason he didn''t want to share that with her.


    When the night is gettingte, Hailee bids good night to everyone first. Not long, Jake and Lloyd left to go home since everyone would stay in the mansion, and this makes Alex, Pitt, James, Tom, and Carl continue drinking since the girls apanied Janise to continue working on Hailee''s dress.


    Meanwhile, Vincent and Hailee are washing up together. They were in the bathtub soaking hot water while Vince gave her a back massage when the bedroom telephone rang.


    Vincent answered the phone and spoke briefly to whoever was on the other line. She learned that most of the time. It was butler Roberto, who was the authorized person to make phone calls to every room if urgent.


    She wondered what was going on. The phone call to Carl and now, this¡­ Hailee''s train of thoughts cut when Vincent came back.


    "Wifey, I have toe down. Bruce arrived to report something, and it will be quick."


    "What happened?" she asked curiously. She had a hunch that this was somewhat rted to her. "Can I go too?"


    "No. But I will tell you whatever it is." Vincent leaned over and kissed her on the lips.


    Hailee nodded obediently and continued soaking in the bathtub for half an hour. She washes her body after that and gets dressed in a sexy nightgown.


    *


    In the tearoom, the men gathered around the tea-table.


    "Speak, Bruce," Vincent ordered him after Butler Roberto served them coffee.


    "Like what I told Professor Carl on the phone. Miss Eva Lan is dead."


    Pitt and James dropped their mouths open. They weren''t concerned about this woman, but she was causing a lot of trouble to Hailee.


    Besides, she is Bryan''s crazy ex-girlfriend. And before he and Hailee got engaged, Eva had been his girlfriend for many years.


    "How does it happen?" James asked Bruce curiously.


    "In my investigation, the woman that killed Miss Lan was hired by someone."


    Vincent and Carl shared a nce. They had a bad feeling about it, and they heard if they sent them ours.


    "Who has the motive to kill her?" Alex, who was only listening, raised a question. He is not familiar with this woman, but she hurt Hailee before, so he didn''t forget her.


    He is concerned that maybe this is work to nder Hailee. If so, he would not let anything happen.


    Bruce coughs to clear his throat. He knew he would be interrogated like this; that is why he sped up his investigation to give aplete report to his bosses.


    However, since the princess was in her sensitive pregnancy, he could not report to her directly.


    "I am using both the Interpol and Mafia connection to get a fast result. I found out it was Liam Huo who ordered to kill Eva."


    "What?" They were shocked to hear this bad news.


    Liam was well kept inside the Prison Ind, but he still had the power to order someone to do things for him. This is a serious matter.


    "Is it the reason he killed Eva is to silence her not to testify that Liam Huo ordered her to separate Bryan and Hailee thenpromise Vince divorced?" It was Pitt who asked Bruce.


    But Bruce shook his head and replied. "That''s not the reason, senior Pitt."


    "Then what is it?" James was itchy to hear the answer.


    "In my investigation. The reason Liam Huo killed Miss Lan is that because she hurt the princess."


    They were stunned.

 Chapter 339 - Wonder If Everything Is Real

    <h4>Chapter 339 - Wonder If Everything Is Real</h4>


    "Damn that guy. He''s only making it hard for the princess!" Pitt blurted out. He leaned his back on the sofa and pulled out his phone, and he made several chats with random people from the Asian Mafia Association.


    "Eva died inside the prison. Citizens in Metro City knew she was Vincent''s wife. A possibility that there are people will point out the issue toward the Shen and Lopez family since it was already announced about Hailee and Vincent''s uing wedding." Carl concluded after he contemted the situation. He felt pity for Vincent; he is still not enjoying a peaceful life.


    "The media will dig Master Vincent and Miss Eva Lan''s marriage." Bruce, whomented.


    "But we can point out that everything is just an agreement. After Vincent and Eva''s wedding, they never lived as husband and wife.." Carl quickly added to Bruce''s opinion. He won''t give these men the idea of using Vincent of anything. He is innocent; it only forced him into that marriage because of some circumstances.


    "We could connect all the things that happened in the past. Even though Eva got married to someone else, she was still in a rtionship with Bryan." Tom chimed and rified a few things.


    Pitt and James shared a nce while Alex was nodding his head. They actually agreed with Tom''s statement. They should not overlook that Vincent did nothing after they got married. Instead, Eva receives a lot of benefits.


    "After the marriage, Vincent and Eva continue living like they were not a married couple except that Eva receives so much favor from the Shen." Alex stares at Vincent. "Eva took $20,000 a month as allowance. Vincent also gives her a sports car and a spacious apartment in New York, plus a yacht as a wedding gift."


    Vincent gape at Alex with awe. This prince is running an investigation about him. But he should not be surprised. He understood that Alex just wanted some security for his beloved cousin. The same as Andre¡ªHailee, was also very close to Alex.


    Carl nced at Vincent before he fixed his gaze on Alex. "That is true, your highness. Vincent was too generous to his nominal wife. But Eva only abuses this kindness. Except for Shen''s help to the Lan family, they enjoyed all the privileges as the inws to all Shen and Lopez establishments. Besides, Eva also epts holiday gifts."


    "The Lan has a thick face. They do not only abuse these privileges." Bruce chuckled and shook his head. "They acted as the first family. And worse is, they actually have the guts to betray the Shen."


    "But now they are all rotten in prison." Carl echoed.


    "However, our major concern now is to clean up this mess that Liam Huo created." Pitt pointed out the problem, and he was only listening to analyze the issues.


    James eyed Pitt with a meaningful stare. He senses Pitt ispletely sided with Vincent now. Anyway, as long as the princess is happy with him, that matters most for them¡ªher knights.


    "So, what should we do about this?" He opens the floor for discussion regarding Eva''s death. They cannot just ignore it. But take care of it before the media uses Vincent.


    Hailee was in a sensitive condition that caused her to be extra emotional at any moment.


    "Bruce and I will work on it. I already made a phone call to Uncle Fred. They wille back tomorrow to have a meeting with the PR team. We must prepare a statement in case the media bombard both Shen and the Lopez family. It will also have an impact on us all." said Carl.


    Vincent, who was only silent the whole time, extended his arm and patted Carl''s shoulder. "Thanks, Carl. But I think you better fly to the US instead and personally visit Liam Huo. I actually wanted to go, but Hailee was in a delicate pregnancy, and I don''t want to keep things a secret from her."


    Carl found this idea a brilliant move. But Vincent is right. Hailee has had mood swingstely. "You''re right, cousin. I better go. Brent phoned me already, and he will sail toward South Prison. He already asked permission to visit Liam Huo. It would be best if I were there as well."


    "But that''s a good n," Alex said to Vincent. "You should go instead. In what I am seeing, Hailee is listening to you rather than us."


    Vincent thought about what Alex had said. All he needed was a heart-to-heart talk with Hailee. He knew she would be against this, but it isn''t enough that we just put Liam in prison. If Liam has this freedom, even after he is convicted, he needs to be pressed firmly on the wall.


    "Alright. I will go."


    "I wille with you," James announced. "Don''t think too much. I am doing this for the princess, and it is for the peace of her mind," he exined.


    Vince curled his lips. "I know."


    "Then, much better! We have to prepare sooner¡­." Carl pped his hands. He looks at Vincent to ask, "But how about the filming of your documentary?"


    "It can wait," Vincent retorted to Carl.


    "Okay! Since you guys are going to the US, let me help Bruce take care of things around here." Pitt volunteered.


    Of course, he would not just sit around but take care of everything to suppress Eva''s death to be a bacsh to the princess.


    She just became so happy after she got through. Things are going smoothly, but then, Liam''s psychopathic behavior has triggered again.


    They have to find out who possibly reported this to Liam, who already suspected someone. He has to do something.


    "I am sure Keith will help, so there is nothing we must worry about," Pitt added; everyone nodded at his statement.


    "Okay. I think I better go back to my room and talk to Hailee. Eventually, she will hear the news about Eva''s death on social media, and before she learns from others, she better hear it from us."


    "Vincent is right. Let us continue the discussion. We will let you know what further wee up with," said Carl.


    Everyone agreed with Carl. Vincent leaves the five men, and he has to head back not to make Hailee worried. She may not ask further earlier, but her eyes were revealing how anxious she was.


    Vincent pushed the door of his bedroom open; he found Hailee having a video call. As she was wearing an AirPods, she didn''t notice he was back already. She was undoubtedly engrossed talking to whoever was on the other line.


    He sat down on the bed opposite her. He took her legs and ced them on hisp, and began massaging them.


    Hailee was not surprised anymore as she had already caught Vincent''s scent of his body wash. She lifted her head and smiled at Vince. "You''re back."


    "Yeah. But you go ahead and continue."


    "Ah...." Hailee nced at the three women she talked to.


    "Alright. It''s gettingte. You preggies must take your beauty sleep." As older than Hailee, Cassandra, and Nikki. Riley suggested ending the video call. Daichi also came back from putting the kids to bed.


    "Okay, sister Riley. Thank you so much for tonight!" said Hailee happily.


    "You''re wee, Hail. Good night, girls!"


    "Good night!" the three girls replied.


    Vincent helped Hailee put away herptop. He took it from her hand and got up from the bed; he ced the gadget on the coffee table, including their cellphones.


    "How was it? Is everything okay?" asked Hailee, watching him lovingly as he was moving around the bedroom.


    He didn''t answer her queries until he came back to the bed and slipped under the quilt. Vincent wrapped Hailee inside his arms and kissed her passionately.


    After the kiss, Hailee panted and chased some air. She looked at Vince, eyeing him meaningfully as he didn''t reply to her yet.


    Her gazes are telling Vince how eager she is to know what brought Bruce into the mansion.


    Bruce would note unless she or Vince summoned him with something very important. Maybe he brings some news, but why did Bruce not report to her first?


    Hailee was anxious to know. "So?"


    Vince stared at Hailee''s delicate face. He was sure that she would not sleep well tonight without confirming something, so he had to feed her a little information.


    Initially, he ns to inform her about Eva''s death, and it was Liam who ordered to kill her. But after he saw she was in a better mood tonight, he couldn''t dare to ruin that, so he will just inform Hailee tomorrow.


    She was very happy after that call. He wants to keep this beautiful smile on her lips until tomorrow morning.


    "Hubby¡­ does something dirt on my face?" she asked anxiously after Vince just remained staring at her face.


    Vincent shook his head. Instead, he ces tiny kisses around her face. "I am just making sure I wasn''t dreaming until now. Sometimes, I couldn''t help but wonder if everything was real."


    Hailee lifted her chin and reached for Vince''s lips; she ced her lips on top of his and kissed him tenderly, but Vincent deepened the kiss.


    After the kiss, Hailee murmured between her breaths...


    "It is real. I am here. You were not just dreaming, because I am thinking the same as well. But every time I touch my belly, I know I am not dreaming as well."


    "I love you, Mrs. Shen¡­."


    "I love you too, Mr. Shen..."

 Chapter 340 - Curiousity

    <h4>Chapter 340 - Curiousity</h4>


    Hailee snuggled Vince''s body after she found the mostfortable position on the bed. Now that her belly is growing a bump every day, it has be a little ufortable for her to lie t on the bed.


    "Come here, Wifey." Vince carefully held her in his arms as she rested her head on his shoulder. He ced a kiss on her hair, then ran his fingers on them.


    "Bruce came to inform us about Liam''s uing trial soon. Carl will prepare to go to the US the day after tomorrow, and James wanted to tag along," he began.


    "Oh. I see. That''s good."


    Vince heard Hailey heaving a long sigh.. He guessed she recalled distant memories. He hadn''t listened to the whole story about that guy but enough for him to enrage.


    Liam has given Hailee a lot of trouble in the past, and now, he''s still doing it.


    "You need not bother to think about him." Vince lifted his right hand to brush Hailee''s cheek as he tried tofort her.


    Hailee smiled, looking straight into his eyes. "I wanted to forget everything about him and just think about you, our children, and our future. However, it really made me sad that Liam became like that."


    "A person always changes. It may be for bad or for good..."


    Vincent tried to pick out the perfect words to soothe whatever Hailee was feeling at the moment, but he was not good atforting.


    "But my love for you will never change," he added.


    Hailee tightens her embrace around Vince''s waist, rubbing her face into his sturdy chest.


    "You were treating me so well even before you knew who I was¡­ Oh. You were already in love with me back then, that''s why..." she yfully red at Vince.


    Vince chuckled after the sh of memories from these passing months passed his head. That was true, and it was a crazy ride how he suppressed himself not to confess to this girl.


    But he doesn''t want her to feel she is truly a mistress, the reason he did his best to get his divorce before he will confess and courted her.


    However, things didn''t go as he wished because Liam manipted Eva to ruin Hailee and Bryan''s marriage n.


    Well, he is honestly d that happens. But then, Liam finally found Hailee acting as someone''s mistress, and Eva was again used by him and this time topromise their divorce!


    To look back, things are so mysterious of how they all be connected to each other.


    Who would have thought that Eva''s boyfriend was Hailee''s best friend whoter became her fiance¡­


    "Hubby?"


    Vince came back to his senses after Hailee touched his face. He lowered his gaze at her and asked, "I''m sorry, wifey¡­ I''m just thinking of some unimportant stuff. Did you say something?"


    "I''m just saying how happy I am to be with you."


    "So am I¡­ I am so happy I finally found you," said Vince from the bottom of his heart. He leaned over and kissed her forehead. "I promised Liam I can no longer be the hurdle of our happiness."


    "He cannot do anything anymore."


    Vincent felt a little guilt. But he makes sure Hailee notices nothing yet until tomorrow.


    "Hubby, if I remember correctly, James was Carl''s underlings before, right?"


    "Yeah. During the camp in Italy. Carl joined first because he is older than me. I then attended the camp the next summer, but when the year James joined in, I didn''t go back to the camp. Instead, I chose to work in thepany to be trained by dad how to manage thepany. But even though I didn''t continue the training at the Camp, butler Roberto taught me all the self-defense I needed to know."


    As she keenly listens to Vince''s story, she suddenly grows excited. "Does it include swordsmanship?"


    Vince nodded and smiled. "Do you want to see me practicing?"


    Hailee''s eyes twinkle. She imagines Vince going through those fantastic martial arts moves and then the swordsman''s actions while wielding a de in the air.


    "Yes, hubby. I would love to!"


    Vince widened the smile on his lips. Hailee was like a bit of a child that was promised to go to the amusement park.


    "Alright. Let me show it to you tomorrow morning," he promised.


    "Really?" Hailee sat up on the bed to have a better look at Vince''s face when he made that promise.


    "Yes. So,e here and?let us take some rest now."


    "Okay!" But then, she remembered something. She asked, "How about your meetings?"


    "Nothing to worry about. I can do a video conference after. I don''t need to go to thepany."


    ''How bossy.'' She beamed. Anyway, that was her doing as she was often outside Australia. Either she was in Dubai or somewhere in Europe.


    "Okay, hubby." Hailee initiates the kiss. She was touched that Vince always gave time to her.


    Vincent is supposed to be busier as he turns over his old projects to his best senior engineers. Not only that, but he is also evaluating the newly hired ones to handle the new projects.


    Recently, Shen Group needed more skilled architects and engineers, which made Vince busy the most. Even if he is resigning as the CEO of Shen Group, he is still a major stakeholder of thepany, and so, he wanted to continue the best service they could offer to all clients that they have already and the new ones soon.


    He had so many dream projects in the whole country. Even if his life would be in Australia the most, he will make sure to be updated on everything that he proposed to the national government.


    His vision and mission will remain wherever he is... P Country is his mothend, whatever blood that runs in his veins.


    "Thank you so much, hubby," said Hailee. Vincent is very meticulous in his works, which have be his trademark, and it was the exact reason she wanted him for Dream City.


    "By the way, Wifey. Are the ones you talked to earlier are Shun''s wife and Daichi Isagawa''s wife?"


    "Yes, hubby," she replied coquettishly.


    Vincent could sense the suppressed giggles from Hailee. Now he was intrigued. "Hmm... Did something happen?" he asked curiously.


    Hailee pondered for a moment if she must share it with Vince. However, she thinks it should be a secret between wives.


    "Hubby¡­ just spare me with this one, okay?"


    Ouch¡­ he could not force her to confess when he also had something to hide. He stared at Hailee with so much curiosity in his eyes.


    Hailee didn''t want to share anything with him, but her silly smile told him it was about something very interesting.


    *


    A few hours earlier¡­


    She has been bothered by it for many days now. She is only looking for a perfect moment to talk to the girls when they are all busy in the passing days.


    While the men were drinking, she joined the girls discussing the bridesmaid''s dresses, then the wedding giveaways, until the topic was changed about Kelly and Gigi if who would get married next.


    Hailee was keenly looking at the girls. Her two best friends are openly sharing their feelings about their rtionship.


    But since she and Vince were in a different rtionship stage and became parents soon, she had another issue she wanted to share with the girls as she could not share it with Vince when it involved him.


    She found it a littleplicated when Kelly was not experienced, moreover the three teenagers. They were too young for this stuff, to begin with, and she couldn''t talk to Vera either, as she knew she had not been in a rtionship.


    No one she could talk to. Now that she was alone in the bedroom, she got bored waiting for Vince. She was curious about what they were discussing.


    She wondered why Bruce did not report to her first or she was included in the meeting.


    Hailee felt so depressed. It must be her mood swings¡­


    ''What should I do?''


    She chatted with random people on her Instagram inbox until a few girls replied. She has excitedly opened a FaceTime group call with Cassandra, Riley, and Nikki.


    "Hey, girls!" she was waving at them.


    "Hey, Mumma, what''s up?" asked Cassandra.


    "Hailee! Congrattions on your uing wedding soon!" Nikki shrieked on the other line.


    "Hi, Nikki! Thank you! Oh, Cassie! Thank god it was you. I am so d that you are back, and I''m actually hesitant to call you. Maybe the one right there is the other you, switching at the time being¡­ well, you know ...."


    At the other end of the video call, Cassandraughs awkwardly. "Yeah. It''s really kind of hard to stay in this body, and I feel so pitiful for Shaun to bear our situation...."


    Hailee''s eyes gleam. She thinks this is the perfect moment for her to ask what bothers her.


    "Right! So, um¡­ Cassie¡­ I was just curious¡­." She was hesitant to bring up the topic. But she has no one to ask. "How did you manage your sex life when you were always switching with your other you?"


    "Huh?" Cassandra was a little shocked, including the other girls.

 Chapter 341 - The Wives Talk

    <h4>Chapter 341 - The Wives Talk</h4>


    "Girls, I''m sorry. I know it wasn''t nice of me. But these days, I am bothered by it. The inte says something regarding it connected to my pregnancy, but I still wonder if I got a better answer from inexperienced women."


    "Don''t worry, Hail. You have nothing to shy about. You came to the right people. Besides, we are all women here." Riley saidforting words quickly.


    "It''s okay, Hail. It was your first time getting pregnant. Although we girls experience differently, many got through the same." said Cassandra with understanding..


    Hailee felt terrible, and she is really still childish, not thinking a proper word. dly, these girls are all thinking about mature girls.


    "Thank you, Cassie," she said with an awkward smile appearing on her face.


    "I think you feel like your hormones are out of control sometimes." Nikki chimed in the conversation.


    Hailee blushed and nodded. "Yes, I am in these passing days, and I can''t stop myself from seducing Vincent. I just felt so bad because he is the one who suffers a lot. I felt better after I climaxed when¡­ um¡­ when he''s doing the job on me, but he didn''t want me to do it to him. I mean¡­"


    She bit her lips and blushing a lot more. This is the first time she spoke more openly about her sex life to other girls. She could not say it to Kelly because of her family''s teaching while Gigi had a terrible experience with Galvin, which leaves a trauma for her.


    But she''s d that she chose the right people. The three mothers, on the other call, smile at her with understanding.


    "If you are worried that your man might look for someone to release his frustration and needs, I am sure Vincent is not that kind of man. He is worried that your case is delicate, so he is careful and doesn''t let you do the job. You mentioned that he even felt guilty that one time."


    Hailee pondered everything Riley had said. This older sister is right. She always sees the desires in Vince''s eyes, and his body even speaks about them.


    Many times she woke up and felt Vincent having a morning hard-on. She is certain that if she isn''t pregnant, or it''s not dangerous for her to perform a different exercise, she and Vince would always have morning sex.


    "Alright. Thank you, girls. I just really wanted to let out this curiosity."


    "You should not. It is normal. Besides, you are reaching your second trimester and expectations higher sex drive." said Riley; Cassandra and Nikki concurred. "You guys ask your OB if you want to know what methods or positions are safe."


    Hailee blinks her eyes several times. She could never ask Doctor Dave about this, and doctor Dave knew more of herplicated pregnancy.


    "I really can''t ask my doctor about this. He is a man, so I am hesitant to consult him. But I will ask around to rmend me for the best OB." She was thinking of asking Dana Hanes since she was a mother of three.


    "Well, that was best!" Nikki encouraged Hailee as she was also once worried about making love when she was pregnant with her twins.


    "Yeah. Um, I really picked you guys to talk about this because you are experienced in having more than one baby."


    "Well, we are d you chatted with us. Besides, we missed you!" said Cassandra, who was due that month.


    "Vincent and I have been talking about visiting Maind City. But since you girls should be at my wedding, I''m expecting you to attend my bridal shower party!"


    "I definitely would be there! Shun is already preparing everything for our vacation In Australia, and so, he was swamped abroad. We will be in Australia two weeks before your wedding, Hail."


    "Yay! I am so excited! Let me visit you then!" Shun and Cassandra had their vi in Queennd state, and she loves the beach there as well!


    "Alright. Let us help you n your bridal shower." Riley would be there as well. Daichi is Shun''s Head of Security, and she is for Cassandra''s, so their whole family will be there too.


    Hailee was happy with the great news. She can not wait to see all of her friends at her wedding. "That was great, sister Riley! Kelly and Gigi were ted about it already, but we need you, girls, to help out. The boys already have their ns, and I have a hunch something is going to happen, and so, I need brother Daichi and brother Shun to watch my knights."


    "We''re on it! Don''t worry. I will tell Shun! Besides, if about the ideas, Nikki did a lot of bridal showers decorating already."


    "Hey, guys! Don''t forget about me!"


    Someone suddenly appeared behind Cassie and waved at the camera.


    "ire! How are you, cousin?" Cassie cheered upon seeing her cousin, ire Williams Ivanov.


    "I''m great, Hail. How about you? Carrying three must give you a lot of trouble."


    Hailee agreed with ire. "Yes, ire. They made me eat a lot! I feel like I am gaining so much weighttely, and I am transforming into a balloon." She smiled before she continued. "But I am happy they were healthy."


    "That was most important."


    "I''m expecting you at my bridal shower."


    "I''ll surely be there!"


    "God, I can''t believe I am really getting married."


    "We are happy for you too, Hail. Brother Shun was always worried that Liam might slip out from his eyesight. And you¡­ You were also sneaky."


    Hailee understands what ire meant with her statement. She didn''t notify the rest of her Asian Knights, even her executives and especially her dad, but kept it a secret when she came to P Country.


    But little did she know that Shun already knew what she was doing, but he didn''t stop her for a reason. He knew Vincent, and he also knew that Vincent once looked for her, but they hid her from him for a reason.


    "Alright, Hail! I have to go! Meisha and I just came by to pick up the kids. Good night,dies!"


    "Bye, ire!" Hailee bid goodbye,


    "Night, ire!" Then, followed by Riley and Nikki.


    After ire left, they kept talking about her bridal shower; the topic went back to her pregnancy. The three girls shared their experiences during the time they were pregnant.


    And the talk did not end there...


    The girls also shared their sex life during pregnancy and after giving birth. They were actually giving her some advice. Yeah, it''s about those positions, and she''s thankful the women she talks with are all experienced.


    Aside from that, they also shared what they get through taking care of more kids now, and she was really enlightened.


    Now, she has enough knowledge of what things she must consider that would change after she gives birth to her triplets.


    As a businesswoman who did a lot of traveling around the world, she must adequately manage her time. Soon she will take the seat as chairwoman of Davies Corporation and take over the management.


    She will be even busier. She no longer can do whatever she wants now that she is a wife and a mother.


    Hailee came back to her senses when she felt Vince''s warm palm massaging her back, and it felt so good. Vince is also rubbing her waist down to her bottom, and she feels like going to cloud nine when he puts pressure on her lower back.


    She guessed that Vince also researched how to take care of a pregnant wife. She closed her eyes and let all of her senses awake to feel where Vince''s palm rubbed¡­


    Hailee sighed with satisfaction. Vince rubbed her nape, then her shoulders. Later on, his hands went down to her borrow again.


    However, as Vince continued giving her a massage, her body began burning with desires. Her eyes are locked with Vince, and he sees the sexual desire she is conveying to him.


    She saw when Vince swallowed, and his throat moved when he did that. She did not wait any longer but grind her body into Vince.


    Her hand reached for his semi rock hard staff and began rubbing it. She heard Vince let out a helpless sigh.


    She buried her forehead into Vince''s broad chest and watched the slow movements under the quilt.


    This time, she inserted her hand inside Vince''s boxer and wrapped her hand around his stiff shaft.


    She''s also getting excited listening to Vince''s heavy breaths. He grunts and sighs with pleasure.


    Vince cannot keep his hand as well. He rubs her legs, and two fingers are inserted into her lingerie.


    She looked up to see her lips curled up into a smile after he discovered how damped she was down there. She gasped and moaned when Vince yed around and put the finger on returning the service she was giving him at the moment.


    "Vince¡­"


    She cried with pleasure after he added another finger and began thrusting inside her. He cannot hold it anymore. Vince sat up and positioned between her legs, then lowered his head.


    This is what she is talking about with the girls. After she cannot control her sex drive, she cannot stop herself from seducing Vincent to make love with her.


    "Please, put it in¡­."


    "But Wifey?" Vincent was more in control of his desire, as he was more worried about her than his needs.


    "It will be okay. Do you ask what I talked about with the girls? I ask them if it will be safe if we continue making love. They shared some positions their OB advised them."


    Vince gaped at Hailee with awe. This girl¡­ ''Is she worried if I turn into a monk?''


    But he read some articles that pregnant women enjoyed making love as their hormone was on the height that drove their desire for sex.


    Vincey beside Hailee. He took her right leg and ced it on his thigh. Slowly, he entered her insides and made gradual thrusts; both he and Hailee cried in pleasure.


    It feels so tight inside her in this position. It was like he was losing control, so he wrapped his head not to overdo but to move so slow.


    But when both of them are reaching their orgasm, he doesn''t control to speed up.


    Hailee gave her a long kiss and a satisfying smile before she fell asleep.


    "Good night, Wifey¡­" he ced a loving kiss on her forehead before he got up and got a clean hand towel and lukewarm water to clean Hailee.

 Chapter 342 - My Empress

    <h4>Chapter 342 - My Empress</h4>


    The following day, Hailee woke up early in the morning. After wearing her sports attire, she and Vince went to the Gym building.


    It was a two story building away from the mansion and the greenhouse. The trees hid this ce.


    "Stand behind me, Wifey," said Vince before he opened the four-foot-tall gate. Immediately, three canine dogs jump at Vince.


    "Hubby!" Hailee was surprised, but only a bit, because she had a lot of dogs back in Sydney and Perth. What only rmed her, she didn''t expect that there were dogs to be freed and staying around this area which has fences.


    "Sit!" Vince ordered the three dogs, and he turned to Hailee and introduced the three golden retrievers.


    "Listen to me, girl, buddies...." Vince began; it amuses Hailee, watching him talking to the three dogs. "Meet your mom, Hailee."


    Hailee smiled, waved at the dogs who barked at her, like recognizing she would be their mom from now on.


    "These are Lane and Kane¡­" Vince first introduced the two males among the three dogs, and before he introduced the female one, he looked at Hailee lovingly.


    "Hm?" she wondered if she had to do something like pet Lane and Kane''s head, but Vince only curled his lips.


    "I want you to meet Halle."


    "Oh¡­" ''Is Vince naming the dog after her?''


    Vince widened his smile as he could guess what Hailee was thinking at the moment.


    "If you thought she was named after you? The answer is yes. Halle is four years old today."


    "Wow. Really?" It surprised her but knowing all of this warmed her heart. She squatted and pet Halle. "Hi, Halle! I''m your mom, Hailee! How are you?"


    The dog stays seated still on the pavement, letting Hailee pet her. Later on, Halle stood and began licking her face. Hailee tickles, and so she giggles.


    "Good girl!"


    The two male golden retrievers rush to Hailee. They also begin licking their mom, but Vince quickly separates them from her.


    "That''s enough, boys! You can''t do that to your mom. Also, you can''t jump on her whenever you see her because she is pregnant."


    Lane and Kane looked at Vince with sad faces. Hailee cannot stop herself hugging both after seeing their cute reaction when Vince lectured them.


    "Look, Lane and Kane. I have three babies inside me. When I give birth to them, they can y with you guys!"


    The three dogs bark. They seemed to understand her truly.


    Hailee looked up at Vince with marvel in her eyes. She was amazed that Vince trained them reasonably, not to mention that the female dog was named after her.


    Vince helps Hailee to stand. "You guys stay here." He then ordered the dogs.


    Halle ran to her throne andy down on the soft bed, crossing her front feet, while Kane and Lane yed around.


    Hailee was too amused. "They really listen to you, huh?"


    "Yeah. They grew up riding with me in the car and bringing the ones when I ran around the vige. They have to behave, or I will not bring them, especially when I sail off."


    "Oh."


    "Yeah. And I didn''t bring them in the penthouse for the reason I might have slipped my mouth and confessed that Halle is after your name."


    Hailee chuckled at how cute Vince was in her eyes while saying all of this... "They were behaving well."


    "We have more dogs, but they were the mischief ones. It will not be good to hang around them with your delicate pregnancy. Soon we will visit their house."


    "Okay. I want to meet them all." She grew up with pets, and dogs are too close to her heart. Soon, their children will also have their pet, but she is praying it won''t be allergic to fur.


    After Vince introduced the three dogs to her, they now entered the building.


    There is a ten-meter-long swimming pool on the first floor, then a room with all kinds of workout tools and machines, then a separate shower area.


    There is also a ss pantry room facing the garden.


    On the second floor is the sacred ce for the Shen. Since the entire room was a wooden floor, Vince took off his shoes, so she did the same.


    Hailee gasps in astonishment the moment she enters the room.


    Vince told her that Halee, Kane, and Lane were actually the guardians of these ces. She understood now.


    Weapons hang on the walls, and there are also swords and daggers ced in ss boxes.


    Vince stretched his left arm toward her. Hailee took it quickly and followed him, walking toward those ss boxes and showed them one by one.


    "My ancestors owned them. A few of these swords were from the war. I thought my family was just warriors, and I didn''t know we were the royal ones¡­."


    "The Imperial family, to be exact." Hailee corrected Vince.


    Vince''s eyes are gleaming while looking at Hailee. He walked to the front and wrapped her body inside his arms, nted a kiss on her hair, then murmured before he covered her lips.


    "My Empress¡­"


    Hailee quickly responds to the kiss. She ced her arms around Vince''s neck to deepen their kisses.


    It was Vince who first stopped the kiss, and he had to part their lips before he lost control again. Last night''s scenes still appear in his head, which stirs his cravings to shower, to run his mouth in every inch of Hailee''s body.


    "Wait here, Wifey." Vince headed to a door; she wasn''t sure what kind of room that was.


    As she was left alone, her eyes traveled to every corner of this practice room. The ce somehow gives peace of mind.


    She could imagine Vince spending his spare time meditating and practicing martial arts. When Vince said he''d show her his sword dance, she was excited to watch him.


    After five minutes, Vince came back with two yoga mats he then ced on the floor.


    Hailee didn''t take her eyes away from Vince. He was now only wearing loose pants and bare in his upper body.


    ''Is he going to perform a sword dance, or is he seducing me?''


    Hailee had this silly thought in her head while her eyes wandered to that luscious body of her husband.


    "Come here, Wifey."


    She somewhat understood why Vince prepared these mats instead. In the next half hour, Vince apanied her, doing the morning exercise. He frequently steals a kiss from her, so she could not concentrate on her workout that was taught for pregnancy.


    Finally, Vince behaves, and they resume her routine.


    After that, Vince is now standing in the middle of the room, and he is already warming up, so he is good to go to start his martial arts moves.


    Hailee didn''t blink, watching Vince doing the movements of his techniques. Vince is sweating a lot after he finishes practicing. But that was just the basics.


    Vince walked toward the wall and took the spear. Next, Hailee was like watching a live-action while the hero was practicing his moves.


    Every movement of Vince''s muscles, the more she drools. This can actually bring danger to her. She could not stop recalling Vince''s sweat body above her those times they made love.


    Hailee was grateful that Vince was drawn to his world while he swung the spear in his hands. He didn''t see her expression of fantasizing about him.


    dly he was now her husband, or what a sin to crave at someone''s husband.


    Vince was now finished practicing with a spear. He walked to one of the ss boxes and took out the sword, and he pulled the de out of the sheath, and then began doing the dragon sword dance.


    It amazed her too much, watching Vince moving so smoothly, like a wind. She could hear a chimed from the sword.


    She could now imagine Vince teaching their children with these moves. The martial arts and sword dance. She cannot stop herself from picturing the mini Vinces'' copying their dad making these moves.


    God! She knew they would all look cute!


    Vince stopped when he noticed Hailee wiping her eyes. "Wifey? What''s wrong?" It worried him when Hailee suddenly cried.


    On the other hand, Hailee did not care if Vincent was drenched with sweat, and she liked his scent, anyway.


    "There''s nothing wrong. I''m just happy."


    Vince remained silent as he pondered. ''Is her mood swings triggered by something?''


    "You made me worry, Wifey. Look¡­ My body is soaking wet with..."


    "Hmm¡­ I am fine. I just can''t stop wishing that I already gave birth to our children. I imagine you teaching them these martial arts would look so cute."


    Vince was stunned for a moment, and then his lips curled into a warm smile. He surely would love to teach all of their children. Even their daughters must also learn defense, like their mom, who is actually good at using guns.


    "I am also looking forward to meeting our princes and princesses, and I will teach them all I know."


    "Hmm¡­" All the words stuck inside her mouth when Vince covered her mouth with his.


    "Let''s make love here¡­." he whispered between kisses.


    Hailee was stunned for a moment. She could feel her mouth drop open.


    The kiss they shared was intense; she didn''t notice that she was now riding on top of Vince.


    Peering down at him, she asked, "But, isn''t it prohibited as this ce is sacred?"


    "Why not? You were carrying my heir. The future emperor¡­."


    Hailee did not protest anymore after Vincent sessfully persuaded her¡­


    Honestly, she felt a lot of thrills thinking about it¡ªhaving sneaky love-making in that room...

 Chapter 343 - The Photos Four Years Ago

    <h4>Chapter 343 - The Photos Four Years Ago</h4>


    Vince brought Hailee to the shower room on the ground floor of that building.


    Men and women''s shower rooms are separated¡ªVince brought Hailee to thedies'' room with a proper bath.


    The men''s room was more likely a locker room of Jocks, while thedy''s room had a wardrobe where they could do make-up and all with the inclusion rooms for a shower.


    Of course, she is a conservativedy who wants to separate the boys and girls.


    "I can imagine you and your cousins had a swimming race."


    "Yeah. We did that often since mom didn''t want me to have nightlife. So, dad designed this building, and mom did not say a word even though we spent all night here, drinking."


    "Hmm¡­ Now I know why you have no one-night stands.."


    "Hey!" Vince red at her, but in a sweet way.


    They bothughed and turned on ying under the shower. The rtionships they have now have been more open, and she loves it.


    "Careful!" Vince quickly held her waist when she took a step away from him and moved to the corner... "¡ªmight you slip on the floor."


    "But you got me¡­." There is a meaning to her words.


    "I will always catch you¡­."


    Vince curled his lips. He lowered his head and kissed Hailee passionately. He cannot have enough of this girl when she always makes him go crazy every minute, and it takes a lot of energy to restrain himself.


    "Let''s finish showering. Breakfast is waiting. You need to eat now," said Vince.


    Hailee had this yful smile on her lips when she took the shower gel bottle in his hand. "Let me soap myself. Go, finish your shower first."


    Vince wanted to protest, but he understood the reason Hailee was doing this¡­ It will be for his good.


    She knew he was only holding back himself, not bending her on the wall and taking her under the rushing water.


    Hailee smacks a kiss on his lips for being obedient. She would love to run her hands on that stud, but she quickly arouses this man. She must always consider those red rms constantly ring around them.


    Vince tried his best to go slow and be gentle with her, and honestly, different from those times, they didn''t know she was pregnant.


    But she loves his tender behavior. There is also a thrill in having sensual lovemaking. They both have more time to feel each other''s bodies and explore the other sensitive part that they haven''t given attention to too much after they were at the peak of pleasure.


    After showering, Vince helps Hailee to get dressed, the usual routine when he is around. He would apply body moisturizing to Hailee''s whole body and then allow him to help dry her hair.


    Then, he brought Hailee to the conservatory room.


    On the table, their breakfast was neatly arranged by the maids, who left quickly.


    Butler Roberto bowed and left when they arrived, and Hailee instantly greeted the three dogs amazingly behaving sitting on the floor.


    Hailee smiled. "Are they waiting for a treat?" she asked Vince with amusement. He was right when he told her they are the most behaved dogs he has.


    "Yeah." Vince nodded and petted Kane and Lane. "Wait, okay?" he told them before he headed to the pantry and got something.


    "Oh, my gosh! Look, Halle!" Hugging the female dog, Hailee pointed out Vince carrying something in his hand. "Look what dad is bringing over!"


    Soon, both are singing¡­


    "Happy birthday, Halle! Happy Birthday, Halle! Happy birthday to you¡­."


    Vince ces the cake on the coffee table in front of Halee. Then, both blow out the four candles.


    "Yey!" Hailee ps her hands, which Kane and Lane were barking like they were also joining the excitement. "Let us take a photo!"


    She took a lot of photos of the three dogs who were behaving the entire time. Hailee recorded a video when Vince slices the cake into three. Kane and Lane patiently waited for Vince to put the cake on their tes, which Hailee could not stop giggling behind the camera.


    "There! Daddy cut the cake! Yay!"


    While Hailee, Kane, and Lane were eating the cake, Hailee posted the pictures on her Instagram ount.


    "Today, Vincent introduced his three kids. Same today, we are celebrating our daughter''s fourth birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HALEE!"


    Just a minute after Hailee posted the pictures and video, instantly, it went viral. Netizens went crazy to meet these three beautiful dogs, and onementer noticed¡­


    "OMG! Is it a coincidence, or Mr. Shen just picked out Halle''s name?" This question went viral.


    *


    Meanwhile, Shen''s private ne was halfway to arrive at the Metro City Domestic Airport.


    "Mom, Dad, look! Hailee posted a photo!" Sheena showed the pictures and video to her parents.


    "Did Hailee haven''t known about the news?" asked Hilda with concern. Honestly, she prayed Vincent didn''t tell Hailee yet, and it worries her it will affect Hailee''s pregnancy. "Why hasn''t that man stopped chasing Hailee? Even though he was already convicted, he could still cause trouble for us!"


    Deana and Sheena shared a knowing look. After the news reached them, their mom inquired if they had let Hailee know about it.


    (shback....)


    "Listen, Carl. Hailee must not know yet. Don''t you guys tell her without me!"


    "Aunt Hilda, your son knew what to do." Carl retorted on the other line. Even when he tries to exin to Hilda, his aunt never listens; instead, he bears her scolding.


    "We are leaving at this moment!" she announced, which made everyone protest. It waste at night already.


    "Mom¡­ If we suddenly arrive in the mansion before the sun rises, won''t it only rm Hailee? I''m sure my brother knew what to do."


    Everyone sighs with relief. dly, Sheena knew how to appease her mom, and there''s no one she listens to but her youngest daughter.


    Once Sheena reasons out to her, she actually has difficulty insisting on her opinion since Sheena persistently argues with her.


    Fred leaned over and whispered in her ear. "You can''t argue with your daughter when it is like arguing with yourself. This is so you¡ªwhen you were younger and when we were just married."


    Hilda red at her husband, and she could not retort to that when Fred was right. Sheena was actually as hard-headed as her, who was never afraid to talk back even to her.


    *


    Back to the present, Sheena sent a message both to her brother and Hailee through Instagram. After she contemted some things, she then came up with an idea.


    "I will post it on my ount!"


    "What are you nning, Sheena?" Hilda asked her daughter, and she suspected that whatever Sheena nned to do would turn the world into chaos.


    "Don''t worry, mom. I already asked my brother and Hailee''s permission." Sheena winked at her mom to assure her that everything would be just a teaser.


    "Remember not to give so many spoilers. The documentary recording still has a lot of things to get done, and we are just beginning."


    "Don''t worry, mom! It will be only a great teaser to that!"


    At that very moment, Sheena posted the photos she took four years ago.


    "I took these photos four years ago in Budapest, Hungary. Before my wedding, I picked up my brother to walk with me in the aisle. And because my brother was shy to ask this girl''s name, he had a crush at first sight. I was the one who went over and got Hailee''s name. I was actually teasing my brother after he named his dog after his crush."


    This is the caption Sheena posted on her Instagram, where she tagged both Hailee and her brother.


    Soon, Vincentmented, and everyone feasted his statement and became hot topics and trending news.


    "Sister, you are wrong. It was love at first sight."


    "Full story on our documentary film, including full updates on our wedding preparation¡­." Hailee chimed in, which made everyone ted andmenting non-stop.


    Hailee and Vincent''sments were pinned and replied to up to a hundred thousand times, inquiring regarding the release of the documentary series.


    *


    Meanwhile, Hailee has been even happier after meeting Halle, Kane, and Lane seated on the floor. She really enjoyed theirpany because they were behaving too well.


    Vince, who is quietly sipping his coffee on the sofa, was silently sulking. He could only watch the three dogs taking over Hailee''s attention. He started regretting that he had introduced these dogs to her; now, they were his great rivals.


    "Kane! Lane! Go y outside!" He called out that surprised them, including Hailee, who was turning her head, looking up at him with a questioning stare. He knew she was protesting, but he pretended he noticed nothing.


    Vince just continued giving Hailee a soft massage on her nape and shoulders.


    On the other hand, Hailee was astounded, staring at Vince meaningfully after he yelled at the two male dogs to go out of the room.


    It was obvious that he only gave Halle consideration because it was her birthday today.


    "What''s wrong, Wifey?" Later on, he finally spoke up when Hailee remained to stare at him.


    She is supposed to be the one asking what is wrong with him. Hailee could not believe that her husband would act childish just because of his dogs.


    "The dogs were behaving well, and we don''t need to chase them out," she groaned in objection.


    However, she didn''t figure out yet why Vince is acting like that.


    Vince cannot find a valid excuse to reason out to Hailee, as she is right. The dogs did not act mischief around but obediently lying down next to her.


    Halle was pillowing herps while Kane and Lane took the space on Hailee''s side.


    "Well, Wifey¡­ I have some important things I wanted to talk about with you."


    Hailee felt even more ridiculous about Vince''s excuse. The dogs would not understand whatever they were discussing¡­ Well, mainly as she also believes that there are intelligent dogs who are sensitive to their humans.


    "Alright. Come here, and sit down with me on the floor." Hailee moved a little for Vince to slide behind her.


    And before he would be the one to kick out of the conservatory by Hailee, Vincent obediently sat on the floor.

 Chapter 344 - Accusing Her?

    <h4>Chapter 344 - using Her?</h4>


    Metro Pce Hotel


    Inside Zaijan''s hotel suite, the men gather after Carl, Rodney, James, and Pitt meet up with Bruce at the jailhouse where Eva and Zenaida were imprisoned.


    Later on, Bruce, Keith, Tom, and Hansen joined them to discuss the issue.


    Eva Lan''s death was all over the newsst night, but no one dared to tell Hailee. Everyone made sure no one spoke up, even the maid, until Vincent, who would inform Hailee.


    In the middle of their discussion, their phones receive a notification.


    "The princess posted on her Instagram."


    "It looks like she hasn''t heard about it yet."


    "God, hope no one of these followers brought up Eva''s death!" said Pitt worriedly..


    He has the urge to drive back to the mansion, but he remembers he is not the one Hailee needs on her side, and there is already the rightful man to that role.


    Now, they are all the side characters in her life. However, it doesn''t mean they would not do things for her. He would not just sit around, thought Pitt.


    "What are you going to do now, Chairman Lopez?" he asked Zaijan.


    "I already spoke with Aunt Hilda. We will have a family meeting the moment they arrive."


    "Then that is mean?" James had the idea already, but he wanted to hear all the details.


    "They will head straight here," Rodney answered James'' query.


    Hansen, who remained quiet in his seat, got up and said, "I better go back to the mansion. Janise is worried too."


    "I''lle with you, Hansen. Gigi had less sleepst night checking out the news, and she is worried that someone might involve Hailee with this," said Tom.


    "Alright. I will order my bodyguards to escort you guys." Zaijan offered. He was speaking particrly at Hansen.


    After Hansen and Janise''s rtionship bes official, the Lopez n wees him as part of the family now.


    "Thanks, Zayn. Keep us updated."


    Zaijan nodded. His eyes shifted toward Tom. "Vincent spoke to me on the phone. After Hailee found out about Eva''s death, he wanted Hailee to go back to Australia to avoid the issue."


    "That was actually the best. She must stay away from these dramas. Even though she and Vincent are innocent, both of them are still being pointed out." Tom stated.


    "Liam killed Eva, and he did that because of Hailee. Some people will involve Vincent as Eva''s ex-husband." Carl heaves a deep sigh while expressing this.


    "That guy would not stop troubling Hailee if he stays alive."


    Every man in that room looked at James after he made that statement. He curled his lips and raised one brow upward.


    "What? Do you think I am just joking?" he said.


    "And do you think the princess would live in peace?" Pitt quickly countered his crazy thoughts.


    "But I am willing to kill that guy, and I am just holding back for that reason." Somehow, it made him depressed, and he was really willing to assassinate Liam with all of his connections.


    But Hailee finds out about this, the reason he was taken out as her private bodyguard. Hailee appointed him as one of her directors. Since then, he has been stuck in Dream City.


    He honestly doesn''t care if he put thew in his hands. That guy irritates him so much.


    "Stop right there, man." Tom tapped James'' shoulder. "Let''s do it in legal ways. But who says we can''t go rough?"


    James understood what Tom was trying to tell him. Of course, he had already phoned someone to beat Liam if they found a great opportunity.


    There are people far worse than Liam in that prison, which killing is a business for them. Liam is only losing screws in his head because of his love for the princess.


    He was ruthless because of his jealousy and insanity. The princess never likes this kind of behavior.


    *


    In the meantime, people were drawn toward Sheena''s post, which has be a trending topic in social media.


    Theizen has even feasted after Hailee posted a photo of her and Vince with a caption,


    "Stranger to Lovers"


    "It will never cross your mind that a few minutes of interaction with the stranger you meet in the street is the twin mate you have been waiting for all your life."


    "Don''t forget to watch our documentary series. In this film, there will be a lot of revtions that will answer questions."


    Many critics reposted and gave their opinion regarding Hailee''s post. People who didn''t know that Vincent was married once and didn''t learn that Hailee became the mistress after the agreement was in great bafflement if there was a meaning behind the post.


    And to people in Metro City who knew about the affair now very curious to discover the mystery lingering in this rtionship.


    *


    In a cafe, a group of socialites meets up for early shopping at the Metro City Garden. They are those women who have nothing to do but waste their money on unnecessary stuff.


    "Who do you think murdered Eva? It is impossible just to have a prison fight."


    A girl in a red dress brought up the news. Then, a girl wearing a pink sundress replied, "Do you think that possibly because she didn''t want a divorce?"


    "Oh, my gosh! Is that true?" A girl, wearing a ck dress, is busy reapplying a red lipstick on her Botox lips, chimed in.


    "Everyone knows¡­ Zenaida said it one time she encountered Miss Davies at the Shen Group lobby." The red dress girl blurted out.


    "What was the reason Eva didn''t want to sign the divorce? They never live as a married couple, and more likely, Eva married Vincent to get money." Someone scoffed at the jealous girls.


    "Why do you say that?" asked one.


    "Do you know how much allowance Eva had a month after she married Vincent?"


    "How much is it?" The other four girls keenly listen to their friend spill the tea.


    "One million in our currency."


    "That was just a month, right?" Suddenly they were daydreaming and imagined that what if they were the ones who married Vincent?


    "I think I don''t mind if he has another woman as long as he will buy me those famous brands of bags and clothes."


    "Are you an idiot? Why would you like that kind of role? You are the legal wife."


    "Like Vincent loves Eva? We all know it was just an arranged marriage, and that is why I am saying this."


    "Pam is right, Mia. Everyone knew Vincent had just married Eva to save from rumors that he was not straight. Why do you think Eva never shows up in Metro City? She was ashamed. Huh. So I was never envious that she got to marry Vincent."


    "Really?" Pam raised one eyebrow. "Eva also received a really nice car and yacht. Did you see her posts? She always hits the south coast with her yacht!"


    "Oh, well. I am a little jealous, but not totally. Look at what happened to her now?" the girl in a red dress scoffs. "She has a cold body now. Do you think Miss Davies who ordered to the murder of her?"


    "What is her reason?"


    There is a possibility, but Hailee Davies would really waste her time? She is super rich and super beautiful than Eva, and she has everything! The jealous women had this in their minds.


    "Well, who knows?"


    "Have you guys forgotten? The Lan family helped Senator Gu orchestrate Mr. Shen''s ident!"


    "Could they be after how much Eva got if she became a widow?"


    The five girls shared meaningful gazes. Vincent Shen is a billionaire, and if Eva did not inherit Vince''spany, then at least she would receive a generous amount from Shen. Possibility of shares in all of Vincent''s investments and assets.


    Meanwhile, while the five girls were engrossed in gossiping, they didn''t notice the two men at the next table keenly listening to them.


    These men are paparazzi who are thirsty to dig Vincent Shen''s skeleton in his closet. They were working hard to mingle with high society circles to get interesting news about him, and the gossip they caught this morning was something big.


    *


    Shen Mansion


    Hailee quickly pressed her back into Vince''s body once he sat down behind her on the floor. Vincent leaned his back on the sofa.


    He ced his arms around Hailee''s waist, quickly pressing her body into his after finding a perfect sitting position. His lips curled into a smile, cing a kiss on her temple.


    He honestly acts childish for a moment. He only wants Hailee''s attention on him while the babies aren''ting out yet because their attention will be divided once they are given birth.


    On the other hand, Hailee was only distracting herself why she''s ying with the dogs because if she and Vince were alone again, she was afraid that she would tempt him again.


    Her hormones are driving her crazytely, and it really makes her sex drive go insanely active.


    "So, what is the important matter you wanted us to talk about?" she asked Vince afterward.


    Vincent studied the atmosphere first. Everything was perfect at the moment, and Eva''s death was terrible news.


    Hailee was patiently waiting for Vincent to begin. When he remained silent, she nced over her shoulder and stared at Vince.


    "What''s wrong?" she could see the hesitancy in Vincent''s eyes. The thrill she felt vanished when Vince looked at her with worries.


    "Eva diedst night."


    It shocked her. Hailee wanted to believe that she heard wrong. But Vincent''s gaze tells her it is rted to her.


    "Are they using me?"

 Chapter 345 - Shes Not Fragile

    <h4>Chapter 345 - She''s Not Fragile</h4>


    "You need not think about it, okay? Soon, you will discover it, and I am worried you will stress yourself once you see the news. So, you better hear it from me."


    Hailee looked at Vince earnestly. She smiled and hugged Vince. "Alright. Of course, it will worry me and shock me at the same time to learn that Eva is dead. It''s not for myself, but because of you. How did it happen? Is this the news Bruce reported to you?"


    Vince nodded. He breathed with relief after seeing that Hailee was calm about it.? Maybe they are just overthinking.


    It looks like they were treating Hailee like she is too fragile. Or was he just overprotective of her?


    Of course, he doesn''t want to see her sad or in pain because other people want to trouble their lives.


    He only wanted to see her happy every day.


    He wants to give the world to her; however, she already has it.


    And so, making her happy is the only thing he could offer to her¡­


    Vince leaned over and kissed Hailee on the lips. They already had agreed to be honest with each other and solve every problem and together fight the storm that threatened their life.


    "The result Bruce had investigated pointing to Liam Huo. He had someone outside to do things for him, and they hired someone inside the prison to kill Eva."


    "Is he afraid that Eva would stand as a witness against him?" asked Hailee.


    Somehow, she had a hunch that it was not the real reason, but it was something rted to her. However, she doesn''t want to assume, and so she is praying it was just a wrong perception that someone died once again because of her.


    Vince lifted his right arm, rubbing Hailee''s natural pinkish cheeks. He could see a glint of worries as she already had apprehension why Liam did that.


    "Whatever Liam''s reason, you need not think too much regarding that, okay? But I am thinking of going to see Liam," he said afterward.


    "No!" she won''t allow it. Hailee turned abruptly and faced Vince.


    He exined, "I want to end his madness. I don''t want to live with fear every day. What if someonees and harms our family? I can''t imprison our children in one ce like how dad did it to me."


    Hailee stared at Vince. He is absolutely right. She was also living under her dad''s tight watch, afraid that his enemies would harm her.


    She may freely wander around Australia, but outside her dad''s territory is another story. Their children deserve to have freedom, even if they are mildly strict with them.


    "Hubby, maybe you don''t need to go. I want you here." Hailee rested her head on Vince''s shoulder, buried her face between his neck to breathe in his scent.


    Vince knew she was worried about him. "If you are worried that Liam can harm me, you know I can protect me. I know martial arts and sword fighting, and I, and I just showed that to you earlier."


    That was a whisper in her ear. Hailee blushed after sensing Vince''s teasing tone. How could she forget when she drooled, watching his naked upper body, sweating from martial arts practice?


    Not only that, she and Vince did another kind of exercise inside that sacred room.


    Hailee couldn''t help curling her lips into a yful smile. Clearly, Vince is teasing her, and he seeds. However, her smile vanished and was reced with a grim expression since Vince didn''t see her face.


    Suppose Liam thought he could draw out either Vince or her to meet him. She would not let that happen.


    "Hubby, Liam had a permanent disability after I shot his knees, and he could no longer fight with you one on one. However, how about his connections? Liam is a big fish. He knew all the giant criminals in the world, including those International syndicate Shun tried to apprehend all these years. Liam will persuade them to help him do things for him outside for his silence."


    Vince pondered with Hailee''s words. This girl is right, he mused.


    It''s not a matter of Liam who ordered to kill Eva inside the prison, and they only gave these people a chance to attack him when he visited Liam.


    "Alright. I won''t go any longer." He listened to Hailee. Obviously, Liam tried everything to separate him from Hailee, even though he was inside the prison.


    "Thank you, hubby. Liam does not deserve to be graced by your visit, and your ce is to stay here by my side." Hailee uttered before she lifted her chin to kiss Vince.


    The truth is, she would not let her pillow leave the bed. She will go crazy missing him if he isn''t by her side during the night. It will be hard for her to have a good sleep.


    "I will phone Shun to ask for his help to do something about Liam. Perhaps locking him up in Italy is the best solution."


    "I think it was really the best thing to do. In that way, no one could get near him." He concurred.


    "Okay. I''ll go get my phone," said Hailee.


    "Let me get it for you. But you have to sitfortably." Vincent helps Hailee stand up and sit on the sofa.


    Hailee sat downfortably on the sofa, leaning her back on the armrest after Vince put a pillow before going to the table to take her phone.


    "Thank you, hubby." She kissed Vince on the lips. He sat down and brought her legs on top of hisp, then began massaging them.


    She sighed with satisfaction when Vince pressed those heels of hers and around her ankles upward to her knees. Vince saw the pleasure on her face.


    "Should I put a little more strength?" he asked.


    She nodded with a big smile. Vince knows how to please her.


    While Vince continued massaging her legs, Hailee dialed Shun''s personal contact number. It takes only two rings, and the other line answered.


    "Princess?"


    "Hey, Shun!"


    "Hi! How are you?"


    "I''m fine. I started having a big baby bump now." She happily told Shun.


    "I could picture it." And he teases Hailee.


    Hailee chuckled, but after that, her expression changed. "Shun, I know you already heard what happenedst night."


    "Yes." Even though Hailee would not see him, Shun still nodded his head. "One of your knights had already reported it to me."


    "Can you do something about Liam? He still had contact outside."

 Chapter 346 - Smokin Hot Mafia Queen

    <h4>Chapter 346 - Smokin'' Hot Mafia Queen</h4>


    Shun curved his lips. Hailee did not beat around the bush anymore as this girl truly has changed.


    On the other hand, Haileeter realized that she sounded superior to Shun. Also, she has be so demandingtely, and she took advantage of all her influences.


    "I''m sorry, Shun. It''s just my mood swings. I''m actually in a bad mood now. I kind of guess that it was Liam''s doing, and so I want to see him." She didn''t say that it was Vince who wanted to go. Hailee then went on, "But I know I am just giving in to his traps. Can the Alliance take over the rights to keep him in Italy so that he has no contact with the outside people?"


    "Liam was under International Law rights. And so, he has the right to have a fair trial.."


    Unfortunately, Shun had to be careful because the media was watching Liam''s case. Shang Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas are famous throughout America, and the celebrities who died and were injured in the bombing are not just simple ones.


    Hailee somewhat knew it, but it still annoys her. "It''s f**king sh*t¡­."


    Shun heaves a sigh inwardly after he hears Hailee curse. This princess has never cussed before, and she is always a sweet girl.


    Hailee is against a system such as the Mafia Association or the Alliance. But she witnessed the oue of her naiveness and innocence. It will hurt the people around her if she continues denying the real world she is living in.


    Anyway, Shun would be shocked if Alex didn''t inform him that Vincent nned to visit Liam in prison. Hailee was behaving like this because Liam hit her bottom line once again.


    "Don''t worry, Hail. You and Vincent just take care of your wedding, okay?"


    "Yeah. I shouldn''t be affected by Liam''s trick again. But we need to catch who are the people working with him even if the world is putting him in prison."


    "Yes. I am working hard on it. They were still hiding from my radar. But it won''t be long." Shun was determined. "After Liam''sst trial and received his full sentence, I will take him to Italy and seal him from the world forever."


    Listening to Shun, Hailee felt at ease, and it was the assurance she wanted to hear.


    "Just make sure he will not be saved when you do the transfer. I know your men aren''t ck. But we are talking about Liam and the organization he was in."


    "Thank you for reminding me." Shun is even more impressed, and Hailee is acting a lot like a Mafia lord. "I think you are ready to rece your dad."


    Vince looks at Hailee with intent. She put the loudspeaker on, and so he heard the entire conversation, and Shun''s remark made him frown.


    He just thinks about it, a frustration surge in his chest. If Hailee ever epts the role, she will be even busier, and then Hailee will give less time and attention to him.


    All of a sudden, Vincent''s head filled with many scenes of Hailee chasing those illegal syndicates.


    Hailee, wearing a ck suit, ck stiletto, and ck hat, riding thetest Rolls Royce with a long convoy meeting the other Mafia lord.


    She would absolutely look like a drop-dead gorgeous Mafia Lady.


    No, she is a Smokin'' hot Mafia Queen.


    Wait...


    Why does he imagine something like that? Is he having a fetish at seeing Hailee in such clothing? Something like she looks dominant to him?


    Ah¡­ This thought is leading him somewhere dangerous!


    Vince shook his head, gathering his thoughts in one ce.


    However, if Hailee bes a Mafia Queen aside from being his Empress, he will be like a househusband waiting for his wife to get home.


    It was like an FL sulking at home because the ML was busy doing mafia stuff, and he forgot about her. However, in their situation, it was the reverse.


    He is the one sulking while waiting at home because Hailee forgot their wedding anniversary; she had no time for him as she was busy doing Mafia stuff.


    Vince was pulled out from his crazy thoughts when he heard Hailee giggling. He wondered if Shun said something funny, the reason Hailee had that huge grin across her face.


    He looked at her with curious eyes.


    However, Shun was also surprised when Hailee suddenlyughed from the other line. "What happened, princess?"


    "Nothing Shun. Someone is already sulking just to mention the possibility that I am fit to be a mafia lord."


    Shun did not have to ask further. He already understood that Hailee was referring to Vincent. He almost forgot the photo Hailee posted on her Instagram, and Vincent listened to their conversation the whole time.


    "Alright. Since uncle Jacob and uncle Fred took over the empty seats, you guys have nothing to worry about having a role. I understand your dad and Vincent are willing to sacrifice for the sake of your freedom. And it was clear to us what would be yours and Vincent''s role in the society." said Shun.


    Hailee could not help feeling guilty and being d at the same time. Shun was right. She and Vincent are regarded as an incredible couple. However, the road they are taking is not in pavement but a rough one.


    "Alright. Thank you, Shun. You are always a reliable cousin to me. I know you have more things to do, and so I am hanging up now. See you guys soon."


    "Yes. Leave to me regarding Liam Huo. But Vincent has to deal with the issue after Eva Lan died."


    "Yes, we will."


    "See you both soon."


    Hailee pressed the end button and put down the phone on the table. She looked at Vince, who carried on in massaging her body, and this time, he was gently pressing her shoulders, and it eases the little stress she gets through.


    "Sheena texted me. They were about tond at the airport, and I told them you already knew, so there''s nothing to hide. They cane back straight to the mansion."


    "I''m d they had a safe flight. We must finish up the things soon and go back to Australia."


    Vincent nodded. "I will talk to Jessa. Let us just have the interview in Dream City. I am more at ease if you are inside your dad''s territory."


    Hailee did not protest, and she agreed to whatever Vince thought was best for them.


    When everyone finally came back. They had a closed-door meeting, and Jessa''s team was okay with Vincent''s idea. They will have photoshoots before they fly to Australia to cover the wedding preparation in the following days.


    ***


    It was just three weeks away, and Hailee could not wait to see her wedding gown.


    "Hailee!"


    She had just finished doing her facial routine when the three teenagers rushed into her bedroom. Vince was in a video meeting in his study, so she busied herself in preparing to bed.


    "What''s wrong?" she asked, puzzled. She wondered if something had happened.


    "Let''s go! We have to see if your dress fits you!"


    "What dress?"


    "Is there any other dress you are dying to see?"


    Of course, there is only one dress she wants to see at this very moment!

 Chapter 347 - The Trending Topic

    <h4>Chapter 347 - The Trending Topic</h4>


    Later that day, the news of Eva Lan''s death was in every TV station''s evening news. Questions arose if it was purely intentional by the other prisoner or by someone behind it.


    Now that brought up this question, people began suspecting Shen and Lopez of the case.


    "They killed my daughter!" Julia Lan cried during the press conference.


    The Lan family epts all interview requests. Theirwyer held a press conference, and Julia Lan was present.


    Julia took this as an opportunity to at least make Hilda suffer from bacsh, her way of taking revenge on her. Julia won''t let Hilda live a peaceful life since Vincent never treats her daughter as his wife.


    Meanwhile, the others were in the Home Theater room to watch the evening news.


    Hilda, who was seated on her throne, heads high while watching Julia Lan speak. No emotion could be seen on her face.


    The maids that could enter the room constantly looked in her direction. Everyone was curious about what was on her mind now.


    "I know the madam would never shake this kind of usation." one maid whispered to Hailee''s nanny.


    "The madam would not feel guilty when she does nothing." The nanny replied.


    "You are right. Madam Shen is only tough and meticulous in everything, but she is actually not the kind of person who would hurt others."


    "However, the Lan family seems to use her daughter-inw. Do you want to hear what I heard when Madam Shen learned about Miss Lan''s death?" Hilda''s nanny chimed in the gossip of the other maids.


    The other maids and nannies nodded their heads, anticipation exhibiting in their eyes. At the bottom of their heart, they were dying to hear it. Hilda''s nanny went on,


    "Madam Shen was furious. She instructed everyone not to tell, nor let the young madam hear about the news. She doesn''t want the young madam to overthink, and it will affect her pregnancy. There is no one Madam Shen wanted to protect but her daughter-inw who bore the heir of the Shen."


    "Not only that, they were princes or princesses of the Davies family." Hailee''s nanny echoed.


    The other maids concurred with that statement. They carried on gossiping; however, butler Roberto coughed and shot dark res at them.


    ''These people dare to gossip about their employers when they were right there in front of them!'' Butler Roberto thought, preparing his long speechter once work was over for the day. He will lecture these maids real good.


    Later on, after they watch all the news regarding Eva''s death, Hilda waves her hand to turn off the TV.


    Instantly, butler Roberto pressed the remote control and shooed the maids to go outside and waited at the door. They wanted to protest as they tried to listen to what Madam Hilda would say about it.


    The nannies wink, conveying the message that they will definitely hear itter.


    After the giant screen turned off, everyone began giving their opinion and what steps they should take.


    "Mom, we should hold our press conference," Sheena suggested.


    Hilda stared at her youngest daughter for a long time. After a minute of silence, Hilda heaves a long sigh then spoke,


    "I think being the spokesperson or the PR team director is the right position for you."


    Sheena smiled and replied, "I would love to, mom! Hear what was on my mind! First, we should¡ª"


    Sheena stopped talking after her mom lifted her right hand.


    "Alright. I know you have so many things running through your mind. But if I let you take that position, I can''t imagine the results¡­." The truth is, Hilda doesn''t want to imagine what the PR Team would look like if Sheena took it overpletely.


    So Hilda thinks of a better way. "Okay. Be the PR Team Consultant before they must do anything."


    Sheena knew her mom was not serious enough to appoint her to be the PR Team director of Shen Group and everything that their family owned.


    Anyway, being a PR Consultant is not bad at all. She is the right person indeed!


    Afterward, Hilda stood up from her chair and walked toward Hailee and Vincent, seated at the corner of the room as she advised the couple earlier not to expose Hailee''s pregnancy to the screen.


    "Hailee, don''t worry about this matter. It will silence it sooner, and I will take care of it myself, and so, you and Vincent go back to Australia to focus on preparing your wedding."


    "Okay, mom. I trust you." Hailee said no more words; she believed these were the best short words Hilda had to hear.


    Everyone thought that Eva''s death would severely affect the family, but it didn''t be a big deal as they handled it perfectly because of other people''s opinions regarding Eva. It really helps a lot.


    Aside from that, even if the news releases use Hailee as part of Eva''s death, people do not believe it.


    "What would Miss Davies get after she ordered to kill Eva Lan?"


    "I seconded to that! Miss Hailee Davies is super rich! She has no reason to kill Miss Eva Lan!"


    "What are you all talking about? Our princess is the kindest person in the world! If she had the intention of killing Eva Lan, she should have done that a year ago!"


    "A year ago? What happened a year ago?"


    "Who are you? You seem to know a lot about Miss Davies."


    Onement stirred everyone''s curiosity. Now because of thismenter, it shifted all the attention toward her or him. They aren''t sure, but all theizens are dying to hear new gossip, and they felt like there was a mystery in thismenter''sment.


    "I don''t personally know Miss Davies, but I heard enough information here in Australia. Miss Davies had no ill intention toward Eva Lan, even if she is the reason her first engagement called off."


    "What? Was Miss Davies engaged before? To whom?"


    "To her best friend."


    "Who''s a best friend? Miss Davies had a lot of hot male friends!"


    "Please, tell us!"


    "I have no right to name that person. But one thing only I could say¡­ Whoever that guy is, he and Eva were in a long-time rtionship, and they went to the same Academy in the US."


    "OMG! I know who you are talking about! But yes, we have no permission to mention any name. Wait, a minute? When did Eva and Mr. Shen got married?"


    "Three years ago! Hello everyone! Citizens of Metro City here! So what about this guy and Eva? Tell us! We are dying to know!"


    "Eva came to Australia over a year ago to beg Miss Davies'' best friend to get back together. The guy actually disagreed, but Eva did the trick to separate him from Miss Davies. Imagine that Eva is actually married, but she is still chasing her ex."


    "Oh, my gosh! Eva Lan, who cheated first!"


    "Miss Hailee just quietly left Australia and mended her broken heart. But no one thought she fell in love with Mr. Shen instead."


    "Wow. But did Miss Davies know Eva is married?"


    "I don''t think so. Or maybe? But what I know, Miss Davies is not in love with her best friend, and the marriage is just agreed so that Liam Huo would stop chasing Miss Davies."


    "Huo''s who?"


    "Who''s that? The name is familiar."


    "Gosh! He is a terrorist! He was the one who bombed Shang Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas that killed and harmed many celebrities!"


    "Guys, Liam Huo is associated with Senator John Gu and the Lan family to assassinate Mr. Shen!"


    "What???"


    "Gosh! It has beplicated! Is this not just a love triangle but square!"


    "I think I understand now!"


    "Ah! Enlighten me! I am lost!"


    "I can''t follow the story anymore! I felt dumb now! So the four of them are connected to each other?!"


    "Yeah! We want to be enlightened with this!"


    "Guys, you have forgotten that Miss Davies and Mr. Shen will have an exclusive interview! Maybe we will find out the answer after we watch it?"


    "Ugh! I can''t wait! It seems like I can''t sleep thinking of the answers!"


    "We should leave questions!"


    "Yes! But where should we post our questions?"


    "Why don''t we google it or find any articles about it?"


    "That''s right!"


    In the next minute that has passed, Sheena is not the only one who receives appeal on her social media ounts but also Jessie.


    Not only that, but they also gain more followers and subscribers.


    "Oh, my gosh! They stormed all of my ounts!" Sheena was shocked when she started receiving thousands of notifications.


    Jessie was also confused why suddenly she was flooded withments. "Where these people came from, and they were asking the same questions. Who is Liam Huo? Who is Miss Davies'' best friend¡ªEva Lan''s ex-boyfriend? What is this?"


    Sheena rushes toward Jessie and begins reading thements on her Instagram and YouTube channels. "They are also asking the same question."


    "They demanded that I should include these questions to ask Hailee and Vincent."


    "Let''s check the trending topics and hot news." Sheena began searching on her phone. "I need aptop, or can somebody do an investigation?"


    "I''m on it!" James quickly pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his jeans, then dialed a particr contact. "Sandy? Can you run research about a trending topic regarding the princess?"


    "I will email all the data."


    "What? You¡ª!" James was speechless. Although he knew this guy was reliable for this kind of job still, it surprised them sometimes. "You, bastard! You are sneaky as always! I actually wanted to beat you up after you keep a secret that the princess is doing a lot of tricks out here in Metro City!"


    "What tricks?"

 Chapter 348 - Who Is That Guy?

    <h4>Chapter 348 - Who Is That Guy?</h4>


    "I''m on it!" James pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his jeans, then dialed a particr contact. "Sandy? Can you run research about a trending topic regarding the princess?"


    "Yes. I am eyeing them. I will email you all the data I gathered."


    "What? You¡ª!" James looked at his phone and hissed at the poor gadget like it was Sandy. The guy is very reliable for that job, but Sandy always annoys him. He knew how important it was to report every information and news he gathered about the princess. "You, bastard! You are sneaky as always! I actually wanted to beat you up after you keep a secret that the princess is doing a lot of tricks out here in Metro City!"


    "What tricks?" Everyone got intrigued by James'' phrase. Hailee wanted to hide or be swallowed by the floor at that moment.


    Indeed, she did a lot of tricks in the past few months, and one of them was to hide her presence in P Country, where still, Liam found her.


    Jessa, keenly listening to James talking to this person named Sandy, curiosity red up within her.


    "Tricks? What kind of tricks, Hail?" Jessa asked in a teasing tone. In these passing days in her investigation by interviewing her cousins, Vincent did a lot of tricks to trap Hailee and stayed by his side. It turned out Hailee was also doing some tricks, and this would even get interesting.


    Jessa did not wait for Hailee to answer. She tapped on the Notes icon on her smartphone and began adding new topics for the interview.


    She and Jayden are co-directing in this interview, and so she is helping the screenwriter prepare the scripts. She was happy that Jayden came up with a better idea. They can prolong the interview and add many features that show about Hailee and Vincent''s family.


    Thankfully for these social media outlets, they can produce exciting content for the world. Everyone is already looking forward to the exclusive interview.


    dly, they have already signed the contract to cover Hailee and Vincent''s wedding preparation till the most awaited date.


    While James checked his email, Jessa already wrote up several questions, and she was excited to start the interview!


    "Alright, princess. I already have the link to the trending topic on the inte."


    "Please, post the link to our chat!" Sheena requested.


    "Okay. Just a sec¡­." James copied the link, then posted it afterward.


    Including Hailee and Vincent, they all read the conversation about someone''s post on a particr social media site.


    "Wow! I never thought it would turn out like this." Sheena, who actually loves gossip as she once wanted fame in the Entertainment industry, is overwhelmed by how the people reacted to Eva''s death.


    Several people talk badly about Eva, and they call her slut and gold digger. These women are from Metro City who lives and works in the US, which a few of them personally know Eva.


    "Eva was sleeping with her giant clients to get the project." Sheena read onement.


    "Yeah, that''s true. Howie Gu told me once. We were dating back then, and he and Eva are working in the samepany, so I believe him even how asshole that guy is."


    "Of course, it''s true. Two years ago, wepeted for the same project, and she won because she''s dating the client after that. Now let''s do Math. That was two years ago, and she was married to Mr. Shen three years ago. Eva is three-timing, and obviously, more men sleep around to win the project."


    "Wow. You are telling the truth, right?"


    "Of course I am! Mr. Shen and I had worked together before with a famous hotel project that followed another project. He is a skilled architect. Mypany won to work on interior designing in the suites, and I think Mr. Shen is not the CEO of theirpany yet. But Eva already has a big name for being an outstanding Interior Designer. She handled major projects in the past, and she is actually good. I acknowledge her talent. But I don''t understand why she has to sleep with the clients."


    "Well, it just proves that she isn''t a loyal girlfriend or wife, even if she and Mr. Shen just had a marriage agreement."


    Everyone agreed with the person who ismenting from Australia.


    Sheena nced at her brother, who was also reading thements. She wondered what he was thinking now.


    "Brother, what do you think?"


    Vincent lifted his head from reading on his phone. He nced at Hailee before he fixed his gaze on his sister.


    "I think I have to post a statement regarding my marriage to Eva. May we be husband and wife in name only, but we are clear to each other that we will go on with our lives without caring for each other, and so, she can do whatever in her life because we don''t like each other. We both have someone we love."


    Vincent is looking at Hailee when he says that.


    Pitt, Carl, and James twitch their mouths, almost vomit at how cheesy that quote was from Vincent''s mouth.


    On the other hand, Vincent noticed their reaction, and he looked at them downward and mocked, "Jealous."


    "Why would we!"


    They felt like beating him up, but of course, they can never do that or else?


    Carl imagines when Vincent beat him up while James and Pitt think about how the boys beat them under the princess''s order.


    The three men shook their heads.


    Meanwhile, Rodney and Zaijan were only observing them quietly. They were still hanging out together, but they were not talking at all.


    Vincent shook his head. Zaijan and Rodney could only solve their problem. Of course, he would love to help them or meddle, but he also has more significant issues, too nosy at others'' love life.


    "So? I am curious what tricks Hailee did? I found it intriguing, and so I am adding it to the questions during the interview. I heard Vince also pulled many tricks, huh?" Jessa teases the couple, who both look at each other with a meaningful stare.


    It seems these, too, had really many tricks on each other. Those smiles that they tried to conceal are still apparent on their faces.


    "Cut out those cheesy stares!" Carl groaned from his seat and rolled his eyes at too much dog food¡ªthese two tried to feed everyone.


    Honestly, Hailee only suppresses not tough. She bites her lip to conceal her smile as she meets Vince''s gaze. She coughs to clear her throat.


    "Well, I''m just suppressing all the news about Vince and me not to leak out of P Country. And shutting down a few websites every time someone bacsh Vince. Sandy, who is responsible for shutting down those sites."


    ''Hmm¡­ No wonder that before I could do something, someone already took care of those gossips.'' Hilda thought. Her daughter-inw is really capable.


    "Um¡­ I''m deleting those articles, not for Liam to know my whereabouts, butter, he found out I was outside Oceania Continent and nowhere in Europe. Also, he was responsible for some of that news against Vincent."


    "Oh, that''s sweet! Viewers would love to hear that! You were actually protecting Vincent! Isn''t that awesome, aunt Hilda? His princess saved Vincent."


    Hilda shook her head. Her niece is just being exaggerated. Anyway, it looks that way. However, Vince is not really distressed as he could protect himself, but her son is toozy to deal with those gossips. He actually didn''t care at all, whatever other people would say.


    Instead, her son is just focused on protecting Hailee from her when she wants to separate them.


    It also came to her mind that if Vincent finds a girl that he truly loves and loves him genuinely as well. She will allow Vincent to get divorced and marry this girl.


    However, the girl he found is very mysterious. They run an investigation, but they find nothing. That is why she has the conclusion that she must be an escort girl and, worse, sent by an enemy.


    But Vincent did everything to go against her and choose this girl that turned out, the woman who is perfect as Vincent''spanion for the rest of his life.


    She doesn''t have to be super-rich and powerful. But someone that is rightful and capable of a role as the Shen''s Empress.


    "Hilda?"


    Hilda came back to her senses after she heard Sol''s voice calling out her name. "Sister Sol? Do you need anything?" she asked.


    "No. But I learned you hadn''t had dinner yet. Aren''t you all hungry?"


    "Ma, your arrival is perfect! We are actually hungry now. So, let''s go!" Jessa holds her mother and guides her to the door. Before the door swallows them, Jessa winks at her aunt Hilda.


    Hilda, on the other hand, understood her niece. They must stop now and resume the discussion tomorrow.


    "Alright. Let''s not talk about this during dinner. Let''s go." she announces, and everyone follows her toward the dining hall.


    She avoids involving her older sister in any family issue, so she does not let Sol watch the news.


    After the merry dinner, James approached Hailee and talked to her in a low voice.


    "Princess, do you have any idea who that person speaks to on your behalf?"


    Hailee stared at James. She is curious to know as well.


    "Do you have a way to know who that was?"


    "I will work on it tonight." James nodded at Hailee. "Who is that guy?"

 Chapter 349 - Her Wedding Dress

    <h4>Chapter 349 - Her Wedding Dress</h4>


    Hailee has been staring at her reflection for a long time already. She just finished washing up, and now it''s time for her nightly routine of putting skincare on her face.


    Vince was in his study room having a video conference with his directors and business partners. He has many things to take care of before his training starts.


    She has nothing to worry about as Vince can manage apany, so it will be easy for him to be familiar with how Davies Corporation operates.


    Hailee finished exfoliating her face. She followed the next steps, untilst, the night cream and anti-aging serum that''s left to put on her face.


    She should have felt refreshed now; however, she is only pretending in front of everyone that she is okay. Honestly, Eva''s death brought sadness to her heart.


    Even though Eva did many wrong things toward her, she is not fond of making other people''s lives miserable.. Eva is sent to prison is something she deserves after she works for Liam.


    Hailee could not really hate Eva, even if she hated her so much. She wants Eva paid for what she did but not to kill her.


    She actually died because of her, and this made her feel down. Even Liam was already behind bars, and despite that, he could still harm other people because of her.


    "Hailee!"


    It shocked her when someone shouted her name at the door.


    "Hail, where are you?"


    "I was in the closet!" she shouted from inside; three girls rushed to the wardrobe. "What''s wrong?" she asked curiously, puzzled why they were full of enthusiasm. She wondered if something had happened.


    "Let''s go, Hail!" Both Nadia and Liza hold her arms, but they release them after they remember she was pregnant.


    "We have to see if your dress fits on you!" Hazel said with excitement written all over her face. It was as if she was the one who was getting married, and Liza and Nadia were also smiling widely.


    "What dress?" Hailee asked, confused. It seemed like her head wasn''t working properly at the moment, and she forgot something because she was still lost thinking about Eva''s death.


    "Is there any other dress you are dying to see?" the three girls eximed.


    That''s right! There is only one dress she wants to see at this very moment, of course!


    "Do you mean? Girls, you are not kidding me. In these passing weeks, you guys are doing everything that I could not sneak in to see my wedding dress."


    "We are serious, Hail! Sister Janise asks us to get you and bring you to the guest room."


    "Okay! But I need to get dressed first!"


    The three girls scanned her. Indeed, she is only wearing a pink satin robe.


    "I think that''s already perfect! You will try on your wedding gown, so it''s okay if you have nothing on!"


    Hailee giggled and followed the three teenagers. Anyway, she is wearing a red thong inside as she only needs to put on the slip dress before she goes to bed.


    They arrived in the room, and the three girls had a trick. They asked her to close her eyes, and they put a blindfold around her head.


    "Come, Hail!"


    Vera took Hailee''s right arm and Deana on the other arm. Sheena and Jessa were filming this moment while Kelly, Gigi, and Janise held her wedding dress.


    She had no idea what was going on, but she just let them lead her inside the room.


    "Hail, you need to raise your foot." Gigi guided her. "You are going to put on your dress, so you have to step inside."


    "Okay."


    Hailee followed what she was told to do. She lifted her right foot first, then her left. She felt a fabric touching her skin.


    "Let us take your robe," said Vera, gesturing at Hazel. Instantly, Hazel came closer and helped Hailee take off the robe.


    The girl gasps, seeing what she is only wearing.


    "Damn, Hail. You really knew how to seduce your husband." There is a tease in Gigi''s voice that made the three teenagers giggled.


    "Like you, girls are not doing the same," she pouted. She then giggled afterward.


    "We don''t have a husband yet!" Janise, Vera, and the three teenagers instantly reacted to Hailee''s statement. They all giggled while helping Hailee dress up.


    "Well, Alex and I were not sleeping yet. I mean, we''re sharing a bed, but not that one thing. So, I am avoiding wearing lingerie!"


    "Oh, my gosh! That was impressive of my cousin!" Vera mouthed proudly. She will give a pat to her cousin for being a gentleman after lying down next to a woman.


    "He said he will wait as he respects my culture."


    "Ah. I wish I could meet a man like Prince Alex!" Hazel mouthed dreamily. Then she twitched her mouth after she remembered Jake. "Not a man who never misses bringing all his girlfriends to bed."


    Nadia and Liza shared a knowing look. They were familiar with Hazel''s character, and so they knew she murdered someone on her head once again.


    "You girls are young, and you will meet Mr. Right at the perfect time," said Gigi.


    Although Hailee didn''t see Gigi, she could hear her voice, enough for her to know that she was in front of her, and so, she instantly hugged Gigi and followed by the other girls.


    They all heard about Gigi''s life when she was forced to marry Galvin Huo. It was a miserable and hellish marriage.


    It was supposed to be a joyous night. But Gigi was so touched when the girls hugged her, and she couldn''t control her tears flooding her eyes.


    "Thank you, girls. I am truly saying this as my experience. Tom and I have already met before, and he already liked me back then. But I was a married woman to the wrong man at that time..."


    Hazel, Liza, and Nadia understood what Gigi was trying to advise them.


    "But that perfect time came, sister Gigi!" said Nadia.


    Gigi nodded at the younger girl, reaching for Nadia''s hand to squeeze them.


    "Yes. And I am not only dreaming because I have evidence here." Gigi gently stroked her baby bump she could notice now.


    "The right guy arrived at the perfect time!" Hazel quoted this over again.


    Gigi smiled as she recalled that dinner encounter with Liam and Galvin; then, Tom arrived at the perfect time. Until now, she could not believe that it was the beginning of her true happiness.


    "Girls, this conversation is perfect for the documentary!" Jessa''s head was already flooded with the caption she will put into when she posts this scene as a teaser. "I will use a few clips of this scene to post in my IG ount, Hail. Is that okay?"


    "I guess so? But not that part. I am bare but only wearing a thong, right?"


    "Sister Jessa won''t dare." Sheenaughs.


    "Or Vincent would kill me!" Jessa could imagine Vince''s mad face. No, and she definitely would not dare! "Don''t worry, Hail. I will not include the part where you are showing your sexy baby bump!"


    "I should wear a bra at least," she said.


    "But you don''t need it. The style I made for your wedding dress is a V-neckline."


    "Oh. Looks stunning!" She could already imagine the dress as it slowly hugged her curves.


    "Alright! Let''s continue dressing up, Hailee! She''s been blindfolded for a long time now." Gigi announced, pped her hands twice before she helped Kelly hold the gown while Janise pulled up the zipper.


    "Alright, Hail. We are taking off the blindfold," said Vera, untying the blindfold from her head.


    Hailee reaches for her eyes to cover them. Inside her palm, she opened her eyes to adjust to the sudden brightness of the ckness.


    Soon, Hailee slowly put down her hands and rested on her side. Her mouth dropped open to see the bright diamonds meet her eyes.


    Hailee looked at Kelly, who she knew crafted these diamonds of these sizes and shapes.


    "Girl, what have you done?"


    "You are the Queen of Diamond! Your forefathers dugnds and found all diamonds in Australia! Just right, you are wearing them on your wedding day."


    "You are making me blind the guests!"


    "You should look spectacr on your wedding day!"


    Hailee could only shake her head. "I wonder how many cubics of diamonds there are, and dad will pull out from the vault?"


    "Why are you worrying about that?" asked Gigi, who is aware of how rich Hailee has been since day one when she met her.


    But this queen of diamonds is only wearing faded jeans and a in white t-shirt. Instantly, she wanted Hailee to be her friend. Putting on heavy makeup and dressing up like a socialite is only her way to hide her natural looks, but this girl is an insanely down-to-earth person.


    "Alright, Hail! Turn around and look in the mirror."


    Hailee slowly turned around and watched her reflection. She covers her mouth with both of her palms to see her entire wedding dress.


    "I look too beautiful!"


    "You are beautiful inside and out," said Kelly and Vera, who looked at each other and giggled afterward.


    "I seconded that!" Hazel, Nadia, and Liza echoed while Janise and Gigi nodded.


    "You are so beautiful, Hailee. We are so fortunate you are our sis-inw." Sheena and Deana rush to her side and hug her.


    "Thank you, girls." Her tears began streaming her eyes as emotion flooded inside her chest and praying


    ''Mom, grannies¡­ I wish you all here¡­.''

 Chapter 350 - My Happiness

    <h4>Chapter 350 - My Happiness</h4>


    Hailee is missing her mom and grandparents badly. She wishes they were there too on her wedding day. And at the thought of their presence, she is sure that her loved ones who already departed in this world would watch her over from heaven on her big day.


    Hailee wipes her eyes and heaves a deep breath. Scanning her dress in the mirror, she couldn''t help notplimenting her dress. "It was beautiful." It was a plunging V-neckline and perfectly fitted the dress to her body.


    "Janise, you were really amazing!" Hailee praises one more time. Janise is really doing a great job on her dress. She knew Janise had a lot of a hard time making her wedding dress when Janise had to get her new measurements as her belly was growing every week.


    "You haven''t seen the skirt yet, Hail!" Janise winked at her.


    "Oh. It has a skirt too?" Hailee imagines herself wearing this dress and the wedding skirt. But she didn''t see it yet, so she had no particr design in mind.


    Although in these passing weeks, all she did in her free time was to read articles about her pregnancy or browse Pinterest to look at those stunning gowns! Soon, she would wear one. Her very own wedding dress!


    "And it has a very long tail!"


    "Oh, my¡­ Don''t tell me it was also filled with diamonds?" Hailee doesn''t want to imagine a dress that is sparkling too much.


    "It was, of course!"


    "Are you guys nning that someone will kidnap me on my wedding day because of the dress I am wearing?" she joked.


    "Like someone would dare to do that!" said Kelly.


    "Yeah. All of your knights would be there!" Gigi echoed. "Besides, we''re inside Dream City. Security would be even tighter, you know. Known people in the entire world would be there at your wedding. Lords of every country will be there as well. Whose person has the guts to kidnap you?"


    That is true. Besides, there is only one man who has no care to ruin her happiness. But that man is already behind bars.


    "Okay. I actually do not think about the gemstones I would wear during that day. But praying that everything went well."


    "Are you nervous, Haile?" asked Sheena, who stepped closer to get a close-up shot of Hailee.


    "No. I''m not nervous. In fact, I was too excited. Vince is working hard to give me a grand wedding. I told him I could share the expenses, but he would not allow me, except dad, and he would not mind epting dad''s contribution."


    "Of course, Hail. Vincent is proud and happy to marry you." Jessa quoted.


    "And my brother wanted to make everything so meaningful that he could proudly say to himself¡­."


    "I walked the woman I love dearly down the aisle and brought her to the altar," Sheena added.


    Nadia, Liza, and Hazel sigh dreamily. They also imagine walking the aisle toward the altar with a beautiful wedding dress.


    "You kids should finish your college and have a career first," Kelly said kiddingly and snapped her fingers to wake up these teenagers. Then they all giggled.


    "We are just too happy for Hailee! Finally, they were tying the knot!" said the girls.


    Hailee extended her arms and tightly hugged the three silly but cool teens. Her days in Metro City were never dull because of them, and they never judged her even after she signed the mistress contract Vince offered to her.


    "Girls, I haven''t asked you this. Why didn''t you hate me orsh me out after you heard I dated and even lived with Mr. Shen?"


    "The short time we''ve been together and be friends, I saw you are a good person, Hailee," said Nadia. She will never forget how Hailee always helped her out.


    "You are like an older sister to us." Liza echoed.


    Hazel chimed in. "And you are so cool and pretty! I could still remember how you wore faded pants back then!"


    "That was Hailee''s signature when she pretended to be someone else." Gigi would never forget that cute and silly girl back then. "I am fortunate that we became best friends. My family is aware of how wealthy she is. But it''s not the reason I wanted to get close to her. I also see the beauty in her heart."


    Gigi hugged Hailee and kissed her cheeks. "I''m so proud I became your big sis."


    Hailee always asked for Gigi''s advice in the passing months, which made her happy that Hailee was relying on her. She acted as a big sis, and Hailee listened to her.


    "I''m happy that I was also pregnant at almost the same time as you. Our kids would be best friends as well!" she added.


    Hailee was d because Tom was one of the best brothers she had. "They were not just best friends, but also sisters or brothers if we both have girls or boys!"


    "Maybe Hailee would have both boys and a girl!" Kelly made a guess.


    "Or girls and a boy!" Janise also has a guess.


    Hailee smiled, watching the girls through the mirror, sharing their guesses. She could see that everyone was excited as she was. "Whatever gender they have, I would be so happy to have them. They willplete the family Vince and I are creating."


    "We never saw our brother this happy. After he learned you are pregnant¡­ No. Since you came into his life, we see the brightness of his smile."


    Hailee reaches for Deana''s hands and squeezes them. "I''m happy he never stopped loving me, even the possibility that I probably married someone else."


    "But you are destined for each other." Sheena quoted.


    "Thanks, girls." Hailee hugged both Deana and Sheena.


    Jessa made sure that she recorded this perfect bonding moment. She was already excited to give everyone a sneak peek at the Hailee and Vince documentary.


    *


    Meanwhile, after his meeting, Vince immediately returned to the room to snuggle with Hailee and have a good sleep. But he found the room empty, and the bathroom and closet were open.


    Vincent heads out and looks around for a maid to ask. He could not ring her when Hailee''s phone was still in the bedroom.


    "Good evening, young master." the butler''s greetings.


    "Good evening, Roberto. Where are you bringing those snacks?" Vincent scanned the trays held by the maids. He saw a ss of milk and a tter of fresh fruits on one tray that gave him the idea for his wife.


    "The young madam had a fitting a while ago, and she was chatting with her friends and the youngdies asking for some snacks."


    "Okay. I want to see the¡­" before Vincent could finish, his mom appeared from behind.


    "No. You shouldn''t see the dress yet. Just let thedies have their night."


    "Okay, mom." Vincent wanted to raise a protest, but his mom was right. He should not be too clingy with Hailee, and she should have time with the girls, how he has time with the boys.


    They truly be husband and wife, and soon a parent, but there should be time for themselves.


    "Don''t worry, Vincent. I will tell them not to stay, as Hailee has to take enough rest."


    Vincent curled his lips. His mom is very considerate now. After putting her grandchildren to bed, now it''s her daughter-inw she wants to take care of.


    "Thank you so much, mom." Vincent walks closer to his mom and gives her a warm embrace. Hilda, who is not used to her son''s sweetness, blushed.


    "What are you saying? I have to scold your sisters, too. They have to get up early tomorrow for a board meeting. As a chairman, I should be there too, but you? You need not attend."


    Vince hid the silly smile ying on his lips. He knew his mom was only so shy that he suddenly hugged her in front of the servants.


    Indeed, it''s not a typical scene that they were showing clinginess to each other except for their youngest. Sheena was spoiled and got all the attention when she was born.


    Probably it was the reason she was never afraid to defy their mom''s strict rules.


    "Alright." Hilda tapped Vincent''s shoulder to let her go. "I have to remind the girls. I want to retire to bed soon."


    "Okay, mom." Vincent let go of his mom and headed back to their bedroom.


    After half an hour, Hailee finally came back. He pretended he was already sleeping, but his ears were listening to the light footsteps around the room.


    He heard the bathroom door open, and after ten minutes, Hailee came out, but she headed to the wardrobe.


    Vincent opens one of his eyes to peep at Hailee. His mouth drops open to see her wearing a red halter slip with a long slit in the front.


    Vince was helpless after his body responded to his wife''s seduction. Somehow, Hailee knows already that it is easy for her to tempt her husband, and all she needs is to act coquettishly.


    Vincent closed his eyes again when Hailee turned around and walked toward their bed. He felt it when she sat down andy beside him.


    Hailee moves close to him, and her arm throws around his waist and snuggles his back, pressing breast.


    Vincent held not to sigh. He wanted to keep pretending he had already fallen asleep, but Hailee whispered in his ear that made him obediently turn around and face her.


    "I wore the dress so that you would not need to remove it."


    Vincent would not miss this opportunity. Like for the saying, ''The grain which came to the chicken.''


    And when the food who approached, why would you refuse such grace?


    "I love you, my temptress¡­."


    Hailee giggled when Vince nibbled her ears. He leaned over her, but he was using both of his arms to support his weight.


    And even if he tried not to put his weight on her body, she could still feel his stiff shaft dying to rub on her thighs.


    "I love you too, my happiness."

 Chapter 351 - So In Love With You

    <h4>Chapter 351 - So In Love With You</h4>


    Metro City International Airport


    Hailee''s jet ne is preparing to take off, and they were leaving tonight while this side of the was sleeping.


    But it was Hailee''s preference to fly during the night as she loves to watch the shimmering lights across the city from the sky.


    "Thank you," Hailee said to Vince. She was thirsty, and Vince made her a fresh juice and fixed her something to munch.


    Hailee put the straw on her lips, sipping the juice while staring at her husband seductively. Vince was about to head to the pantry, get a te to arrange the snacks they brought along.. But this beautiful pregnant woman is tempting him once again.


    He walked toward Hailee, who didn''t leave her eyes on him. She licked her lower lips when he leaned over and lowered his face to whisper in her ear. Somehow, Hailee anticipated hearing what Vince would say.


    "Excuse me, Mrs. Shen. Are you hungry for food or me?"


    Hailee''s eyes flickered in Vince''s tease. She bit her lower lip as she replied coquettishly. "As far as I know¡­ You are the top dish on my menu."


    Vince cursed inwardly. If this woman isn''t pregnant, he probably carried her on his shoulder, threw her on the bed, and devoured her entire being.


    But he read on the inte that pregnancy is when a woman has a higher sex drive. And so, he has to be careful and bear Hailee''s temptation. Lately, he notices how she always showed motive to make love.


    "I''ll get your food ready." Vince stood straight, but Hailee stopped him.


    "Bring it to our room after we take off," she whispered and winked at Vince.


    Vince contracted his pupils, but he hid them immediately. They were not alone on the ne, and Alex, Pitt, Hansen, Kelly, Gigi, Jessa, and Janise were with them.


    All Janise needed was to finish Hailee''s skirt, and so they brought the dress to Dream City. Vincent''s family will follow next week after taking care of the issue of Eva''s death.


    Meanwhile, Jacob and the Hillson family took the flight back to Sydney earlier that night. Jacob has many things to finish before he officially turns over the position to Hailee and Vince.


    And now, Hailee and Vincent didn''t hide their sweetness. Jessa happily snapped several photos. She already had Hailee and Vince''s permission to post some pictures as part of the documentary and teaser to update the uing wedding of the millennium.


    Jessa browses her gallery and chooses the best photo to postter when theynd Dream City. No one from the media and paparazzi knows that Hailee and Vincent are headed back to Australia tonight.


    Not too long to wait, Tom announced they were good to take off, and so everyone buckled up, and after the ne steadied in the air, they sighed with relief and enjoyed the flight.


    Pitt took out the bottle of champagne after Tom joined him and Alex while the girls chatted about random stuff. And about the couple, they just ignore them snuggling and making out.


    Hailee loves to watch the city lights every time they take off. And now they were above the sea; it''s time for her to excuse going to rest.


    "Ladies, I need to take a rest."


    "Alright, Hail. Good night!"


    "Night, everyone!"


    Hailee and Vincent headed to her room. She changed into her pajamas, just to take offter. Hailee realized the excitement of making out in the ne, and she had to lower her moans or someone would hear them.


    As for Vincent, he shared the same excitement. He wanted to speed up his thrusts. However, he felt pity for Hailee, trying to suppress her cries.


    Vince lowered his head and ran kisses over Hailee''s entire face. He bit her earlobe and brushed his lips across her nape.


    "Hubby¡­" Hailee buried her face on the pillow and stuck her bottom. When Vince didn''t disappoint her, she cried in pleasure¡ªhe made heavy thrusts until she reached another orgasm.


    "I will wake you up when we are close to Dream City." Vince helped her at least put on her upper pajamas before she tucked in under the quilt.


    She instantly buried her face between his neck after Vince wrapped his arms around her.


    "Hubby¡­ They said I should only feel happy while I am pregnant so that it positively affects the baby''s health... Then, how about I am so in love with you?"


    Vince pursed his lips into a wide smile. He may have only enough knowledge about a woman''s pregnancy, but it made him happy with what Hailee shared with him.


    "I wish our children also felt how much I love their mom. Is there any way to do that?"


    Hailee parted her lips into a yful smile. She lifted her head and looked at Vince. "I think they would know. As long as their daddy makes mommy satisfied, then she is happy."


    Vince chuckled at Hailee''s quote. He understood what that meant, of course. They shared such intimacy when Hailee was pregnant. In fact, their rtionship has even strengthened, and both are happy with their physical bond.


    "I hope you don''t change, hubby."


    "Change? Why would I?"


    "Maybe one day I will no longer be gorgeous and have a smokin'' hot body."


    With Hailee''s statement, Vince couldn''t hold himself not tough out loud. But he quickly settled down because women''s insecurities are not a joke, and they need attention and assurance.


    "Don''t worry, Wifey. I will build a spa room. Twice a month, or if we can manage, let''s have a spa together at home every week."


    She loves Vince''s idea. Hailee initiated the kiss that became another round of exercise when they were at the height of being in love.


    Meanwhile, the people in the lounge shared nces when they heard Vincent''s loudugh.


    "I thought they were sleeping," Pittmented, which Alex smacked him on the back.


    "I know you are not innocent, bro."


    Pitt rolled his eyes and muttered. "Of course! I know they were not sleeping¡­ They were slee¡­.ping!"


    Hansen and Tom shook their heads. They both know that what Pitt wanted to express is for Vincent not to overdo it when the princess is pregnant.


    On the one hand, they should refrain from putting their nose on the princess''s love life and, soon, her marriage life.


    *


    DREAM CITY, Australia


    Hailee breathed in as she watched the sun rising¡­


    They justnded in? Dream City, her most favorite ce on earth.


    She loves Metro City and many ces on earth, but it could notpare to her home country, but Dream City is where she and Vince will build their vast family.


    "Hubby, let''s drive around the city."


    "Okay." Vincent nodded and helped Hailee sit down on the passenger seat of her Bugatti before he walked around to the driver''s seat.


    The cars were already waiting for them, and everyone chose to ording to the color they loved. Alex and Kelly took the red Ferrari while Tom and Gigi picked out the ck Lambo.


    Meanwhile, Hansen apanied Janise, who watched the worker unloading the boxes of Hailee''s wedding dresses. After all, was secured inside the moving truck, Hansen drove the silver Rover.


    "Miss Jessa, I will drive you around!" Pitt drove the white Mustang.


    "Thank you, Pitt!" Jessa took the passenger seat and readied her camera.


    "Let''s follow Hailee." Pitt knew that Jessa''s purpose here was to cover the couple''s wedding. And since Jessa''s crew will arriveter in the evening today, he offered to be the driver.


    Following Hailee and Vince''s car, Jessa felt awed by the scenery she was seeing.


    "Wow. This ce is too beautiful!"


    "The princess didn''t give up her dream to build this city in honor of her forefathers, who found a new life in this country."


    "Of course! I love that story! Hailee''s dad shared so many stories, and I am not tired of listening to them! I cannot wait to film my interview with Hailee and Mr. Davies!"


    "This ce is truly significant for the Davies family. Everything began here. Hailee''s great-grandpa was born and raised here. It was also the first ce where they realized that they could mine in the area. Now, Davies is one of the wealthiest families in the world."


    Jessa made sure that she recorded this conversation, and so she asked another question to Pitt, who was eager to answer them.


    "So, how did you meet Hailee?"


    "We met the princess when Andre moved to the Davies'' mansion to apany his niece. Hailee''s mother had just passed away, and she was not talking nor wanted to see anyone, and she just wanted to be alone in her room and crying. We missed hanging out with Andre, so we often visited him every weekend, and we even camped outside the mansion until Hailee''s dad made a park for us."


    Pitt added, "Uncle Jacob is such a perfect father. He is willing to spoil us as long as it makes his princess happy."


    "I could really see why Hailee also became a down-to-earth person," Jessamented. "That''s right! It was Aunt Hilda who tried to help Hailee''s mom! I really cried when I learned Hailee is actually the woman Aunt wanted to save back then."


    "Yeah. This world is really small for all of us¡­."

 Chapter 352 - The Best Man (One)

    <h4>Chapter 352 - The Best Man (One)</h4>


    Hailee and Vince drove toward the hignd they nned to build their castle. The car parked under an oak tree, but Pitt pulled over ten meters away from the couple.


    Jessa got the best position to capture the couple from a distance¡ªfilming while Vince got out of the car, walked around the passenger seat, and opened the door for Hailee.


    "The ce is one of Hailee''s favorites to hang out where she could gaze out at the entire city," Pitt told Jessa.


    "The princess'' great grandpa nted that tree." He added.


    "Oh. This ce is significant to Hailee," Jessa gets out of the car and gasps with awe.


    The overlooking scenery from that height is spectacr. Jessa slowly walks toward the couple to ask a few questions..


    "Hail, this ce is beautiful! What are you nning to put up here? Is it a restaurant? A hotel?" Jessa aimed the camera at the couple as she threw a series of questions.


    Before Hailee answered Jessa, she took Vince''s hand and held it tight while her eyes never left him as she spoke.


    "This is my wedding gift for Vincent."


    "So I will build a castle here for our family," added Vince, lovingly staring into Hailee''s eyes.


    "Oh¡­ That is so sweet of you both!" Jessa wipes the tears that suddenly fall from her eyes. The days that she witnessed this couple''s love story indeed moved her, and she saw how this couple was in love with each other.


    But she didn''t see iting. The first thing in her mind is a five-star, three-story restaurant. With the breathtaking view from that ce, it will always be difficult to get a reservation to dine here.


    But the couple had a better idea. This ce is indeed perfect for building a castle where they could watch over their kingdom.


    "God! This ce is too beautiful! I cannot wait to have a house tour in your castle soon. Promise me I will still be the one to have the first tour!" said Jessa.


    "It will be years to wait, but sure! As of now, we have to focus on finishing this city, and Vince has more uing projects not only for the residents but for the guests to enjoy visiting in the city."


    "Yay! I''m already excited!" Jessa gave the camera to Pitt and rushed toward Hailee to hug her tight. "Thank you, Hail."


    "I should be the one thanking¡­."


    "No! I could see how you are trusting Vincent so much. And I am happy because my cousin is an honorable man, and he deserves you, and he is worth keeping, you know." Jessa winked at Hailee, who she giggled.


    Hailee nced at Vince. She had that silly smile on her lips and a mischievous glint in her eyes.


    Vincent did not guess, as he already knew Hailee had naughty stuff ying on her head. Hailee scanned him from the head down to his shoes as she mouthed,


    "More than worth it!"


    Jessa chuckled, but not Pitt. He only rolled his eyes and mused inwardly. ''This girl has be an expert in flirting!''


    Hailee gave Vince a flirty and seductive look, saying to him that body serves her well.


    "He sure could warm my bed, and so, I will keep him forever," Hailee added, then she winked at Vince.


    Jessa giggled and teased her cousin. Vincent could only shake his head. He stretched his arms and pulled Hailee closer before he ravaged those silly lips of her¡ªas punishment; he didn''t let Hailee go until he wasn''t satisfied.


    Jessa gave Pitt a knowing look before she lol at the camera and spoke...


    "Gosh! No wonder I''ve seen a lot of ants around here! Bees are everywhere! This couple is producing nectar all over the ce! Well, that sweetness had fruit with three babies! This is your host Jessa is signing off!"


    Pitt handed the camera back to Jessa. She looked around, pulled out her phone from the back pocket of her jeans, and began taking a picture of the whole ce.


    She checked the photos, and after she was satisfied, she put back her phone and resumed chatting with the couple, thankfully done kissing now.


    Pitt''s phone rang; he called out Hailee after speaking to the person on the other line. "Princess! Breakfast is ready!"


    "Okay!"


    They went to the apartment and headed straight to the rooftop¡ªwhere Hailee''s executives were already there. Jessa dropped her mouth to see handsome men preparing breakfast and setting up the table in their office suits.


    She never misses an opportunity to film everything. She meets more of Hailee''s executive knights! And as Janise told her after she met Pitt, Hansen, James, Geoffrey, and Chester, except for Keith Cole, who she knew very well, undoubtedly they were all handsome!


    It astounded her that Hailee didn''t fall in love with one of them. It was overwhelming, but destiny proves that they are meant for each other.


    It was undoubtedly fate!


    *


    Since she has permission to film scenes that are perfect for featuring in the documentary, Jessa recorded her camera while having breakfast.


    All the men were pleasantly chatting with Hailee. Jessa then noticed that only Pitt, Alex, Hansen, and Tom were giving attention to Vincent, while the rest didn''t mind him.


    After the sumptuous breakfast, Hailee brought Jessa to their unit in the building to have a quick tour. Jessa''s reaction is the same as his mom and sisters after seeing those photo frames on the wall.


    It shocked her to see these hundreds of men! "Wow." She recognized half of them, of course. They are from an affluent family, certified bachelors in the world!


    "Hey, Vincent¡­ How did you manage to court these men to approve you?" asked Jessa. She was too curious to know. What she witnessed during breakfast made her feel pity for Vincent.


    Vincent swept his gaze to the wall. "Hailee''s European Knights are nicer to me, and only her executives who are civil toward me because they invested too much emotion and attention since Hailee is a kid."


    "I see. That''s understandable. But they can''t harm you, right?" Still, it worries her. Vincent is like her younger brother.


    Vincent smiled. He reached for Jessa''s arm and rubbed it. "Don''t worry. In the end, they cannot dare because of their respect and love for Hailee. I know they were in love with her. And that''s what made me feel pressured. I need to prove that my love is bigger than them."


    "Way to go, brother! Damn! You made me emotional now." Jessa wipes the tears in her eyes. "I am so happy that you are finally in love and to your true love."


    Vincent hugged Jessa and said, "Thank you. I know the girls were gossiping to you. I''m d you didn''t tell mom."


    "Why would I? I am very happy that there is a woman you fell in love with! There are times aunt Hilda called me just to fret off her frustration. But I just listen and reveal nothing."


    "Alright! I have to see if Hailee needs me."


    Jessa nodded at Vince, shooed him to attend to his wife.


    Vincent went to their bedroom. Hailee excuses earlier that she needed to use the toilet room, and Vincent is worried that her morning sickness attacked, and she feels nauseous.


    Left alone in the living room, Jessa would love to take a few photos of Hailee''s apartment, but it is kind of sacred to her because of these hundreds of pictures on the wall.


    Not long after she had to wait, Kelly and Janise came to take her to the hotel to stay with the other guests soon.


    Janise and Kelly have to finish Hailee''s skirt one week before the big day. Thankfully, two hotels arepleted in time, and all it needs is to decorate and furnish every suite.


    Hailee already had the concept of what ideas to furnish the two hotels. But as it needs to be fully furnished as soon as possible, she assigned the Davies Corporation Interior Designing Department team to finish the work before the guests arrive one by one soon.


    After a quick chat, the girls left. Hailee scheduled an emergency meeting with her executives.


    "Wifey, aren''t you tired yet?" Vince was on the steering wheel. He is worried that she is not taking a proper rest since theynded in Dream City. They had only a few hours of sleep after they made love on the ne.


    Thinking about that, it actually brightens his face. Hailee''s moodtely is great, and he is d to serve her.


    Vince nced at Hailee, who was busy preparing some documents she wanted to discuss at the meeting. He steals a kiss on her cheek.


    "Hmm¡­ Stealing a kiss, huh?" Hailee lifted her head and looked at Vincent, who had a massive smile on his lips. "Don''t worry, hubby. I''m fine. Well, as payment for stealing a kiss from me, you must give me a long massage after work."


    Hailee seductively spoke her words, and Vincent could only shake his head and chuckle. ''This girl is always behaving naughty around me.''


    It was torture for him because he could not spank her yet.


    Vince parks the car. Before he got out to open the door for Hailee, he leaned over and whispered to her, "You naughty girl. How many spankings should I give you after you give birth?"


    Hailee gasps. Her mouth parted open, and her eyes flickered with excitement. She lowered her gaze and bit her lip while staring at Vince''s tasty mouth.


    "Bad, hubby, bad. We are having a meeting soon, and you made me wet now."


    Vincent was stunned, screaming inside of his head. ''You are seducing me as well!''


    "Ahem. Let''s go. They are probably waiting now." He gives Hailee a quick kiss and rushes outside. Vince let out a heavy sigh. ''This girl never stops testing my control!''


    Meanwhile, Hailee had that big smile on her face after Vince got out of the car. She is just ying with him, as she wants to see his reaction, which is always priceless.


    *


    Davies Group HQ


    "Good morning, everyone!"


    Inside the conference room, everyone was already waiting for her and Vince.


    "Let us wait for the team from the design department."


    While Hailee spoke in front of everyone, Vince pulled the chair for her to take a seat. Hailee smiled and thanked him.


    "Thank you, Mr. Shen."


    It''s one thing Vincent admired about his wife. Hailee knew what mood she must use in front of her employees during work hours.


    They were facing a crisis, and she yed very well as the team leader.


    "So, how is it going? Are we ready to amodate all the guests on my wedding day?" Hailee began.


    "We need at least experienced or even inexperienced service crew in the hotel. We should fill the kitchen with hundreds of chefs," Chester reported.


    Hailee contemted. It is indeed a big problem. "We only have three weeks to prepare the service crew for their assignments."


    Thest time she checked the applicants. Only a few are best to hire immediately, as she made a lot of changes.


    "I guess I need a backup," she told them, and everyone agreed with the solution she came up with.

 Chapter 353 - The Best Man (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 353 - The Best Man (Two)</h4>


    Hailee pulled out her phone and dialed someone''s contact that became dear to her heart.


    "Hello, Mrs. Gomez? Yes, it is me, ma''am. Hailee Davies."


    From the other line, Mrs. Gomez is still in a trance of surprise. She was currently giving a lecture to her morning ss when her phone on the table rang, and she saw the name of the person she never expected to remember calling her.


    "Keep it down, everyone!" Mrs. Gomez settled down with her students as they were making a lot of noise after they learned that the person calling her was none other done, Hailee Davies.


    After Hailee saved them from being embarrassed by the Alumni during the ss Reunion, she became her favorite student. But she never thought that this girl was actually a super-rich girl that everyone admires.


    For a short time, she is proud that Hailee Davies has be one of her students.


    There are countless best schools in the world if Hailee Davies wanted to take up Hotel and Restaurant Management, the reason she wondered why Hailee Davies remembered to phone her.


    "Hello, Miss Davies! I mean, soon Mrs. Shen¡­ What can I do for you?"


    Hailee''s heart danced after the instructor addressed her as Mrs. Shen, as it was so pleasant in her ears.


    Meanwhile, Vince was a little surprised when the person Hailee meant to ask for help to back them up was the old teacher from his college Alma Mater.


    He met Hailee''s gaze, and it perplexed him after Hailee smiled gleefully. He tried to guess what brightened her face, and he concluded it must be something Mrs. Gomez had said to her.


    ''I wonder what it is¡­.'' Vince mused inwardly, very curious and wanted to gossip. Later, he ns to ask Hailee.


    Hailee spoke on her phone; she could hear the voices of the lively students screaming her name and saying,


    "Congrattions, Mrs. Shen!"


    "Please invite us to your wedding!"


    "I love you, Mrs. Shen!"


    "Keep quiet! I can''t hear anything, Mrs. Hailee Davies was saying!"


    From the other line, Hailee tried not to giggle at how lively the students were. Suddenly, she missed going to N University and attending Mrs. Gomez''s sses and even Professor Carl Johnson''s ss. And to think of that, she was still overwhelmed that Carl was once a Mafia lord.


    "Mrs. Gomez, I''m sorry if I interrupted your lecture," she told the instructor, who was still busy calming down her students.


    "You don''t need to apologize, Mrs. Shen. Wait, I will go out first." Mrs. Gomez got out of the ssroom, walked toward the railings, and resumed talking to Hailee. "Mrs. Shen, I am actually honored that you remembered me. Anything I can do for you?"


    Even though the instructor would not see her smile, Hailee disyed her delight.


    "Of course, ma''am. I will never forget you! Mrs. Gomez, in fact, I am thinking about hiring you for a summer job. I mean, I know you are also giving summer sses, and don''t take a break. But I am keen to get your time every summer to train my service crew."


    Mrs. Gomez wondered if her ear had defection. Maybe she needs to visit her EENT doctor to check her ears.


    "Mrs. Shen, can you repeat what you said? I''m sorry. I think I have hearing problems now."


    Hailee didn''t suppress her giggles anymore after she heard the outstanding teacher saying that. "Ma''am, you heard it correctly. Could you work for me every summer? I would love to take you full-time to train my hired service crew. But P Country needs you more to teach those wonderful students. Well, teach them what you know and guide them never to stop learning. And then, send your best students to work for me!"


    "Oh!" At that moment, Mrs. Gomez understood; she couldn''t hold her tears anymore. ''This girl is truly an angel,'' she thought.


    She always hears from the students how wonderful a person Hailee Davies was. Although she already knew this and believed them. Today, her admiration for Hailee has increased.


    "Thank you, Mrs. Shen. How wonderful of you to think of us. I witnessed and handled many students who work hard ande to the university with a goal to reach their dream, no matter how difficult their situation is. However, the opportunity seemed elusive for many. But with your offer, I would love to teach my future students even if it''s free!"


    "Thank you, ma''am. I know you are also teaching them with all of your heart, and you deserve to be rewarded, actually. I know Vincent agreed with me," said Hailee, winking at Vince. She knew Vince would understand her already.


    Honestly, it touched her that the instructor was willing to do freebor to teach the young generation. It is rare to see dedicated educators genuinely helping the students have a sessful career in the future.


    "Ah, thank you, Mrs. Shen. By the way, this is not the only thing you wanted to speak with me about, right?"


    "Yes, ma''am. Actually, Mrs. Gomez... I want to ask for your help. I need a thousand service crew during my wedding day to amodate the guests in the hotel."


    "Oh, my god! What should I do then? Do you want me to go there to assist a guest? But I am old already, and it''s not pleasing in the eyes of the guests."


    Hailee thinks the instructor was too cute, worrying like that. "Don''t worry, ma''am. I was hoping you could introduce me to the best students you have had in the past. I think you still remember them, Mr. Kyle? Can you locate them and send them to me? I mean, if you are not busy, can you handle the hiring procedure? I think they have permanent jobs now, but I really need a thousand well-trained service crew and chefs badly! But they have nothing to worry about, ma''am! All of them will be a priority to have a permanent job in my city once we open to the world."


    Mrs. Gomez had rendered speechless, and so Hailee exined further.


    She needs hundreds of hotel crew, chefs, managers, housekeeping, waitresses, waiters, including baristas and bartenders! And she should send them within one week! The sooner, the better!


    Mrs. Gomez was still in shock after the call. It feels like a dream for her¡ªthat she and Hailee just did some business.


    The instructor snapped at herself toe back to her senses. Mrs. Gomez dismissed her ss. She needs to go through the records for her best students!


    *


    "Our problem is solved!" Hailee announced after her long talk with Mrs. Gomez. "We don''t have to worry now. We already have five hundred waiting applicants that passed in our recent hiring, and most of them are just from Australia and neighboring countries. Also, P Country has a lot of best workers!"


    Hailee looked at Vince when she mentioned the country he came from. She smiled at him and continued. "Now, we have to work with an agency to go through the contract and provide their visa. Mr. Shen can help us speed up things as he is more familiar with how P Country manages their hiring process."


    Hailee gives the floor to Vincent to share his knowledge. "Mrs. Gomez needs Lloyd to go through with the contract signing and process their documents."


    "I''m on it! Khan Agency is the best agency when ites to human resources for other countries. Domestically, I have been coborating with Lloyd''s agency when I need service crews in our malls, condos, and restaurants."


    "Great! I have the best man here!"


    Hailee was overwhelmed by everything that was happening at the moment, and she missed seeing her executives'' reactions to what she said. The only employees eager to p their hands were the secretaries who also attended the conference meeting.


    Pitt, who was only observing silently, didn''t hide the wide grin on his face. He saw how the men twitched their mouths when Hailee praised another man.


    ''It looks like we really need that bachelor party for the knights to bond with Vincent and know him well.'' Pitt mused these men have to ept that the princess finally chose the best man she can grow old with.


    After Hailee discussed their problem with the service crew, she turned her attention to the Interior Designing Department.


    Tiffany Lynch, director of Davies'' Real Estate Interior Designing Department, gives her report regarding the updates of what work they have finished so far.


    "Miss Hailee, we need a lot of manpower to move heavy things. It will be easier for us to finish sooner."


    "Hmm¡­ Any suggestions?" Hailee swept her gaze to the table. Everyone fell in deep thought to find a solution but then raised his hand to give his ideas.


    "Mr. Shen?"


    "I can lend my people, and my engineers can help too. In fact, many of them are working part-time jobs while taking up their courses. They were once baristas, bartenders, waiters aside from working in construction sites."


    This time, Hailee didn''t hide her affection toward Vincent, and she just suppressed herself not to talk to Vincent coquettishly in front of her knights and employees.


    "Thank you, hubby. You are really the best!"


    "Of course. It was our wedding, and I have to do something about it, and I can do the work too."


    Hailee controls herself not to throw her body at Vince and kiss him. ''Gosh! It was actually dangerous that we were working together!''


    Meanwhile, there were a bunch of men drinking vinegar at the moment, seeing this public disy of affection.


    Hailee''s knights rolled their eyes, witnessing this couple being lovey-dovey in front of them. The only man who was about to burst outughing was Pitt.


    He nced to his side and stared at Bryan, who only remained silent the entire time.


    ''Poor guy..'' Pitt mumbled.

 Chapter 354 - The Man She Trust

    <h4>Chapter 354 - The Man She Trust</h4>


    Bryan turned his head toward Pitt and caught the guy smiling at him mockingly. Pitt was once very close to him. But after the scandal and breakup he had with Hailee, Pitt has hated him since then.


    His anger shakes the hell, the reason he took every opportunity he could take revenge on him. Lately, Pitt is constantly pping him on the face by showing that the princess is much happier now with Vincent than with him in the past, who was Hailee''s favorite person in the world once.


    He is pissed because he could not be annoyed at Pitt as he sees too. The smile and sparks in Hailee''s eyes are evidence she is happy with Vincent.


    Bryan didn''t leave his gaze at Hailee, and he could feel Vincent shing sharp res at him, but he just ignored him. Even though Hailee will be his wife soon, Bryan won''t hold himself to show that he still cares for Hailee.


    May he not be Hailee''s best friend anymore, who was the best man before, and the most trusted guy to her, but he still shares the same dream. He wanted toplete Dream City and watch its progress.


    Vincent cannot stop him. But he will stand a distance because Hailee''s happiness is the most important thing in the world right now.


    Bryan could still feel those sharp stares in his direction. He pulled out his phone and typed a quick message, and pressed the send button. He met Vincent''s eye, whoter lowered his gaze to read the text message.


    Vincent frowned after he read the text.


    It was from Bryan saying, "I''m looking and listening to my boss''s discussion. You don''t need to make the room hard to breathe for both of us, boss'' husband."


    Vincent raises one brow upward while typing a reply. "I''m just reminding you she is mine now."


    After sending the message, Vincent put the gadget back into his coat pocket and focused on Hailee.


    Meanwhile, Bryan checks his phone when a message arrives. He already guessed that it was from Vincent, and he wanted to dig a pit after he read the reply. The guy knew how to annoy him and added salt to his wounds.


    Bryan hurls a deep sigh inwardly. Even though he would fret, it''s useless because Vincent is right. Hailee now belongs to someone else as he wasted the opportunity he had back then.


    "Hey!"


    Bryan looks at Pitt''s hand, tapping his shoulder. He lifted his gaze and snapped at Pitt, "What?"


    "Would you attend Eva''s funeral?"


    Bryan was stunned for a moment. He heard about Eva''s death, and Ruth called him to ask about it, but he couldn''t decide if it was smart if he showed up in Metro City.


    Although he and Eva were in a rtionship, it''s not really stable, and it''s more like an open rtionship. They can be together, or they can be together with someone else. But after hepleted his course in the US and focused on helping Hailee build Dream City, hepletely cut whatever he and Eva had.


    Bryan looked at Pitt after he weighed things. He shook his head and asked Pitt, "Do you think it would help to douse the issue? Or will it create a new one?"


    "Yeah. The world wanted to reveal Eva''s boyfriend, and it was only you who she had a steady rtionship with, right?"


    "We are on and off, yes. I never thought of marrying her, but I am her longest boyfriend indeed." Bryan sat straight in his seat and fixed his eyes on Hailee. "I will visit Eva''s grave after the princess'' wedding if I visit now, and it will add to the fire, and I don''t want to stress her further."


    It already stressed Hailee how to finish her wedding preparation. They have to amodate thousands of very important guests, so he doesn''t want to add more problems for Hailee.


    "Well, you are right." Pitt agreed to Bryan, and he couldn''t deny that he was correct. It is not the best time. And even though Bryan doesn''t love Eva, they were together before. "Do you know who killed her?"


    Bryan nodded. "It is confirmed, right? Liam, who gave the order?"


    "Yes. The syndicate he joined is a giant organization, and master Shun is still having difficulties taking them down in an instant. But now that Liam Huo is in prison, these people will have a harder time continuing to operate in Asia."


    "But they were still there," Bryan remarked.


    "Yeah." Pitt was about to say another word to Bryan, but Leo called out to him.


    "Hey¡­ Hailee is asking you." Leo was seated near them and so he could hear their conversation. Even so, his other ear was listening to Hailee while eavesdropping on these two men here.


    "What?" Pitt suddenly was sweating. He didn''t pay attention anymore but focused on gossiping with Bryan like they used to do in the old days. "I''m sorry, princess. Bryan and I are nning for Vincent''s bachelor party. Can you repeat your question?"


    Instantly, Bryan shot a dagger look at Pitt for dragging him to his craziness. It was Pitt who began gossiping at him, and now this guy is embarrassing him.


    On the other hand, Hailee only raised an eyebrow and retorted, "There is no bachelor party."


    "Hah?"


    Pitt was dumbfounded, and Hailee wanted to burst outughing to take him off-guard with her announcement. She already noticed that Pitt and Bryan were busy gossipings.


    Although she could not hear them, they were not paying attention, so Hailee wanted to y further.


    "There was only a joint party for boys and girls."


    "I see." Pitt scratches his head., heughed nervously. "Okay."


    "Yeah. I don''t want to see the groomsmen in my wedding were full of bruises, swollen lips, and dark circles caused by Vincent''s punches."


    "Oh¡­" the room filled with men''s challenging tones while the girlsughed.


    Bryan couldn''t take his eyes away from Hailee. She is really a different person, and she deliberately boasts how she believes in and trusts her soon-to-be husband.


    The way she said those words. She was very confident that Vincent was a verypetitive man. Somehow, it caused pain in his heart, as he was still jealous.


    There is no other man he wishes she would believe in, but him only.. However, he would never be that man anymore, and he must ept the truth.

 Chapter 355 - Impregnate Each Year

    <h4>Chapter 355 - Impregnate Each Year</h4>


    "Don''t forget, Pitt. You are one of the groomsmen." Hailee pulled up the corner of her lips into a smirk.


    ''Dammit, this spoiled princess!'' Pitt couldn''t believe that this girl was only ridiculing him now!


    He was sulking, but he knew that he could not feel showed it apparently, as this girl''s smile was what he wanted to see by the end of the day.


    Especially when he looked at that baby bump, it melted his heart. He will be honest that he felt like an uncle who is excited to meet the little ones.


    "Alright. I understand." He didn''t hide his disappointment.


    Observing Pitt, Hailee hid the amusement in her eyes. Actually, she wanted to have a bachelorette party, so she told Gigi and Kelly that they would have a private party in the evening, butter that night, they would join the boys. She just wanted to make fun of Pitt as he was not listening earlier.


    "Alright! All assistants and secretaries can leave now and have a lunch break."


    "Thank you, President Davies!"


    They thanked Hailee and left the room. Now that only Vincent and her knights remain in that room, Hailee resumes the meeting.


    "Now, let''s get back to what we''re talking about. Pitt, how is it going with our security?"


    Pitt, who recovered now, was confidently exining the preparation he and James had already discussed.


    "All the knights will be here to watch the premise. Also, Master Shun will send his best agents. The members from Section 15, Section 13, and Section 14 are also present in your wedding." Pitt reported.


    "I see. Many of these members'' families are invited to my wedding."


    "Of course. They were from high society who were famous artists. Singers, performers, international models?" Pitt can mention all the careers, but the most famous ones are those working in the entertainment industry.


    "I''m sure Master Shun already briefed them. I heard they were summoned to Maind City." Pitt added. "It is necessary as all the Mafia Lords will attend your wedding, princess."


    "Hmm¡­ I think it was the Isagawa couple, sister Riley and brother Daichi, who would brief them. That''s good. Shun indeed told me he is sending help. If every member of the Alliance would be there, we need more forces to ensure the safeguard of everyone, especially those from Royal families."


    "That''s right, princess. And don''t worry. Uncle Jacob ordered Christian to prepare his men here in Australia, and they will watch all the guests'' movements the moment they set foot in Australia."


    "Right. Many of the guests woulde ahead, and they would note straight to Dream City, but they could wander around Australia. We need all eyes."


    Hailee travels her eyes to every facet of her executives inside that room.


    "Alright! Everything is almost settled. Let''s have another meeting for updates. Our meeting adjourned."


    The men nodded at Hailee and left in silence. Now that she has someone by her side, they cannot hang out with her anymore like before, especially when that man on her side is disying a face that he is about to devour Hailee right there.


    They are men too, so it''s easy for them to determine that Vincent''s hormones are exploding in the entire room. His intent gaze at the princess is full of attention but also lust.


    But honestly, the couple is not concealing the desires they have for each other. And this is something they have to learn by reading the atmosphere and backing off from the princess'' affair.


    Now that they were alone in that huge conference room. Hailee rose from her chair, walked toward Vince, and then sat on hisp.


    "Mr. Shen, you didn''t control yourself." She ced her arms around his neck, brushing her lips to his.


    "Hmm..." Vince lifts his right hand to hold Hailee''s nape, pulls her closer to deepen the kiss. "I still couldn''t believe that I am marrying Hailee Hillson," he whispered.


    "Is that so?"


    "Yup," Vince imed her lips one more time and kissed her once again. Then, he parted from Hailee to say, "You were so cool back then. I couldn''t stop ying a scene in my head."


    Hailee gaped at Vince with awe. She had this feeling that this man was thinking of naughty stuff while she was conducting a meeting.


    "Hmm¡­ Let me hear it out."


    "I think you were smockin'' hot in an all-ck suit with a ck hot with that red lipstick holding a whip."


    Hailee shrunk her pupils. This guy is talking about BDSM.


    "Do you want me to tie you down in the bed and whip your ass?"


    Vincent opened his mouth, but no words came out. It never crosses his mind with this kind of stuff as forey. However, he and Hailee do minor role-ying but not in sexual satisfaction.


    However¡­.


    "Maybe I just had a great attraction to a strong woman." Vincent used this as an alibi, but somehow, deep inside him, he doubts himself because a glint of excitement explodes inside his body that he hasn''t explored yet. After all, he didn''t have any rtionship in the past, and he had no interest because he didn''t find anyone as a suitable partner.


    On the other hand, Hailee studied Vince''s expression on his face. Honestly, everything is new to her. She is afraid at first, but she besfortable fast because it is Vince. But maybe there is no wrong to explore things as a couple.


    "Hubby, you are probably attracted to a strong-willed woman because you lived with one almost in your entire life."


    "Are you referring to mom?"


    Nodding, Hailee replied, "Uh-huh."


    "Hmm¡­ But it must be something. While you are speaking right there with this professional voice andmanding tone, it somewhat made me proud that this woman right here is mine."


    "Hubby, I almost lost control earlier. I guess this is something we have to work on. We were working side by side from here on which our attraction to each other was strong. We have to set boundaries when we are at the office."


    With what Hailee had said, Vince couldn''t hide those silly smiles on his face.


    "Are you sure you can control yourself, huh?" Vince is yfully rubbing Hailee''s back.


    "I couldn''t when I''m pregnant." She coquettishly whispered to Vince, whoughs out loud afterward.


    "Then¡­ I should impregnate you each year."


    "Not!" Hailee screams when she is suddenly floating in the air. Vince lifted her, and now she was ced on top of the table. She reminded him, "Hubby, it has a hidden security camera in here."


    A drum of ice poured down on him. ''Dammit! I almost forgot about that!''

 Chapter 356 - Second Wedding

    <h4>Chapter 356 - Second Wedding</h4>


    Office of the President


    Seated behind her desk, Hailee signs several documents that need her attention when her office door pushes open.


    "Hey, boss..." Geoffrey knocks while peeping at the door. His eyes swept around the room and a sigh of relief escaped his mouth silently after Hailee was alone.


    "What are you doing?" Hailee asked the guy with one eyebrow raised upward when Geoffrey remained outside and waiting for her permission to enter the office.


    Hailee is not used to this kind of formality from her knights, so that she couldn''t help frown.


    "Checking out if you are not busy?" Geoffrey answered, wearing the usual smile on his face when he was alone with Hailee.


    Now that Hailee is soon to be the Chairwoman of Davies Corporation, he has to address her more formally.


    And besides, she is someone''s wife soon. There will be a boundary to their friendship, unlike before, whom he could date her. Although Hailee thinks it''s just a coffee or two friends going out, it''s a date for him, and yes, he pitied himself.


    So he must expect less from that little girl, who constantly rang his phone because from now on, it was another man who would be the first person she''d call on.


    "Jeez¡­" Hailee rolled her eyes, listening to Geoffrey''s joke. She gestured her hand and said, "Please,e in, CEO Wilson."


    Geoffrey''s crispughs echoed in her office after addressing him with formality, which they have to be used to already starting soon, a more challenging work they have to face.


    Geoffrey smiled and took a seat in front of Hailee''s office table. "I just have something to report to you," he began.


    "Okay. Go ahead."


    "Well¡­ This morning, the other firms approached me. They offered help after they heard we needed manpower to finish furnishing the two hotels within less than two weeks. Honestly, Mr. Shen''s action inspired everyone after stopping their construction work to help the Interior Designing team. And so, they are ready to lend a hand as well!"


    "Is that true?" Hailee watched Geoffrey nod his head.


    She was delighted to ept all the help she could get so that her first guest enjoyed their stay in Dream City. Besides, these guests are her potential investors and future business partners once her city opens to the world.


    "Please, thank them for me." Hailee could actually have this request, but she is keener to continue the construction rather than make her wedding perfect.


    When Vince lent his employees, a weight lifted from her shoulders. It worries her that everything will not be ready until her wedding day, and so the more workers, the better.


    Geoffrey replied, "I will. Everyone is sending their congrattions on your wedding and wishing you all the happiness in the world."


    Hailee smiled upon hearing this. She was touched by how willing they were to help her out. "Thank you, Geoffrey."


    "No problem! You know that all of us would lend you a hand whenever you needed us." ''I''m always here every time you need me.'' Geoffrey added, but it''s only inside his head. He would not dare say I, but he used us instead of being obvious of his personal intention. He knew to himself that it would take a long time before he could forget his feelings for Hailee.


    On the other hand, Hailee could determine now that Geoffrey has a feeling for her.


    Hailee softens her gaze. Geoffrey is such a man. Whoever married him would be one of the luckiest girls in the world. And she prayed he would meet the one for him.


    "Alright! I''ll go back to my office to inform the construction firms they can send their workers to the hotels tomorrow morning."


    "Okay. I will phone Tiffany and share the good news, so then she can start figuring out where to assign them."


    "Yeah. That''s great!" Geoffrey smiled at Hailee, nodding his head, then stood up from the seat.


    Hailee stared at Geoffrey''s receding back, then shifted her gaze to the powder room door.


    Out of the blue, Vincent appeared from the door after Geoffrey left her office.


    A while back, Vincent went to the restroom to leak. When he was about to get out, he heard Hailee speak to someone at the door. He thought she was talking to him, but then he heard Geoffrey''s voice, and he didn''t like the guy''s flirtyugh at his wife.


    But he remained in the restroom and eavesdropped, pressing his ear to the door.


    Listening to the conversation proves to him that Hailee''s knights are only very casual toward her if he isn''t around. And even though Hailee fell in love with him; however, he could not suppress his jealousy because they were all together longer than him.


    But he promised himself that he would act nicely as he would work with everyone soon, until theirst breaths.


    The Wilson family is one of the closest friends and business partners the Davies had. For the sake of Hailee, he will try to have a good rtionship with every knight she had, even those he knew that thought of her romantically.


    "Hey, hubby." Hailee ced her elbow and rested her chin on her palm. She parted her lips into a smile and mouthed, "You were eavesdropping, right?"


    Vince chuckled and made a gradual step toward Hailee. He ced his right palm into the table and left palm into Hailee''s chair.


    "Yes, I am, boss¡­." He didn''t deny it.


    "Silly¡­" Hailee lifted her chin to reach Vince''s lips, ced a light kiss, then bit his bottom lip.


    "Don''t look at me hungrily." Vince sighs helplessly. Hailee is seducing him again.


    She reached for his tie and yed on it. "We haven''t done it for two days now."


    ''It was because I let you have a rest!''


    Vince gathered all his sanity not to lose control. Since they came back, all Hailee has done its work, which she still had morning sickness. Even though it''s not that bad anymore; however, it will never lessen his worries, so he didn''t touch her for two nights now.


    But her hormones are crying out loud. She became a great temptress.


    "Boss, I need to begin my presentation to you." At thest minute, he wanted to distract Hailee, most especially himself, and otherwise, he would grab this opportunity to give in and allow her to take advantage of him.


    Hailee didn''t listen, and Vince cheerily sighed after she slowly unbuttons his shirt, looking at him seductively.


    Later on, Hailee runs her fingers into his broad chest, then ims his lips with hers.


    What he could only do every time was to surrender happily and satisfy this woman. And if it happens, she is not pregnant; he would not hold back and make love with her crazily.


    "Wifey, are you hungry?" Vince asked Hailee while helping her wash in the powder room.


    Hailee didn''t reply, but a yful smile appeared on her lips when she put different meanings in his words.


    "Wifey¡­" Vince moaned. He leaned over and nibbled her neck. This is her punishment for being such a temptress.


    "Hmm¡­ Are you showing off to all of my employees who are single men and singledies?"


    With a hoarse voice, Vince whispered to her ear, "Should I admit it''s my fault? Their boss is such a seductress, and she actually has to be punished more than this."


    "Really? I''m thrilled... Didn''t you enjoy the punishment as well?"


    Vince growled when Hailee wrapped his semi-hard shaft with her palm.


    "It needs attention," she added, then licked his lips.


    Vince could only sigh helplessly between their kisses. He made a promise yesterday, which he regrets now. If Hailee gets pregnant each year, he will be the one who will suffer most as he could not make love with her as wild as before, and he will be concerned about her carrying more of his babies.


    Besides, it is not healthy that Hailee''s body would not have enough rest from pregnancy.


    *


    One week has passed, and the wedding is just two weeks away; Hailee cannot sit around as the date gets closer.


    She just realized her wedding was not the same as all weddings she attended before, except Cassandra and Nikki, whoe from affluent families.


    The Chen and Young family are known throughout Korea, while Nikki''s ancestors are sessful merchants in China.


    They are not different from Vince, who is from the line of the Imperial family but living a low profile of life ever since...


    However, the situation is the opposite because the entire world knew she was wealthier than Vince.


    Cassandra and Nikki got married to the wealthiest men in the world. Their wedding also flooded with important people from every part of the world, the reason Hailee felt the need to watch the wedding preparation even though she had a dozen organizers.


    It has to ensure they can amodate all the guests, then make sure that there is no problem at her wedding reception and the food, which is very important!


    A hundred chefs prepare everything from appetizers, main course to dessert for thousands of guests.


    She was thankful. With the help from Mrs. Gomez and Hazel''s family''spany managed by Lloyd, they immediately gathered the needed chefs, baristas, bartenders, wait for service, and housekeepers that total of a thousand workers is ready to fly to Australia.


    And, of course, her entourage!


    The bridesmaids'' gowns and groomsmen''s wedding suits are all finished, made by famous couture houses.


    Her bridal car is also ready, and her groom is getting handsome every day while she is getting rounder!


    "What''s with the face?" Gigi noticed after seeing Hailee''s brows furrowed since they join her at the rooftop.


    Hailee called the girls to have an afternoon tea at the penthouse of the Davies Group building. This morning, she woke up with a heavy heart.


    "I am gaining more weighttely!" Hailee began her rants, shedding fresh tears.


    Kelly, who was sipping her tea, swallowed the hot liquid after Hailee''s burst out. She made constant coughs clearing her throat to speak.


    "Please, your baby bump is growing fast. Normally, you gain weight because there are three healthy babies inside!"


    Hailee tried to smile and console herself. But she could not stop her tears as she had mood swings at the moment.


    "But I want to look sexy and beautiful in my wedding dress," She sniffles.


    Janise handed her a Kleenex box and tried to helpfort, Hailee. "Why are you worried? Can''t you and Vince get married again? I can make you another dress! A deep V-neckline, backless and tube style! I will design it with a long slit from your hips line!"


    After Janise said that, Hailee''s mood finally brightened as an idea popped up in her head.


    "That''s right! Vince and I can get married again and this time at Hiryuu Ind!"


    And in that way, she and Vince can bind their love through eternity!

 Chapter 357 - Breathe Life

    <h4>Chapter 357 - Breathe Life</h4>


    "Hiryuu Ind is paradise!" Jessa shrieks after she hears the name of this famous ind. "My husband brought me there on our second honeymoon, and it was so wonderful! The water was crystal clear, and the people were nice! And everywhere is just romantic!"


    "I want Alex to bring me there too on our honeymoon!" Kelly had been there with Hailee many times with her yacht, but it would be different if she went there with only Alex as honeymooners.


    "You cannot wait to get married to my cousin, huh?" Hailee teased Kelly, who blushed in an instant.


    Kelly replied, "There will be no difference, right? Besides, my family has arranged for me to marry a nobleman, which I am so tired of already making excuses and exining to my father that no one I like to these men they chose, and I can''t tell him that at least I want someone I love."


    "And Alex is the one that is destined for you," Gigi chimed in.


    From a person who curses the word, Love and Marriage... Now, she is the woman who believes in second chances. Plus, Tom is her first love because she never loves Galvin.


    He is the nightmare she is utterly forgotten now because the only thing Tom showed her since they made their rtionship official is how wonderful her life and being in love is a beautiful feeling.


    Kelly hugged Gigi and nted a kiss on her cheek. "These are the words from a woman who is very happy now after the second chance of life offers her. I''ll definitely believe it."


    "Don''t make me cry. I am pregnant now, and I am way more emotional than I have been before." Gigi had just said that, and now her eyes flooded with tears.


    Janise and Jessa also shed tears. These sessful women who have been rich since birth actually don''t have a perfect life.


    They were sleeping in a bed made of gold, but the truth is, they were only hiding the sadness and ipleteness of their life.


    "Hail, isn''t the hotel and resorts is owned by your cousin? And the forest was made by his inws?" asked Janise, as she was also daydreaming that Hansen would bring her there soon. She ns to take a one-week vacation before working on her new collection after Hailee''s wedding.


    "Yes. It was a beautiful ind, and Shun wanted to protect it," Hailee replied.


    "Actually, Hailee is part owner of Dragon Hotel Sris," Kelly reveals this secret that drops the cousins'' mouths: Jessa and Janise.


    "Oh, my god!" Jessa burst out in surprise. It is not surprising, actually, as Hailee was super-rich, but the thrill of hearing it was there!


    Hailee is making billions while she is sleeping!


    "Gosh, Hail!" Janise has be emotional too. "You are even richer as days pass by! I was the luckiest designer on earth to make your wedding gown."


    "Not just luck, but you are very talented. Janise, you are truly amazing."


    "But dressing up as Hailee Davies? That was a dreame true for me! Did I already tell you that? I was always inspired by her even if I haven''t seen her face!"


    Hailee shook her head, disying a smile that she was amused by how Janise cried being honored to make her a dress. worked


    "You didn''t, yet. But I am also fortunate to have you as my cousin-inw, one of the best designers I''ve met in my life."


    "Oh!" The happiness she felt was overwhelming to bear in her chest. Janise gets up from the sofa and moves to Hailee''s side to hug her. "Don''t tter me so much! I don''t want my head to grow bigger!"


    "I know you wouldn''t. You will always be a down-to-earth person." Hailee is sure to say this as Janise is one of the nicest people she meets in P Country, and she never judges her when the news appears that she is Vince''s mistress.


    "Thank you, Hail. Everything you do actually inspires me, and I have already followed all the news about you. The foundation you do, and how you started your ownpany, and you actually have more businesses!"


    "Actually, everything I did could not help everyone who I wanted to reach out to. But maybe the start makes a difference in this world, and there is someone who follows and does little deeds. This world does not need one person to solve all the problems but people who will do a little deed to make more difference on this."


    Jessa made sure she recorded Hailee''s beautiful words. She is absolutely right. This small deed also changed her life, and the person she could remember was Fraine''s family. They are poor, but Fraine''s parents are wonderful people.


    She misses her best friend.


    Jessa closed her eyes and focused on filming this conversation. She already had what caption she would write once she posted this video.


    "We don''t need one person to help everyone, but inspire the right people. Because someone from these people will do the same deed to others, who will be inspired as well and do the same deed."


    Indeed, this world will make some changes and be a better ce for others to live in.


    It ddens Jessa that she meets these amazing women.


    That entire afternoon, the girls continue chatting until the men are off to work. There will be a barbecue dinner at the apartment rooftop, but Hailee ditched the wonderful meal to avoid having meat often.


    "Hubby, let''s go to the northern-east district."


    "Okay, Wifey." Vince turned the engine and drove the car toward the hill where they would build their castle.


    Seated at Maserati''s metallic red hood, Vincent wrapped Hailee inside his arms as they watched the sunset. Both are thankful to breathe life like this, as the beautiful scenery left them speechless.


    After the sun disappeared from their sight, the whole ce filled with city lights from polemps and buildings standing proudly from different parts of the city.


    "I never thought that life could be even as beautiful as this." Hailee looks up to meet Vince''s gaze, and it is tender and could melt her heart. "I never think that there is someone who can make me even happier."


    Vincent ced a kiss on her forehead. Then, he uttered lovingly, "I thought it would just be a dream that one dayes I could hold you like this. Every day I wake up next to you, it still feels like I am dreaming."


    Hailee didn''t notice tears started falling down her cheeks. Vince lifted his arms and dried her eyes using the thumb of his fingers.


    "I love you, Mrs.. Shen," Vincent whispered before he covered Hailee''s mouth; he didn''t give her a chance to answer.

 Chapter 358 - The One I Am In Love With

    <h4>Chapter 358 - The One I Am In Love With</h4>


    The following two days. Hailee and Vincent visited the two hotels to do an inspection. The former was very pleased as the work finished earlier than was expected. It needs more service crews to fill in every department and area ording to their tasks.


    Special task forces from the Australian Defence Force are already scattered throughout the city. All the gates are guarded heavily, and every vehicle has to follow security protocol for the time being.


    Hailee is not at ease since her wedding would be attended by important personnel, the royal families in every part of the world, including countries'' leaders.


    "Hubby, it reminds me of when we visited Metro City Fish Market. Everyone wants you to run for president, and if that happens, I should be the firstdy."


    Vincent chuckled as he approached Hailee, standing near the floor-ceiling window. In his hand is fresh apple juice.


    At the moment, they were at the presidential suite on the top floor of Meadow Hotel, watching the city''s vastness from this height.


    "I never thought of entering politics ever. I am keen on doing some infrastructure works throughout the country."


    "And with your attitude, Mr. Shen, you got my eyes on you."


    Vincent shook his head when Hailee gave him an alluring stare. He knew what the meaning was when she behaved seductively.


    It was a hint that she was in the mood, and Hailee could easily entice him. He is always ready to please this queen.


    "Mr. Shen, remember, you are the emperor of this city and in my heart..."


    Hailee initiated the kiss, where he responded with the same eagerness. They make love under the dim light of the New Moon.


    ***


    Vincent is rubbing her lower back after their sweet lovemaking. He tried his best not to overdo as usual, but both lost control when about the climax.


    "Hubby, I am so happy we were able to get married during the Lunar eclipse. It was a full moon and the same day as your birthday."


    "Is this the reason you choose my birthday?"


    Hailee didn''t reply to Vince, but she sat up and rode him. "Yes. It was significant."


    "If only your birthday were close, I would rather choose yours."


    "But yours is just perfect. Mom Hilda approved it because it was a full moon, and the numbers followed the Chinese chart."


    "Well¡­" Vince sat up and rested his forehead on Hailee. He closed his eyes and embraced her tight to warm her body. "I don''t mind what day we got married, and all I wanted was to walk you in the aisle, bring you to the altar and tie a knot with you."


    "I want to bind with you through eternity and be born again to be with you in our next life."


    Vince cupped her face and added a statement. "Every next life that we have."


    "Do you believe in soul-binding?" Hailee asked Vince.


    However, Vince creased his forehead, disying some confusion on his handsome face. Hailee could see that he was perplexed by her random question.


    "It was a tribal wedding by a shaman that was specially held at Hiryuu Ind," Hailee exined to Vince.


    "I think Theo mentioned this when I was looking at you crazily three years ago. I met him and his wife. He was the one who inspired me never to give up, that one day, I will find you."


    "You and Theo actually had a wonderful friendship," said Hailee. She was now snuggling at Vincent, lying on the bed for her to befortable.


    "Yes. It started our friendship until I epted work from him, and that was their hotel and casino that Liam bombed and caused the Shang family huge trouble."


    Hailee heaves a long sigh. She felt pity for everyone who was a victim of Liam''s insanity. "Liam can no longer harm anyone."


    "He can no longer bother you," said Vincent with a gentle voice, trying tofort her. Hailee may didn''t show it to him, but the pain that Liam gave to her was still there.


    Vince gets up and leans over on Hailee. He ced both of his arms above Hailee''s head to support his weight while kissing her lovingly.


    His stiff shaft is rubbing her thighs, telling her he is ready for another round.


    "Darling, don''t close your eyes and remain to look at me. I will help you forget all the men that cause you heartbreak. Never leave your sight at me."


    She looked at Vince moving on top of her; Hailee didn''t blink but traveled her eyes to every part of Vince''s body that was visible in her sight.


    Her gaze never left Vince but watched how he allowed her to swallow him whole.


    ''Sh*t!''


    Vince cursed as he could feel Hailee tighten her insides. She was working on it, and now it drove him crazy. He wanted to move uncontrobly on top of her, but it worried him he would harm her.


    "Six more months, and I will punish that ass of yours." Vince is panting close to her ear. His hot breath is panning her cheek.


    "That''s a promise?" Hailee fluttered her eyshes as she pushed the corner of her mouth into a smirk that made Vince lose control and increase his pace.


    "You are such a temptress¡­." Vince is chasing his breath as he is about to explode.


    "Haven''t you said this once to me? All I need is the right partner, and what I can say about it is, it must be the one I am in love with..."


    "Yes!"


    Vince made ast thrust that caused them both to reach their orgasm.


    "I love you, Mr. Shen." Hailee didn''t wait for Vincent to answer but imed his lips and kissed him passionately. "We are even now."


    Putting out her tongue, she reminds Vince of thest time they were on the hill. His loudugh filled the entire presidential suite, then whispered before he sealed the night with a long feverish kiss.


    "You are my life, Mrs.. Hailee Davies Shen¡­."

 Chapter 359 - Dating Younger Girls

    <h4>Chapter 359 - Dating Younger Girls</h4>


    The following morning, Hailee and Vince had breakfast inside their hotel suite. At 10:45, the Oceania Airbus carrying a thousand service crew from P Country finallynded at Dream City International Airport.


    "They''re here, hubby!" Hailee shouted at Vince, who went to the bedroom to get their coat. Hailee is only wearing a halter dress, and she needs something to put on her shoulder while meeting the service crew that will help amodate the guests and work at the wedding reception.


    "Great!" Vince came out of the room with Hailee''s coat in his hand and put it around her shoulder.


    "Thank you, hubby. I''ll call Tina to make sure lunch is ready. I''m sure they were hungry now." While Hailee is saying this, she already connects the call to her assistant. "Hello, Tina? Is everything prepared?"


    "Yes, Miss Hailee. We are already setting up the table."


    "Alright. It will take a little longer. They need to pass through security protocol and settle into their apartment first. Can I speak to Nancy?"


    "Okay, Miss. She was checking all the food on the table. I''ll hand her the phone."


    Hailee waited until Tina approached Nancy.


    Nancy is Tim''s girlfriend. After she learned she was a supervisor in Dream City Supermarket, she looked through her credentials, and she graduated from management and had enough work experience.


    So then, she hired Nancy as assistant manager in one of the hotels. Since she was born and grew up in P Country, Nancy has been fluent in thenguage. She and Tim are appointed to help the thousand crew to settle in and oversee the workers.


    Nancy is also given the task of orienting the service crew.


    And as for Tim, he was at the airport to make sure there was no problem with the newly arrived crew. The twenty buses that will take them around are waiting for them in front of the airport.


    After half an hour, a thousand workers finally came out of the airport and were now falling in line to get into the busses. They first headed to their apartments to put their luggage before heading to the hotel to familiarize themselves with it and learn their assigned work.


    Meanwhile, Hailee and Vince were in the lobby of Meadow Hotel, waiting for everyone. It was said that thend where the hotel proudly stands was once a vast meadow field, and Hailee named the hotel after it.


    "Here''s Tim and Pitt," Vince told Hailee when two ck cars parked at the entrance. He stood up on his feet and helped Hailee to stand.


    "Hailee!"


    Three girls are shrieking at the entrance door. Hailee had a broad smile and suddenly became emotional to see these three lively teenagers rushing toward her.


    "Wee to Dream City, girls!"


    "Hail, it''s so nice here!" Hazel shrieked while giving Hailee a big hug.


    Hailee chuckled. The three girls are very enthusiastic. "Thank you. It''s not finished yet, but soon. And it will be your second home by then."


    "But it felt like home already!" Hazel retorted gleefully.


    "Yeah. I can''t wait for its opening, Hail!" Nadia chimed in.


    "I already wanted to work here!" Liza echoed.


    "Soon!" Hailee hugged the three girls. Then, she let them go and met Mrs. Gomez halfway along with Pitt, Tim, and Lloyd.


    Vincent throws a knuckle toward Lloyd, and the two best friends give each other''s back a pat. "Wee, bro."


    "Thanks, bro! Wow! This city is incredible more than those photos posted online!" Lloyd praised.


    "Wait after I finish building the La Merveille Tower." Vince proudly said.


    And Lloyd didn''t doubt that. "Damn. You showed me the model, so I can''t wait to see it for real!"


    "I redesigned it, bro. Soon, you will see the new model, as it is exclusive for now."


    "Sounds more terrific! You are really great, bro!"


    "Thanks, man. I will introduce you to the executives."


    "Sure."


    Vincent led Lloyd toward Mr. Brown and Director Alfie Renaldi, who are both from the HR Department. The other executives were also present, and so Vincent introduced Lloyd to everyone.


    Meanwhile, Hailee approached the instructor and gave her a warm wee hug.


    "Mrs. Gomez, wee to Dream City. Thank you for apanying the crew, ma''am."


    "You''re wee, Mrs. Shen. It''s a small thing." Mrs. Gomez replied to Hailee, and it surprised her when Hailee gave her an embrace. "How sweet of you."


    She never anticipated she could get a hug from someone like Hailee Davies. And because of this, it moves her heart.


    "I''m happy you were here, ma''am." Hailee parted her lips into a warm smile that made everyone drawn to her charm.


    "I was actually shocked that you also wanted me toe." Mrs. Gomez expressed.


    "Of course, ma''am. Like what I''ve mentioned, I really need you to give special training to my crew."


    "I would be so honored," said Mrs. Gomez delightedly.


    "By the way, Mrs. Gomez. I want you to meet Tiffany Lynch. She is the head of the Interior Designing Department. I temporarily assigned her to help manage the hotel since it was not officially open to the public. We are just using it for my wedding. So, she and Nancy Su will approach you regarding the crew."


    "Oh. Nancy Su? Is she here also?" Mrs. Gomez queried after she heard the name that was familiar to her.


    "She grew up in P country, ma''am. So, possibly we are talking about the same person."


    "I hope so... The Su family is my neighbor back in Metro City, and the elder son is my student¡­ Wait a minute." Mrs. Gomez looked around and finally found the man she was looking for, talking to his boss. "Mr. Timothy Cheng."


    "Yes, ma''am?" Tim instantly walked toward the instructor.


    "You pretentious child! You know Nancy Su is here. Why didn''t you tell me?"


    Tim broadened his smile. Mrs. Gomez dropped her mouth open. She stretched her arm and smacked Tim on his arm. "You never change! You are full of silliness! I will tell your mother!"


    Mrs. Gomez pinches Tim on his waist. The guy shrieked. "Ouch, ma''am! Please, don''t embarrass me in front of everyone!"


    Hailee and the other girls giggled while watching Mrs. Gomez scold Tim, who tried to avoid their instructor''s hand.


    "Is that so? How dare you not tell me anything?"


    Tim scratches the back of his head, thenughs. "Mrs. Gomez, I just wanted to surprise you."


    "Mrs. Gomez!"


    A beautiful woman in a business suit is walking in their direction. Mrs. Gomez stopped pinching Tim as she quickly recognized this girl.


    "Nancy! Such a reunion! I was so happy that you were here as well." Mrs. Gomez didn''t hold back from crying. She hugged Nancy tight, patting her back lightly.


    Nancy also returned a warm embrace, delighted to meet the outstanding teacher in her neighborhood back in Metro City. "I''m happy to see you too, Mrs. Gomez."


    Mrs. Gomez parted from Nancy and scanned the girl from head to toe; she praised her. "You were so pretty!"


    "Thank you, ma''am. Almost nothing changes in you, and you still look young and sexy." Nancy returned thepliment, which was true. She could never forget the face of this beautiful teacher.


    Mrs. Gomez smiled, blushing at Nancy''s praise. "I''m already old for a joke, silly girl. You and Tim have been both naughty ever since! I remember¡­"


    "Please, ma''am. Don''t tell them." Tim said jokingly. He quickly interrupted the excellent teacher, who once again pinched him on his waist. "Ouch, Mrs. Gomez! Please, give me a face in front of my girlfriend!"


    Mrs. Gomez widened her eyes and smiled happily upon hearing the good news. "Is that true, Nancy?"


    "Yes, ma''am." Nancy looked at Tim as she replied to the teacher.


    "Are you sure?"


    Nancy creased her forehead, confused why Mrs. Gomez asked her this. Later, she figured out that Mrs. Gomez was only joking.


    "Should my mind change, ma''am?" Nancy and Mrs. Gomezughed when Tim went pale.


    Hailee and the three girls: Hazel, Liza, and Nadia joined them and introduced themselves to Nancy.


    In the corner, Alfie nudged Pitt''s arm. "Who''s that pretty girl in the pink trench coat?"


    Pitt raises an eyebrow. "James is dating her."


    "That guy?" Alfie was stunned, but he doubted this was true. "That nosy guy is actually dating that prettydy right there?"


    "Yeah. So, don''t dare to make a move on her." Pitt is actually serious in warning the guy.


    "What? I just wanted to know her name. She is one of the princess'' new friends. Can''t I at least introduce myself?"


    "You can, but that''s all."


    "Jeez¡­" Alfie rolled his eyes. Then his gaze shifted to the other girl in a red coat. "Hey, Pitt. How about that other girl?"


    Pitt followed Alfie''s gaze, and he shrunk his pupils and said irritatedly. "She has a boyfriend, so stop looking!"


    "Huh? How did you know?" Alfie senses that Pitt''s tone has be rough. ''What is his problem?''


    "I''ve been visiting P Country often, remember? So I know she has a boyfriend."


    ''And why are you too overworking to answer me?'' Alfie started having this hunch, but he didn''t ask Pitt further. He is familiar with this guy''s attitude, and so he stops opening his mouth. But then Chester texted him, and the guy was just a few steps away from him.


    Alfie looks at Chester, pointing at his phone, signaling him to check the message. He lowered his gaze and read the text.


    ''I think Pitt is dating her.''


    Alfie raises a brow at the gossip he learned. He nced at Pitt, who was also looking in his direction. ''But this guy says she has a boyfriend already!''


    Alfie had thought that Pitt was only lying to him, but the truth is, the girl is not his girlfriend yet.


    "What?" Pitt saw Alfie staring at him with a ridiculous smile on his face.


    "Nothing, dude!" Alfie didn''t reveal yet, that he knew Pitt''s secret. He is only finding a perfect time to tease this guy.


    ''Damn! How old are these girls?'' Alfie texted Chester back.


    ''Hazel, the girl in the pink trench coat, is 20 years old while Nadia is 19 years old.''


    "What!?" Alfie was dumbfounded. ''Damn these men! Dating girls too much younger than them!''

 Chapter 360 - One Week Away

    <h4>Chapter 360 - One Week Away</h4>


    ''How did these old men persuade the young girls to date them?''


    Chester chuckled while reading Alfie''s rant on the text. He warned him, ''Be careful they won''t find out what you called them as these old men would love to beat you up real good like you can''t walk for a month.''


    Alfie shudders after realizing he made a mistakementing that way. Indeed, Pitt and James are the ones who would not mind starting a brawl anywhere, anytime, whoever these people, as they most prefer to let their fists speak rather than their mouths.


    ''Alright. I take back what I said. Even so, I can''t believe how they charm these teenagers!?''


    ''Just don''t ask or try to flirt with them if you want to assure your safety.'' Chester replied, casting a nce at Alfie before it shifted toward Pitt.


    Alfie twitched his mouth, mumbling to himself. He thinks it was exaggerating. But it is better to take an arm''s length away from Pitt and James for his own safety.


    ''Hey, dude. How about the other girl? She''s kinda cute too.'' Alfie asked afterward.


    He was waiting for a quick reply from Chester, but the guy didn''t answer him. This time, he had figured out what was going on. Chester is possibly interested in dating that teenager, too!


    Alfie raised his head and met Chester''s meaningful gaze. He knew it! Out of the blue, he suddenly shouted at the guy. "Holy cow! Don''t tell me you are too, a*shole!"


    He realized he made a mistake by yelling like that. Now all eyes are looking at him, including Hailee. Alfieughs nervously while he apologizes.


    "Ah. I''m sorry about that¡­ Princess, I am reading news on the inte, and it shocked me." Alfie reasoned out, trying to hide his embarrassment when the three teenagers were giggling behind Hailee.


    His excuse wasme, and he knew that, as it only made him look ridiculous in front of their guests.


    Now that everyone''s attention is on him, Alfie strode toward Mrs. Gomez, then introduced himself.


    "Pardon for my rudeness, ma''am. Alfie Renaldi, Director of the HR Department. We spoke on the phone, ma''am."


    He stretched his arm and offered his hand to Mrs. Gomez. The instructor promptly shook his hand.


    "Hello, Mr. Renaldi. Regina Gomez, and it''s a pleasure to meet you."


    "The pleasure is mine, Mrs. Gomez. Our princess, I mean, Miss Davies, spoke highly about you, and she really likes your teaching and is impressed by the quality of training your university has taught its students."


    "We want to meet the demand of the hospitality industry nowadays. As time changes, the courses we offer are also adding and improving our teaching. We are more in actual demos and training. Most especially when Madam Hilda, Mr. Shen''s mom, became the Head of the University''s board of Directors. Now Mr. Shen is our Alumni President. He also contributed a lot to the university after he remodeled M Resort and became a ce where all our Hospitality Degree students can perform as an actual service crew to the event and practice their training. And so, I can assure you, Mr. Renaldi, that my senior students are well trained and ready to do actual work in hospitality service."


    "I''m d to hear that, ma''am. Miss Davies has a huge belief in you, and so I have to put all my hopes in as well," said Alfie.


    As Director of the HR Department, he has to oversee the performance of the service staff that will serve the aristocrats and important personalities who attend Hailee''s birthday.


    "By the way, Mrs. Gomez¡­ I want you to meet Manager Brown of the HR Department. Later, he will exin the NDA contracts to all the staff and then sign them. Royals and leaders from every country are going to attend this asion. Celebrities and tycoons in all aspects of the business will be there as well. We have things to consider, and I know you already understood what I mean, ma''am."


    "Of course, Mr. Renaldi." Mrs. Gomez nodded. "I am fully aware, and so I already oriented the staff. I assure you, they all can be trusted."


    "That''s great!" It impressed him they quickly worked on it.


    Lloyd, who listens to the conversation, intercedes to assure Alfie with legal terms the workers must remember.


    "Don''t worry, Mr. Renaldi. I have already added a use regarding the terms of their temporary works here in Australia. Vincent is more likely a king of P Country. We all value his privacy and peaceful life. As his best friend, I must prioritize this and so, all the employees we brought today were well briefed on the privacy of the guests they will attend to."


    "That''s a relief then! We also prioritize the privacy of our princess. If anything is released outside Dream City without permission from the guest, it will be the princess''s responsibility."


    "We shared the same sentiment, Mr. Renaldi. So you have nothing to worry about." Lloyd offered his hand. He and Alfie shook like twopanies closing a mutual understanding deal.


    "Well then! Why don''t we head to the dining hall? We can continue having conversations over a meal. Almost lunchtime, so my three babies want to feed soon." Hailee is a little embarrassed to interrupt the conversation. But she started feeling the hunger.


    "I''m d you brought it up, Hail. We are starving as well!" Hazel rants, followed by Nadia and Liza. "The food your ne offered us is yummy, but I''m still starving!"


    "Yeah!"


    Hailee smiled. ''These girls saved me. They really knew how to turn things up so that it wouldn''t be such an embarrassing situation to my end.'' It was the reason she grew fond of them. They are such reliable little sisters, the ones she dreams of having.


    "Alright! Let''s go!"


    Hailee held Vincent''s hand, and they followed Nancy and Tim to lead them toward the elevator. The dining hall is located on the second floor of this hotel.


    "Wow, Hail, this ce is grand!" Lizamented. She has been to different grand hotels and dining halls, and Hailee''s hotel is one of the best she went to.


    "I agree. The decor is ssic like we are entering a pce hall." Mrs. Gomez echoed.


    "Thank you, Liza, Mrs. Gomez. The truth is, we just rush everything here to amodate all the guests. Everyone can stay anywhere in Australia, but I don''t want everyone to travel that far."


    "Great idea, indeed."


    After everyone got their food, the men shared the table next to the girls, where they chatted non-stop.


    Soon, the staff arrived, they filled the grand hall. The lunch that was served was a buffet. Tim and Nancy assist the team to get tes and tableware. After that they choose tables to upy.


    Hailee was in marvel, watching the lively people having conversations that filled the hotel dining room. It made her happy, as it was her dream to build her own hotels.


    True that they already own many hotels, but her forefathers built it, and she wanted something that she built.


    After lunch, Tim and Nancy began the orientation. They weed the staff and made a brief introduction regarding Dream City.


    Then Nancy began exining all the things they needed to know regarding their jobs here. Mr. Brown came to the stage to discuss the NDA contracts they have to sign, where Leo Grubber exined it as director from the Legal Department.


    In the next hour, all the staff is filling up a form and signing the NDA contracts. They also receive their schedule within the week. They have training and demonstrations as well to familiarize the two hotels.


    In the following days, the crew was busy preparing to ept guests. From setting up the table, cing the tablewares, arranging the flowers, the housekeeping began filling the suite room with all the amenities they would provide to guests.


    "How much did Mr. Shen and Miss Davies spend on their wedding?" asked one staff member while cleaning the presidential rooms.


    "Yeah. It would be hundreds of billions of dors. Look at these perfumes on the dresser. They are all famous perfumes!"


    "I wish I could take a picture and post it on my Instagram!"


    "Rx, girl! We signed an NDA contract! We can''t do that."


    "Sadly, yes. But I want to work here forever! Miss Hailee promised. We can hope for an offer for permanent work here once we do a good job until her wedding is over!"


    "Yeah. So the two of you finish cleaning fast! We have more room to clean!"


    "Fine!" answered the two gossip girls.


    The wedding is just one week away. Vincent''s family is finally back in Dream City. Sheena and Deana rush toward Hailee, who is waiting for them at the airport.


    "Hail, your baby bump is growing bigger now!"


    "Yeah. I don''t look sexy anymore."


    "Silly! Still, you are! In fact, you are even blooming!"


    Yes, she is because she was very excited on her wedding day!


    "Alright! Now that we are here, let''s discuss your bachelorette party!" Sheena announced gleefully.

 Chapter 361 - Possessive In His Own Way

    <h4>Chapter 361 - Possessive In His Own Way</h4>


    Hilda heard Sheena. She couldn''t stop meddling and reminded her youngest daughter. "That is unnecessary, as Hailee is pregnant. I am not using that''s an excuse, but you know she was in a sensitive condition."


    "Mom, don''t worry. We won''t overdo it." Sheena would not let her mom get involved in the nning or else it won''t be that enjoyable!


    "I know how you wille up with crazy ideas which Hailee is¡­"


    "Mom, trust me! We will just have an all-girls bonding time!" Sheena cut her mom''s statement.


    Hilda is trying to insist but her daughter is not giving her a chance. ''This daughter of mine!''


    "Mom, Sheena¡­ Actually, I already told the men that I want a joint party and they agreed. But before that, we girls and the boys will have our own party on that day, then we will have the joint party in the evening." Hailee could not just let them argue with her bachelorette party, which is unnecessary when she is already pregnant.


    "Well, in that case¡­ You can throw a bridal shower during the day, but if you n to do it at night, I won''t allow it."


    Sheena rolled her eyes. "Okay, mom. Don''t worry."


    "Sheena Marie!"


    "Mom, stop dropping my full name." Sheena put out her tongue before she dragged Hailee toward the SUV that was waiting. "Where should we have a meeting where no boys can eavesdrop on us?"


    Sheena is asking Hailee, but her gaze is at her brother.


    Vincent frowned. He is absolutely not interested in having a separate party. He doesn''t care about his bachelor party as he didn''t like to have one, but Carl and Rodney are eager to throw his bachelor party.


    Honestly, he need not say goodbye to his single life when nothing he dreams of is being with the woman who held his heart for many years before this very day that finally, he will tie a knot with her soon.


    "So, where could we discuss it, bro?" Carl put his hand on Vincent''s shoulder. Who, the guy, is throwing a murderous re he only ignores.


    "We all can have the meeting on the rooftop. The girls can upy the tea room and we men can use the bar room. Let''s drink tonight!" Pitt suggested.


    "Alright!" Rodney threw his knuckles at Pitt.


    *


    It''s only been five days, and it''s the wedding day. More close friends, families, and rtives arrived in Dream City that for many, it was more likely a family reunion.


    That morning, Vincent was at Hailee''s office to give the progress of the tower''s finished design. Later, someone rushed inside without knocking.


    "Boss!"


    "Timothy Cheng, have I given you so much favortely?" Vincent is throwing fire breath at his assistant for a reason that he and Hailee are making out after his presentation when this man suddenly enters the office without knocking.


    Tim has no time to think about that. Besides, he is already used to his two bosses disying their affection in front of others.


    "I''m sorry, boss and boss... But I have to report it to you, instantly." He reasons out, ignoring his boss''s fury.


    Vincent, on the other hand, wished to drop his assistant from that floor. He crossed his arm and gave his assistant a sidelong re. "Alright. Now make sure your report is worth saving your life."


    Tim bathes with a cold sweat. He didn''t notice that Pitt and James were behind him watching this interesting scene. Vincent saw Hailee''s knights at the door, but he didn''t care to show his true self.


    It made him realize he didn''t need to go easy on his employees. He must show the same leadership and discipline he showed to them when he managed Shen Group.


    Being the new CEO of Davies Corporation soon is a ce something like a swamp; he could not reach his foot at the bottom so he had to swim in it. He has to prove to the world that he deserves it not because he married the heir, but because he is capable of taking over this giantpany.


    Tim stared at his boss. He knew he was not joking with him. His boss is a gentle and kind man on the inside, but in front of other people, especially hispetitors, he showed a stern attitude.


    "I''m sorry for not knocking, boss! Please, I also wanted to get married and have children."


    "Speak," Vince ordered coldly.


    "Boss, Rubin Lim is here."


    "Why is he here? Do we have a meeting with him?"


    "Hello, Mr. Shen!" Rubin Lim, a representative from Li-Shang Enterprise, appeared behind Pitt and James. The two men give way to him, letting him enter the office. "I''m here to deliver my two masters'' wedding gifts to your wedding.


    Rubin ces the suitcase he is carrying on the floor. He opened it and took out three bottles of wine.


    "Our new products that are scheduled tounch next month. My boss would love for you to have the honor of tasting them."


    "We would love to taste it!" Pitt and James rushed toward Rubin''s side and scanned the wine. Rubin gave it to them, winking at Vincent.


    "We will let the other men have a taste of them," said James. He and Pitt disappear from Hailee''s office in an instant.


    Hailee chuckled. Her knight actually has simple happiness, and that is drinking. "Theo''s strategy is brilliant."


    Vincent blinks his eyes upon contemting whether he should get jealous that his wife is praising another man. However, he knew Hailee meant nothing about that. Theo is his good friend as well as a business partner.


    "These wines look sweet."


    "Yup! It was made from raspberries. We will produce a sparkling one and something with higher alcohol," Rubin exined. He took out another bottle and handed it to Vincent.


    "I''ll get the sses!" Tim volunteered; he strode toward the console table where Hailee''s wine sses were neatly ced on a ss serving tray.


    Vincent opened the bottle and poured the red content on the sses, one he handed to Hailee. "It''s sparkling wine, so it has no alcohol."


    "Thank you, hubby." Hailee delightedly took the winess from Vince''s hand. She carefully swirls her ss, watching the liquid''s motion. She drew the ss into her nose and inhaled the pleasant aroma that lingers in her nose.


    Vincent coughs when Tim and Rubin never leave their eyes off Hailee. His re warned the two men that it was forbidden to look at his wife.


    Although he understood it was Hailee''s elegance what draws these men to watch her, he wanted to remind them they can''t gawk at his wife as he is possessive in his own way.

 Chapter 362 - Less Romantic

    <h4>Chapter 362 - Less Romantic</h4>


    Later in the evening, Vincent and Hailee were at the airport, waiting for their very important guests'' ne that are about tond.


    "Wifey, don''t you feel cold?" Vincent asked Hailee when she got out of the SUV.


    When he heard the car door open, he immediately left his cousins from discussing a few things regarding his work here in Dream City. He quickly approached Hailed and wrapped her body with his arms to keep her warm.


    "It''s too cold out here. You should have just waited at the hotel."


    Hailee shook her head, even though she buried her face to breathe Vince''s scent. It is just what she does every opportunity she has, and became her habit, which Vincent knew about it he actually enjoyed.


    "Hubby, the sky is too beautiful tonight!" Hailee gazed out at the beautiful Southern Hemisphere.


    Vincent looked up, and Hailee was right. The night sky is full of stars which he could recognize all of these constetions appeared above their heads.


    "They are all truly beautiful. But they cannotpare to the one inside my arms."


    Hailee giggled at Vince''s quote. But it warm her heart she knew she is falling over again with his corniness.


    "Mr. Shen, you are bing corny and sweet ."


    Vincent chuckled. "Which one I am?"


    "Both!" Hailee answered with glee, she didn''t think about it anymore.


    Vincent tightens his embrace, lowering his head and warming Hailee''s mouth.


    But the affection they disyed made every single man present curses.


    ''Show off!''


    It was a relief when a ne passes above their heads as they don''t want to watch any more romantic scenes in this cold weather.


    "Finally they are here!" Carl is deliberately shouted to inform the couple of enjoying their lovey-dovey moments under the beautiful night sky.


    Not long, the giant Crow Corporation private jet has safelynded on the runway. After a few minutes, the ne stopped not too far from where the car was waiting for them.


    All of Hailee''s knights, including Prince Alex and Prince George, are waiting for the Emperor as well.


    "Hey, princess!"


    After the door of the ne opens, Daichi Isagawa''s face appears before them.


    "Get down here, old man!" James shouted. But then, he receives scolding from everyone.


    "Damn. Dare you to speak rudely to that emperor''s right hand?" Rodney grinned. ''Hailee''s knights truly love to dare anyone at the association.''


    "What? Have you forgotten? He is my uncle?" James replied.


    "Wait, a minute! Daichi Isagawa is your uncle?" Rodney tried to recall the days of his youth when he and James met at the camp.


    "You don''t pay attention, actually." Carl chimed in. He is one of the seniors during James and Rodney''s first years in the camp.


    "Is this true!" Rodney still can''t believe it.


    "Yeah!" Daichi is now standing in front of James and Rodney. He smirks at them and says, "Now, get down to the ground and give me one hundred push-ups!"


    Both James and Rodney dropped their jaws to the ground, where the rest cheered at them.


    "That''s right! Punish them, brother Daichi!"


    "Why am I also punished?" Rodneyins, but he is doing it, anyway. Of course, he could not dare to protest when the emperor was here.


    Daichi sat down on James and then started counting. "Five¡­ Ten¡­ Fifteen¡­ Twenty¡­"


    Everyoneughs at the way of his counting. Even so, there is a long gap when he counts and so, James and Rodney must wait.


    James wanted toin, but he knew he would receive more punishment if he voiced his thoughts, which his uncle would love to make fun of him when he had the opportunity to do so¡ªlike what he was doing now. He is enjoying sitting on his back and his weight is killing him!


    Indeed, Daichi is enjoying every moment to punish these two mischievous young lords.


    "Don''t you think you are both lords and I am going to let you off?"


    "Ugh. Just continue counting! I promised I won''t call you old man anymore!" James begged.


    Alfie and Chester snickering in silence. The conversation they had over the text the other day sh their heads. James didn''t learn how Alfie is actually calling him an old man for dating a teenager.


    James sighed with relief when his uncle got off from him. On the other hand, Rodney was thankful when Daichi only sat on James''s back, but he was wrong. Daichi moves to sit on his back!


    "What are you guys doing?" asked Shun.


    Hailee''s knights stood straight and bowed at Shun. He gestured his hand and said, "Come on. I don''t need these formalities. So, what happened?"


    "We''re just having fun, Master Shun!" Rodney made theme excuse,ughing nervously. It was rare for him to see this man and, of course, he gave his respect to him even if rarely he could mingle with the emperor.


    Shun smiled, his gaze then shifted to Vincent, who made a joke on him.


    "Hello, grandson..."


    "Hello, great-grandpa," Shun returned, grinning at Vincent while they shook hands.


    The surrounding people dropped their jaws to the center of the earth upon watching the two men. It shocked them that Vincent was actually bantering jokes causally at the mafia emperor.


    ''Is Vincent serious?'' They were dizzy, asking this question to themselves. It was Daichi who only understood Shun and Vincent''s meaningful dialogues.


    On the other hand, Hailee is perplexed that what she heard and witnessed is real. The two men gave each other a unique endearment. ''Does their good rtionship develop this good during the Budapest trip?''


    Hailee''s face disys a confused look. Then a beautiful young woman giggled and whispered to them.


    "I will exin it to youter."


    *


    (A few minutes ago while Shun interrogated James and Rodney.)


    "Cassie!" Hailee rushed toward the girl, then hugged each other. "Thank you so much foring!"


    Cassie whispered to Hailee. "There''s no way I would note! I haven''t traveled often since I got pregnant, so this is my chance when Quinn has no way to say no."


    Hailee giggled. She could rte to Cassandra''s frustration as she also wanted to travel around the world with Vince, but she must get all the rest she could have to take care of her pregnancy.


    "Alright. It''s cold out here. Vincent keeps reminding me throughout the time we are waiting for your arrival. But I am actually enjoying the moment we are here gazing at the night sky."


    "Well, you know, men? They are less romantic than girls." Cassandramented kiddingly¡ªhe and Hailee giggled.


    Meanwhile, an arrow hits both Shun and Vincent''s hearts. They could not believe their wives would gossip about them being less romantic!


    ''That''s not true!'' Both Vincent and Shun made a protest inside their hearts.


    Of course, they could never dare to voice out the piece of their mind against regarding of their wives.

 Chapter 363 - A Unique Love Story

    <h4>Chapter 363 - A Unique Love Story</h4>


    Hailee and Cassie giggled upon seeing their husband''s reactions.


    The two girls admit they were only making fun, as their man''s facial expressions are priceless.


    Shun and Vincent look at each other after their wives act naughty. Since both are pregnant, they can do nothing but let it go while shaking their heads.


    "Shun, thank you for locking up Liam Huo in Italy." Vincent took this opportunity to thank the guy who helped him a lot.


    "No need for you to mention that matter. I''m just doing everything I can for Hailee. Liam has been bothering her for a long time already, and his action is only giving us more evidence and the opportunity to give him heavy punishment."


    "I would always be grateful, of course. I almost died because of him, which I don''t want to die yet as I want to spend my whole life with Hailee."


    Shun smiled, patted Vincent''s shoulder, and said, "Making Hailee happy is what all we''d like to see, and your death will bring her sorrow."


    Shin didn''t mention anymore that Liam sessfully killed him, which led Hailee to seek revenge, but still, she got depressed because Vincent died because of her. After all, Dream City is just a dream and forgotten by the future because Hailee and Vincent died.


    Hailee''s knights'' uprising leads to a war between Oceania''s Continent and South Asia, Liam Huo''s territory.


    Shun shook his head and buried the scenarios that no longer will happen in the present time.


    Daichi and Meisha, ire''s husband, approached them and made a brief conversation.


    ire and Riley joined Hailee and Cassie after settling the kids in the cars with their nannies and bodyguards.


    "Hi, Hail!"


    "ire! It''s been a long time since thest time we saw each other." Hailee hugged ire and then Riley after. "Where is Nikki? I thought they were flying with you guys?"


    "Yes, supposed to be. However, her stepmom-inw arrived this morning, and so, they will fly all together tomorrow."


    "Oh. Madam Nina Li. I''m happy they all cane to my wedding!"


    "Yup! Nikki is pregnant with a twin again! So her inws will stay in Maind City for a while to take care of her."


    "Aw, that''s sweet!" Hailee yed images all of a sudden, thinking Hilda was taking care of her.


    Well, her mom-inw coordinated all the preparations for her wedding. Honestly, without Hilda, everything won''te to be this well-nned.


    "Well, it''s getting colder out here, and it''s not good for pregnant women if they catch a cold." Shun, who is watching the girls chatting, suggested to Vincent.


    "Yeah." Vincent walked with Shun toward the girls.


    "Let''s head back to the hotel to have hot choctes." Vincent ced his arm around Hailee and led her toward the car.


    "Love that!" Hailee waves at the girls who climb to different cars. Vincent is careful in helping her. "Thank you, hubby."


    "Your hands are icy now. I''m sorry. I didn''t pay much attention that it''s winter here in Australia. I should have brought some gloves for you."


    "It''s alright. I''m used to the weather."


    "But you are pregnant, and we have to be careful you will not get a cold or flu. I will ask your nannies to prepare thicker clothes for you."


    "Okay." Hailee ced a sweet kiss on Vince''s cheek. She didn''t argue nor protest that Vince was overly protective of her, and it was really for the babies'' good. "Thank you for being so thoughtful. I can''t believe you never had a rtionship before."


    "Should I need to have an experience or in a rtionship to think of my wife''s welfare?"


    "Hmm¡­ I think if you love someone, you will do everything for him, and you need no experience to please him."


    Vince''sugh echoed in the car. Hailee is taking their conversation in another direction. Indeed, they can explore things together. It doesn''t need to be masters when ites to love and marriage. All they need to do is work on how they can strengthen their rtionship to be a unique love story.


    "I''m so in love with you," Vincent whispered into her ears.


    "Repeat it¡­" Hailee fought back the tears forming at the corner of her eyes. Never in a day, Vince forgets to say I love you to her. Every time he would say it, it always brought joy to her heart.


    "I''m so in love with you," Vince repeated it over again that made theirpanion in the car vomit from feeding sweetness all their way back to the hotel.


    "Please, boss! Pity the single men in this car!"


    Carl would love to beat Tim, who was grinning at the passenger seat. Meanwhile, Rodney ignores the lovers, while Zaijan is also silent in his seat. Only Tim and Carl continued bantering until they arrived at the hotel.


    Several cars pull over in front of Meadow Hotel.


    Hailee decided that she and Vincent''s family, rtives, and closest friends would stay in La Prairie Courtyard. Including all the members of the Royal families and leaders of every country. While at the Meadow Hotel, all of their business partners and influential people, that were invited to their wedding.


    Shun and hispany brought it to the dining hall, where it serves dinner and desserts.


    "Hey, Vincent Shen!"


    Vincent was at a table he shared with his cousins when four men who resembled each other walked toward them.


    "Matthew Lawrence." Vincent stood from his seat and shook hands with Matt, who introduced his brothers afterward.


    "Do you still remember my brothers? Attorney Kier Lawrence, Commander David Lawrence, and our younger brother Dn Lawrence."


    "I heard each of you, but I haven''t met you in person. It''s a pleasure to meet you guys."


    "Pleasure to meet you, too, Vincent Shen." Dn shook Vincent''s hands. "My junior tech has been making a mess of ATHENA because of you. I have to use all of my expertise to hide ATHENA''s trace when it messes up the U Continent Homnd Security Data System."


    "Umm¡­" Vincent had rendered speechless.


    What can he say? He also had no idea why all the gossip about him and Hailee suddenly disappeared, including those websites. But above all, it was Shun who is covering everything for the sake of the prophecy hundred yearster.


    Seeing Vincent seem to have no clue at all, Matt burst outughing. "Rx, man! Don''t mind my younger bro''s statement. He just made fun of you. The truth is, it was the princess who gave those orders to Sandy, and Shun pretended he knew nothing, as he was just keeping an eye on bncing everything. He doesn''t want to overdo his control in the entire world. Still, the normal flow of natural forces is necessary for us ordinary people."


    Vincent isn''t very enlightened about these mysteries, but he overlooks them and believes that he is living a normal life inside a reality in this world.


    "Well, thanks for the help." As that''s all he could say, Vincent threw his knuckles at Dn, whom the guy quickly lifted his fist to nudge him, and they made a friendly gesture.


    It made him happy to meet more of Hailee''s close friends who are ready to do everything for her and the people she cared for.

 Chapter 364 - THIS IS OUR STORY

    <h4>Chapter 364 - THIS IS OUR STORY</h4>


    After having dessert, Vincent and Hailee didn''t stay long as it was gettingte at night.


    As the men nned to get drunk tonight, Shun also took his exit and made an excuse that Cassandra needed to get rest.


    The four of them together took the elevator and headed to the top floor of this courtyard.


    "Good night, Cassie."


    "Night, Hail!"


    "Good night, princess," said Shun.


    "Good night, Shun. Thank you for everything."


    Shun gives Hailee a warm embrace and kisses her cheek. He muttered, "Small thing. You and Vincent stop thanking me, okay?"


    Hailee nced at Vincent and smiled at her husband. Shun also gave Vincent a warm hug and patted his back.


    "Good night, man."


    After that, the two couples head in different directions.


    After changing into her silk nightgown, Hailee slid under the covers. She immediately threw her arms and snuggled Vince when he joined her on the bed, and he fixed his position that Hailee would befortable.


    "What do you think of Shun and Cassie?"


    Suddenly, Hailee asked him this question. Vincent fell into deep thoughts, pondering what exactly Hailee wanted to hear from him.


    He may have impressions stuck in his head, but he won''t dare to voice them out since he isn''t a gossipy person about other lives, like how he wanted other people to stay away from his personal affairs.


    After a moment of silence, he asked Hailee. "What do you want to hear from me?"


    He understands that Hailee is waiting for him to say something, so he has to determine his answer. However, Hailee didn''t reply but waited for him to figure it out himself. He can say a few things like Shun has a beautiful wife, but of course, Hailee is more beautiful in his eyes.


    "Alright. I don''t know which one I should say..." Of course, he wouldn''t dare to gossip about the guy. Still, Shun is everyone''s superior, including his dad. "But¡­ How old is his wife? She seems to be too young, like an eighteen-year-old girl."


    Hailee widens her smile after Vince finally guessed the one she wanted to hear. "Have you heard the news about Shun?"


    Vince replied, "There is news reaching me, but who am I to judge him? There is news that can be true or just purely gossip."


    "Yeah. We cannot fully trust the media. Many of these news storiesprise baseless rumors and ack of evidence. It was just all about something to report, and Shun''s gossip is just a half-truth. Sometimes they saw him in France with a beautiful woman. Or next time paparazzi releases a photo that Shun is with a pregnant young woman, then in a few months, he is in the South Cape with another woman. Most people didn''t know about Cassie or what she looks like since there is no information you can find on the inte like mine."


    "Yeah. If I only found a single photo of you on the inte, it won''t take me three years but soon to find you."


    Hailee gazed at Vincent and uttered, "Shun didn''t leave any photos of me being Hailee Davies, but very basic information with my fake identity as Hailee Hillson."


    "No wonder I could never track you down. I''ll be honest. Dad, run an investigation about you. But everything is just ordinary."


    Hailee giggled before she continued. "Yeah, and we have to make sure of that. And regarding Cassie and Shun''s case. People always mistake Shun for having many young mistresses because Cassie never changes."


    "Changes like?" Vincent is perplexed on that part. He is certain that they weren''t talking about fictional creatures here, such as vampires.


    Vincent raised an eyebrow when he could feel Hailee''s body shaking as she suppressed to let out herugh.


    "This is not about something like what is running in your head at the moment," Hailee exined to Vince.


    He couldn''t deny that. He concludes Hailee meant those kinds that are found in books.


    "Wait, Miss Cassandra is Lady Isabe''s younger sister, right? The one who is going to reincarnate over again?"


    "Yeah, and Shun."


    Until now, Vincent still couldn''t convince himself to believe about all of this happening to them. "I''m still overwhelmed, and can I just pretend I know nothing?" he told Hailee.


    "Of course. That is what I am doing, too. I don''t understand what dad told me before, but I am slowly epting it. That we are necessary in this world to y an important role."


    Hailee and I will be Shun''s great-grandparents, and Cassandra will be our great-granddaughter inw. "It''s weird."


    Vincent didn''t notice that he spoke what was on his mind loudly. Hailee is looking at him with amusement.


    "We don''t need to concern ourselves about the future." Hailee understands Vincent is having difficulties epting the mystery that surrounds them.


    "Right. And so, all we have to do is focus on raising our family."


    "Yes, hubby. Because our children and grandchildren will carry out the future."


    "I like that." He is slowly epting the future that awaits them. Vincent knows it will be a bumpy road, but he needs these trials to widen the range of his perception as a father and as a grandfather in the near future.


    The two of them will do this together.


    "I am so happy that I was destined for you. I won''t mind if we are only tools for the future. Instead, I am honored because you are the man I would spend my whole life with."


    Hailee mumbled with droopy eyes. She yawned and buried her face into Vince''s broad chest as his warmth gave her security.


    Watching Hailee doing that, he let out a sexyugh. He lowered his mouth to ce a kiss on her forehead and hair.


    "I love you, Wifey¡­ Waiting for you my whole life is all worth it because I have the chance to walk life with you."


    ''Our adventure has just begun. I won''t promise, but I will do it. We will do everything we can to be great parents. I know we will not be perfect for everything, but we can always work on it.''


    This is our life, and this is our story¡­

 Chapter 365 - One Special Place I Wanted

    <h4>Chapter 365 - One Special ce I Wanted</h4>


    Four days before the wedding¡­


    Hailee woke up early in the morning and quickly took a hot shower. Vincent was also preparing to go to Davies Group HQ, as he needed to attend a board meeting on Hailee''s behalf.


    He noticed Hailee prepared her purse and a fur coat. "Wifey, are youing to the office too?" he asked.


    The way Hailee dresses up today, she is only wearing a ck maternity dress. It was decent, but he thought it was not suitable for a board meeting, the reason he asked.


    "I''m going to see Dr. Dave for a sonogram this week," she replied with sparks in her eyes. "Hubby, they are getting heavier."


    "Oh. I should apany you then," said Vincent. He couldn''t stop worrying, especially after Hailee said that. Also, he doesn''t want to miss the opportunity to see his kids again.


    Vincent cannot wait for Hailee to give birth to their kids, as he wanted to hold them already. Just watching them through ultrasound and listening to their heartbeat is such a joy to him. It made him feelplete. That''s why he couldn''t wait to see them soon!


    Vincent had these wonderful thoughts when Hailee turned him down. She said,


    "You don''t need to apany me today, hubby. Gigi will be with me, as it was her prenatal schedule, too. Don''t worry, Sheena wille with us and, of course, Tom will be there for Gigi."


    ''Then why can''t I go?!'' Vincent had a silent protest, but Hailee must have a reason. He thought.


    Hailee, on the other hand, wanted to burst outughing at the expression Vince is exhibiting on his face. She wanted to make fun of him, but she knew he was unhappy after she didn''t allow him to apany her.


    And the reason is, they n to reveal the three babies'' gender tomorrow night.


    It was her mother-inw''s grand n to hold a baby shower after Vincent''s bachelor party and her bridal shower during the day.


    Jacob and Fred were told about Hilda''s n and they let her take care of that as they have their own tasks.


    The royal families and mafia lords are arriving two days before the wedding. They must amodate the guests by themselves.


    And so the gender of the babies will be a secret for now. Neither of them will know but the doctor, Sheena, and Gigi, since they were the master nner of Hailee''s bridal shower.


    "Why is mom noting with you?" ''It''s impossible she would miss this chance. In the passing months, she became the super-mother-inw toward Hailee.'' He mused which he has no idea of what will happen soon.


    Hailee is putting on her coat, l Vincent rushed to her side to help her.


    "Mom is decorating the Meadow Hotel dining hall for a baby shower party tomorrow night," she finally revealed her mother-inw''s n.


    Hilda had a n to mention it this morning''s breakfast. But before anything else, there was already a discussion that happened yesterday morning over breakfast.


    *


    Carl and Rodney insisted on having a two days bachelor party for Vincent. With Pitt and James nning, they are supposed to have a car racing from Dream City toward Perth City.


    After that, they will onboard Hailee''s yachts to continue the fun. Pitt and Carl prepared several activities, but unfortunately, Hilda didn''t approve of them.


    The men tried to argue with their aunt.


    "Aunt Vince is going to tie a knot. He is also a father now, expecting three kids. Can''t you see? He will have no freedom soon! He has to focus on running a giant corporation and then taking care of his big family. Where is his enjoyment?"


    Both Hailee and Vincent throw dagger looks at Carl. He sounded exaggerated that Hailee would take control of Vincent.


    After he heard Carl, Vincent wanted to punch his cousin in the face. Like he cares about his freedom. All he dreams of these past four years is to tie down to the girl who steals his heart away. Besides, he more enjoyed being with Hailee than being apart from her for too long!


    "Stop assuming a*hole that I''m afraid I will lose my freedom." Vincent sneered at the guy.


    "Like I will control Vincent to go out if he wants to have a drink with you guys," Hailee added.


    Listening to Vincent and Hailee''s statement, Hilda contracted her pupils, sizing up her nephews. These two are the most persistent among her nephews and nieces. No one dares to disobey her, but only Carl and Rodney, who always provoke her and measure her temperament!


    "No one is leaving in Dream City! Vincent''s wedding is just five days away. What if you got into an ident?"


    "Aunt Hilda, why would you say that? Of course, it won''t happen. We will make sure all our cars are in good condition! Also, there will be security that will monitor us!"


    "I''m talking about all the possibilities! It''s winter here in Australia. Who wants to go swimming in the freezing ocean?"


    Carl and Rodney shared a nce. It was thetter who replied.


    "Aunt, that''s the punishment for whoever loses in our games." Rodney had a big grin on his face, which was only scolded further by his aunt.


    "And you wanted Vincent to freeze to death?"


    "Of course not, aunt! Like Vincent would let himself lose against us!" Carl attempted to save Rodney, but he was also rebuked by his aunt.


    "Both of you, shut up! Do whatever you like! But no one leaves Dream City! You can throw Vincent a bachelor party here!"


    The boys look at Hailee with pleading eyes, asking her help to convince her mother-inw. Hailee swept her gaze to the dining hall, where all of her knights also had breakfast with them.


    Everyone wished they could have fun because they also hoped to give Vincent a beating. But to their disappointment, Hailee said this,


    "I agreed with mom Hilda. You guys can race around here. There are hills and deserted areas where you guys can y with your toys."


    After Hailee said that, Hilda looked at her nephew with head high. She is very pleased that her daughter-inw sided with her.


    The Empress Dowager won, and Hilda felt so proud.


    The men dropped their shoulders, disappointed that they could only have less fun.


    Vincent somewhat feels relieved. Though he would not back down to these men''s games, facing hundreds of Hailee''s knights is a different story. He is keener to be friends with them than beating up each other''s faces.


    "Guys, we have a lot of dump trucks to create a motorbike race track. You also can do tag wars, or shooting,ser tag, paintball..." Gigi suggested to the men, but she is particrly looking at Tom.


    "You''re so brilliant, sweetheart." Tom rewarded Gigi with a kiss on her lips.


    Carl and Pitt rolled their eyes. ''Another couple who love showing off around.''


    "Yeah. We can do that! I will call someone to deliver our guns!"


    "Then what are you guys waiting for? We should start preparing everything!" Carl stood up and prepared to go out.


    "Vincent, leave your bachelor party to us!" James assures.


    "You''re just using me to take this as an opportunity to fool around," Vincent smirks.


    "Of course! This is an opportunity for us to have a long vacation! It''s time to have a fun buddy!" Lloyd is one of the most excited that he is getting married atst. Besides, he took this chance while his wife hadn''t arrived yet, two days before Hailee and Vincent''s wedding.


    "Jeez¡­" Vincent rolled his eyes. ''How thick of a face these men are!''


    That same day, led by Pitt and Carl, Hailee''s knights and Vincent''s cousins, help to set up the ce where they will hold the bachelor party.


    It will only be an all-boys Funtime, but no stripper because ever before, Vincent doesn''t like that. He already quoted he would ditch his party if they hired one.


    *


    Back at the present, Hailee helps Vince, putting the tie around his neck.


    "Are you sure I''m not needed to apany you?"


    "No need. I also won''t know the gender until tomorrow night. There, it''s done."


    "Alright. Anyway, I already told the girls not to do tiring activities at your party."


    "Okay. I know the girls would not let me join their games. They will only entertain me."


    "Same to mine. Mom approved this as long as I won''t join the bikingpetition and car race. All I should do is watch."


    "Hmm¡­ I actually wanted to ride in an air balloon and skydive."


    It took a moment for Vince to process what Hailee had said.


    He heard it clearly. Hailee wanted to do skydiving. Mostly, the couple does that during their honeymoon.


    However, she is pregnant now. They have no n for a honeymoon vacation after their wedding. He wondered if Hailee was fine with that.


    "Wifey, I''m sorry if I cannot bring you to a special ce to have our honeymoon."


    Hailee smiled, listening to Vince''s apology, which was not needed. She put her hands around his neck, lovingly muttered,


    "What are you saying? There is only one special ce I wanted to be in, and that is your heart."


    Vince didn''t notice that tears started falling from her eyes.


    "You made me so happy. I couldn''t wait to wee our kids." Vince gently stroked his hand on Hailee''s baby bump and said,


    "I love you, Hailee Davies¡­"


    Vincent bent his body to kiss Hailee''s belly.


    "Dad, love you guys."

 Chapter 366 - Future Gift

    <h4>Chapter 366 - Future Gift</h4>


    Vince let Hailee go after the passionate kiss they''d shared. They held hands, walking out of the suite room to join everyone having breakfast at the dining hall.


    "Aunt Farah! Uncle Amir!" Hailee rushed toward their table and gave Kelly''s mom a warm hug. "I''m d you had a safe flight."


    "Thank you, sweetheart." Farah ced Hailee a kiss on the forehead like a mother conveyed her love to her daughter.


    "Please, let the front desk know if you need anything. The weather is still colder, and I will send the housekeeping to check your suite''s temperature."


    "Ah, this child. We are fine. Besides, Alexander is amodating as well." Amir, who is familiar with Hailee''s thoughtfulness, is still overwhelmed by being treated specially.


    He was always in Dubai to take care of his family business in the past decades, and Kelly was only left in Australia. Then he heard about his daughter''s best friend, who was very kind to her.


    And soon after these two graduated from college and started their own business, he witnessed how they treated each other like sisters.


    On the other hand, Hailee and Alex shared a look. She gives her cousin an invincible thumbs up and congrattes him that he is doing a good job impressing his future inws.


    "I''m d to hear, Uncle Amir. Then tell Alex if you want a hotel service if you prefer to dine inside your suites. Granny Jam must be left in the room. Please, tell her I will visit herter after my prenatal check-up."


    "Oh! When could we find out their gender? By the way, why is Kelly hasn''t been pregnant yet?"


    At what her mother had said, Kelly was choked with the omelet she was chewing. She couldn''t stop her mother from continuing mumbling when her throat was itchy.


    Alex handed her a ss of water, then rubbed her back. She is ring at him as the guy had that sparks in his eyes, hopeful that it was the permission he was waiting for.


    Even though Kelly''s family thought they were in that kind of rtionship already, Alex still respects her. But with what her mother said, it was a kind of encouragement. He wanted to take this chance to have a baby with Kelly.


    However¡­


    "Don''t you dare!" Kelly hissed at Alex and said in a meager voice. "You promised already!"


    It made Alex gloomy, but it''s just in mere seconds, and he cares more about Kelly''s feelings. As she said, he promised already, so he doesn''t want to break that unless Kelly will seduce him.


    Alex smiles at his silly thoughts. It may be true he persuades Kelly using his shameless moves, but not to sleep with her. He is serious about making her his wife because he genuinely loves her dearly.


    He took Kelly''s hand and nted a kiss on the back of her palm. Then, he whispered to her ear. "I know, and I will never forget what I promised. Don''t worry. I will wait until the night of our wedding. However, you can always seduce me."


    Kelly suppressed not to giggle. She smiled and secretly pinched Alex by the waist.


    Since the night Alex promised he would not touch her, the guy never stepped on the line. Honestly, they were in the same bed, but the farthest they went to was kissing passionately and hugging each other while sleeping.


    And so, she promised to offer her whole being to Alex once they tie the knot.


    "Kal, you are not listening."


    Kelly''s train of thoughts interrupted after her father called out her name many times. She didn''t notice he was talking to her.


    "I''m sorry, Pa! I''m just thinking of checking out Hailee''s jewelry for the wedding after breakfast. I must make sure everything is ready!"


    It was ame excuse, but she didn''t want to exin what was running through her mind to her father. It was something inappropriate!


    "Have you visited a gynecologist and got a check-up?"


    Out of the blue, her father asked this trivial question, and so she returned to ask. "Why would I do that?"


    She looked dumb asking that question, but she truly had no idea why she needed to do that when nothing had happened to her and Alex.


    "Don''t worry, Pa... Kelly and I will surely get good news soon. This time around, Kelly is full-time helping Hailee make her wedding dress and the jewelry set she will wear. Kelly needs a lot of rest, and so, we just take it slow for now."


    Thankfully, Alex saved her from her father''s scrutiny. She just figured out what his father''s question was about. He is looking forward to a grandson.


    Kelly looked at Alex with a grateful gaze before she fixed her gaze on her father. She promises her father that "I will have a check-up after Alex and I visit his country."


    "Ah, that''s right. We have to discuss the wedding with his mother."


    Kelly was grateful that her father didn''t ask further, and his attention shifted to Alex, who was happily making ns with him.


    Hailee didn''t say a word as well about why Kelly had not been pregnant yet. She knew nothing had happened to this couple yet, and Kelly is vocal about sharing that with them, and it was something she is proud of about her cousin.


    Only proven he is willing to make sacrifices to prove he is genuine in his feelings for Kelly.


    She was happy that her best friend ended up with her cousin as they deserve the best for each other, and they are perfect for each other.


    Their differences make them perfect. Kelly is straightforward and stern, while Alex is reserved and serious.


    But after they realized their feelings for each other, Alex went shamelessly in pursuing Kelly while she tried to control her temperament for the sake of their rtionship to work.


    And to think of this unique rtionship, two people from different cultures and traditions willing to defy everything.


    Then, why can she and Vincent?


    Hailee fell into deep thoughts. She and Vincent shared the same things they liked. It wasn''t hard for her to get along with him because Vincent treated her right. The only thing that restrained him from showing his true feelings toward her was not to reveal the truth that he is already madly in love with her.


    Vincent once told her. He tried to pretend cold and aloof toward her. Otherwise, he might not control his urge to wrap his arms around her body and kiss her like there''s no tomorrow.


    Indeed, they would kiss if they had a chance to be intimate and make love almost every night.


    Hailee shared a table with Kelly''s family, and she told them that there would be a baby shower tomorrow night.


    "Oh. We should send a gift soon!" said Amir Varghese to the couple.


    Vincent was delighted at what the older man had said. "Thank you, Mr. Varghese. I will ept it from the bottom of my heart."


    "If it will be boys, I will make a dagger for them! But I need your family seal to carve in the handle."


    Vincent feels delighted with the man''s offer. Kelly is a talented designer and crafter, and no wonder where she got those skills. It was actually running from their blood.


    He has no doubts that Mr. Amir Varghese is a great smith.


    "I will give you a copy of our family symbols and seal."


    "Great! I already have one in mind of what kind of de I am making. It will be a dragon made of gold and jade."


    "That sounded wonderful, uncle Amir. Just perfect for the next emperor," said Hailee, then she nced at Vince with a knowing look.


    Since the documentary hasn''t been released yet, and so one knew yet about Vincent''s real identity, she is not the only one hiding her real family background.

 Chapter 367 - A Private Talk

    <h4>Chapter 367 - A Private Talk</h4>


    After breakfast, Vincent drove Hailee and Sheena to the hospital, where Tom and Gigi tailed them. Vincent didn''t leave yet but walked Hailee to the Obstetrician''s clinic.


    Sheena snapped a photo and posted it on her IG.


    Instantly, it was flooded with likes andments after she put a caption like this.


    "My brother was supposed to be at the board meeting now, but he could not bear not to escort his wife to the clinic. Today we will find out the gender of the babies! However, it has to be a secret first until the baby shower, and so... Watch out, everyone! We will reveal the gender tomorrow!"


    Sheena tagged Hailee and Vincent, which all the famous fashion houses and leading entertainmentpanies on social media reposted her post.


    The world feasted at the new update about the Couple of the Millennium.


    Meanwhile, Vincent and Hailee stopped at the door of the clinic.


    Doctor Dave was expecting them already, but Sheena made sure that Hailee would not see the monitoring screen during the ultrasound, so she helped the obstetrician set up the room.


    "I wanted to wait for you." However, he had an important monthly meeting to attend.


    "It''s okay. There is work waiting for you in thepany, and we actually need to take care of them before taking one or two weeks of vacation as our honeymoon."


    "Oh. Where would you prefer to go?"


    Hailee smiled. She slipped her hand into Vince''s palm and their finger intertwined. She told Vince, "Dad prepared our chateau in Tasmania as his honeymoon vacation gift for us, and we will stay there since Winter is almost over."


    Vince''s eyes flickered with excitement. Tasmania is the home of the famous Pinot Noir wines he likes very much. In fact, he has a lot of collections with this kind of wine from different vineyards.


    Who would have thought that he was marrying the woman, who owns the vastest vineyard in Australia, and produces pinot and chardonnay wines?


    "Are you going to tour me around your vineyard?" asked Vincent, who couldn''t hide his excitement.


    "Yes," she nodded gleefully.


    "Can''t wait!" He was thrilled by the thought that he could have Hailee all for himself. He wanted to have a good time with his wife, away from everyone.


    "But Pitt and James will be with us for our security. Besides¡­" Hailee trailed the words she would like to add, which Vince had a guess already.


    The way she smiled and looked at him, he already knew why she wanted them toe along on their honeymoon. But it means he could actually enve them.


    Vincent hides the silly thoughts in his mind. He stretched his other hand and reached for Hailee''s chin.


    "You wanted to eat your favorite Korean and Japanese food. Have you taken Chester too?"


    Hailee giggled after Vince said that. Her husband really knows her well, and it made her happy.


    "I want to bring Chester with us, but there are so many things to do after our wedding.? We have to ensure everyone''s security the moment they leave Australia and head home."


    Vincent nodded his head. "That is important. Alright. I''m going to thepany now."


    He kissed Hailee one more time that ended them kissing more.


    "Ahem! The patient is needed now, my dear brother. I must take Hailee before you swallow her whole."


    Haileeughed. She took the initiative of chasing Vincent and urged him to go to thepany. "Alright. See you at the hotelter."


    She waves at Vince through the ss door. He wanted to stay but making money is very important too to support their babies.


    Sheena helps Hailee to lie down at the table with a nurse''s help. After she was lyingfortable and ready, doctor Dave began the procedures.


    It takes a little while for him to determine all the genders. Meanwhile, Sheena and Gigi look at each other after what they learn.


    They had now the answer!


    *


    DAVIES GROUP HQ


    The board meeting had finallye to its end. Vincent headed to Hailee''s office, where they are now sharing the room since Hailee often works at home after getting pregnant with triplets.


    Vincent is reviewing some documents that were needed with Hailee''s approval and signatures.


    Later, the door of the office opens, and Tim steps inside. His assistant is holding a tray with a mug of coffee and cheesecakes.


    "Boss, the madam had asked her chefs to bake you some snacks."


    Vincent lifted his gaze and looked at the snacks Hailee sent over by her butler. "Okay. Put it on the coffee table."


    After Tim ced the tray, he immediately got out when he had nothing to do.


    Vincent pulled out his phone and sent Hailee a text. She had finished her prenatal and was now hanging out with Kelly''s grandmother. He wanted to hear her voice, but he didn''t want to spoil her time with the olderdy. He wanted to meet her, too, as she was part of Hailee''s childhood until she became a finedy.


    "Wifey, thanks for the cheesecakes. I will take a break now, and I will return to have lunch together."


    Vincent stood up from Hailee''s swivel chair, and he strode toward the coffee table when he received Hailee''s reply.


    "Okay, hubby. I requested the chef to cook your favorite."


    "Okay. Thank you. I love you, so¡­."


    "I love you too, hubby."


    Vincent had just started taking his snacks after Hailee''s reply. He was enjoying the aroma of the coffee when someone knocked on the door, and it was Hailee''s assistant, Tina.


    "Mr. Shen, this is some important reports for Miss Hailee."


    "Okay. Just ce them on the desk."


    Tina quickly heads to the office table and ces the folder. She left immediately after she bid her goodbye.


    Vincent finally was left alone again, and now he could have a taste of the cheesecake. He just finishes one slice when another knocks on the door.


    "Come in!"


    He thought it was just Hailee''s assistant or one of her secretaries, but it was Geoffrey.


    Vincent invited Geoffrey to sit across from him. After the guy sat down, he didn''t beat a bush but asked him straightforwardly.


    "Mr. Wilson, are you looking for my wife?"


    Geoffrey shook his head and replied to Vincent with a solemn expression on his face.


    "No.. I''m here to talk with you in private."

 Chapter 368 - Wedding Gift

    <h4>Chapter 368 - Wedding Gift</h4>


    An hour ago inside the conference hall¡­


    Now that everyone had arrived, Geoffrey began the board meeting.


    "Starting tomorrow, everyone will stop working on the construction sites for theplete preparation for Miss Davies'' and Mr. Shen''s wedding," he announced.


    Every construction firm''s representative was present at this meeting. They pped their hands and greeted Vincent.


    "Congrattions, Mr. Shen!"


    "Thank you."


    Vincent swept his gaze to the entire room, and he nodded and thanked everyone. After they settled down, Geoffrey continued with the lists of announcements in his hand regarding what will happen in the past four days.


    "There will be more armed forces arriving today to secure the safety of the royal and elite families from every part of the globe. Please, advise all of your employees to bring their working IDs and documents. There will be tight security. If ever you have ns to leave the city, go through the protocol and dere your leave and the day you n toe back to the city."


    "Mr. Wilson, we understand it is necessary to implement strict rules this time around. In that case, if our workers wished to leave the city during the off days, what proof should they show it was them?"


    "They have to reach out to the Security Station Office to get a card for their ess. Theputer needs their data to log out and log in. Please, exin to your employees. The princess wanted the guests'' safety. We have to stop all the paparazzi from disguising themselves and be able to get inside."


    "We understand, Mr. Wilson. I will propose to my employees to stay within Dream City instead, and we don''t want to add to Miss Davies''s worries," said Director John Lewis of Lewis Construction Firm.


    "I will propose this to my boss. It''s better to stay within the city to avoid any problems in the security."


    The other construction firm also came to this idea. Geoffrey and Vincent were satisfied with everyone''s response. Indeed, there is less to worry if the workers avoid leaving and attempt to enter the city this time around.


    All the important families are gathering in one ce. The Emperor of the Mafia Association is fullymitted to ensuring every guest''s safety.


    The meeting adjourned after further reports, Geoffrey went back to his office. He will move to the chairman''s office as the new CEO of Davies Group while Hailes''s office remains, this time with the signed Chairwoman of Davies Corporation, in which she will share the room with her husband.


    Geoffrey watches the beautiful scenery from his office. Ever since he was born into this world, he was always praised for being smart, and he was also an obedient son and immersed himself in studying.


    Then his world started spinning around Hailee. He did everything to stay close to her. Be her chaperone, big brother, assuming boyfriend, chauffeur, a partner in crime in Bryan''s absence, and follow her everywhere she wanted to go.


    His family doesn''t mind if he neglects his responsibility to manage Wilson Group as long as he can pursue the Davies heir.


    They supported him when he asked for his inheritance to invest in Hailee''spany, and now he became the new CEO of thispany.


    He thought that one day, he could persuade Hailee. However, she only thinks of him as one of her big brothers. Someone she could trust and rely on.


    He is ready to do everything for her. However, he could not make her notice that he was in love with her.


    They have been friends for fifteen years. But she still fell in love with someone she barely knew.


    Geoffrey heaves a long sigh and shrugs, the pain lingering in his chest. His phone received a text message from his mother. Until now, his mom has been mad at him for not making a move on Hailee.


    His mom was infuriated after they saw Hailee''s post on her Instagram that she was getting married. She phoned him immediately to find out who the guy was, and she hoped it was him. But to his mom''s disappointment, he told her it was not him, and he didn''t know who this guy was, either.


    Geoffrey opened his Inbox and read the whole text. His mom is asking if he has already prepared a gift. Even though his parents were disappointed and sad, they will attend Hailee''s wedding.


    "Yes, mom. I already prepared a gift for Hailee."


    After Geoffrey sent his reply, he opened a drawer and drew out the gift he wanted to give to Hailee before her wedding day.


    Geoffrey pressed a button. His secretary rushed inside.


    "Boss?" Helen asked the moment she entered the office.


    "Do you know if Miss Davies was in her office?"


    "Miss Davies didn''te to thepany, boss. It was her husband who took over her work today."


    A sh of displeasure passed through his eyes. Geoffrey snorted inwardly from the thought that he had to be used to Hailee having a husband now.


    "Alright. Thanks, Helen. I''ll talk to Mr. Shen. Hold all my phone calls."


    "Yes, boss."


    Helen walked out of the office, andter her boss followed and headed to the President''s office.


    ''What a pity. Not all handsome win the beauty they were persuaded.'' Helen felt pitiful toward her boss.


    All the secretaries and assistants knew that their big bosses had romantic feelings toward thedy boss.


    However, she falls in love with someone else, the reason everyone from the director mourns and her boss is the number one among them.


    Geoffrey stops at Tina''s table. He queried Vincent was avable.


    "Yes, sir. Mr. Shen is avable."


    Geoffrey nodded at Tina before he proceeded toward Hailee''s office.


    Tina watched Geoffrey''s receding back. She heaves a sigh as sadness fills her chest.


    She felt pitiful toward this boss, and he was one of the best men she had ever met.


    Geoffrey Wilson is such a gentleman. All the women from affluent families crazily wanted to meet up with him. However, his eyes only see one woman, theirdy boss, who is getting married soon.


    Meanwhile, Geoffrey made a light knock on the door.


    After Geoffrey heard Vincent Shen''s voice, he pushed the door open and stepped inside the office. Vincent invited him to take a seat.


    He didn''t expect that Vincent would be nice to him. But what Vincent had said next irritated him.


    "Mr. Wilson, are you looking for my wife?"


    Geoffrey''s face turned grim after hearing someone calling the woman he loves his "wife".


    But as his love is only one-sided, he had one choice, and that was to abandon his feelings for Hailee and teach his heart to ept that another man would call her MY WIFE.


    He doesn''t like how Vincent acts arrogantly in front of him. Geoffrey frowned. He met Vincent''s gaze, which the guy was giving him a smug face.


    "No. I came here to have a private talk with you, Mr. Shen."


    "Alright. I''m all ears," said Vincent.


    He picked up his mug and sipped his coffee. Later, he stood up from his seat, walked toward the office desk, and reached for the telephone. Vincent pressed a button, then talked to someone on the inte.


    "La, please bring a cup of coffee for Mr. Wilson."


    "Right away, Mr. Shen." La, Hailee''s secretary, quickly gets up from her chair and heads to the pantry.


    It didn''t take long for the secretary to serve Geoffrey a brewed ck coffee.


    "Thank you, La."


    "You are wee, Mr. Wilson." La instantly disappears from the room. She heaves a sigh of relief after she goes back to her table.


    Although she is curious if the two men will discuss work or theirdy boss, it intrigued them how they would treat Vincent Shen now that he was their boss'' husband. It was apparent how jealous their male bosses were.


    Everyone exploded in anger since they learned that their new contractor was actually thedy boss'' lover. It''s not just that they lose chances with the boss'' attention. But they could not ept that only someone like Vincent Shen, thedy boss fell in love with.


    On the other side, Geoffrey and Vincent wrestle their gazes, and no one withdraws their eyes but remains to size up each other.


    "Mr. Shen, I am giving this to Hailee as a wedding gift."


    Vincent creases his forehead when Geoffrey ces a check on the table. "What is this?"


    He counted the numbers on the check, displeasure written on his face. Vincent knitted his eyebrow. "And why would Hailee ept it? Do you expect me to take it as well?"


    The amount was FIVE HUNDRED MILLION EUROS.


    Yes, it''s not a US dor rate. Vincent wondered why Geoffrey would give Hailee an amount instead of something as a gift.


    He is aware of Geoffrey''s feelings for Hailee, and so he has to rify to this guy that Hailee will be his official wife soon.


    "Mr. Wilson, I am grateful for how generous you are. But I can''t ept it."


    "Don''t act too cocky, Mr. Shen, that you are now Hailee''s husband. This amount was everyone''s contribution to our princess'' wedding. Uncle Jacob will shoulder everything for the wedding, but he won''t let you lose face, so he allows you to shoulder as much as you could of all the expenses for the wedding. But as Hailee''s sworn big brothers, we want to contribute to her wedding."


    "But you didn''t understand, Mr. Wilson. I hate to have debts from you and Hailee''s knights."


    "It''s our wedding gift. Stop being ridiculous, Mr. Shen."


    Vincent''s eyebrow lifted upward. He scoffed and retorted to Geoffrey. "I''m not being egoistic, Mr. Wilson, and I tend not to rely on others."


    "It was you who didn''t understand our rtionship with the princess, Mr. Shen. We all are ready to stand by her side if she needs us. But since she has more money than us all, she still needed us, not financially but as a family. We are also capable of many things."


    Vincent shrunk his pupils from listening to Geoffrey''s exnation because it''s more like the sounded he would not leave Hailee alone, but he will continue to have his unrequited love.

 Chapter 369 - Wedding Gift (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 369 - Wedding Gift (Two)</h4>


    He didn''t forget that they were closer to Hailee. They were wonderful friends for many years.


    He knew he had nothing to get jealous of¡­ But he couldn''t suppress himself, not feeling so as he could see through the way they looked at his wife.


    But he doesn''t want to stir trouble and start a silent war against Hailee''s friends, and so Vincent calmed himself and buried all unnecessary thoughts and worries inside his heart.


    One more time, Vincent looked at the cheque neatly ced on the coffee table. The amount is insanely unbelievable.


    But most of Hailee''s friends, at the same time her knights, are wealthy, and many of them establish their ownpany and earn billions in the passing years.


    It''s not possible how they could gather this much.


    "Alright, Mr. Wilson. I will ept this cheque as a wedding gift for Hailee. But I have one request from all of you."


    "What is it, Mr. Shen?" asked someone standing at the door.


    Both of them look at the door; Vincent and Geoffrey frown after they recognize who it is.


    "What can I do for you, Mr. Anderson?" Vincent asked the guy who invited himself and sat on one of the empty couches.


    He couldn''t stop himself from shooting dark res at Bryan when he acted arrogantly in front of him after everything that happened. May he didn''t make ament when Hailee let him stay in thepany. He understands as Bryan is still a major investor of Davies Group and one of the main brains in nning to build Dream City.


    He needs to know his own ce.


    "Mr. Anderson, isn''t it rude to enter my office without permission? As you can see? I''m still in the middle of an important discussion with Mr. Wilson. Please, make an appointment first if you want to speak with the Chairwoman or me in the future. Please, keep in mind, I am not just the new CEO of Davies Corporation. I''m still holding a very important project, and so I will take office in thispany."


    Bryan pulled up the corner of his mouth at how Vincent Shen acted cocky.


    Well, it was just yesterday when he almost became Jacob Davies'' son-inw, thought Bryan. Although he didn''te after in Hailee''s wealth. He''s willing to serve this family if it is his opportunity to be by the princess'' side the rest of their lives.


    However, he messed up. All his chances of making Hailee fall in love with him are gone, and he couldn''t impose a right to snap at this guy.


    "Mr. Shen, since I have the same business as Mr. Wilson, I invite myself to join your conversation," Bryan told Vincent, his gaze moving toward Geoffrey.


    Geoffrey, who didn''t like what Bryan did, gave him an unpleasant treatment.


    "Since you still have a thick face and already made yourself wee to sit cozily on that couch, how can we chase you out?"


    Geoffrey''s tone is full of sarcasm. Bryan knows well that until now, Geoffrey makes him an enemy.


    "Come on, Geoffrey. We have the same intention as to why we are both seated in front of Mr. Shen."


    Geoffrey hissed under his breath, listening to Bryan''s sound righteous phrase. It may have the same goal, but their friendship can never return as before.


    ''I shouldpete with him! Maybe Hailee chose me instead. She would never be heartbroken if it were me!'' Geoffrey thought.


    Watching these two men in front of him, Vincent reaches his forehead and hurts a sigh from the deepest part of his chest.


    ''I need to end these two men''s delusions! Do they think they could steal her from me?''


    "Ahem!" Vincent coughs to get Geoffrey''s and Bryan''s attention. Both men threw dark res at each other before they fixed their gaze toward him. "Alright. Since both of you were here, then it will save me time."


    Vincent''s gaze shifted between them as he spoke. He went on,


    "For the sake of Hailee, I would not throw a fuss seeing you two close to my wife. I will try to understand that you love her. However, I want both of you to stop looking at her romantically. ept the fact that she is my wife now, and you can''t love her like a lover."


    Listening to Vincent, both Bryan and Geoffrey clenched their jaw and gritted their teeth.


    They have to admit that Vincent sees through them. It was true, and their feelings hadn''t dissipated even the slightest.


    "I couldn''t be at ease with you all around when I know how you felt for my wife," Vincent added when both Geoffrey and Bryan didn''t retort his statement. He knew he hit the spot.


    The two men''s silence means what he said is true.


    At this moment, Vincent also made a self-reflection, and he put himself in these two men''s shoes.


    What if he met Hailee, but she was already married? What will he do?


    It would break his heart, and he probably wouldn''t move on until now. He is certain that he would look at Hailee romantically.


    And so, he kept his cool and chose not to fuss too much over Hailee''s knights.


    In the next minute, the room filled with silence as neither of the three men spoke.


    "Boss! I¡­ Holy Shot!" Tim quickly stopped at his pace and returned to his track, then shut the door behind him.


    ''I''ll be damn! The husband, ex-fiance, and secret admirer are too much for me to witness when they were in the same room! Thank god the psycho admirer is in prison now.'' Tim mumbled in his head, ignoring the two women''s presence behind him.


    Tim remained frozen to his foot. Exactly when Tina and La came back from the pantry, and they had a mug of coffee in their hands.


    "Mr. Cheng? What happened to you?" Tina asked Tim when he didn''t make even a little motion but remained standing in front of the office door like he had juste out of hell.


    Well, for Tim, he honestly just escaped from hell.. The moment he steps inside the room, his eyes meet the raging fire of three men looking at each other with scorn.

 Chapter 370 - The Same Woman They Love

    <h4>Chapter 370 - The Same Woman They Love</h4>


    "Mr. Wilson is in a meeting with Mr. Shen, right? Do you have important documents for the boss?" La asked Tim while patting his shoulder.


    Just then, Tim pulled out from his train of thoughts.


    "Huh? Oh, yes, but Mr. Anderson is also inside. Don''t you guys enter this room for a while!"


    Tina and La shared a knowing look. The two girls understood even Tim would not borate on his words. That room must feel like hell. No wonder Tim had that kind of expression when they found him frozen in front of the door.


    On the other side of that door to hell, Geoffrey and Bryan shoot Vincent a serious re. From his words, they have at least to give a piece of their thoughts regarding his warning.


    Yes. It was clear he was warning them to stay away farther, now that Hailee is getting married to him. But seriously, he is very entitled, which they cannot do anything because he has the right as the husband among them.


    Even though Vincent made them feel ridiculous, it was Bryan who spoke first.


    "I would be honest with you, Mr. Shen. I still love Hailee even now, and it would not change. But I will take a big step backward. I am familiar with her attitude. She doesn''t want any conflict between her friends, and it really affects her, so I promise I will not meddle in her love life. But when ites to Dream City, I will stand by her side toplete the dream we built together."


    Vincent contracted his pupils from what Bryan had stated. Clearly, the guy ps him that even though he is the husband, the first man Hailee shared her dream of is Bryan.


    Geoffrey, on the other hand, is displeased. He frowned at Bryan, who acted like he was the first one Hailee shared her dreams with.


    Both Bryan and Vincent turned their heads to Geoffrey, and they creased their forehead after the guy let out a burst of crispughter.


    "Don''t take all the credits, Bryan," said Geoffrey with disdain. He looked at Bryan downward and scoffed, "I was the first person, whom Hailee opened up to, that she wanted to start her ownpany as she dreamed of building her forefather''s kingdom. I was the one who helped her realize what kind of city she would like to build. I helped her¡­."


    "Enough! It happened because I was away andpleting my course!" Bryan snaps at Geoffrey.


    He retorted, "But you were fooling around with another woman!"


    Bryan gritted his teeth. He could not counter Geoffrey because it was true. That was the time where he met Eva and began his sex life. He could not deny how it was hard to resist as it made him realize something, which he could not drag Hailee toward that kind of rtionship without giving assurance to her.


    He already developed a feeling toward her, but she was too young back then.


    "I may have been in a rtionship during that time. But my sincerity in helping Hailee to her dreams is genuine, and you can''t question that."


    "Even so¡­" Geoffrey is not done, but Vincent''s voice erupted between his heated argument against Bryan.


    "Can you both stop now? We are talking about my wife here."


    Bryan and Geoffrey are rendered speechless; both look at Vincent withplex expressions written on their faces.


    That''s right. Even if they argued now, the truth would not change. Hailee is getting married to another man, and neither of them won her heart.


    On the one hand, Vincent is displeased. At one moment, he felt jealous that he was not the first person Hailee shared her dreams with.


    But he will assure them he will be the man to finish her dream and stand by her side at the end of this journey.


    "You can both argue over that matter, but don''t forget that I am the one who will help Haileeplete her dreams. I will acknowledge that both of you are important to thispany. You can do your job as Hailee''s director. But from here onwards, you can stoppeting with me. I will ept that even if I kill myself with jealousy, I cannot change the fact, you contributed a lot to realize my wife''s dream."


    Geoffrey and Bryan both twitch their lips upon hearing another man calling Hailee his wife. Moreover, they could not refute what Vincent had said. The guy is right. They have the same goal, and that is to help Haileeplete her dream city.


    It is meaningless to argue and retaliate because the person who would be affected is Hailee.


    "Am I clear here?" Vincent wanted certain things if the two men were willing to lower their ego and pride for the same woman they love. But of course, he will make sure that they remember to stand in thene with thebel FRIEND and not an assuming lover.


    Before the two men concurred with Vincent, both shared a meaningful gaze.


    "Mr. Shen, I will not deny that you are right. I would be honest with you. I have been in love with your wife until now. But I assure you, I am a decent person. I won''t look for trouble, but promise me you would not hurt Hailee nor make her cry," Geoffrey had a sullen face when he stated this.


    It was the first time he admitted his true feelings for Hailee in front of others: Hailee''s ex-fiance and the future husband.


    Anyway, there is no use hiding his feelings when these two men could see through his heart.


    "Then, I am d to hear that from you, Mr. Wilson," said Vincent, his gaze shifted to Bryan.


    "I am trying to move on. But yes, I am still watching you closely, Mr. Shen. I''ve caused too much pain to Hailee before, and so, all I wished for is her happiness."


    Meanwhile, outside the door. Tim, Tina, and La pressed their ears from eavesdropping. The three of them were startled when they heard two voices argue.


    "What are you guys doing?"


    Tim shuddered upon recognizing this voice.. Tina and La as well straighten their back after hearing someone speak behind them.

 Chapter 371 - Spend The Rest Of Our Lives Together

    <h4>Chapter 371 - Spend The Rest Of Our Lives Together</h4>


    "What''s going on?" The woman asked repeatedly.


    Tim''s face turned pale. He turned around and faced his preggy boss.


    "You¡ªyou, young madam Shen! We¡ªwe¡­"


    Tina and La heave a helpless sigh after Tim only stutters while answering theirdy boss.


    "Please, don''t misunderstand, boss. Mr. Shen had some things to deal with. Tina, who obliged to exin.


    "Young madam, why did youe here? Ugh." Tim shut his mouth when Tina elbowed him, and La gave him a look, saying, ''Seriously? She is the owner of thispany! Our boss!''


    On the other hand, Tim is fuming because these twodies don''t understand him at all! He wanted to exin to thedy boss that she should understand this situation. There is no way his male boss will do something unforgivable like cheating!


    Anyhow, Hailee needs no exnation. She simply walked toward the door of her office, then pressed her ear to listen to what was going on inside.


    "Hmm¡­" After she heard enough, she pulled her head and stepped back.


    She only hears faint voices, but her heart is sure of who they are.


    These three men are actually very dear to her heart, though she didn''t love them the same way. They are all important to him.


    "Miss?"


    Hailee looked at her assistant and secretary, who was perplexed. Thenst, Tim. She smiled at them and said, "You didn''t see me."


    The three people were dumbfounded, but they understood what theirdy boss meant by her request.


    Hailee walks out the secret door of the Davies Group, where Pitt is waiting in the car.


    "Princess? Did you forget something?" Pitt wondered. Hailee just got out of the car a few minutes ago, but she returned immediately.


    "Let''s go back, Pitt." Hailee walked straight to the passenger seat.


    "Huh? Is the board meeting hasn''t over yet?"


    "They were done already, but Vincent has a meeting with the others inside our office. I better not disturb them, and I will wait for Vincent in the hotel."


    "What''s wrong? Aren''t you able to take part in the meeting if it is regarding Dream City? Besides, you are the Chairman soon, and there is no one as important as you."


    Hailee looked at Pitt, but she said nothing yet as she processed his words before replying.


    "I think the more I must not use my position for my personal capriciousness."


    ''Why is that?'' Pitt groaned inwardly. He wanted to know what really happened, and he didn''t believe that it was really the reason Hailee returned to her tracks. She is clingy to Vincent, and she has all the right to interrupt the meeting.


    But Pitt is wrong. For Hailee, it''s something she must set boundaries for.


    She went to the office after Leo and Josh told her about what they had discussed during the board meeting.


    She nned that after she proposed what she came up with, she would flirt with Vincent. But it surprised that Vincent had a private talk with Bryan and Geoffrey.


    Before, she is afraid that her knights will find out about Vincent and a dispute between her knights and Vincent.


    Now she realizes she must not meddle with them. If the boys only treated Vincent nicely because of her words, what about if she wasn''t around?


    She believes they will behave as professionals toward each other. They all mature and never saw them act impulsively without reason.


    Meanwhile, the three men had agreed not to have a dispute against each other, for Hailee''s sake. They love her.


    Vincent finished some work that morning. He rushed back to the hotel and found Hailee chatting with the newly arrived couple.


    "Theo Shang!" Vincent had a long stride toward Theo and Shun lounging in the Courtyard''s lobby.


    "Hey, Vincent!"


    The two men shook hands, had a brief hug, and patted each other''s back.


    Vincent swept his gaze, and he found Hailee having a cheerful chat with Theo''s wife.


    "d you''re here now. You can attend my bachelor party."


    "Sure!" Theo nods his head.


    "I heard Hailee disagreed with what the boys came up with. I heard Daichi prepared a boxing arena," Shun chimed in.


    "Nah. Hailee warned them already, and she wouldn''t let her entourage attend such games. Even I should not participate, but only watch everyonepeting in car and motorbike racepetitions. More in the boxing game."


    "Well, your wife just makes sure everyone looks presentable at your wedding," Theo remarked that causing them tough.


    "Yeah." Vincent concurred afterward.


    Honestly, he has no problem with that since he only looks forward to this wedding day. He is happy that he could give Hailee a grand wedding, and she really deserves that.


    "By the way, your wedding day is also your birthday, right?" asked Theo.


    "That''s right. It was Hailee who chose this date," Shun remark.


    "So, what gift do you want? Should I have shipped more wine?"


    "Nah. Expecting three kids of mine is the best gift I have already received."


    Theo and Shun shared a knowing look. Of course, they felt the same way as Vincent. Who''s a man who doesn''t get excited after learning he has be a father?


    They were the happiest man in the world when the woman they loved dearly conceived them, children.


    "Congrattions to us!" Theo raises the champagne and clinked sses with Shun and Theo.


    Not long after, Nancy announced that lunch was ready. Vincent walked toward Hailee and led her toward the dining area. Shun and Theo also take their wives. Both women are close to their due, and the two men were careful with them.


    Well, he was too. He treated Hailee like a fragile object or a delicate flower that needed careful tending.


    Vincent saw his mom and dad, along with his father-inw, already seated at a round table. He pulled Hailee into a chair and helped her sit down.


    Soon the chef assigned to make Hailee''s diet arrived with the meal she requested to prepare today''s lunch.


    After the sumptuous lunch, Hailee excuses herself to get some rest. She''s even feeling heavier than she could not stop herself from eating a lot of every meal, as there are multiple babies inside her belly.


    Hailee wasfortable lounging on the sofa. She heaves a satisfying sigh after Vincent massages her lower back. In these passing days, the best part was that she wanted to be massaged every day.


    "Hubby, I heard that all the construction firms will advise their employees to stay within the vicinity of the apartments during these three days we have our wedding."


    "Hmm¡­ They volunteered not to bother the security team, and it will be tough for everyone as the entire city is under tight security."


    "It is necessary as our guests are not just ordinary wealthy families."


    "They understand, yes," said Vincent. After he massaged Hailee''s shoulders down to her lower back, he wrapped her body with his arms and nted a kiss on her hair. "I love you."


    Hailee nced over her shoulder and met Vincent''s tender gaze. It looks like Tim didn''t tell his boss that she had gone to the office earlier.


    She was happy about that, but she didn''t want to hide anything from Vincent. And so, even if she told her assistant and secretary not to say anything, it doesn''t mean she will keep it from Vincent. Instead, she wanted to tell him by herself.


    "Hubby, I went to the office earlier."


    "Oh."


    It surprises him, as Tim mentioned nothing to him. Now he is worried if Hailee heard his conversation with Bryan and Geoffrey, but she misunderstood something. Although the talk ended well, he should share it with Hailee, not worry.


    Vincent searched for something on Hailee''s face, but he didn''t find any unusual expression from her, and so he carried on.


    "Geoffrey and Bryan came to me to have a private talk over my morning break. They give us a cheque gift."


    Vincent pulled out the cheque inside his suit pocket and showed it to Hailee.


    "Your knights are too generous."


    Hailee reaches for his lips instead of looking at the amount on the cheque. Vincent, on the other hand, was perplexed by Hailee''s action.


    "That was your reward as you handled it well." She exined to Vincent.


    Hailee also told Vincent how grateful she was, that he cared for her friendship with Bryan and Geoffrey even after he learned of their true feelings toward her.


    "I realizedter that Bryan and Geoffrey actually didn''t see me as their little sister. However, my heart never beats for them, and it only fluttered for you. So, please trust me, okay? You are the only man that I ever love. I would be honest that I love Bryan and Geoffrey, but it was just for a genuine friendship even if I almost marry Bryan."


    Vincent reached for Hailee''s face and caressed her cheek so gently.


    "I trust you, and I believe in you. I never doubt your love or your loyalty. It''s just that I couldn''t stop not feeling jealous because they were with you for so many years, but me? We were just together for less than a year. How can Ipare?"


    "Does that matter?" Hailee asked Vincent.


    Vincent shook his head and retorted lovingly, "That is why tying a knot with you means that we have forever to create a beautiful life together with our future children."


    Hailee hugged Vincent so tight.


    "Yes, hubby! It was what I wanted! I want to spend every day of my life with you. I want to grow old with you! And I even wanted to love you in my next life."


    "Of course, I feel the same way too."


    Vincent imed Hailee''s lips and kissed her until they were out of breath.


    He said, "Thank you foring into my life."

 Chapter 372 - A Meal With Her Employees (One)

    <h4>Chapter 372 - A Meal With Her Employees (One)</h4>


    The following day...


    It was a quiet morning for all the workers that living at Western-South Complex. Since they were on days'' vacation, they need not wake up early.


    However, they were surprised when several trucks parked in the garden.


    When the truck opens, they find out it is a mobile market. Each truck has different contents and one truck contains beef, and the other truck is pork and chickens.


    There is also a truck full of fresh fish, crabs, and prawns. As well as giant squids. The other truck carried all kinds of spices.


    Chairman Lewis of Lewis Construction Firm and other contractor bosses walked toward Tim; following behind them were their employees on four days'' breaks.


    "Mr. Cheng, what is happening here?"


    "Good morning, Mr. Lewis. Young madam Shen is giving all of this food to all of you! Our boss wanted to celebrate her wedding by having lunch with all of us."


    Listening to Tim, everyone was ted that their boss didn''t forget them, and it made them happy that this princess wanted to mingle with them.


    Murmurs rose from the crowds, Pitt raised his right hand.


    "And so, the young madam would love to eat the food that you will prepare. It gives you all of this meat to make lunch you can share with herter."


    All the contractor''s big bosses were stunned for a moment. Murmurs were rising around.


    The people from behind did not hear what Tim had said, so they asked their co-workers at the front.


    "What are they talking about?"


    "I didn''t hear clearly." Answered one.


    "I will go forward to listen!"


    One volunteered, he then came back happy.


    "It said, Miss Davies, who gave all of this meat for us!"


    "Is that true?" The workers from different construction firms were ted to hear this good news.


    "Miss Davies will have lunch with uster!" Another one said.


    "Then what should we cook?"


    They began discussing and sharing thoughts. Although many of them are just ordinary carpenters and construction workers, they have a hidden ability to cook delicious dishes from their nativends.


    "I''m going to roast a whole pig!"


    The workers look at the whole pigs, neatly hung in a freezer truck. They could tell that these pigs were newly butchered.


    "Then we should start looking for clean stainless steel poles to hook these pigs!"


    "Others should start preparing them!"


    "How to roast a pig?" quired by the other engineers and architects, who obviously grew up in the big cities.


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t know how to do it."


    "Don''t worry. I know the procedure to roast a whole pig!" More workers volunteered and shared their knowledge with others.


    "Back in my province, we wrap some chicken, potatoes and carrots, lemongrass, and other spices and ce them inside the pig stomach."


    "Yes! We can do that!"


    "We can also put crabs and prawns inside!"


    "Yes, that''s right!"


    After everyone heard what they needed to do, others began hauling the pigs from the trucks to ready them.


    The other workers help by bringing out dining tables to ce the pigs. Afterward, they began cleaning the hogs thoroughly. When they were done, they started stuffing the spices in the pigs'' bellies.


    "We should make sure we thoroughly cleanse them. Our boss is going to have a meal with us!"


    "Of course!"


    They really are excited to have a meal with their beautiful and kinddy boss! That is why they were eager to prepare more dishes.


    They wrapped potatoes, carrots, and some vegetables wrapped in foil paper since they don''t have banana leaves and stuffed them inside the pig''s belly.


    Some also prefer crabs and prawns to be ced inside the pig''s belly.


    Then, other employees also began preparing a few recipes from their nativends.


    Hailee''s workers are from all over the world. She traveled around the world and got to taste different dishes as well, and she has a particr cuisine that she grew to love.


    *


    Courtyard La Prairie


    Hailee was sipping her fresh fruit juice while reading some articles online. The media was also excited about her wedding. However, as no reporters were invited to cover her wedding, they could not enter Dream City.


    Several paparazzi wanted to sneak in. However, with advanced and tight security, they cannot get through.


    ATHENA, the satellite, was also eyeing Dream City for a threat from the air.


    Hailee was satisfied with the news posted on the inte. Her wedding is in trending news and spotted number one as a hot topic.


    Vincent sat next to her. She instantly throws her arms around his neck and utters, "Hubby, we don''t need to travel around the world for our honeymoon!"


    Vincent chuckled and poked her nose as he replied, "Because you already brought the entire world the very first day you built Dream City."


    Hailee was delighted with hisment. She is pleased she found outstanding workers that helped her build her dream city, and she wanted to show her appreciation.


    Vincent is also d he can contribute to building Dream City. Before, it was only his dream to work on one project, and he never thought that the girl he was looking for was his boss.


    Hailee is very particr in selecting her contractors because of something she believes in.


    She wanted to gather all the best minds to contribute to building Dream City, the reason she hired construction firms from different countries. She thinks that each of them has the best ideas.


    "Each of us grew up in different environments. That''s why each of us has different views on life. This is also involved in having different dreams we are thirsty to achieve. I need unique ideas that reflect the essentials of everyone''s daily lives. Sometimes the best ideas we would have, are through our dreams. Then, we began dreaming of something."


    Last night, Hailee told him this.


    After that, Vincent understood why Hailee didn''t choose contractors from the same countries but decided who had the best ideas. At first, he thought that Hailee just wanted to test Shen Group by randomly choosing them when hepeted with a more known construction firm.


    "I want Dream City to be the best city in the world," Hailee added.


    Dream City has a slogan, "Join us! Let us make History!"


    Vincent pulled himself from his train of thoughts. He looked at Hailee and said, "I''m so proud of you, Wifey."


    "Thank you, hubby. I''m happy that I found you. Now my dream wille true soon once I finish Dream City. However, right now, I can''t wait to have lunch!"


    Vincent chuckled. He reached Hailee''s baby bump and gently stroked her belly while talking to it. "Babies, wait for a little while." He thinks everyone has just started cooking now.


    Haileeughed at what he did. She has no doubts that Vincent will be a great father.


    Vincent''s phone rang, and he immediately answered the call after he saw it was Tim.


    "How is it going?"


    "Everyone started cooking, boss! They are all grateful for the gift you and the young madam gave to them."


    "That''s good then. Tell them that our boss is looking forward to having a taste of these delicious dishes. So ask them to make different cuisines."


    *


    "Copy, boss!"


    "Is that Mr. Shen?" asked Nancy, who helped the wives chopping the spices, peeling carrots and potatoes. Some of them prepared other recipes that needed more vegetables.


    "Yes. He asks to make different dishes from everyone''s nativend. The young madam tried many dishes from around the world, and so she wished to have a state of them again."


    "You heard that, everyone?"


    They are all ecstatic upon hearing Tim. What happened next? Everyone discussed the special recipes that their family passed down to them by their elders.


    After one hour, Tim took a stroll around to check everyone''s cuisine and the pigs and chickens they roasted.


    With all the dishes cooked at the same time, it filled the air with pleasant vors from different cuisines.


    "Mr. Cheng, please, have a taste of our dishes!"


    In the next hour, Tim was already full of tasting different dishes from different countries. Nancy suppresses not tough at her boyfriend when he keeps rubbing his stomach.


    "I will get you some stomach medicer," she said.


    "I just need something to digest everything that I''ve eaten. I want to eat properlyter!" He had tried something sweet, something sour, or super spicy dishes. Thanks to a super cold malt beer, the spicy food he tasted have slowly disappeared in his tongue.


    "Mr. Cheng, please try this recipe! Don''t worry, as it''s not spicy," the man assured.


    When the senior engineer from India Construction firm mentioned this, Tim sighed with relief. He picked up a clean spoon to taste the dish that was brought to him. Today, he became the food taster to please the preggy queen.


    "Timothy Cheng! Why didn''t you inform us!"


    Tim lifted his head and looked in the Davies Group executives'' direction and the other men, walking toward him. The moment Pitt approached him, he snatched the fork in his hand.


    "Hmm! Good!" Pitt raised a thumb to the senior engineer, who left delighted after.


    In the next hour, more dishes were sent to them to have a taste. Tim let Pitt and his young madam''s knights have a taste of the other dishes.


    Thankfully, more men arrived and joined him.


    Now that they are all done cooking, the wives set up the table. They didn''t wait for long.. Thedy boss has arrived.

 Chapter 373 - A Meal With Her Employees (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 373 - A Meal With Her Employees (Two)</h4>


    Vincent helped Hailee get out of the car. Delight filled her chest to see all the workers gathered in the apartment Complex Park.


    The area has two basketball courts, two tennis courts, and even a half football field for those who like ser.


    The ce was designed so that, during the weekend or after working hours, they have a ce to hang out and y sports as a pastime.


    And today, it filled everyone with the reason Hailee was happier.


    "Wee, President Davies! Mr. Shen!"


    "Hi!" Hailee tried to return everyone''s greetings, but so many of them. She raised both of her hands and waved at everyone who was a little farther.


    Today, it is supposed to start the boys'' bachelor party. She didn''t regret postponing the men''s party today. They were impatient to start their two-day celebration. But then, she proposed this, and they were so disappointed. However, she didn''t regret postponing the men''s time with Vincent.


    James mumbled earlier, using her she doesn''t want Vincent to have a farewell party for his freedom, calling her a nagger wife. Although it was just a joke, he was beaten up by every one; even Vincent joined in.


    "What the hell are you saying, James? All I ever wanted was to tie a knot with Hailee, and I don''t care about a farewell party to such a thing as freedom."


    Hailee echoed, "As I said before, I would not stop Vincent from going drinking with his friends. Vincent knew his punishment if he did it often, especially to cheat on."


    With her statement, all the knights cast a murderous look at Vincent. Pitt, who first burst outughing, followed by Rodney. Vincent red at him, Rodney shut his mouth.


    Shun and Theo chuckled while Zaijan and Tyler shook their heads. They knew Vincent very well, and he didn''t like flirting.


    Anyway, this is what Hailee has imagined. The games are just an excuse for these men to beat Vincent, and she already sees it throughout.


    But Hailee also wanted the boys to have fun, so she first consulted Vincent about this n. Vincent was more d to celebrate with all the workers than fool around.


    While Hailee mingled with the workers'' wives, Jacob and Frederick happily joined the big bosses from the other construction firms.


    "Jacob! Thank you very much for the food! All the workers are delighted, and we are so grateful."


    "Don''t mention it. Actually, it was my daughter''s idea, and she''d like to spend time with everyone. There will be big changes in her life soon that will be a hindrance for her to oversee the construction herself."


    "Your princess is expecting three babies! Congrattions! Instantly, you be a grandfather of three!"


    Jacobughed cheerily. "It surprised me as well! I am so excited to meet them soon!"


    Happiness has been stered permanently on his face since he learned his daughter expects more than one baby. Indeed, he was ecstatic that he was soon a grandfather of three, and so he looked forward to meeting his grandchildren soon!


    "Please, join us, Mr. Davies!"


    "Thank you."


    "Mr. Shen, have a seat with us!" Chairman Lewis also invited Frederick.


    What happens next, Chairman Lewis talking nonstop to Frederick. He shared during the time Vincent attended his sses.


    "Your son is truly a smart kid. He always impressed me. That is why after hepleted his master''s degree, I invited him to join me with the new projects my firm had won. And he didn''t disappoint me! Look at him now? He does well, and I am proud of him."


    Frederick was thrilled, listening to everything Charman Lewis had shared. As well, Jacob was proud of his son-inw. Every time Vincent was praised, it was his joy. But if someone doubted Vincent''s ability and used him instead of having an ulterior motive for why he married Hailee, he didn''t hide his anger.


    Lunch had begun, everyone was merrily sharing food.


    Later on, Jacob and Frederick visited the others'' tables. They stroll the long line of tables. These two fathers mingle even with the lowest employee who works in Dream city.


    Aside from the meat, Jacob ordered a truck of soda and beers to offer to everyone. Drinks are flooding the table, as well.


    "There are a lot of drinks! Since we don''t need to work in a few days, treat yourself very well!"


    Everyone cheered and pped their hands. Jacob''s assistant, Kristian, handed him and Frederick a can of cold root beer.


    "To my daughter, my princess," Jacob looks at the table where Hailee is seated with Vincent, Hilda, and grandpa Allen with his wife, Andrea. "And to my son-inw, Vincent¡­ I wished all the best for their marriage! May they walk this journey hand in hand and nourish their own family together!"


    "Cheers!"


    "Cheers!"


    After that, everyone continues enjoying the food. A little while ago, before her dad made that speech, Hailee gaily walked toward the arranged table for her and Vincent.


    Her eyes glowered and drooling, staring at the roast pigs in the middle of the table where fresh fruits and vegetables neatly decorated the surroundings.


    "Boss, there are more dishes inside the hog''s bellies," Tim reported to his boss.


    Vincent instantly guessed what they were. When he had a vacation to the Ancestral Mansion, either at South Ind or Northern Province of P Country, they always roast one to celebrate their arrival.


    "You''ll love it, Wifey! But you have not overeaten fatty meat now you are pregnant."


    "Okay, hubby. But I really want to have that hog''s skin. Can I please?" Hailee is showing her cute sides; she knows Vincent cannot refuse her plea.


    Vincent nced at Hailee''s nutritionist, seeking help or advice. It is indeed not healthy, but she doesn''t want to ruin Miss'' important days of her wedding celebration.


    Hailee''s nutritionist and dietician chef nodded their heads, but they also reminded her before anything else. "Princess, we have to carry out your strict diet after this."


    "Thank you!" she mouthed gleefully. Hailee felt she was flying to cloud nine after her nutritionist permitted her.


    Vincent then took the knife and sliced the roast pig, which Hailee dropped her jaw when crabs and prawns came out from the belly.


    "Oh, my god!" It couldn''t contain her excitement, and she was starving at the sight of her favorite dishes.


    Vincent then put on disposable stic gloves on his hands to peel the prawns and open the crabs.


    "Hubby, be careful. It''s still hot."


    Vincent truly could feel the burn, but he knew Hailee had beenining that she already wanted to taste what everyone was preparing.


    "It''s okay, Wifey. Here, what sauce would you like?"


    "The usual sauce we have."


    Vincent looked around the table. Finally, he saw a vinegar bottle, soy sauce, and fish sauce; Vincent mixed them all into a small bowl. He also found some lemons, and he squeezed three of them into the bowl.


    "Hmm¡­" Hailee also tries other foods, and she can''t contain her happiness. She was really looking forward to eating these native recipes from Asia.


    She has been to many countries, and each ce took a special ce inside her heart because of its delicious foods!


    "Hubby, I''m sorry if I postpone your bachelor party." Once again, she felt guilty that she deliberately proposed to treat all of her workers just because of her cravings.


    "You have nothing to apologize for, Wifey," said Vincent.


    He picked up a piece of chicken and fed it to Hailee. She immediately opened her mouth. If Vincent didn''t use disposable gloves, she would already bite and lick his fingers.


    Vincent notices the way she looks at him with intent. He asked, "Hmm? Do you want anything? Which one do you want to eat next?"


    A kittenish smile immediately yed on her lips. She came closer to Vince and whispered in his ear. "You¡­"


    Vincent shrunk his pupils. This girl never forgot to allure him even in front of thousands of her workers!


    He sighed helplessly, watching Hailee lick her finger after she stuffed her mouth with a piece of prawn. Vincent swallowed hard.


    ''No. I must pull myself from having wild thoughts in the middle of lunch!''


    Vincent tried to forget the tempting word Hailee whispered to him. His jaw dropped when Hailee kept looking at him seductively.


    "Ahem!"


    Vincent sat upright in his seat. His mom and sisters noticed the way they both acted. He nced at Sheena and Deana, who giggled after Hailee winked at him.


    The couple has been openly flirting in front of their family.


    dly, Shun and Theo arrived, joined their table with their wives. Vincent is grateful that Hailee''s attention now diverts to her friends. Otherwise, he has to endure his wife''s charm, intentionally seducing him.


    "Hail, your idea is too wonderful!" Nikki can''t stop praising. She was craving something, and the foods on the table made her hungrier.


    "I want to show my gratitude to everyone. They were the ones who joined my journey to make my dreame true. So I must take care and treat them well."


    "We could see how they also love you," Cassandra chimed in. She was chewing a sizable portion of roast pig, which alerted Shun.


    "Love, it was your due soon. Your doctor prohibited you from eating fatty foods."


    Vincent dropped his jaw. The mafia emperor is too gentle when he talks to his wife.


    Well, he should not be surprised about it when he cannot raise a voice to Hailee, as well.


    So then, Vincent and Theo shared a knowing look, smiling as they have the same thoughts.

 Chapter 374 - A Meal With Her Employees (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 374 - A Meal With Her Employees (Three)</h4>


    While having a sumptuous meal, several of the workers sang to Hailee and Vincent, which all these songs are love songs Hailee enjoyed personally.


    The workers that she had are not only skilled and diligent employees, they also have hidden talents, and many of them proudly showed to them today.


    After a song presentation, a group of married couples came forward. They halted five meters away from their table; then, lively music aired. They presented a tribal wedding dance to Hailee and Vincent, whichter, they invited theirdy boss and Vincent.


    Haileeughed when Vincent''s face reddened. She knew her husband was a very low-key person in partying, except that one time.


    She recalled the time they performed dirty dancing at Hazel''s 20th birthday. And since this is a sacred day of their betrothal celebration, they can''t show that to everyone.


    "Come on! It''s not that hard!" Hailee pulled Vincent by hand, urging him they must join them. Finally, Vincent let her drag him in the middle and tried to follow the dance steps.


    And after the first song, she called Hazel and whispered. "Can you ask them if they know the song from the movie Queen?"


    "London Thumakda?"


    Hailee smiled and nodded.


    Hazel introduced the movie after Hailee shared with the girls that she almost got married to her best friend. But something that happens, and so, she has to move on.


    Then Hazel came up with an idea to have a movie night at her house, and she chose this movie Queen.


    After the movie, Hazel teaches them the steps of the soundtrack.


    Hailee loved the movie and its message. Queen moves on with her life without getting back to her ex-fiance, like her!


    She focused onpleting Dream City by looking for the best architect who could help her¡­ And she never thinks about it, that life has a beautiful n for her, and that''s to fall in love with him.


    At this very moment, she couldn''t take her eyes off that man, who was still very shy to dance in front of every worker that she had.


    Led by Hazel, they followed her dance steps while the wives from the India Construction firm sang along with the music Hazel yed from her phone. Later on, everyone ps their hands after they familiarize themselves with the beat of the music and the other workers from India join them dancing.


    Hailee giggled when Vince was still embarrassed to dance. Her smile broadened when the other Indian engineers and architects came close to Vincent and taught him to do simple steps.


    Vincent is actually not a poor dancer, and he is just simply timid, and he needs someone to arouse his charisma.


    She walked toward him, and she began dancing around him. Vincent looked a little rxed now. His eyes didn''t leave Hailee but followed her around. Soon, their dance moves coincide.


    Standing on the other side of the park, Jacob and Frederick cheered. The two older men, too, enjoyed watching the pair dancing with the other couple.


    Jacob, incredibly d that Vincent got along well with the other construction firm, and with that, he was a proud father-inw.


    "You raised your son into a great man," said Jacob to Frederick.


    Fred smiled, delighted to hear Jacob''s praise regarding his son. "I am indeed a blissed father. Vincent is an obedient son. I honestly admitted that we are very strict in disciplining him where he didn''t enjoy his teenage years much, even during college, and Hilda firmly implements a curfew for him. But I am happy that Vincent showed interest in learning how to manage thepany at an early age, andter, he took up architecture."


    "And I could see he excelled in this field. Look! He certainly captured my daughter''s eyes and even her heart!"


    The two fathers had a broad smile watching the pair. Fred concurred with Jacob''s statement.


    Since Vincent meets Hailee, he is ready to turn the world upside down just to fight his love for her, even though they don''t know her real identity.


    And even if Hailee was not a girl from an affluent family, as long as Vincent was happy and behaved well. He knew to himself that he would give his blessing to his son.


    However, this girl is not just someone else, but she is someone''s princess and a Queen for many¡­ in which, to the Shen family, she is now the Emperor''s beloved Empress.


    *


    As the day goes on merrily, more people present a tribal dance and sing in theirnguage.


    Hailee wants to take all the opportunities she could spend longer with everyone. She called Tim and Nancy and talked with them briefly for some instruction, and the pair were excited.


    Nancy and Tim spoke over the microphone after they came up with some brilliant ideas.


    "Hi, everyone! Have you enjoyed our festivity today?"


    "Yes!"


    "That''s great! Ourdy boss surely was delighted to hear that you were all d about her treats for us."


    "We love you, boss!"


    Hailee was teary-eyed upon hearing this. Her eyes swept over the entire crowd that surrounded her. She waves her hand and blows kisses to the air on her left and right.


    Vincent reached her back and rubbed it lovingly. "Boss, I want you to know that my love is bigger than these thousand people here. Even if they allbine their love for you, they can''tpare to mine."


    Hailee chuckled at what Vincent whispered to her. But honestly, Shun and Theo, who were seated across from them, heard it clearly.


    The two men who were also saying sweet words to their wives felt embarrassed how it sounded corny when it reached the other''s ears. But there''s no doubt Hailee was enchanted by Vincent''s corny remarks, like how their wives'' eyes twinkled and giggled with excitement.


    Meanwhile, Tim and Nancy made an announcement that caused everyone to jump.


    "By our boss'' treat, we will have a few games with cash prizes!"


    "Hurray!"


    "Yahoo! Bring it on!" Everyone is prepared for whatever game it is.


    "Alright!" Tim further announced. "For our first game, we have a tug of war!"


    Everyone cheered as they loved this game. Many of them remembered how they used to y this game, often back in their respective countries.


    "Now, I will announce the criteria for this game. Of course, we have to follow some rules!" Nancy added. "The requirements for this game are twelve yers! Each construction firm should send one of their bosses, two engineers, two architects, one construction foreman, two masons, one equipment operator, one electrician, and two carpenters!"


    The seven construction firms quickly assembled their team, including the Shen Group.


    "Our boss!"


    Vincent looks at Hailee as if she will permit him to join in. He got excited when Hailee smiled and nodded. Vincent''s team cheered when he walked toward them, but Hailee called him out.


    "Your coat."


    Hailee helped him take off his cashmere coat. Underneath him is a long-sleeved shirt that is tight-fitting to his muscled body.


    "Alright, all the groups fall in line now. But wait, we only have seven construction firms?"


    Everyone wondered what to do with Nancy''s remark. Hailee called Tim toe over to the table, and she stood up and took the microphone from Tim, and spoke.


    "I especially chose this game so that DAVIES GROUP can join in the fun! Would my team allow themselves to lose?" Hailee''s tone sounded challenging to her knights.


    Pitt and James rushed in the middle and started boasting about showing off their half-naked bodies. They took off their coat and shirt, leaving the pants on.


    When Hailee announced this, all the female secretaries and female assistants were ted to cheer their bosses.


    Hailee looked at Geoffrey and Bryan, seated at the third table from hers. Since Pitt and James had been showing off too much, they had nothing to do but stand on their feet and take off their coats as well.


    Their secretaries urge them to take off their shirts too, but they are not as shameless as Pitt and James, who keep showing their muscles to the other group, which onlyughed and saluted them.


    "We will make sure that you will win this game, boss!" They told James, whom they were familiar with, his temperament.


    "Huh? All of you will bungee jump if you do that!"


    Bungee is when tying one''s feet, then jumping from the helicopter, which James owned one!


    The workers swallowed and smiled.


    "Then we have no choice but to beat you, boss!"


    "That''s right!" Jamesughed loudly.


    The rest of the executives shook their heads and sighed inwardly.


    "Come here, James!" Josh and Trevor hold each of his arms, pull him away from the other team, and bring him to their line.


    "Stop threatening the workers!" Leo smacked his back and pushed him in the front. "Since you were so excited, then you will be the team leader today."


    "Ehhhh? Why me? Geoffrey is the CEO now! Or Bryan?" He pointed them out. "How about Pitt? He is the princess'' Chief of Bodyguards!"


    "Stopining! Would you allow us to lose face with yourint?" Geoffrey pulled the corner of his mouth. He knew what James feared, and Alfie gossiped that he was dating Hailee''s much younger friend.


    James sneered at the others. "Don''t you guys dare to let go of the rope!"


    The men only grin at James. He twitched his mouth and hissed at them. James stood straight, nervously staring at the ground while helplessly grumbling in his head.


    ''I don''t want to swim in the mud!'' He dug his own pit!


    "Good luck, guys! Enjoy the bachelor party you wished to have!" Beaming gleefully, Hailee cheered her knights.


    Of course.. There is no fun if it''s just an ordinary TUG of WAR.

 Chapter 375 - A Meal With Her Employees (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 375 - A Meal With Her Employees (Four)</h4>


    Every team is now in a position, holding a big rope. The surrounding people were exhrated, cheering for their best team, which some began putting a bet on who will win.


    The Davies Group secretaries didn''t stop shouting their boss''s names.


    "Good luck, boss Wilson!" Helen shouted on top of her lungs, leading the secretaries to cheer.


    Both on her side are May and other secretaries cheering along with her.


    The table near these girls is Kelly, Gigi, and Vera, along with the three teenage girls who also cheered for Hailee''s knights.


    Vera stares at Geoffrey, but his eyes are only at Hailee. Seeing this, there is a pain in her heart that Geoffrey''s apple in the eyes was still Hailee even though her cousin is getting married to another man.


    She nced at Hailee, who was only looking at her husband, ignoring everyone else.


    ''Geoffrey, why don''t you give up? Hailee is already happy with someone else.''


    Vera buried the turmoil that was surging in her chest. She distracted herself and tried to impose her attention on other things. She looked at Gigi and felt a little envious.


    Gigi is cheering Tom and blows a kiss on the air for him. James saw the girls'' actions, and he nced over his shoulder and sneered at the guy positioned behind him.


    Tom hooked his mouth into a smirk after he saw how jealous James was.


    James is even more disheartened when he hears Hazel cheer for the Shen Group. Even Nadia and Liza choose to cheer for Vincent''s team.


    "Tsh! I''m going to beat Vincent''s ass!"


    "I love you, hubby! Good Luck!"


    However, Hailee''s voice echoed among the noises that made all the knights grit their teeth. Now they are all determined to beat everyone, especially the Shen Group.


    "Alright, everyone is in a position now?" Tim began. "Ready¡­ Set¡­ Pull!"


    The eight teams with twelve members used all their might to pull the opposing teams. In this first round, four teams will fight for the second round, and two teams will face the final round.


    No one from the eight teams gave up. They pulled the opponent team, using all of their energy to make them swim in the mud. Soon, one group finally won and made their opponent team swim in the muddy puddles.


    Everyone couldn''t settle down from excitement when another team dove into the mud, but the Shen Group and Davies Group remained standing, though they struggled to win this round.


    James is pulling the rope with all of his strength. He kept shouting to the knights behind him. "Heave, ho!"


    "Heave, ho!"


    "You guys pull harder!" James got to live on his stance as the team leader today. "Tsk! I will beat your asses if you do not pull harder!"


    James took this opportunity to act bossy with the other knights, and he kept ordering them to pull harder.


    Not long, the four teams that willpete in the second round finally.


    "Congrattions to the four teams!" Tim announced.


    "Look at that! Our big bosses have no n to lose!" Nancy praised the Davies Group executives. James and Pitt went crazier and once again, showing off their muscles to the crowd.


    Of course. The girls shrieked. Then the next round was announced.


    "Alright! In our next round, the team can be subbed by their co-workers!"


    "How about us investors!" Someone shouted from the crowd.


    "Omg! Captain Andre, show your body to us!" The secretaries were even enthusiastic about cheering after Andre made a suggestion.


    Tim ran toward Hailee to ask her permission. Hailee took the microphone and spoke. "Does everyone agree the investors can join the team?"


    "Yes!" And everyone agreed, and they wanted to see the other big bosses join in the fun.


    Now that it was approved, Andre and Alex joined the Davies Group Team, while at the Shen Group, Rodney and Carl moved forward.


    "Hey, Rodney! Don''t you have an investment in Shen Group?" James taunts Rodney. "This guy isn''t qualified to join!"


    Rodney sneered at James. He scoffed. "I am representing Zaijan''s ce! Besides, I have an investment in Vincent''s yacht''s business! It is still under Shen Group management!"


    Vincent nced at Zaijan, who met his gaze and shrugged a shoulder. Both men were rendered speechless. Rodney is absolutely a thick skin guy, and he isn''t talking to Zaijan yet, but here he is, using Zaijan for his fun.


    Soon, Vincent hooked his mouth into a smirk. "This guy could not live without you."


    "Hmm¡­" Zaijan has no say. Indeed, this guy bes his little brother.


    He was present when Rodney was born, and he even held him. They were on the way to the hospital, but his aunt couldn''t hold anymore.


    Fortunately, Zaijan''s father is a doctor, and he has enough knowledge to attend to his sister-inw with the help of his wife. Zaijan was there, witnessing all the happenings inside the ck van.


    Now, Rodney still raises a cold war between them. ''He is just too shameless.'' Zaijan thought to himself. He looks at Fraine, who is silently seated at the next table with the DV Gemdies.


    Fraine felt a warm gaze, looking at her. When she nced in that direction, she caught Zayn staring at her. She quickly withdrew her gaze and ignored him. She doesn''t want to entangle her life with any of them, and her life would be peaceful. She was here because of Hailee''s wedding, and so she just ignored if Zayn and Rodney''s mothers were casting dark res at her.


    Fraine heaved a silent sigh and thought inwardly, ''Can you tie your sons around your waists instead of ming me, whatever?''


    She doesn''t want to get involved in the Lopezes. However, these mothers use her of being a witch as Zaijan and Rodney didn''t want to leave her alone but kept pestering her life.


    Fraine shrugged the thought and watched the teams, who are now ready to begin the game in the next round. The crowd went wild in cheering the team they were betting on.


    Meanwhile, James and Rodney have not finished bantering at each other. Pitt and Carl step in and grab the annoying men that are behaving childishly.


    Carl ces Rodney in the front while Pitt and James step on the side to give way to their substitute.


    "I will join the team in this round!" James announced, but he could not walk forward when Pitt grabbed him by the neck.


    "Save your energy in the final round! We''re going to beat the Shen Group," said Pitt to James. The guy now settled down. Instead, James grinned at the thought of beating Vincent''s ass.


    On the other side, Hailee was praising Vincent gleefully.


    "Hubby, you are great! I will give you a special reward on our honeymoon if you beat my knights."


    Hailee''s knights dropped their jaws.


    Pitt and James sneered at Vincent while the other knights threw dagger looks at him. However, Vincent responds to them with a wide grin on his face to provoke them even more.


    "Tsk!" They could only clench their jaws and rants inside their hearts.


    *


    Now the four teams are ready, Tim gives a signal to begin the game. The losing team swam in the mud while the winners celebrated to reach the final round.


    And as everyone''s predicted, the Shen Group and the Davies Group will fight for the winner of Tug and War.


    "Good luck, guys!"


    Sheena and Deana cheered for theirpany. It''s the final round, and Deana''s husband, Wace, will join the final round.


    Also, Tyler, who just waited for the Shen Group to win the second round, to y for the final game. The Lopez Steel Corporation is directly working for the Shen Group, and he remarked he was qualified to join the team.


    So, the Shen Group is now formed by Vincent, Rodney, Carl, Tyler, Rick, Elijah, Jessa''s husband, and Jake, who is the new appointment at Shen Group in its International Affairs. The other four are from Shen Group construction workers and the twelfth person toplete the team, and the knights were shocked.


    "You, traitor!" James used the guy.


    "Hansen Park, what are you doing there? You are just a business partner of Lopez Tech, not the Shen Group!" Pitt shrieked at his cousin, though it was just a drama, typical of them both to do.


    Hansen only smirked and replied boastfully, "But my future father-inw has a big share in Shen Group. I should take responsibility."


    The knights scoffed at his answer, while Janise was too pleased. She runs toward Hansen and ces a smacking kiss on his lips.


    Hansen snickered at them and said, "That''s my good luck kiss."


    Pitt and James wanted to throw a stone at his face for showing off. Sadly, five of the Davies Group team are single because Tom, Alex, Andre, and Leo have girlfriends, while Kristian, Keith, and Lester have wives.


    The five singles are Geoffrey, Bryan, Pitt, James, and Chester.


    "Alright, team, settle down!"


    As he was the host of the game, Tim took the opportunity to nag these bosses.


    "Are you ready? Say, we are ready!"


    "We are ready!" They responded enthusiastically, and in fact, they were trying to ridicule the opposing team.


    Tim grinned inside his head. He can actually make fun of these men, but he would not dare. He could not afford to lose his job. But thinking that he has thedy boss'' backing, maybe he can do that after all.


    "Hold the rope, please. Position! Ready¡­. Set¡­. Pull!"


    "Heave, ho! Heave, ho!" Everyone cheered. "Pull! Pull!"


    The two teams have no ns to lose. Everyone is eager to know who will win from these big bosses.


    Vincent, who was in the front, took a big step backward. James and the rest had struggled to hold their stance.


    "Hold it!" James is three feet away from the muddy puddles.


    The girls shrieked on top of their lungs, and they were squealing louder. All the workers from the other construction firm were also cheering loudly.


    Jacob was too happy. He was very proud that his daughter came up with this idea. It was a very entertaining game, especially with the big bosses ying.


    Butter on, everyone was surprised when something had happened.


    Now, they don''t know what will happen next, and they are asking the same question in their minds.


    "Who wins?"

 Chapter 376 - Threats?

    <h4>Chapter 376 - Threats?</h4>


    Everyone fell silent after what happened, confused about who was the winner now.


    Tim asked what the crowd thought about the game. "Who do you think wins?"


    The crowd didn''t respond, but everyone had the same questions. The rope was ruptured. It must be after everyone uses so much force.


    "Red the criteria of the game, Tim!" Hailee told Tim.


    Tim immediately read the files saved on Hailee''s iPad she handed to Tim earlier, and it listed the games they will have today, including its rules.


    "Alright! Please, let us keep silent. I will read the rules our boss has prepared." Tim waves the gadget in his hand. "For the tug of war, the winning team must sessfully defeat the opponent team by making them touch the puddles. But for certain circumstances. The team that had a man remaining standing won."


    The crowd made a lot of noises after Tim read the rules of the games.


    "And the only man standing is my boss, Vincent Shen!" Tim was delighted to announce this, and he was too proud that Shen Group won.


    Hailee rushed toward Vince and kissed him on the lips. Everyone smiled and pped their hands, expressing their congrattions to Vincent.


    "Boss, congrattions! Can I ask you what your secret is to win this game?"


    Vincent raises a brow at Tim''s question. What could it be? The only thing in his mind was winning and iming the extra special reward Hailee had promised him.


    Besides, he has to show he dominated the game.


    Vincent pursed his lips. "There is no secret, but I am determined to achieve my goal, and that is to win the rewards. Also, I followed the rules, and to win, I have to bear it in my mind."


    "Boss, are you saying that the entire time you take part in the game, you bear in mind, I will be thest man standing?"


    "Yes. It will be a friendly game or in reality. I will prove that I can be the man to stand firm on the ground."


    Tim was biased. He admits that because he is so proud of his boss. ''Eat that knight!'' However, Tim couldn''t dare to voice that out.


    Jacob, who was very impressed, nodded in satisfaction. He is very proud of his son-inw.


    On the other side, Sheena and Jessa didn''t miss every second of the game. They recorded it and took a lot of photos to post someter.


    "Alright. Let''s take a photo together." Hailee announced Tim quickly echoed her request.


    The workers enthusiasticallye forward and pose with the big bosses. The knights stood on her right side while Vince stood on her left.


    As everyone cannot fit in one photo, many sat on the ground while the othersfortablyid down.


    Hailee wanted to maintain a good rtionship with everyone. She wanted to show that Dream City was built with beautiful friendships and good boss-employee rtionships.


    Today''s events and photos they showed to the world will be an example that nothing is impossible to dream the same dreams.


    "Alright! Say, let''s make HISTORY!" said Hailee.


    "LET''S MAKE HISTORY!"


    An apud echoed. Everyone didn''t expect thedy boss to be with them instead of throwing grand parties for her bridal shower.


    The first game has now finished. It''s time to move to another game, and tug of war is just a warm-up for everyone. Now, Tim and Nancy announced the category of the next games.


    The crowd enjoyed it a lot, especially when the next game was a sack race, but it had to be a couple or two yers in one sack.


    Pitt and James also participated. Everyoneins because the two could leap farther. In the following games, they didn''t let James and Pitt join again.


    Instead, Hailee asked them for money as a reward to the winners.


    "The loser will bungee jump!" James suggested. The crowd agreed on one condition. He needs to participate in the game. He said confidently, "Alright! Bring it on!"


    Tim announced the next game. The team must send two representatives to take part. And the game is to chug six cans of beer within three minutes.


    James was too happy. It''s a piece of cake.


    The crowd cheered. However, someone finished six cans in just two minutes.


    "What the hell!" James grunted. Stunned that someone could drink three cans of beer in just one minute. "Ah! I can''t believe it!"


    "Bungee! Bungee! Bungee!"


    "Bungee!"


    Helicopters are already waiting after a brief check on the participants'' health condition. They are now aboard the choppers after they distributed the parachute for safety.


    After that, they tied all the participants that lost in the game.


    "No! I won''t jump!" James refused after tying his foot with a safety rope. He holds at the helicopter''s handle and won''t let go.


    All of his acts were recorded by Andre, who came to live streaming for everyone below to witness what was happening.


    However, James is only ying. He actually has no fear of heights. They have been parachuting in Dubai many times, and he is waiting for something interesting.


    Soon ament pops up that excites everyone, especially James. It says,


    "I''ll kiss James if he jumps now!"


    It sounded like a challenge to James, who is willing to ept it without a second thought. He jumped from the helicopter and happily shouted, "I''m going to get a kiss!"


    Hazel was actually just joking. Now her face was reddened from embarrassment when everyone teased her.


    Jake saw Hazel''sment, and his face was darkened with jealousy. Someone smacks his back and jests, "What are you going to do, bro? It looks like you have no hope of winning back my little cousin''s admiration."


    Jake remains silent and ignores Lloyd''s question. He was trying to work on winning her heart. But Hazel is deliberately showing her liking to another man.


    Now that the losing participants fulfilled the punishment, Tim announced the next game. Hailee was enjoying the day. Then she noticed when Daichi came closer to Shun and whispered something.


    Soon, the Lawrence brothers followed him, including Rudolph Lao. Someone could sense something was happening.


    Hailee could not remain calm. Her curiosity is killing her, and so she walks toward Jacob and Fred.


    "Dad, can you oversee the event from here?"


    "Yes, princess. Are you tired now?" Jacob didn''t notice the worry in his daughter''s eyes as Hailee was wearing dark sunsses.


    "Yes, dad. I want to take some rest." Hailee ced a kiss on her dad''s cheek before she turned her attention to her father-inw. "Dad, Vincent, and I will go back to the hotel. Please, help dad stand as the leading judge of the games."


    "Sure! No problem." Fred immediately agreed. He looked at his son and reminded him, "Let Hailee take a rest well."


    Fred just casually said it, but for Vincent, it has a deep meaning. His eyes actually flickered while he nced at Hailee. Surely, he was thinking of other things while they were resting. But he should control himself now that Hailee''s pregnancy is even more difficult for her.


    The three babies in her belly are getting heavier each day.


    "Of course, dad," Vincent replied to his dad with a solemn expression on his face. Before they left, they let his mom know.


    "Mom, Hilda, I need to head to the hotel first. Can you help dad Jacob and dad Fred to oversee the ongoing festivity?"


    "Sure, Hailee. Leave it to us. You should take a rest for tonight''s baby shower."


    "Okay, mom. Thank you." Hailee leaned over to kiss Hilda''s cheek. Then she looks at Cassandra and Nikki. "You guys should take a rest."


    With Hailee''s suggestion, Shun agreed to it. Nikki still felt alright, and so she and Theo stayed. Actually, that was Hailee''s secret signal to Shun.


    She thought maybe Shun was hesitant to leave, and he didn''t want everyone to notice anything once he disappeared all of a sudden in the event. Hailee is actually not sleepy. When they arrived at their hotel suite, she asked Vincent to get her some water.


    She lounges on the sofa while she ces her foot on the nearby stool.


    Hailee picked up her phone from the table and dialed Shun''s number, which was immediately answered.


    "Hello, Shun? Did something happen?"


    Shun took a few seconds of silence. Soon, the corner of his mouth hooked into a grin. ''She actually noticed that, huh?'' Shun thought he had nothing he could hide from this princess.


    "Don''t worry, princess. Everything is under control." Shun exined. "Dn just detected a non-authorized drone flying around Dream City. If you haven''t heard yet, your dad requested no flying zone within one hundred miles of Dream City except for the authorized aircraft and helicopters to fly around Dream City. It includes the spy drone. Right now, Matt and others examine the spy drone we captured, and I will join themter."


    Listening to Shun, Hailee couldn''t hide her worries. Even if they were tight on security, the world''s enemies are not a simple organization.


    "Do you think it was the organization Liam joined in?" she asked Shun.


    "It is possible. But I am also thinking about the World Triad, and I am more thinking that they join forces to give us trouble."


    "Is it wrong that we hold a grand wedding?" She would feel depressed if everyone was harmed because they were attending her wedding and the safety wasn''t enough.


    Shun could picture the worry that exhibits on Hailee''s face.


    "Princess, stop thinking about anything. We will not allow any idents during your wedding," Shun coax Hailee.


    The Royals and country leaders generally attended Vincent and Hailee''s wedding because of Jacob''s standing in the world.

 Chapter 377 - Baby Shower Party (One)

    <h4>Chapter 377 - Baby Shower Party (One)</h4>


    On the other line, Hailee hurls a deep breath. The royals and country leaders must secure their safety above all. This is Hailee''s thoughts.


    But of course, she''s also prioritizing all of their guests, which is Vince''s family. ,


    "Shun... I''m thinking of talking to my knights to send them out in picking out and escorting the most important people attending my wedding. But this means there''s no bachelor party for the boys."


    "I don''t mind." Behind Hailee is Vincent, carrying a ss of sparkling water, and he ced a metallic gold straw and handed it to Hailee. "My bachelor party is not needed. Besides, the boys are already having fun today."


    Hailee smiled at how understanding Vince was. She indeed wants them to have fun as it''s also the best time for Vincent to mingle with her knights, but there are more priorities to make everything perfect on her wedding day.


    "Thank you, hubby," said Hailee to Vince after she drank half of the ss. Then, she said, "Shun, you heard that, right?"


    "Yes," Shun replied from the other line. "After the baby shower, I will assemble all my team and your knights for a brief meeting."


    "Alright, Shun. Thanks for the help."


    "What are you talking about? We are family. Always remember that."


    "Yes, I am. And I''m so grateful for this family."


    "So am I," Shun concurred while his eyes locked on his wife, who was staring at him charmingly. Shun leaned over to brush his lips on top of Cassandra. He then spoke again to Hailee. "Alright. Leave everything to us. Stop overthinking, okay? Have a rest now. Everyone is looking forward to the baby showerter."


    "Okay, Shun. I can''t wait! Bye!"


    After her talk with Shun, Hailee feels rxed. She must trust everyone and calm down.


    "I''ll prepare your bath." Vince ces a light kiss on her forehead before he walks toward the bathroom.


    "Thanks, hubby."


    Vincent was taking a shower while Hailee soaked in the tub, sipping tea. He scrubs his whole body thoroughly before he joins Hailee.


    Hailee quickly snuggled Vince and buried her head between his shoulder and neck. Vincent smiled and watched the sleepy woman inside his arms. Hailee constantly yawned, showing how tired she was today.


    "You can take a nap. There''s plenty of time before the tea party begins," said Vincent.


    Hailee hummed, moaning in satisfaction after Vincent kneaded her back.


    "Okay, hubby."


    Since they threw a festive meal today, they will only serve tea and desserts for the baby shower party, and it will start at 8:30 PM.


    Vince is right. It''s three in the afternoon, and she can have more time to rest.


    "I''ll bath you now so that you can sleep on the bed."


    "Hmm..." Hailee let Vince bathe her and help her dry her hair, and dress her up. After that, she hugged Vince while sleeping all afternoon.


    *


    8:30 in the evening... Everyone gathered in the Meadow Hotel Grand Hall.


    The venue was decorated with pink and blue themes. On the corners are buffet tables neatly arranged with all kinds of desserts and sd to imagine.


    "Gosh! After the food I ate for lunch, I felt guilty!"


    "I''m actually worried that my bridesmaid''s gown would not fit anymore! Gosh, only two days left and Hailee''s wedding!"


    "Ah! Those foods are tempting! I didn''t control not eating as much as my belly can take!"


    The girls keepining while they fix themselves some vegetable sd.


    "I''ll only have these!" said Hazel, scooping three serving spoons of colew sd.


    "Ugh. That mouse chocte cake is tempting! Hazel, what are we going to do?" asked Liza, who fought the temptation to get a slice of strawberry ck forest cake.


    "Don''t be a devil to me!" Hazel groaned, looking at the next table with a drooling mouth.


    She and Liza dropped jaws after Nadia filled her te with sweets, then put a spoonful of mousse chocte in her mouth in front of them. Obviously, Nadia is teasing them.


    The girls sneered at Nadia. ''This little devil!'' They hissed at her. Nadia has a huge appetite among them, and they envied her because she never gets fat and remains slender about how much she eats every day.


    Not long after, the grand hall was now filled with Hailee and Vince''s family and closest friends who first arrived in Dream City.


    After they filled their tes with desserts, everyone sat down quietly.


    Sheena and Jessa finally came to the stage to start the most awaited baby shower.


    Tonight they will reveal the gender of the three babies Hailee is growing inside her.


    She and Vince were seated on the couch at the center, near the stage, and their inws were at the next table beside them.


    Before revealing the gender, Sheena and Jessa threw a series of games that most girls took part in.


    "You girls are cheaters! You are just participating now when the floor is clean!" Jamesins at the back, and he instantly receives hundreds of murderous stares from the girls.


    Heughed nervously and said, "Good luck, girls!"


    Pitt and Carl smacked him on the back and scolded him. "You are an embarrassing junior!"


    "That''s not how to get a girl," Carl advised James. But he only received the guy''s ridicule.


    "How about you? You still have no girlfriend." James mocked Carl.


    Carl throws a sharp re at James. The corner of his mouth rose upward, sneering at the guy.


    "Shut up! You are too noisy!" Rodney elbowed James. This guy does not know what Carl got through when he was still active in the mafia association, and only a few people understand why he retired early. "This party is for Vincent and Hailee''s babies, so keep your mouth close!"


    James cannot refute. Indeed, this party is for the cute babies he is excited to meet soon. However, he has been thinking about thistely¡­ If the babies look like Vincent, he will ignore them. But if the babies resemble their mommy, he would definitely dote them!


    "What are you snickering about?" asked Pitt. James unconsciously grinned to himself, and he noticed his funny facial expression. It made him curious to know, and so he queried.


    "Nothing! I just think if the babies would look like their mommy."


    "Obviously, it will look like Vincent. Can''t you see how clingy she is to our cousin?" Rodney interrupted James in his presumption.


    "Tsh!" James meets Rodney''s mocking re and continues bantering at each other.


    Pitt and Carl ignored these childish men and watched the party game. Then Sheena announced the next game.


    "Now we will call anyone from the guests toe up to the stage and participate in our next game? It''s an easy game, guys! Come on!"


    "How about Hailee''s friends?" Jessa points at her knights.


    "Go, James! It''s your time to shine!"


    Both Carl and Rodney kick him in the ass. But he will take his revenge. He grabbed the two men up to the stage.


    "Now, we have enough yers! The game is¡­ Let''s see who could spot Hailee and big brother''s baby photos!" Sheena announced gleefully. She then asked the crowd to calm down as she didn''t finish yet. "Wait, I''m not done exining the rules!"


    "What? Are there rules again?" Jamesined. He was already excited to start the game as he thought it would simply be picking out Hailee''s baby photos.


    "Yes, James! And our rules in the game? Okay, who is Hailee''s family, rtives or friends?" asked Sheena.


    James, who first raised his hand, was followed by the other knights, Leo and Geoffrey, Vera, Kelly, and the other three younger girls. Hailee''s distant rtives also took part.


    "Alright! Vincent''s family, friends, and rtives, please?" Jessa requested them to raise their hands and then go to the right side. "Now, on the left side are Hailee''s team, and on the right side is Vicent''s team!"


    "I will exin our next game. Look at the board at the back." Sheena gestured her hand, and two male servers came to the stage and took the cloth covers off the two boards.


    The first board is colored pink, and the other one is blue. Now, it disys countless baby photos of Hailee and Vincent, which the crowd gasps in astonishment.


    "That was a cute baby picture!" the crowdmended.


    "Wait¡­ Which one are Hailee and Vincent?"


    "Yay! I think that''s Hailee''s baby pic! She is too cute!" Hazel couldn''t help getting closer to the pink board named HAILEE.


    "Okay, here''s the rule! Vincent''s team will pick out which are Hailee''s baby photos! So it means Hailee''s team will pick out Vincent''s baby photos! Who is the most correct baby picture they pick out will be announced the winner and will receive special prizes!"


    After listening to Sheena''s further exnation, the participantsin. How would they know who is Hailee and who is Vincent among the baby pictures?


    "This is a scam! You just don''t want us to win!" As usual, the first person toin about is James. "Oh, wait! Rodney Lopez, is this you? You''re so ugly!" The guyughed in his stomach.


    "Shut up, James!" Rodney roared at the guy for shaming him in front of everyone.


    Leo and Geoffrey shared a nce, shaking their heads, both grabbing James by the arm. "Come here, James! The game hasn''t started yet!" It was Leo who scolded him.


    "Can''t you restrain yourself for once?" Geoffrey red at him. James always embarrasses them in front of their friends and Vincent''s family. This guy is out of control.


    "Humph!"


    Geoffrey sighed. He fixed his eyes on the blue board, then swept his gaze to the pink board to search for Hailee''s baby photos. "Oh, isn''t that your photo, Vera?"


    Vera, who only stood quietly behind Geoffrey, was actually shocked that Geoffrey recognized her baby photo. She smiled at Geoffrey and shyly replied,


    "Yes. I was surprised that they included my baby picture too."


    "Hmm¡­ You and Hailee have a few resemnces, and it was the best trick toward Vincent''s team."


    Vera looked at Geoffrey dazedly. There is a smile on his lips, and his face is brightened. Somehow, his praises give aches to her heart. He could determine the differences between her and Hailee, and it only proves how Geoffrey loves Hailee.


    ''I have no ce in his heart..'' Vera masked the hurt sh in her delicate face and buried the jealousy she felt at the bottom of her heart.

 Chapter 378 - Baby Shower Party (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 378 - Baby Shower Party (Two)</h4>


    Sheena called everyone''s attention to begin the game. "Alright! To all the participants, please, fall in line."


    Jessa walked over and pointed out the two borderlines. She exined, "For Vincent''s team, yours is the blue line, and Hailee''s team is a pink line."


    The two lines were located in the middle of the stage, and the two boards brought it on the edge of the stage facing the audience.


    "Now that everyone is in the circles. I will exin what you need to do. Each of you wille to the board and pick one picture of Hailee and Vincent. The team mustplete it within three minutes!"


    "Three minutes?" James twitches his mouth.


    His face filled the massive screen on the stage after the camera focused on him. Everyone anticipated hisint; then, heughed out loud.


    "That''s too long!" It was just his joke.


    Leo strangles James'' neck. "You bastard! You should have asked to make it longer!"


    "Ah!"


    "Guys, please settle down! I will repeat it. Each team has to pick baby photos of Vincent and Hailee within three minutes! And whoever team picks more correct baby photos is the winner! So, let''s start now!" Jessa announced; she then began to count along with the crowd.


    "3¡­ 2¡­ 1¡­ Set¡­ Go!"


    James, who volunteered to pick first, runs as fast as he can and scans the board. He already spotted a baby photo of Vincent. Then, he went to the back of the line. Next is Geoffrey and so on. The same as Vincent''s team, his friends, Lloyd, Jake, and cousins.


    Both teams actually struggle to make a fast decision when they aren''t sure if they took the right baby photo. It added to their hardships the cheer from the audience. A few intentionally would scream that--


    "No!"


    "That''s not the right photo!"


    "It''s the other one!"


    A few of them are confused and pick the wrong photos. The crowd cheered.


    "Hurry up!" James encourages Hailee''s team. It''s almost time out.


    So then, everyone helps to count¡­


    "10¡­ 9¡­ 8¡­ 7¡­ 6¡­ 5¡­ 4¡­ 3¡­ 2¡­ 1!"


    "Time''s up!" Jessa and Sheena dered.


    "Alright! Please, raise the photos you pick out!" Sheena''s request. "Now, let''s call dad Fred and uncle Jacob to the stage to judge if all the baby photos picked out by everyone are correct!"


    Jacob and Fred came up to the stage and examined the baby photos.


    "We will call Vincent''s team first. Please,e forward to the front and make a horizontal line, then show your photos to the crowd. Uncle Jacob will take the correct photos, and I will ask the audience to help us count!" Jessa announced.


    Jacob walked over and looked at each picture after another. Every time he picks a photo, the crowd will count it until six correct among the ten pictures.


    "Now it''s Hailee''s team! Pleasee forward and make a straight line here¡­" Sheena gestured her hand and looked to see if the line was straight. "Alright! Now, please, raise your hand and show the photos you picked out. Dad, please, begin."


    Fred walked over and looked at the picture one by one. But before he did that, Sheena had already briefed him on what he must do, and Fred just made a random pick to make things thrilling.


    Fred purposely makes it suspenseful. Then, Vincent''s baby photos in a total of six. However, there are four other pictures. Fred paced back and forth until he pointed out two more correct images.


    It means Hailee''s team won. James is screaming on top of his lungs, running around and jumping on the stage.


    "We won! We won!" he keeps shouting.


    "Settle down, James!" Daichi yelled from the crowd; James was instantly sober and froze on his feet. He didn''t move, but Leo and Kristian dragged him off the stage.


    Everyone enjoyed hisical character. He actually brightened the mood simultaneously and could stir the mood of others with his ridicules, which the first person who buys out is Rodney.


    "Okay! Now we have Hailee and Vincent''s baby photos!" Jessa raises her arms to point at the big screen that upies the entire wall of the stage.


    On the big screen, it disys the photos that both teams picked out correctly. Both Hailee and Vincent look so cute in the pictures; their families, rtives, and friends cannot contain themselvesmenting.


    "Ah, baby Hailee is so cute!" Hazel said this countless times already.


    "What is the gender of Hailee''s babies? Could it be all boys or all girls?" asked someone from Vincent''s rtives.


    "Maybe a boy and a girl!"


    "Or boys and a girl!"


    "The baby princess surely would be as pretty as her Mumma!"


    "Certainly! It will be the prettiest!"


    "Hmm¡­ What if the babies would look like Vincent?" James uttered, more likely he is talking to himself.


    "So what if it will look like Vincent?" Rodney retorted, to whom he heard James as he was just at the next table.


    "Tsh! Then they all have small eyes!"


    "And so what? Normally, their dad has small eyes," Carl snaps.


    James sneered at the two cousins, then he suddenlyughed. Bryan asked him,


    "What happened to you?"


    "I have small eyes! Then the baby will look like me!"


    "Shut up, James!" Almost every knight and Vincent''s rtives chided him.


    "The hell!" Rodney spat.


    Bryan and Geoffrey shot dagger stares at him while Vincent wanted to strangle him. He looked at him with a sidelong nce.


    Daichi, on the other hand,ughed on his stomach. He teased his nephew, "I think you have to hide your neck. Otherwise, Vincent will cut it soon!"


    James unconsciously reached for his stomach and covered both of his hands. "I''ll behave now." He chuckled nervously.


    Everyone is looking at him sharply. He must keep his mouth shut now!


    Finally, it was time to reveal the three babies'' gender. Three giant colored gold boxes were pushed in the middle of the stage, and Hailee and Vincent were called toe up to the stage.


    Vincent helped Hailee stand from the sofa; he guided her taking the steps of the stage.


    "Alright! Are you guys ready?" Jessa asked the couple, both nodded anxiously.


    Indeed, Hailee and Vincent felt both excited and nervous.


    "I''m kind of nervous but very excited to know the gender of the babies." Hailee was honest to what she felt at the moment, while Vincent was calm, although he also looked forward to knowing the gender of his children.


    "Now, let''s start opening the mystery boxes!"


    The crowd pped their hands. Everyone in the world is also excited to know the gender of the babies. Sheena already posted that tonight is the baby shower party, and they will reveal the baby''s gender.


    Netizens are anxiously waiting for Sheena or Jessa to post an update. All the media outlets are keenly waiting for the update for them to repost it and make an article.


    "Are you ready!?" Sheena asked the crowd.


    "Yes, we are!"


    "How about the soon-to-be mommy and daddy?"


    "We''re ready!" Both Hailee and Vincent answered at once. Then, they held the hem of the ribbon and waited to finish the counting.


    "3¡­ 2¡­ 1!"


    "OH!"


    The crowd gasps when BLUE balloons start popping out from the box once it has burst out open.


    "Yes!" Vincent couldn''t keep his calm after he learned that his eldest is a boy. Of course, he would not mind a girl, but having a Shen heir with his first attempt is an achievement for him.


    Vincent kissed Hailee on the lips and never let her go.


    "It''s just the first box, please! Stop being shown off!"


    "Please, continue!"


    Both James and Rodneyin in the crowd. Everyoneughed, but apuse filled the grand hall. And among the audience, Jacob and Fred are also delighted.


    "Congrattions, Jacob!" said Fred and shook Jacob''s hand.


    "Likewise, Fred! Congrats to us!" Jacob felt like he was on top of a cloud noun. ''A grandson!''


    Now, Hailee and Vincent moved to the second box. They pulled the hem of the ribbon after the counting, and once again, it''s blue balloons.


    "Two boys! Congrats, brother!" Sheena could not hide her excitement. She and Gigi know the real gender of the babies, but still, it excites her for Vincent and Hailee. "I''m so happy for you guys!"


    Sheena hugs the pair before she urges them to open the third box.


    "Girl! Girl!"


    "Girl! Girl!"


    The audience is now standing from their seats. Hilda could not also hide her excitement to know the third gender of the babies.


    Hailee and Vincent pulled the ribbon; however, the third box had two boxes inside.


    The soon-to-be mom and dad shared a confused look.


    "Sheena, what is this?" Vincent asked his youngest sister. Something is telling him that Hailee is conceiving more?


    "Please, open them now!" Sheena didn''t answer but urged them instead.


    "What does it mean?" It was everyone''s query.


    Confused and anxious, Hailee and Vincent hold the end of the ribbon in each of the boxes.


    "Now, everyone, help us do the count!" Jessa encouraged the audience, and everyone began counting.


    "3¡­ 2¡­ 1!"


    "Congrattions, guys!" Sheena shrieked gleefully, followed by everyone''s screams.


    PINK balloons burst out from the two boxes.


    Hailee cried; Vincent immediately locked her inside his arms.


    "Hubby, we have two boys and two girls!"


    "Yes, wifey¡­ Our princes and princesses¡­." Vincent lovingly kisses Hailee''s hair, rubbing her back to coax her. She couldn''t stop crying after they learned the gender of their babies, which they were actually expecting FOUR babies!


    "Congrattions, Mrs. Shen¡­"

 Chapter 379 - His Rivals To His Children

    <h4>Chapter 379 - His Rivals To His Children</h4>


    Vincent gently brushed Hailee''s eyes, drying from tears streaming down her cheeks.


    "Congrattions, Hailee! Congrats, brother!" Sheena hugged them both; she quickly parted to wipe her tears.


    Sheena was extremely happy for her brother Vincent, and he was there for her when the world turned its back on her.


    Having someone like Hailee, Sheena believes Vincent deserves her and all the happiness in the world.


    Hailee hugged Sheena back; she thanked her for everything she''d done since the first day they nned out the wedding and every detail of her bridal and baby shower parties.


    Then, her dad, Jacob, and inws came up to the stage to congratte her and Vincent.


    Hailee throws her arms around Jacob, who embraces her lovingly, just the way he has been treating his daughter dotingly.


    Soon, he has two little princesses to dot and spoil. He was happy that he had already announced his retirement, and he had all the opportunity to stay home and watch his granddaughters.


    Meanwhile, Fred was delighted to learn that he has two grandsons from Vincent.


    The Shen heir is secure. Finally, he can breathe with relief. Instead, he is looking forward to teaching his grandsons all things he taught to their dad. Including as well the things he learned from Vincent.


    Life is not about being just knowledgable as you be older and walk the world for a long time already, but the lessons you embraced from that journey.


    Everything is just a waste if you ignore the best lessons life offers you when you are younger and grow old ignorant because of arrogance and ego.


    Fred learned many things from his children, primarily from Vincent. He is the one who didn''t give up on this family but kept his patience toward his nagging mom.


    "Congrattions, son! I''m so happy for you and Hailee." Fred patted Vincent''s back.


    His heart melted when Vincent stifled with sobs in his shoulder. He runs his palm on his son''s back to coax him.


    "You did great." He told his son with the father''s pride in his voice and heart.


    "Thank you, dad."


    Fred nodded, then let go of his son to look at his wife. Hilda is congratting their daughter-inw.


    Hailee didn''t just give them two heirs but also two princesses. Their family is growing, and Australia absolutely will be their second home from here on.


    "Son, I''m thinking of purchasing a mansion here in Dream City so that we can visit the kids every time wee to Australia."


    "What are you saying, dad? Hailee and I would love for you and mom to stay with us. I am designing the castle, I promise, for Hailee and our children. You are wee to live with us."


    "I know that. But it will also be a home for your sisters when they visit Dream City."


    Vincent ponders for a moment. There will be no problem for everyone to stay in any of Hailee''s mansions across Australia. But having his own for his parents is not a bad idea. Soon, their family will even grow big. It was nice for the cousins to meet and bond, like how he spent the summer with Zayn, Rodney, Carl, and all of his cousins in one ce.


    "Okay, dad. The Lewis Construction firm that handled the Dream City Estate Residential, and you can discuss with Chairman Lewis the vi you wish to build."


    "Sounds great, son!"


    Hilda holds Hailee tight while fighting the tears forming in the corner of her eyes. Although her face wrote how emotional she was, she had an impressive control built for many decades since she was a teenager. But deep down, she knew that the soft spot of herself was trying hard to hide.


    "Congrattions, Hailee. You are a mom of four now."


    "Thank you, mom. I don''t know how to handle it, but I will do my best to be their mom."


    "You will be a great mom. I''m sure of that."


    Hilda said this from the bottom of her heart. She may never be the best mom, but it''s notte for her to be a wonderful grandmother to all of her grandchildren.


    "I may not be a capable mother, but I promised I would be a cool grandma," Hilda added.


    Hailee giggled and hugged her mom-inw once again. "You are a great mom. Whoever Vincent is today, and it''s also because of your contribution in raising him."


    "You really know how to tter me." Hilda smiled genuinely. She knew deep down that she was still the same person who would not lower her pride. But for her family, especially her grandchildren, it will be another story.


    "Mom, my children would be so lucky that they have a grandma like you."


    "Yes, she is!" Both Deana and Sheena joined in snuggling Hailee and their mom.


    "The kids are clingy toward her now. They said granny bought them lots of dolls and toys!"


    Their moms have already showered them with material things. In fact, before they rebelled against their mom, she spoiled them with everything, even if they didn''t actually need them.


    It''s just that she was too strict with many things and a nagger.


    "Hail, we''re so delighted! Congrats for having quadruplets!" Deana ced a warm kiss on Hailee''s cheek. She was always happy to see her brother had this bright face every time she talked to him over the phone, and now that she witnessed everything in her eyes. Hailee is the source of their brother''s happiness.


    "Thank you, girls. I love you all." Soon, Hailee let go of her sis-inws, and she turned to Fred and hugged her dad-inw.


    "Congrattions, Hailee."


    "Thank you, dad."


    Fred didn''t take long; he gave Hailee to Vincent, then they took a family picture. Loud apuse filled the grand hall, and everyone expressed their congrattions and took photos with them.


    After the gender of the babies was revealed, there was one person who remained silent.


    "James, why aren''t you congratting Hailee and Vincent yet?" asked Carl.


    James only twitched his mouth. But he didn''t reply to anyone who asked him the same question.


    "Dude! What happened to you?" Pitt queried.


    James hurls a deep sigh that makes everyone wonder. It was rare for him to shut his mouth and feel down like this.


    "I''m just thinking how to handle the two baby Hailee soon."


    "Huh? Two babies, Hailee? What do you mean by that?" Rodney asked curiously. None of them get James'' sudden drama.


    "What if the princess one wanted to go to Sydney? But princess two wanted to go to Melbourne? Whom I would apany?"


    His exnation stupefied everyone, and they tried to process in their head what his point was.


    "Vincent is not even thinking about that matter yet when he is the dad. Then, howe you''ve been worrying about that already?" Matthew Lawrence remarked with a broad grin on his face.


    James only cast a downward look at him. He hissed, "Of course! I am a great uncle! I will apany the princesses like I let their mom drag me around Australia! But it''s a different story when there''s two of them soon."


    Everyone was surprised. They saw a side of James of how concerned he was when ites to Hailee and now to her daughters.


    James was indeed very loyal and cared much for Hailee. He never neglected protecting her, especially the times Liam could get near Hailee. He is ready to catch a bullet for her.


    "Dude, it''s really a big problem if princess one wants to learn how to navigate a yacht and then princess two wants to race a car."


    Vincent frowned upon listening to the men''s conversation. They were wrong to think that he wasn''t worried yet.


    Now that he learned he has two daughters, the worries are even worse. Just to imagine them growing up and doing what their momma loves to do, it feels like his heart wanted to jump out of his heart.


    But as he and Hailee had an immense responsibility in managing Davies Corporation, they were often out of the country. Then he will be forced to entrust his children to Hailee''s knights.


    What if they will influence his children? What if these men allow their daughters to drive their mom''s sports cars?


    Their momma has countless race cars in her garage. Now it worries him. His mom should not let his children sneak out or escape from the bodyguard''s watch with their mom''s sports car.


    Vincent suddenly felt dizzy, ying the scenarios from the distant future. He needs to ask Hailee to hide her cars if their kids already know how to drive.


    He''s hoping these men won''t dot his children more than he would be!


    Now Vincent started realizing something. There are a bunch of men that will be his rival in his children''s attention.


    He already struggles to keep Hailee to himself without shing against her knights. However, either they are her executives, they are her bodyguards.


    Soon, they will also be his greatpetition in his children''s time!


    ''They have a bunch of uncles to call on¡­.''


    Vincent thought about his children being clingy to other men they would think of as a second father or third father, whatsoever during his absence when he''s busy at work.


    It seemed like he had to ept the truth. He has been witnessing how these knights pampered Hailee.


    And so, Vincent isn''t sure either to feel happy that many people will watch over his children and assure their safety if these men would also be his rivals in his children''s attention.

 Chapter 380 - It Is Time!

    <h4>Chapter 380 - It Is Time!</h4>


    After the baby shower party, Shun gathered all of Hailee''s knights and his men to give an important order. After a briefing, the majority of them left Dream City to pick up the assigned personage they have to escort and safely arrive in the city.


    *


    Standing near the floor-ceiling window, Hailee and Vincent watch the beautiful night sky from their hotel suite. They wished to stay with everyone untilte at night, and however, they have a pre-wedding photoshoot first thing tomorrow morning.


    After such a revtion, Hailee was conceiving a quadruplet. No one is happier but them as the new parents.


    To rify why it didn''t detect the fourth baby in the previous ultrasound, Doctor Dave was invited to the stage to exin it.


    An ultrasound image is disyed on the screen while Doctor Dave exins.


    "The first ultrasound I performed only showed the third baby''s back. But then, after I performed the recent ultrasound, I saw one of them is hugging his sibling."


    "Oh¡­" the crowd gasps in wonder.


    "This is a boy, and the baby he embraces is a girl. So I concluded it was the reason I didn''t detect the fourth baby, but only just recently."


    Thanks to advanced technology,plicated things can make it possible.


    It amazed everyone to see that big brother was already protective of his sister.


    "Just like his daddy!" Sheena remarked after remembering how supportive her brother was. Even though Vincent is too busy, when he has had time, he will check her out if she is doing well and the kids.


    Deana felt the same, too. Vincent didn''t forget to send her messages asking her and Wace. Vincent showed little emotion outside, but he didn''t hide his worries toward them like his sisters.


    Now everyone was overwhelmed to see such a beautiful sight of the babies inside Hailee''s womb.


    The happiest couple at this moment is the new mom and dad. It delighted Hailee and Vincent to see their son would protect their little sister.


    And this brought warmth into Hailee''s heart. She grows up as an only child. Justter in her childhood, she had a bunch of protected boys after her mom died.


    "I love you, Mrs. Shen."


    It was Vincent''s gentle voice that pulled her back to her senses. Hailee looked at Vince and softened her gaze. She caressed her baby bump and said,


    "Babies, it will be daddy''s birthday in the next two days."


    Vincent flickers his eyes, hearing Hailee say this. It was an overwhelming feeling that in the following years, he would celebrate his birthday with the family he could call his own¡­ together with the only woman he ever loved and their four babies. Soon there will be more.


    "I like that," said Vince to Hailee, brushing his lips on top of his.


    Vincent carried Hailee and ced her on the bed, pulling up the sheets and covering both of their bodies. So gentle, Hailee could feel Vince''s movement.


    Tonight, they hold each other like there is no tomorrow with a content smile on their lips.


    *


    The following day, Hailee''s makeup artist, hairdresser, and wardrobe stylist came to prepare Hailee for the wedding photoshoot.


    During their stay at P Country, they already had pre-wedding pictures at Shen Mansion taken in the garden.


    Today, Hailee and Vincent will have their photoshoots at different locations throughout Dream City.


    There are shots taken at the hilltop where they n to build their castle. There is also in front of La Fraire Courtyard and the whole construction site as background.


    Hailee realized. There is a beautiful reason her city hasn''t finished yet.


    With a view of different construction sites, the entire city ys a big part in their life and love life.


    Before the photoshoots ended, Hailee and Vincent changed their outfit to more simple ones.


    Vincent is wearing a navy suit, and while Hailee is wearing an all-white coat and long pants, both are also wearing a safety helmet.


    It was evening. The workers were asked to take part in these photoshoots. Wearing their construction uniforms with all the safety gear, they pretend to work at the moment.


    Jessa''s team was also on standby to record everything. Drones were flying above Dream City to film and take aerial shots.


    It was breathtaking scenery.


    Hailee and Vincent are standing under the Arch in the middle of Dream City.


    Behind them is an ongoing construction of numerous modern residential andmercial skyscrapers.


    Jessa posted another sneak preview of Hailee and Vincent''s documentary. It was their pre-wedding photoshoot when Hailee was wearing a stylish white office suit.


    Theizens cannot have enough of the caption.


    "Lady Boss and an Architect Love Story"


    Onement that was concurred by many. "It was so perfect!"


    "Lady Boss is a hot Mumma!"


    "Yes! Queen is blooming! We are also shocked that its quadruplets, not just triplets!"


    "The preggy queen is looking even prettier!"


    "Our queen is happy and content!"


    "Yes, I could see that too?"


    "Did you see how tender Mr. Shen looked at his wife? I died!"


    "They look so in love!"


    The entire world cannot stopmenting on Jessa and Sheena''s posts on their social media ounts.


    *


    Dream City Pce Garden


    It was a courtyard behind the main building where the bride and groom could stay overnight, along with their bridesmaids and groomsmen.


    After an exclusive dinner, Vincent had a few sses of champagne with his groomsmen in the left wing of the building, while Hailee had a spa over tea with her bridesmaids on the right wing. The girls had only light meals, as they wanted to keep the figure. They worked hard to look sexy and stunning wearing the bridesmaid''s gowns.


    Starting tonight, the ce was heavily locked with security by Hailee''s knights and Shun''s men led by Daichi Isagawa and Matt Lawrence.


    After catching an unauthorized drone flying around Dream City, Shun assigned his best men to look after Hailee and Vincent.


    The Royals and Mafia Lords are now gathered in the city.


    Even after a strict security protocol for all guests and deliveries entering the city, Shun didn''t ck off, assuring everyone''s safety.


    Many talented individuals are invited to this wedding, whom they know how to improvise bombs from ordinary materials. Shun couldn''t care less.


    There are secret groups formed from influential people who are now in Dream City.


    Those who are members of the revolutionary group under his reign are Liam''s subordinates and carried an order to kill Vincent in exchange for his silence to confess their names to him.


    Shun is still gathering theplete list of elite people taking part in illegal activities, especially those supporting in kicking him from his seat.


    At midnight, August 28, 2026, the very day of their wedding, Hailee posted a birthday greeting for Vincent.


    A photo is taken inside their suite; a cake, cheese, and two sses of sparkling wine are on a tray above the bed. Hailee sang a happy birthday, and then Vincent blew a candle.


    Hailee persuaded Vincent to make a brief speech, aiming the camera at him. "Come on, hubby!"


    Vincent had a charming smile on his lips upon staring at Hailee, persuading him to deliver a message. She is using her childish behavior, coquettishly urging him to speak.


    Soon, he leaned over and kissed Hailee on the lips.


    "Thank you foring into my life and giving me four children at once. It''s the best birthday gift I ever received."


    She is the one who urged Vince to express a few words. But then, she was the one in teary-eyed now.


    "I love you," said Vincent lovingly. He was wiping the tears, drying them by brushing his lips into his eyes.


    "I love you too, hubby."


    The short video Hailee posted with a caption, "I want to be the first person to greet your special day. Happy Birthday, Daddy!"


    "Thank you, my Empress."


    Vincentmented on Hailee''s post, which was feasted on byizens around the globe to wish him a happy birthday and praise and adore him.


    "Oh, my gosh! Did you see that? Mr. Shen called our queen `` My Empress!"


    "Yay! Our Empress Hailee!"


    "So sweet of Mr. Shen! Our queen is so fit to be called Empress!"


    Hailee''s post on Instagram was flooded with messages from their families, rtives, and friends. Even celebrities, tycoons, fashion houses, fashion magazines, leading car manufacturers, and all big brands across the globe leave a birthday greeting for Vincent and wishes for the soon-to-be wedded couple.


    *


    A loud rang of bells from Dream City Cathedral that is inspired by the Renaissance period echoed throughout the city.


    The sun had just risen. A warm kiss on her cheek woke up Hailee, and she moaned and hugged the man next to her.


    "Good morning, Mr. Shen¡­."


    "Good morning, Mrs. Shen..." Vince ced a kiss on her lips that took longer to end. "I have to go to prepare for our wedding."


    "Hmmm¡­" Hailee''s humming is filled with protest, and she wants to stay in bed and remain to hug Vince to feel his warm body.


    She buried her face between his neck, making Vince tickle a bit. He chuckled and kissed her forehead.


    "I will prepare the bath now," said Vincent.


    "Okay."


    Finally, Hailee let him go. Soon Vincent came back and carried her toward the warm bathtub and helped her have a bath.


    "Hailee! It is time!"


    Once Vince leaves the room to head to his groomsmen and the stylists to help him prepare for his wedding, Hailee''s bridesmaids emerge to take her to the lounge, where they will do their makeup and hairdos, then get dressed.

 Chapter 381 - Her Wedding Day (One)

    <h4>Chapter 381 - Her Wedding Day (One)</h4>


    After having their manicures and pedicures, the makeup artists and hairstylists poured all their skills to make these beautiful women extra stunning today.


    A famous fashion photographer named Kimmy took as many photos as she could from different angles.


    Hailee''s bridesmaids are all pretty, which she could see that they were from different countries.


    When she received the wedding invitation card, she spotted the famous woman on the list, the bride''s rtives and closest friends: Vera Davies, President of Davies Cosmetic Company. Gigi Chan, herself an heiress of a leadingpany back in S Country, and Kal Varghese, President of DV Inc. and co-founder of DV Gem.


    Soon, the twelve bridesmaids wore their stunning dresses. Kimmy announced she''s going to take their photos as a group and then will pose solo after.


    Later on, Hilda arrived with exquisite make-up and hairdo by Shen''s stylists. At their uncle''s wedding, Sheena and Deana and their princesses as flower girls also came with their mom.


    "Oh, so pretty!" Hazel hugs the little girls who look so cute in their dresses.


    "Come here, kids!" Both Kelly and Gigi called Sheena and Deana''s daughters to ce the cute tiara on their heads.


    "Wow! I look like a princess!" Lena, Sheena''s oldest daughter, jumped with glee. She runs toward Hilda and shows the princess crown on her head. "Look, granny! It''s pretty! I am a princess now?"


    Hilda smiled and nodded upon seeing the sparks in her granddaughter''s eyes. She reached out to Lena''s forehead and rubbed, saying,


    "You are already a princess, and you will always be."


    Lena is her eldest grandchild, a carbon copy of her mom Sheena. Staring at her granddaughter made her recall that little girl she cherished, but soon she got disappointed and broken when Sheena went against her.


    The little girls looked at the mirror and twirled around. They were too happy being praised by their grandma.


    Lena and her little sister Stephanie looked stunned upon seeing their beautiful Mumma in her gown and a tiara on her head. They run to Sheena, and they crash inside her arms.


    "Mom, we look the same!"


    "Yes!" Sheena fixed her two daughters'' dresses and hair. "Don''t run around, okay? Or your tiara will fall from your head."


    "Yes, mom!"


    Sheena smiled, looking at her two daughters. They were bubbly, but she had no difficulty in making them settle down as her daughters were obedient. It just needs to coax them correctly.


    "I will take a photo of you three," Hilda told Sheena. Her two granddaughters quickly made a pose that brought a smile to her face.


    Later, Deana joined them and her daughter, Elle.


    "The bride is ready!" Tina, Hailee''s assistant, announced.


    The giant sliding door opens, everyone gasps.


    "Oh, my gosh! Hail, you''re so pretty!"


    Hailee seated on an ent chair. She looks very regal in her wedding dress. The tiara that Kelly designed and crafted for the wedding is elegantly ced on Hailee''s head.


    "I am pretty, but you are the prettiest!" said Kelly gleefully, but soon reced with a crack voice as she emotionally scanned Hailee from the head down to her long trained wedding dress. "I am so amazing!"


    Kelly added that it made everyone giggle after she carried her own chair. Anyway, she is truly a talented artisan. There is no doubt about that.


    She then walked toward Hailee and hugged her tight.


    Kimmy took this opportunity to take a beautiful photo. The postures were already perfect, and she need not have instructed them to do other poses for a better photograph.


    Hilda came closer to Hailee and kissed her forehead. Jessa also makes sure to capture this beautiful moment, instructing her crew to record everything.


    "You look so lovely," Hilda said to Hailee.


    "Thank you, mom." Hailee only feet the tears that are forming in the corner of her eyes. "Today, I''m going to marry your son."


    Hilda smiled. "He''s very nervous, and he can''t stop pacing back and forth inside the room."


    "And she''s sweating a lot because of what he''s doing!" Deana chimed in, causing Hailee to giggle.


    "Brother has been dreaming of this day! He is now the happiest man on the." Sheena echoed, revealing more about their brother.


    ''Hubby, your fam is exposing you!'' Hailee thought. However, afterward, she thinks of that; she grabs some Kleenex and gently wipes the corner of her eyes as her chest is flooded with inexplicable emotion at once.


    "And I''m the happiest wife," Hailee muttered.


    Sheena and Deana hugged her; their mom immediately nagged them not to touch Hailee''s might; they messed up hair and make-up.


    "Don''t mind, mom. She''s exaggerating every time." Sheena whispered.


    "I heard you,dy." Hilda snapped at her daughter, casting Sheena a sidelong re.


    Hailee giggled along with her sisters-inw. They blew a kiss on the air before letting her go while Kimmy took pictures of these beautiful scenes.


    Outside, Daichi opened the door after he verified the identity of an older woman who wished to see Hailee before she walked down the aisle.


    Tina immediately attended to the woman upon recognizing her. "Mrs. Anderson¡­ This way, ma''am."


    Hailee lifted her head after she heard her assistant call someone she knew. Hilda saw when Hailee''s eyes flickered. She frowned upon recognizing the woman; it was Hailee''s almost mother-inw.


    "Mama Tina!"


    The woman smiled upon seeing Hailee with a beautiful smile on her lips. She said, "You are so lovely¡­ I always knew you were the most beautiful bride in the world."


    Hailee exchanges a hug with the older woman, none other than Tina Anderson, Bryan''s mom.


    Hilda, on the other hand, twitches her mouth and sneers inside her heart. It displeases her that someone quoted what she already said to Hailee earlier.


    But what really irritates Hilda, she is the mother of Hailee''s ex-fiance. Not only that, Hailee is calling her mom as well!


    However, she could notment on that. Tina Anderson is Marlyn''s best friend, and so, she could not show her irritation but fake the awkward smile on her lips.


    "I''m sure your mom is happy for you," said Tina to Hailee. She could feel the hostile behavior of Hailee''s mom-inw, with whom she is ufortable, as well.


    Tina was sad that Bryan and Hailee called off their wedding because of her son''s stupidity. Bryan knew she didn''t like his girlfriend Eva. But her son even met that woman in secret.


    Now, what happened? That woman sessfully destroyed the chances of Hailee bing her daughter-inw. She has been dreaming of that not because of Hailee''s wealth but because she is a wonderful girl, every mother''s wish to have.


    "I wished you all the best." Tina held Hailee''s hand tight as she said this, resisting the tears that threatened her eyes.


    "Thank you, mama Tina. I''m happy that you''vee."


    "Of course, I will.. I would never miss the day I see you walking the aisle."

 Chapter 382 - Her Wedding Day (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 382 - Her Wedding Day (Two)</h4>


    Hailee hugged Tina one more time. The woman gently patted her back before she let her go.


    "I''ll see you in the church. More people want to see you before you walk down the aisle."


    Tina isn''t wrong when she says that. A group of middle-aged women came to see her as well.


    "Our princess is stunning!" said a beautiful woman in her sixties who looked like she was still in her forties.


    She is the famous Brianna Wilson, Geoffrey''s mom.


    "Hello, Aunt Brianna!" Hailee greeted Geoffrey''s mom and the five women behind Brianna.


    "You look so lovely, dear!" Miranda chimed in, Josh and Tiffany Lynch''s mom.


    "Thank you, aunt Miranda."


    On the sideline, Hilda frowned upon seeing more ambitious women who want Hailee to be their daughter-inw.


    Last night at the dinner party for all the guests, these women ignored her because it was her son who won over Hailee''s heart. But she doesn''t care if they don''t wee her in their so-called circle of friends.


    As she is a great mom-inw, she will carry her temperament with elegance for the sake of her son and Hailee''s wedding. Besides, she was used to the environment of high society, and she never insisted to everyone to ept her in their circle. She better go by alone than be friends with stic women.


    Although she knew these women were not fake. But they are not friendly toward her because they are envious she who became Hailee''s mom-inw.


    Anyway, most of Hailee''s rtives are nice to her, and that''s what matters here. They are from noble families: the British monarchy, Fen royal family, French monarchs, and the other noble guests warmly wee Vincent into their family.


    "Ahem. It was almost time for the wedding, and Hailee still has a few things to do before we head to the church." Hilda reminded these women afterward.


    They give her a fake smile to hide their annoyance at her. Also, they don''t want Hailee to see they weren''t getting along.


    "See you at the church, dear!"


    "Bye, princess!"


    The seven women left after they gave Hailee a quick hug and a kiss on the air, not to mess up their makeup.


    Even so, Hilda still asks the stylist to retouch Hailee''s makeup. Hilda assured that these older women heard her clearly, which they sneered inwardly.


    ''I should be the one who stood beside Hailee!'' It is what was on their mind and heart.


    *


    Hailee finally wore her long train skirt, which looked so elegant and regal. The way Janise changes her original design, Hailee doesn''t look pregnant in her wedding gown.


    "So gorgeous!"


    Kimmy took many pictures while the bridesmaids helped ce the hem of Hailee''s wedding dress neatly on the floor.


    "Perfect!" Kimmy gives the girls a thumbs up.


    Kimmy''s crew and Jessa are immersed in filming everything that is happening in the lounge room.


    Next, they ced Hailee''s long veil and attached it to her bun. Kimmy took a photo where the bridesmaids were holding the edges of thece veil.


    "Princess!"


    Hailee nced at her dad, who had an inexplicable emotion written on his face. She smiled and faced him.


    Jacob stops in his tracks when he is near Hailee. He scanned his daughter from the head down to the hem of her wedding dress and said,


    "You look even so beautiful in your wedding dress, princess."


    "Thank you, dad. And you look so handsome with your tux." Hailee returned thepliments to her dad, stretched her arms to fix her dad''s bow tie.


    Hailee always saw her dad wearing his office suits and tuxedos during parties. But today, her dad is exceptionally handsome despite his age, and he absolutely still looks younger, which many widows and even young women the same age tried to capture her dad''s heart.


    But he never had an interest in remarrying, and she is just often heard by him answering anyone who throws a question regarding his marriage.


    "I still could not forget my wife."


    In the past years, she thought her dad would think to look for someone since she was not around to apany her dad. But he never attempts to.


    He is too loyal to her mom. One thing that teaches her is that first love never dies.


    "Dad, thank you so much." Hailee hugged her dad, pushing back the tears in her eyes.


    "You need not mention anything, princess. Dad''s happiness is to see you happy."


    "You are the coolest dad. Soon, one of the best grandpa my children could ever ask for."


    "And I can''t wait to meet these angels in your womb. I have to keep an eye on them, and I''m sure they will inherit their mommy''s sneaky nature."


    Hailee giggled at what her dad had said. "Dad, Vince is already eyeing to build an underground chamber to hide all our sports cars."


    Jacobughed out loud. He was really proud of his son-inw. He need not teach Vincent how to be strict with his granddaughters, of which the boys have an exception. Vincent already knew what to do to his daughters, and it pleases Jacob to think he will be a capable father.


    Jacob admitted he pampered and spoiled Hailee as his sole daughter. He could not give her a stepmother, fearing that Hailee would be sad as he reced her mom. Besides, might this woman mistreat his beloved daughter¡­


    Nothing is more important to him than his daughter because she is his happiness.


    "It''s time to go to church!" The wedding nner announced when there was just half an hour left.


    Hailee still needs to have a photo shoot at the Dream City Pce Garden with her bridesmaids before they all head to the church where the Royals and affluent families had gathered for the Wedding of the Millenium.


    "Princess, I will take a quick look at Vincent."


    "Okay, dad."


    After that, Hailee, with her bridesmaids carrying her long train skirt, marched outside and went to the fountain in the courtyard.


    Kimmy and the other photographers took as many photos as they could before Hailee rode on her custom wedding car.


    On the other side, Vincent and his groomsmen are also ready to go to the church. They had already finished their photoshoot, but Vincent had needed to use the restroom.


    He breathed in and breathed out in front of the mirror. Now that he is more rxed, he decides to get out, and he sees his dad and father-inw talking.


    Vincent is wearing white leather shoes, white pants, and a white tuxedo with golden embroidery of two dragons on his zers.


    Western and eastern suits inspired the style of his tuxedo.


    "Hmm¡­ I didn''t imagine that it would look this way." Jacob, who turned around and saw him appear at the door, immediately gave his remarks.


    "Dad¡­" Vincent is delighted to see his father-inw.


    "Hailee mentioned Janise designed something different for your wedding suit. I loved the embroidery!"


    "Thank you, dad."


    "Vincent, I know I need not say this, as I witnessed how you love my daughter. But Hailee is my life¡­ I don''t want to see her brokenhearted again."


    "You can assure, Dad¡­ Hailee is my life, too. So pleased, allow me to make her my world."


    A delighted smile parted Jacob''s mouth. He said, "You sounded too corny and cheesy. But I do love to entrust you to my daughter."


    Vincent chuckled. At least now, his nervousness subsided a lot more.


    It''s just that he could not believe until now the woman who owned his heart, body, and soul is finally walking down the aisle with him.

 Chapter 383 - Her Wedding Day (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 383 - Her Wedding Day (Three)</h4>


    Jacob patted Vincent''s back and said, "My daughter never loves someone the way she loves you. As you can see... The boys are close to her. Even so, I know she only falls for you. And so, I am hoping you will not get jealous or question her love."


    "I never am, dad. I trusted your daughter. However, the other men are still in love with her. I think it''s natural for me to stand my ground. And draw boundaries for them to step aside."


    Jacob smiled. He knows men are not thinking of Hailee simply as their little sister. He knew they had developed a feeling for her. But his daughter treated them the same.


    "I understand. One day, everyone will ultimately move on. For now, they cannot ept it yet as things seem to happen too fast. It is different when the situation was between Bryan and Hailee," Jacob coaxed Vincent.


    Indeed. Now his precious daughter is getting married and soon to be the mom of four! Their family of two bes six-plus one, and that''s because Vincent and the babies are his daughter''s life soon.


    "Alright. See you at the church. I''ll go back to apany Hailee."


    "Yes, dad. See you at the church."


    Vincent heaves a long sigh after Jacob disappears from the door. He scanned his reflection in the mirror once again, and he fixed his zer and cor.


    "Are you ready, son?" Fred asked his son.


    Vincent nodded and replied, "I am never this ready in my entire life, dad."


    Fred smiled and patted his son''s shoulder. He was d that Vincent got to experience walking down the aisle to marry a wonderful woman.


    "Let''s go."


    The father and son leave the room together. Vincent joined his groomsmen. Before they headed to the church riding the supercars, they took several photos.


    At the Dream City Cathedral, the church is already packed with guests.


    As no media could enter the city, it was exclusively covered by Shun''s broadcastingpany and an Australian TV station, where Davies Corporation is a significant investor.


    Well, it is necessary to have photographers on this extraordinary asion. Only a few very famous photographers were invited, and they are all from big fashion houses who contoured the guest''s dresses today.


    Thanks to Shun and Nichs. They''re the ones who amodated the royals and mafia lords while the groom and bride''s parents are attending the couple.


    "The groom is here!"


    The cameras are aimed at the twelve sports cars that pulled over in front of the cathedral.


    Vincent emerges from the passenger seat of the white Lamborghini Countach. Zaijan, who is his best man, stepped out from the driver''s seat.


    The twelve groomsmen also get out of their cars. Aside from his closest friends Jake, Lloyd, and Theo Shang¡­ Pitt, Hansen, and Alexander are also on the line of his groomsmen, while his cousins upied the rest, both from Lopez and Shen ns.


    Not long after, a white SUV carrying Hilda and Fred arrived along with their grandchildren, who are flower girls, ring bearers, and bible bearers in their uncle''s wedding.


    Soon the twelve bridesmaids arrived, and the maid of honor, Kelly, carefully stepped out of the car. She remained on the steps, waiting for Hailee aster on, the bridal car arrived.


    The wedding singers, a famous artist group, sang love songs as the wedding march.


    First to walk are the flower girls, followed by the bible bearer, coin bearer, and ring bearer.


    Every guest adored the cute children carrying their role seriously. Sometimes, they looked up and smiled shyly. dly, no one ran toward their parents and cried. The wedding nner breathed a sigh of relief when the kiddos arrived near the altar that nothing had happened, such as one kid was not in the mood.


    Then, now it''s turned for the best man to march, followed by the groom''s parents. Halfway, Fred and Hilda halted and waited for Vincent, who walked alone. But midway, he was escorted by his parents.


    Next is the wedding nner called the bridesmaids and groomsmen, followed by the couples who will light the candle, put the veil, and then the cord to seal the marriage.


    And then, the principal sponsors, who were called wedding godparents, will march next in the aisle and sit in the second row of the chairs in front of the altar, followed by the maid of honor.


    Kelly walked elegantly into her dress. She saw her parents busy taking a picture of her, which she couldn''t roll her eyes on because her future mother-inw was seated next to them.


    Queen Elisha is smiling at her lovingly. It made her happy that Alex''s mother was not opposed to marrying an Arab girl like her. She and Alex are from different worlds because of their forefather traditions, culture, and religion, but no one can stop them from reuniting soon.


    After Kelly arrived at the altar, it was now the time for the bride''s parents to march, and halfway, Jacob will wait for his daughter to walk her down the aisle toward Vincent, who willter bring her to the altar after receiving the blessings from their parents.


    Everyone gasps in awe at seeing the beautiful woman at the door. She looked so regal in her princess ball gown with a long train skirt and veil.


    Hailee swept her eyes at every face she passed by. She smiled at them and nodded every time she saw royal guests, especially elders.


    Honestly, she was super nervous. But seeing the people that are dear to her, smiles appeared on her lips. She saw her knights and the people there for her when her mom and both grandmothers died.


    Her closest rtives and family friends, and their business partners be part of the Davies Group''s huge family.


    And of course¡­


    The man, who''s standing near the altar, is waiting for her toe close. He was so highly handsome in his all-white wedding suit.


    Hailee blinks her eyes several times to push back the tears in her eyes that threaten to flood her delicate face with exquisite makeup, especially on her wedding day.


    ''Babies¡­ look at your daddy. I want to go on our honeymoon too soon!''


    Hailee suppresses not to giggle, having silly thoughts at the moment of her wedding. She smiled brightly, causing Vincent to choke.


    He let out a long breath, trying to prevent his tears from falling down his eyes. Seeing Hailee with a beautiful smile on her lips and eyes sparks staring back at him, he couldn''t help to shout to himself,


    ''She is mine!''


    It made him d to see that he caused that bright smile on her lips as she was to his smile.


    Vincent couldn''t wait for Hailee to get near him; his mouth formed,


    "I love you."


    Hailee was even emotional after Vincent said that, to which she replied immediately.


    "I love you too, hubby."


    Everyone noticed they were exchanging I love you''s while Hailee walked down the aisle, and they witnessed that these two were truly madly in love with each other.


    The single men want to roll their eyes, but this moment is for this couple, and so, they control the urge to vomit from too much sweet they witnessed from Vincent and Hailee.


    Meanwhile, the other knights who scattered around the church to ensure the safety of everyone and no suspicious movement by the other guests heard someone snorting.


    "Who is sobbing?"


    Theymunicate through the earpiece in their right ear. "Who''s a cow is crying!"


    Pitt hissed with a shallow voice as he was in front of the altar. Soon, Geoffrey found the guy, and it was James who was sobbing in the corner.


    "Dammit. Would you stop weeping like a cow? It was a pain in the ear!"


    James looks up at Geoffrey, twitching his mouth, muttering words, but Geoffrey doesn''t understand him.


    "What did you say?"


    "I said our princess is finally married!" James sneered over.


    The knights looked at the woman walking down the aisle as they fell silent. She was so stunning in her wedding dress.


    The sweet, innocent girl they all wanted to protect was tying a knot. Indeed, this brought an inexplicable feeling into their hearts. But nothing they wish is her happiness inside the arms of the man she wants to grow old with¡­


    *


    Finally, Hailee reached her dad. Jacob offered his elbow, and Hailee lovingly took it and together walked toward her official husband soon.


    Jacob already talked to Vincent before they came to the church, and he has nothing he wants to say anymore. The smile on his daughter''s lips is evident that Vincent made her ultimately happy.


    After Hailee exchanges hugs to her parents-inw, and her dad embraces Vincent, patting his back¡­ Jacob finally gives Hailee''s hand toward him.


    "Take care of my daughter."


    "I will, dad. It''s not a promise or an obligation. But because I love your daughter from the bottom of my heart."


    Jacob smiled and thought, ''The sermon hasn''t begun yet, but this guy is already reciting his vows.''


    Jacob nced at his daughter before he walked toward his seat and watched the couple walk toward the altar.


    A beautiful song aired that was like angels singing. Hailee couldn''t help but look up at the woman who sang at the moment with an international choir to back her up.


    She was Jean Soberano Lawrence, a famous event singer of Shun''s hotel at Maind City.


    Hailee slowly withdrew her gaze at the choir above; she looked at Vincent passionately and said, "It''s our favorite song."


    Vincent took her hand and kissed the back of her palm, even with the gloves she wore.


    "You are so beautiful, darling."

 Chapter 384 - Her Wedding Day (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 384 - Her Wedding Day (Four)</h4>


    Vincent held Hailee''s hand and led her toward the sanctuary, close to the altar.


    Kelly and Vera quickly went forward to carry Hailee''s long train skirt up to the steps on the altar, which Hazel helped as well, carrying the hem of the veil.


    Now that Hailee and Vincent were standing on their chairs with low backrests, Janise went forward to change the skirt. With Kelly''s help, they pulled something, and the skirt rested at the back of Hailee''s dress and the long train neatlyid down on the altar''s staircase.


    Vincent let go of Hailee''s hand. He kneels on the floor to pull the hem of Hailee''s wedding dress for her not to step on them if she moves.


    Hailee smiled and thanked Vincent. "Thank you, hubby."


    Everyone gasps in admiration. Vincent''s gestures amazed them, and they thought he was a very thoughtful husband.


    Now that Hailee wasfortable with the heavy skirt around her waist, she looked at the priest and nodded.


    The priest walked toward the Archbishop, sitting at his chair, and helped him stand.


    He had already aged and was supposed to retire, but he wanted to officiate this wedding for thest time. The archbishop greeted the couple.


    Hailee smiled at her grandfather, the elder brother of her grandpa Dave Davies, who chose to serve God.


    The archbishop began the ceremony¡­


    "We are all gathered here today to witness the union of two hearts, Hailee Davies and Vincent Shen."


    Archbishop Davies officiated the holy mass, and a bishop assisted him. After singing Gloria, a couple came forward to light the candles to begin the ceremony.


    At the wedding, candles are represented as the light of the marriage.


    Madison Moore Monfront and her husband Levi Monfront, who Hailee invited to light these candles. Hailee smiled upon watching the couple.


    This couple is indeed a light to this world.


    After lighting the candles, it follows the Liturgy of the Words and then the homily. He highlights the matrimonial duty of the couple in each other. May the sermon be long; everyone appreciated the good words from the bishop regarding marriage.


    Now, Hailee and Vincent were invited to stand along with all the guests. It was the celebration of matrimony, addressing and stating their intentions with a response of I have, and I am after a question from the priest.


    After that, Hailee and Vincent stated their marriage vows.


    Once they finish expressing the words for each other as promises of love through eternity, the archbishop blesses the rings and sprinkles some holy water. After that, Vincent and Hailee said the rites of wearing the wedding rings.


    "Hailee Davies¡­ I give you this ring as a symbol of my love through eternity, my devotion with my soul, and to bind our hearts in the name of the Father, the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."


    "Vincent Shen, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness through eternity. With this ring, my soul binds as one with yours, and this ring is a symbol of my vows that I will stand by your side forever¡­ In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."


    Now, the bishop next to bless the coins, and the groom presents it to his bride as a symbol of prosperity they would share as a new couple, and as the husband, he promised to support his family.


    After Hailee epts the array, they are requested to kneel.


    It was the time to put the veil to the new couple by cing it on the bride''s head and draping it to the groom''s shoulder¡ªas symbolized their union being "clothed as one" in unity.


    The couple they invited to clothe them as one is Shun and Cassandra.


    Hailee was grateful that Cassandra didn''t time travel at this time around, which is a phenomenal event by an unknown force that even Lady Isabe and Madison cannot fight against.


    Being always worlds apart, she isn''t sure how she could continue to live after Vincent is away for a very long time. Hailee thought.


    But Shun and Cassandra never stop loving each other, even with the tragic love story they have. It was something she admired about this couple.


    ''Ah, this couple¡­.''


    Hailee smiled when Nikki and Theo came forward to put the silk cord over their shoulders to symbolize their couple''s bond that they are no longer two but one.


    Suddenly, she recalled the days she hung out with Cassandra and Nikki, who then opened up about their love life.


    Even though this couple had no memory of their past, their hearts never stopped loving each other. They proved memories are unnecessary when they can make new ones together and the family they build.


    Hailee nced at Vincent, who never took his eyes off her. He took her hand, and their fingers intertwined.


    Now, the holy mass is carried on. Hailee and Vincent remained to kneel until it finished. When it was done, they were asked to stand to conclude the ceremony.


    "Now, you may kiss the bride."


    Vincent stretched both of his arms and lifted Hailee''s veil. Now, it visibly disyed the tiara on Hailee''s head. Everyone gasps in marvel, seeing that giant pink diamond that is alone in the world.


    While everyone was dazed, Vincent only had one thing in his head. He leaned over and kissed Hailee on the lips passionately, and it took longer before he let her go.


    Apuse echoed throughout the cathedral. But they didn''t anticipate that Vincent would kneel and kiss Hailee''s baby bump.


    That was a very heartwarming gesture. The guests cannot stop pping their hands.


    On the other side, Hilda wiped the tears in her eyes. Watching her son tie a knot with a beautiful ceremony brought warmth to the deepest part of her heart.


    Besides, only Vincent had a proper matrimonial ceremony because her two daughters got married on their own when she was against their husbands.


    When Vincent and Eva had the civil wedding, it onlysted a few minutes and a quick dinner.


    Hilda heaves a long sigh. She hasn''t asked forgiveness from her children yet. But she can''t do it because of her pride. Maybe treating her son-inw is a way to convey that shepletely epts them to the family.


    "Hilda, are you alright?"


    Hilda blinks her eyes, then turns to her left. Fred is looking at her worriedly. She asked, "What is it?"


    "I called you twice already, but you didn''t seem to hear me. What''s wrong? Are you not feeling well?"


    Hilda shook her head. "No. I''m just thinking about something."


    Fred scrutinizes his wife. Hilda didn''t have any sign of a funny expression, but she acted somewhat strange.


    "Then, you should pull yourself together. We are still in the middle of the wedding, and we have to make sure that everything goes well until the very end."


    Hilda had rendered speechless. She realizes Fred is the one who is nervous about this wedding, probably because all the affluent families in the entire world attended this wedding of the millennium.


    She must gather all her thoughts in one ce and focus on Vincent and Hailee''s union. However, even though Nancy reported nothing to worry about as all were ready at the wedding reception, she still wanted everything perfect.


    "Mom, it''s time for a picture with the parents." Sheena approached them.


    Hilda nodded, and Fred guided her toward the sanctuary. After the photo shoot in front of the altar, they now proceed to the wedding reception.


    All the guests had already arrived at the venue and were seated at a carefully organized table.


    Not long, the newlywed couple entered the grand hall.


    Hand in hand, Vincent and Hailee walk toward the lover''s French white chaise above the stage. Hailee had already taken off her long train skirt, but she was wearing a beautiful maternity bridal gown filled with genuine gemstone.


    It was the artwork of Janise and Kelly in the passing months. With the tiara of pink diamonds on her head, she looks regal and stunning.


    The bright smile on her lips and the sparks in her eyes added to how dazzling she was.


    "Congrattions!"


    Both Hailee and Vincent smiled at their guests, thanked them, and nodded their heads. Once they were seated in their love seat, Hailee stared at her official husband.


    Vincent never let go of her hand but constantly kissed them. "I love you, Mrs. Shen."


    She heard it so many times today. Hailee ced her forehead on Vince as she replied.


    "I love you too, Mr. Shen. You are tied to me now¡­." She smiled at Vince.


    "What I dream of¡­." Vincent whispered into her ear.


    He had nothing he prayed for in his entire life but to find this girl and marry her and make her the mother of his children.


    Today, all of his prayers have been answered, and all of his dreams have finally be a reality.


    God knows how much he loves this girl.

 Chapter 385 - Her Wedding Day (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 385 - Her Wedding Day (Five)</h4>


    After weing the newlywed couple and having a brief introduction, the service crew started to serve sumptuous food.


    And being a food taster, it assigned several of them.


    Although the organizer keenly watched every detail of this celebration and made sure all the food was safe. Still, it was a protocol that someone would taste all the food served to every royal individual.


    "Do they have to taste my food as well?" asked Kelly to Alex.


    "You are a future queen of Fen Country. It''s a small kingdom, but the future of the country is in your hands."


    Kelly blinks her eyes. She is trying to process every word Alex has told her. ''The future of the kingdom is in my hands? What does it mean?''


    Alex noticed the confusion written on Kelly''s face. He chuckled, then said, "You will bear the heir of Martini royal family."


    "Do you think I can change my name?"


    "Huh?" Alex is lost, and he doesn''t understand what name Kelly was talking about. "Is it about recing your surname? Sure, and it will be Martini soon."


    "But it didn''t sound nice. Kal Martini..." Kelly pouted.


    "Do you want me to use yours instead? Alexander Varghese?"


    "No! That''s not what I mean. What I am saying is, should I have a name such as Veronica or Eliza? How was it?"


    "Hmm... I love it."


    "Really?" Somehow, she felt a little sad that her name was horrid.


    "If that''s the name you prefer for our daughters. It was beautiful."


    Kelly was stunned for a moment. Tears threaten to escape from her eyes. Alex didn''t mention that she had an issue with her real name; instead, he acted like he didn''t care about it as he was okay with her name.


    Alex smiled, staring at Kelly. He ced a kiss on her forehead then said, "I like your name, as it has a beautiful meaning."


    With that, should she continueining?


    Alex knows how to coax her; the reason she let herself fall for him over again.


    "I''ll give you daughters and sons." She is also a sole daughter, and she only experienced having a sister through Hailee until she met Vera and Gigi and the other girls that are a partner in all her business.


    "We can start making a baby soon." That was a tease, as he likes how Kelly reacted to it. She smashed his back, but her face was blushing scarlet red.


    Meanwhile, Hailee enjoyed all the food that was served at their table.


    She was tired and starving. The four babies in her womb are begging to be fed. Vincent also noticed this, so he kept cing food on Hailee''s dinner te.


    He knew she was too hungry now after the matrimonial ceremony. When it ended, they had a long photoshoot in the church. Even at the entrance of Dream City Pce, they still had to take several pictures.


    "Are your feet alright?" Vincent asked Hailee. It worries him she is ufortable, but she is just hiding it for this special asion of their life.


    She started feeling heavy with her bump, and so, he sure Hailee felt tired wearing wedding shoes with four inches. It may not be as high as what she used to wear, but she must stop wearing high heels soon.


    "Do you want to take a little rest in a private room for me to massage your feet?"


    Hailee smiled at Vince''s thoughtfulness. Indeed, she is drained, but she enjoys every moment of their wedding. Besides, Vince had already massaged her foot on their way back to Dream City Pce.


    "I''m fine, hubby. We''re just sitting, so I can get a rest now."


    "Alright. Tell me right away if your feet are hurting."


    She nods at Vince, touched by everything he''s concerned about her.


    "You should eat too." She pokes a piece of meat; then stuffs it into Vince''s mouth, which he quickly epts.


    Hailee lifted her gaze and swept to the entire grand hall. She heardughter and saw bright smiles from her guests. It made her feel relieved that everyone seemed to enjoy the wedding as much as she was.


    Most of the families who came are rtives of her family and Vince''s or her dad''s acquaintance.


    After a delicious banquet. The program proceeds.


    Hailee and Vincent greeted all the guests, began with their families, and came next to the royals, country leaders, mafia lords, and business acquaintances. They had to take a picture each time, so Hailee''s jaw began numbing from smiling a lot in front of the camera.


    Hailee felt tired; she sat down at Shun''s table. While Vincent and their two dads mingle with the guests, she chatted with Cassandra and Nikki at the nearby table.


    "Madison, I heard you are going to test drive yourpany''stest supercar! Don''t forget; I want to be the first one to purchase it!"


    There was excitement in Hailee''s voice when she spoke. Shun, who is talking to Theo, Alex, and George, could not stopughing when he heard this. On the other hand, Cassandra instantly red at her husband, who shut his mouth fast.


    Shun smiled at his wife apologetically. He then cleared his throat and exined, "I am just concerned. Hail, you''re still in your second trimester, and Vincent would pass out when he heard your n of buying a toy car when you haven''t given birth yet."


    Hailee pondered what Shun had said to her, and he was right.


    Purchasing supercars are just like buying a toy car for her in the past. Now that she is married and soon a mother of four babies...


    It was about time that her priorities were her children''s well-being and set aside her hobbies.


    Although Vincent is working hard to earn more, he now has his own family. She must help Vincent out by making careful decisions if what she was buying was essential and it''s not just her capriciousness.


    Her life is no longer the same as before, which she spends without looking at the amount as she earned her own money.


    And as her dad never stops putting an amount in her trust fund or buying her a share of somepany somewhere, now shepletely understands him. It was for better usage in the future.


    She can give all her secret ounts and secret shares around the globe to her children, and she need not them, but it can secure her children''s future.


    With the things she contemted, Hailee looked at Madison, and her gaze shifted to Levi.


    "What I wanted to purchase is a customized SUV where these four babies arefortable traveling with us. I think we need two."


    "That''s a better idea, princess! Soon when we go back to France, I''ll call a meeting with my best auto designers to work on your order," said Levi gleefully.


    How wonderful! He made a lot of business deals today. He got to talk to several Mafia Lords who ordered customized bulletproof cars.


    Thinking of more money going to his pocket, Levi leaned over to Madison and whispered. "Sweetheart, we can now give Luke a baby sister."


    "What? Luke is just barely two years old!"


    "But he''ll turn three when you give birth." Levi had that hopeful smile on his face upon persuading his wife.


    However, Madison only rolled her eyes. ''Like he was the one who grew a lump in his belly!''


    "Hubby, I''m enjoying that we could travel together. When I am pregnant again, I have to stay at home and spend less time helping you manage thepany."


    As he failed to persuade his wife, Levi hid the disappointment in his eyes. He knew Madison had to take a long rest before getting pregnant again. Their oldest is five, and the youngest is turning two.


    But he wants a daughter. He is obsessed with having a daughter who would look like her momma. His two sons were copies of his, so he prayed it would look like Madison if he had a daughter. However, he couldn''t reason it out with his wife.


    Levi heaves a silent sigh. He felt a light pat on his shoulder. He looked up, and it was Shun, giving him a pitying look. Now he was even depressed. Everyone in their circle had daughters, and Hailee had two sons and two daughters.


    He wished Madison gave birth to a twin, too!


    Meanwhile, Madison remained silent as she actually pondered what Levi was requesting. She thinks maybe it is about time.


    "You read what your husband''s wish was."


    Madison turned her head toward the woman who spoke beside her.


    "Have you seen it as well?" she asked the woman in a formal red gown, whose face was covered with the hat she wore.


    The woman nodded.


    Levi forgets that his wife could have a projection of a near future. Madison saw what Levi wished at this moment.


    "Okay. I will give him a daughter soon." Madison said with a smile to the women she shared with a table. Levi didn''t hear it because he left with Shun to mingle with the other guests.


    "Then, let''s set a ydate!" Hailee suggested gleefully. Thedies agreed upon the idea she came up with. She added, "I think Madison, Gigi, Kelly, and I can visit Cassandra and Nikki in Maind City."


    Kelly, who is silently eating a dessert, suddenly choked. Sheins, "Are youdies pressuring me to get pregnant now?"


    "Is it possible?" asked Madison in a teasing tone.


    "Gosh!" Kelly''s cheek is blushing pink. Instantly, the otherdies understood.


    "Oh. I thought my cousin was fast." ire snickered upon looking at Alex, who was with a group of men from noble families.


    "It was me who didn''t want yet." Kelly couldn''t wholly exin herself. Still, she was conservative inside and strictly followed their tradition.


    "Of course. You don''t need to force yourself. Please ignore us, and we are just teasing you." ire immediately rifies herself.


    "I know." Kelly pursed her lips into a smile. She knew that thedies just wanted to use such an opportunity to meet up soon when they all lived from every side of the world.


    "Well, Kelly and I can often meet soon," said Madison. France and Fen Country are not that far away from each other.


    "Nikki and Theo are often visiting in Switzend, so we can set y dates where to meet." Cassandra chimed in.


    "Then you guys can drop by!" Kelly said happily. With the girls'' ns, she would feel less lonely when she had something to look forward to after she and Alex got married, and she had to move to Fen Country to be their Queen.


    Thedies continued chatting, then Jessa came up to the stage and announced for the newly wedded to have their first dance as a married couple.

 Chapter 386 - Her Wedding Day (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 386 - Her Wedding Day (Six)</h4>


    Vince walked toward Hailee and took her hand, guiding her toward the dance floor in the middle of the grand hall.


    Beautiful voices then began humming. Soon, Jessa and a famous artist sang one of Vincent''s favorite love songs.


    "Did you love this song because of me? Or do you already love it?" asked Hailee.


    Vincent chuckled and nodded.


    "I would never love it if I never saw you in Budapest."


    While dancing, their eyes make love. They only swayed very slowly, as Hailee was already exhausted. But she is enjoying her wedding day, and so she wanted to proceed to every program they''ve prepared as part of the celebration.


    ***


    Ooohhh...


    What if I never knew


    What if I never found you


    I never had


    This feeling in my heart


    How did thise to be?


    I don''t know how you found me


    But from the moment I saw you,


    Deep inside my heart, I knew


    Chorus:


    Baby, you''re my destiny


    You and I were meant to be


    With all my heart and soul


    I''ll give my love to have and hold


    And as far as I can see,


    You were always meant to be


    My destiny


    ***


    Hailee tightens her hold on Vincent''s neck, cing her head between his shoulder and cor. At this very moment, they let every word of the song carve into their hearts.


    Then, the next song is the song they danced during Vincent''s ss Reunion.


    "I want to spend my lifetime loving you¡­." Hailee closes her eyes and listens keenly to the song.


    Events of the passing months sh in her head. Walking the journey of finding true love isn''t easy for her and Vincent when there are people against them to be together in peace.


    When Liam found her in Metro City and nned to abduct her, Vincent appeared and fought him. Not only that, Vincent arranged marriage, which he had a hard time getting his divorce because of Liam using Eva not only to ruin her rtionship with Bryan but, once again, it''s with Vincent.


    And then, the elders and her uncle, Alessandro Martini. But thanks to the surrounding people, they gave their lives to protect Vincent for this love to continue its journey.


    She just realized that she was not alone. Everyone supported her and Vincent''s love story.


    "We must thank everyone, especially those who have faith that our love for each other is true," said Hailee to Vincent.


    "Yes, we will." Vincent retorted before he lowered his head to kiss Hailee on the lips. "I love you, Mrs. Shen."


    "I love you too, Mr. Shen."


    The third song then ys. Vincent pulled himself from Hailee and looked her in the eyes.


    "It''s your favorite song, right?" asked Vince. He had heard Hailee humming it when she was cleaning the penthouse and earphones in her head.


    "Yes, because I always saw mom and dad dancing on this song. After mom died, dad never listened to it anymore."


    It''s the love song she always heard when her parents were dancing alone, and she was peeping in secret.


    Upon hearing it, Vincent stopped swaying. He gently pulled Hailee toward his father-inw. Vincent then gives Hailee''s hand to her dad.


    Vincent''s gestures warmed Hailee''s heart; she hugged him and kissed him on the lips passionately.


    Jacob brings her daughter to the middle of the dance floor.


    "Princess¡­" Jacob was emotional that this song would be sung at his daughter''s wedding.


    "It was Vincent''s idea. He learned that this song is yours and mom''s favorite song."


    Jacob smiled, nodding his head with Once again, his son-inw impressed him.


    ***


    I finally found someone


    That knocks me off my feet


    I finally found the one


    That makes me feelplete


    It started over coffee


    We started out as friends


    It''s funny how from simple things


    The best things begin


    My favorite line was


    "Can I call you sometime?"


    It''s all you had to say


    To take my breath away


    This is it


    Oh, I finally found someone


    Someone to share my life


    I finally found the one


    To be with every night


    ''Cause whatever I do


    It''s just got to be you


    My life has just begun


    I finally found someone


    ***


    Meanwhile, Vincent walked toward his mom and took her hand. Hilda proudly stood up and strode toward the dance floor and danced with her son.


    "Thanks, mom."


    "What are you saying?"


    "Hailee has no immediate female family to help her organize our wedding. Thank you for doing it all," Vincent exined.


    "Stop talking nonsense. Of course. I will make sure that your wedding is grand. It is supposed to be, in the first ce."


    Vincent curled his mouth. He knew his mom very well, so; he stopped teasing her now that his mom''s cheeks were flushing crimson red.


    Even though she was emotional today, she maintained herposure as the mighty Madam Hilda Lopez Shen.


    His mom has always been proud to ept all thepliments thrown at her every time she seeds in the things she does.


    On the other hand, Hilda had the thought. It was her son''s wedding, so it should be perfectly grand to impress Hailee''s rtives, the royal families.


    But of course, Vincent wanted to give Hailee the grandest wedding of the millennium. dly, Jacob helped with the wedding expenses. He wants to give everything to his only daughter to make her the happiest bride in the entire universe.


    Indeed, everything was extravagant.


    Even the royals were amazed by all these luxurious decorations, from the hotel they''d stayed in to the church and the wedding reception.


    Of course, one shouldn''t forget, and that was the giveaways they gave to the guests.


    Jacob didn''t mind throwing away the diamonds that their family owned to make over a thousand wristwatches, engraved Vincent and Hailee''s names with the symbols of their families¡­


    The Imperial Xing family and the Davies origin.


    This wedding was recorded as the highest budget ever, and they didn''t care. She wants the best for her son. Hilda thought.


    Halfway through the song, Grandpa Allen reces Jacob to dance with Hailee. She hugged the older man so tight and shed tears as he whispered,


    "I know that your mom and grannies were watching over you from Heaven, and they were so happy for you."


    "Yes, grandpa. They were always here in my heart."


    Then, another song yed, next to dance Hailee is Andre. He ced a warm kiss on her forehead while they were dancing slowly.


    "I''m d to see you are smiling this happy," he told Hailee.


    "Thank you, Andre. You can stop worrying about me now."


    "What are you saying?" Andre frowned. "Of course. I will remain worried. But there is someone who would be worried more than me from now on."


    Hailee smiled. What Andre had said was true.


    Every day, Vincent showed how much he cared about her. He is always concerned, especially since she is pregnant now.


    And to look back on the very first time that Vincent invited her to have some coffee. He already showed his thoughtful side when he draped his coat around her shoulder.


    Haylee didn''t notice that tears were already streaming down her face. She came back to her senses when Andre''s thumb touched her cheeks to dry them.


    "What''s wrong?" Andre asked dotingly. He sounded like the usual uncle who would turn the world upside down just to pamper and spoil his niece.


    Hailee shook her head. She smiled and said, "I would not be that spoiled princess who will keep bothering you and making trouble."


    "That''s not true." Andre paused, a smile ying on his lips. "There are two more little princesses on the way, and their handsome grandpa will dot them as well."


    Hailee shook her shoulder as she suppressed not tough out loud.


    "I would feel more restless if you would not bother me," Andre added.


    Hailee giggled, and Andre chuckled.


    It strengthens their rtionship through time. Andre let Hailee rely on him all the time, and he always made her feel that he was the person she could trust above everyone else.


    But when she was in the second time, she was in her loneliest moment. He wasn''t there tofort her, and it broke Andre''s heart as well.


    Suddenly, Andre remembered something. He parted from Hailee and looked around to search for a particr person. "Where are you, Pitt?"


    Hailee understood after she saw Andre speak over themunication device on his cufflink.


    "Why? What happened?" Pitt is leisurely drinking a fermented raspberry, a wine that was a gift from the Shang family to Vincent and Hailee''s wedding. He rushes to the dance floor in fear that something has happened to Hailee, such as she is not feeling well.


    However, there she is, standing in the middle of the dance floor with both hands stretching toward him.


    Pitt is confused. But he still walks toward Hailee. Then Andre spoke in his earpiece.


    "It''s your turn to dance the princess."


    Pitt was stunned for a moment and wanted to inquire. Hailee is supposed to dance first with her family members, especially her father-inw and Vincent''s male rtives.


    "Princess?" Still, confusion was written on his face, even when they were already swaying.


    Hailee, on the other hand, understood why Pitt was perplexed at this moment. She exined, "I just wanted to do the honor of dancing with my brothers."


    After Hailee''s words reached his ears, an inexplicable emotion exhibited in Pitt''s eyes. Hailee never fails to make them feel how much they are significant to her.


    Pitt pushed back the tears that wanted to escape his eyes.


    "Thank you, Pitt¡­ Thank you for always being the brother I dreamed of having," said Hailee from the bottom of her heart.


    "You are always wee, princess.?But you are not firing me, right?"


    "Why would I?"


    Pitt chuckled. Then, someone spoke on the earpiece line...


    "I want to dance the princess too!"

 Chapter 387 - Her Wedding Day (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 387 - Her Wedding Day (Seven)</h4>


    Hailee giggled when Pitt roared at James, and the guy walked toward them and took her away from Pitt.


    Vincent, who never left his eyes on his wife, shook his head and wanted to kick that guy''s ass.


    But of course, these men more likely stand as Hailee''s brothers. So now they are his brothers, too, as long as they would remind themselves that there is a boundary around Hailee.


    They all wanted to make her happy. However, that was his job from now on. These men do not need topete with him. Vincent thought.


    "What is that guy doing?" He mumbled to himself when James kept sniffing, which Hailee instantly hugged him. "That guy has too much thickness in his face to act in a drama to get my wife''s pity."


    Deana giggled upon seeing his brother disying his jealousy, which honestly only happens when ites to Hailee. Her brother is never interested in other girls, and he only thinks of them as a nuisance.


    While James dances with Hailee, Vincent is dancing with his sisters. After Deana came after her mom, now it was Sheena.


    "Congrattions, brother! I''m so happy that finally, you are tying the knot with the woman you have been looking for for many years."


    Vincent smiled and replied, "Thanks to you, my little sister."


    What would happen if Sheena didn''t take that photo back then?


    Even though he perfectly remembered every detail of Hailee''s face, how would he look for her without proof she was real?


    Hailey has no social media ount across the inte. He tried to use some of his family''s influences, but he failed to get a positive result. But then, after he found out her real identity, no wonder he could not locate her.


    He actually fell in love with someone who is adored by many. Even he followed Hailee Davies''s social media because of her Dream City projects.


    The girl he is looking for is not just an ordinary vendor in the streets of Budapest. But she is a princess who had hundreds of knights that protected and loved her.


    "Brother, your love story is more likely a fairytale! I can''t wait for the release of the documentary about your and Hailee''s love story. People still doubt your love for Hailee. But I''m sure after they will see the documentary. They would stopshing you out."


    "I don''t care about what other people think of me. The only people I have to prove that my love is true is Hailee''s family."


    "Uncle Jacob already believes and has faith in you," said Sheena.


    "And I would never stop showing him how much I care for his daughter."


    Sheena smiled and said, "I love Hailee. She is not only a cool sister-inw but because she made you happy. Even if she isn''t from a wealthy family, it really doesn''t matter as long as she would not break your heart."


    "She made meplete instead," Vincent replied to Sheena with sparks in his eyes. He went on, "I know she wouldn''t hurt me, and I would not either. Hailee told me once that she knew the feeling of being betrayed, and that''s why even though she is so close to many men, I trust her as much as she trusts me."


    "It is what is the most important brother. You know, after what happened to me. I swore not to fall in love again. But Stephen taught me to trust again and that I can trust another man aside from my dear brother."


    Vincent smiled, lifted his arm to wipe the few tears rolled from Sheena''s eyes. He listens as his sister carries on.


    "Stephen taught me to bury the fear that caused my bitter past but believes in true love in the second chance."


    "He is a great guy," said Vincent.


    His wordsforted Sheena. She hugged Vincent, then made a way to the other women who would like to dance with him.


    Meanwhile, Hailee is now dancing with Geoffrey. Vincent ignores his jealousy, as the guy already promised him to continue as a reliable brother to Hailee.


    Besides, Hailee is married to him. These men can do nothing no matter how much they are in love with his wife.


    Vincent thought he could ignore itpletely. However, his gaze shrunk in mere seconds when Bryan walked toward Hailee. And so he reminded himself that it was just a dance.


    "Who is that guy?" People started raising questions from Vincent''s family.


    "I rarely see him these past three days. He wasn''t in the church this morning during the wedding ceremony."


    "Yeah. I haven''t noticed him either. He is so handsome!"


    "But he looks like in love with Hailee."


    They already met Pitt, Tom, Geoffrey, James, and Chester back in Metro City during their visitation at Lopez Steel Corp ntst month, and so they already have a little info on how these men are close to Hailee.


    However, the guy who dances with Hailee gives them an aura that he is more close intimately to Hailee than everyone. Not only that, the guy is staring at Hailee passionately while she is also softening her gaze and smile.


    At the table of Vincent''s friends, Lloyd''s wife elbowed him. He looks at the nearby table, and everyone is looking at him with curiosity. They hoped he could tell them if who that guy was.


    "Why don''t you tell them instead?" Lloyd whispered at Jake.


    "It was you who they asked about Bryan!"


    "Bryan? Is that his name?" asked someone from Vincent''s rtives.


    Jake nodded and felt like suffocating from the eagle look of Vincent''s family. ''Ugh! This bunch of nobles is actually gossipy!''


    Jake refers to Vincent''s rtives, who are always curious to hear any news about the main family of their n.


    Before sharing the information he knew, Jake nced at Tyler and asked for his help after the Lopez n roasted him. Once Tyler nodded, Jake breathed out.


    "He is Eva''s boyfriend."


    Everyone who heard this dropped their jaw on the marble floor.


    "Come again, Jake?"


    "He is the mysterious boyfriend of Eva.. Even though she married Vincent, she is still living with Bryan."

 Chapter 388 - Her Wedding Day (Eight)

    <h4>Chapter 388 - Her Wedding Day (Eight)</h4>


    "Is that true, Jake? Or just a joke?"


    "Does Vincent know about that before he marries Eva?"


    Jake nodded, which caused those who gossiped to gasp from shock. "Vincent knew, and he didn''t care as long as Eva would not meddle in his private affairs and would never demand of him."


    "Is that the reason Eva never appears in the picture after Vincent lives with his humored mistress?"


    That it turns out to be an heiress of unimaginable wealth! Vincent''s rtives thought about that.


    "Yeah. I often see Eva hanging out with that guy when she already married Vincent. I never thought that this guy was Hailee''s ex-fiance."


    "Oh¡­"


    ''Howplicated!'' they thought.


    On the other side, several eyes also keenly watch Bryan while dancing Hailee. Bryan could actually feel those sharp stares and dagger look throwing at him, but he doesn''t care.


    "You look so lovely in your wedding dress." He told Hailee with sincerity.


    "Thank you." Hailee''s eyes filled with sadness when she recalled when Bryan protested how she dressed.


    "Just how I imagined. You''re the most beautiful bride in the world," Bryan added.


    Hailee stared at Bryan. She could sense the bitterness and regrets in his voice.


    A year ago, they almost got married and became a newlywed couple. It''s just a few days to wait.


    Everything is all ready; the wedding reception is still the same ce and decorated mourously. However, she got married to another man.


    And her beautiful wedding dress¡­ They couture the one that entuates all the curves in her body.


    Things were too perfect back then. However, today is even greater.


    She may not be wearing a sexy wedding dress like the one she dreamed of¡­ But the baby bump in her wedding gown is even more beautiful than her curves.


    The life inside her wombpletes the family she wished to have; she could be called her own. She is starting her married life with the man she loved the most, and together, they will build a family.


    Hailee unconsciously travels her eyes toward her handsome groom, and Vincent is also looking in her direction. Their eyes meet and make love.


    Bryan could feel the pang of pain surging in his heart every time he saw Hailee had this kind of expression while starting another man because she had never looked at him this way.


    He honestly envied Vincent for winning this girl''s heart.


    "Hail¡­ What if you got married to me? Would you be happy?"


    Hailee was surprised after Bryan asked her this question out of the blue. And even though she already knew the answer, she still fell silent and pondered.


    Hailee lowered her gaze. After a moment of silence, she met Bryan''s eyes and replied¡­


    "I know I would be happy. However, probably the dayes that it feels empty inside, and we would think that something was wrong. I guess we might get divorced one day."


    Hearing Hailee''s reply, his heart shattered into pieces once again. Bryan hid the pain in his eyes and smiled bitterly.


    How would he deal with their divorce? He is sure he will be left broken all his life.


    "I think I would be okay about that, Hail. That at some point in my life, I could say that once, you are mine, and I have the chance to love you."


    Hailee didn''t know how to reply to Bryan. She guesses there are no words that canfort him, even if she would tell him that one day he can find someone he will love more than how much he loves her.


    "One day, all is well." Is only the words she could utter while giving Bryan a goodbye hug.


    Bryan parted Hailee before he could tighten his embrace. He might not let her go anymore. "Take care always, princess."


    "You too, Bryan. And, thank you for voicing out on behalf of Vincent and me."


    Bryan chuckled. "You found it out."


    Hailee nodded. "Kristian, who figured it out and investigated thoroughly until he traced the IP address you''d used."


    Bryan smiled at Hailee and took her hands, squeezing them gently. "You know that no matter what, I would always put my life on the line for you."


    Yes, she knows this, and so it breaks her heart. Bryan seemed the one left in the limbo, and he is unwilling to move on but dwells in the pain that lingers inside his heart until now.


    "Bryan¡­"


    "Don''t worry about me, princess. What is important to me is seeing you live well and happy."


    "I will¡­"


    Bryan turned on his heels. Hailee watched his receding back. She had nothing to wish but for Bryan to be free from the self-punishment he was putting on himself.


    "Princess?"


    Hailee turned around and looked at the man behind her. She smiled and gave her hand to Shun, who bowed and lifted his right hand.


    They danced and talked.


    "Princess, atst, there is another man who will bear his patience."


    "What did that mean?" she pouted after Shun uttered a riddle, the typical of him.


    "I''m trying tofort you, yes. Vincent is a good man, so Bryan is. Both loved you sincerely, and however, there is only one you really love, like a lover."


    Hailee nodded. "It was Vincent who I only dreamt of being with for the rest of my life."


    "And so, you need not worry about anything, princess. You are a kind-hearted person, and you deserve all the happiness in the world. Bear this in mind."


    "Thank you, Shun. I am so blessed to have you and everyone. You are always there to protect me and make sure that my life is on the right path."


    "I''m happy to help."


    Hailee hugged Shun, then the dances ended, followed by thunderous apuse filling the grand hall.


    "Now it''s time to take out the cake!" Jessa announced. "May I request the groom and bride to stand in this circle, please..."


    Vincent held Hailee''s hand and led her to the space on the right side below the stage.


    Everyone gasps after they have a glimpse of the giant cake. At least five personnel carefully push the cake toward Hailee and Vincent.


    "That was spectacr!" The guests couldn''t help praise.


    "Okay. May we request Vincent open the bottle of wine first¡­."


    Vincent took the bottle that was ced beside the cake and opened it. Since Hailee is pregnant, they make sure that they only prepare sparkling grape juice.


    He poured the two wine sses and offered one to Hailee; then, both took a sip of the sweet wine on their drinks while their arms crossed.


    Everyone apuded and cheered for the newlywed couple.


    After that, Vincent took the long knife; he and Hailee both held onto it and sliced the cake.

 Chapter 389 - No Dream Can Compare

    <h4>Chapter 389 - No Dream Can Compare</h4>


    Vince helped Hailee ce a piece of cake on the dessert tes. Hailee picked up a fork and scooped a fraction of the cake. Then she put it in Vince''s mouth. Vincent does the same, and it is supposed to be just one time, but since Hailee is starving again, Vincent feeds Hailee four times more.


    "Ah! The baby wants their share!" Jessa jested that made everyoneugh.


    Onest time, Hailee and Vincent greeted their other guests. They strolled around and made a quick chat with them.


    "Hello, aunt Sol!"


    "Hailee¡­ Vincent¡­ Congrattions." the olderdy smiled warmly. Sol''s eyes could not avert from Hailee''s wedding dress as she spoke. "You look so lovely."


    "Thank you, aunt Sol. I am so happy that you came too."


    "Hilda said, Vincent is building the tallest tower, and so I wanted to visit your city. Tyler had mentioned to me it was his biggest project to work soon. He was so happy that he could provide more jobs to the ind. Recently, he hired more people to work in the production department. Thanks to you, everyone is happy."


    Hailee was moved the way Sol narrated about it. "I am happy to work with them, too. I will visit them one day, once I give birth, then Vincent and I have a few days'' vacations to visit the ind."


    "That was wonderful! I''ll absolutely look forward to it!"


    Hailee smiled and gave the older woman a tight hug before she and Vincent moved to the other rtives.


    "Attention, please¡­ May I call on our bride and all the singledies to pleasee forward in the middle of the dance floor."


    To proceed to the next program of the celebration, Jessa announced its time to throw the bouquet.


    Several singledies are taking part, and the men tease each other.


    Some of the singledies are Vera, Fraine, Jennifer, Tiffany, Nancy, and Kelly, who will get married soon and still join the fun of catching the bouquet.


    "Damn! Are you ready, boys?" Tom and Alex shouted from the back.


    Hailee nced behind her and swept her gaze to see all the faces of these singledies. She smiled gleefully and positioned. "Ready, girls?"


    She faced the stage and yfully raised her hands, attempting to throw the bouquet. Then everyone joined Hailee and started counting¡­


    "3¡­ 2¡­..1!"


    The bouquet flew, many of the girls ran, and only half of them tried to catch the bouquet. A few of them who avoided the bouquet: were Hazel, Nadia, and Liza.


    The three girls would stick to their original ns of not entering a rtionship but focusing on finishing college until they got a master''s degree.


    They would not waste the opportunity Hailee is giving them. The teenage girls are more looking forward to going to Paris and being trained under famous French and Italian chefs of the world.


    Meanwhile, Jennifer bites her bottom lip. She just participated half-heartedly; however, it is easy for her to catch the bouquet with her training that developed her reflexes.


    "Oh, my god! Congrattions, Jennifer." Jessa made more noise, which encouraged others to p their hands.


    Jennifer shook her head and giggled. She was about to nce at Andre, but Hailee rushed to her and hugged her tight.


    "Congrattions! Please, say yes, Jennifer!" Hailee said to her.


    Jennifer wrinkled her forehead, confused by why Hailee said something like that. Besides, the crowd suddenly went wilder than before.


    "Turn around!" Hailee whispered to Jennifer.


    Suddenly, her heart was beating wildly. Jennifer slowly turned around instantly; she covered her mouth.


    "What are you doing?" Jennifer tries to remainposed. But her tears made their way down to her cheeks.


    Andre is kneeling on one foot and holding a jewelry box in his hands, asking,


    "Jennifer Wright¡­ Will you marry me?"


    Jennifer stifles. She bit her lip, then nodded. "Yes!"


    For Jeniffer''s response, everyone apuded, flooding the newly engaged couple with congrattions. Andre stood on his feet and put the engagement ring on Jennifer''s fourth finger.


    The couple kissed and hugged tightly.


    "Congrattions, Andre! Jennifer, wee to the fam!" It made Hailee ted that, atst, Andre nned to settle down.


    In the past, her uncle rarely dated someone. She even didn''t know if Andre had a girlfriend because he never shared it with her if he ever liked someone.


    "Thank you, princess."


    "Thank you, Hailee." Jennifer was still in a daze. Until now, she could not believe that everything was real. Andre was just her crush back then. She may be snobbish to him, but because she is not an easy girl. So she has to y hard to get.


    Andre and Jennifer were greeted and took a photo of them being engaged.


    Hailee also had several photos with all the singledies and Jennifer raising the bouquet above their heads. After that, it was time for the newlyweds to bid goodbye.


    "Hailee, wear this coat." Hilda draped a white fur coat around her daughter-inw''s shoulder.


    The information of the honeymoon trip was only known to a few people, so Hilda made sure that Hailee''s nannies brought all the dresses and winter clothes she needed while staying in Tasmania.


    "Thank you, mom." Hailee was touched by how her mom-inw even took care of her luggage. Her nannies told her how they were reminded of Vincent''s mom repeatedly. Hailee giggled when she heard how her nannies copied her mom-inw.


    True that her mom-inw is a kind of domineering. She is the head of the Lopez n, and so, she was used to acting mightily to anyone, even if her family.


    "Tell me if Vincent gives you a headache. He will receive a nag from me."


    Hailee giggled and hugged her mom-inw like a spoiled child. It''s been so long since she behaved coquettishly toward the older female in the family.


    Hilda, on the other hand, dotingly embraces Hailee in return. Vincent didn''t see this, but his sisters filmed it and sent the clips to their big brother.


    Meanwhile, Vincent was talking to his dad-inw, granddad-inw, and Andre.


    "Take care of my daughter and my grandkids," said Jacob to Vincent.


    "Yes, dad. Don''t worry. I will try my best not to spoil my wife with unhealthy habits." Vincent promised as it was what his dad-inw was concerned about.


    It''s hard for him to say no to everything that Hailee wanted. And as she is pregnant now¡­ she craves a lot of unhealthy delicacies.


    Jacob nodded and then patted Vincent''s shoulder. He said, "My daughter is actually listening to you. And so, I entrusted my daughter to youpletely."


    "Thank you, dad." Vincent smiled and nodded. After he spoke to his inws, he turned to his parents and sisters.


    "Enjoy your trip, guys!"


    "Thank you, everyone!" Both Vincent and Hailee waved at them.


    But before they boarded the three helicopters waiting for them, the newlywed posed for another photo. In the background is a tarp ced on the aircraft saying,


    "JUST GOT MARRIED"


    And then, beautiful fireworks exploded above Dream City Pce. Hailee and Vincent lifted their heads to watch the fireworks continue ring above them.


    "How beautiful!" Everyone gasps in astonishment.


    On the other side, the media camping outside were startled when they heard something that exploded. Soon, they saw the beautiful fireworks disy.


    Halfway through it, Hailee and Vincent board the helicopter that James piloted.


    Pitt is with them as he is the captain of Hailee''s yacht. Also, Shun sent Matthew to apany them, assuring the newlywed''s safety.


    The other two helicopters are where Hailee''s other knights boarded, including her dietician, nutritionist, resident OB, and two nannies.


    Yup! She is going on her honeymoon, but she has a bunch of chaperones!


    Anyway, she understood why her family was still tight on her. From here on, she''s not the only one they have to protect, but it includes her husband and her four babies.


    Hailee and Vincent wave at their families, rtives, and friends who sent them off. As she looked down, she could not hold back her tears. But she cried because she was too happy and thankful for how beautiful her life was to have a huge family.


    Before they left Dream City, Hailee instructed James to bring the helicopters to all the gates where the media have been on standby these past few days.


    She actually sent them food every day, the reason these reporters are behaving outside. Hailee''s PR team is releasing daily updates about the wedding preparations and activities that made them delighted.


    Even though they are not allowed inside the city, the princesses are too generous of them. Like at that moment. The helicopter where the newlyweds boarded is passing them.


    "It''s them! It''s Miss Davies and Vincent Shen!"


    Everyone aimed their cameras at the passing helicopters.


    "Oh, my god! This is very live from Dream City''s north gate! The newlywed had just passed us! What a surprise that the princess is generous for us to see them this close!"


    "Did you see that? The newlywed couple is waving at us!" One journalist doing a live report, pointing at the helicopter, passing them slowly.


    Indeed, Hailee visited all the ess gates to enter Dream City, where the media''s camping outside.


    She actually didn''t ignore them, and she just prioritized the safety and privacy of her guests at the wedding.


    ***


    Somewhere on the Southern Australia coast¡­


    Two helicoptersnded at the yacht where Hailee used to board every time she was sailing, while the othernded on the twin yacht.


    "Wee, princess!"


    Hailee''s knights and specially selected crew greeted them on the deck. She nodded and thanked them.


    "Alright. Everyone, go to your post!" Pittmanded.


    In a sh, the deck was emptied. Pitt took off his coat and loosened his tie. In the ocean, his orders are the rules.


    "Good night, princess." Pitt saluted them and walked toward thedder, and went to the bridge of this yacht.


    Now, only Hailee and Vincent are left on the deck. They watch the helipad slowly descend to the hangar after James secures the line of the helicopter. He salutes and disappears along with the helicopter.


    Vincent heaves a sigh, appreciating how grand his wife''s mega yacht is. It could actually keep two helicopters, a small boat, and several cars in its hangars.


    "It was always my dream to build a mega-yacht like yours. But I prefer a humble beginning before I proceed to my big dreams."


    Hailee shrunk her body inside Vincent''s arms, which embraced her from behind. He replied, "Then, maybe it''s time for you to work on that dream?"


    "Nah. Honestly, I already achieved my biggest dream."


    "Really?"


    "Yes¡­"


    Hailee turned around and looked at him. It disys that she is curious for him to borate on his words.


    "Having you as my wife and making you the mother of my children¡­ no dream canpare."

 Chapter 390 - Good Morning, Sexy Husband

    <h4>Chapter 390 - Good Morning, Sexy Husband</h4>


    ''This guy is¡­.''


    Once again, tears threatened Hailee''s eyes, as her husband has always been this cheesy over his corny lines. However, it always sounded sweet in her ears.


    "That was one of many sweet words you''ve been feeding me."


    "I know I sound corny." Vincent chuckled, lowering his head to dry those tears that drenched his wife''s cheeks. "I love you so, Mrs. Shen."


    "I love you too, Mr. Shen... Now and forever¡­."


    "Through eternity¡­" Both of them finished the phrase.


    Vincent imed Hailee''s tempting red lips. After sharing a long passionate kiss, Vincent picked her up, holding her like a "princess carry".


    "Are we still doing this?" Hailee asked Vincent coquettishly. But her concern is that she is even heavier now with four babies in her womb.


    "With this carrying thing?" Vincent guesses what Hailed meant about it.


    Indeed, it was typical for the newlyweds to do such a tradition on the night of their wedding day, their honeymoon.


    However, Vincent had another belief in his mind. Before Hailee could reply to him, he exined,


    "Wifey, I would dly carry you every day. It''s not just tonight or tomorrow. But every chance I have."


    The tears she suppressed threatened her eyes once again. Vincent has constantly been moved her heart with his endless sweet vows.


    "You are my happiness," Hailee told Vincent.


    They were walking down the hallway filled with red rose petals and sr candles on the floor, and this aisle leads toward Hailee''s cabin. It looks like they did a lot of changes to give the yacht such honeymoon vibes.


    Indeed, all Vincent sees are beautiful flowers decorated the entire yacht everywhere, adding a romantic atmosphere.


    They were in the middle of the ocean, in which the sea breeze was calming, and the sound of the waves was soothing to the ears.


    When they arrived at the front of their cabin, Vincent pushed the door using his left foot when it was partly open already.


    The corridor already gave them a great ambiance, but their room was extra nostalgic.


    Rose petals also filled the floors and bed. Then beautifully arranged the varied kinds of flowers in giant vases, and they all scattered throughout the room like their bedroom turned into a flower shop.


    Seeing the make-over of her bedroom, Hailee was ecstatic to see the bathroom.


    Surely, a warm bath was waiting for them¡ªcandles and flowers with familiar essence also scattered the room.


    The soft light glowed from them, undoubtedly filling their hearts with such emotion.


    Vincent holds Hailee''s face as he kisses her lovingly. Soon, their hands found their ways, and they began undressing each other without parting their lips.


    Once their clothes fell on the floor, Vincent scooped Hailee up, and both soaked in the tub filled with flower petals.


    Vincent''s hand travels from Hailee''s neck down to her lower back and legs, pressing her muscles to ease her fatigue.


    Hailee moans in satisfaction. She was squatting between Vincent''s legs as her eyes didn''t leave his¡­


    Vincent reached for Hailee''s corbone and gently pressed his fingers, moving toward her shoulders down to her proud chests.


    Vincent softly kneaded her two mounds; they''ve now got fuller, signs that she was carrying life.


    Soon, Vincent brushes his mouth on top of Hailee''s before his head moving down her neck, shoulders and then staying on her breasts, working on them with his mouth and tongue as he taunts them one after another.


    Hailee then feels Vincent''s throbbing rod poking between her legs. It was now rocking hard after she wrapped it with her palms and let her hands serve.


    Vincent clenched his jaws when Hailee began stroking his stiff rod. His breathing gets heavier as he develops a climax. But he didn''t wait when he had his release, and he also made his hands work on Hailee''s body.


    As he could feel she was ready, Vincent lifted Hailee, holding her bottom to guide her body.


    Hailee grabbed the ledge and held on to it when Vincent pushed her bottom down while guiding his rocking hard rod on her insides.


    She gasps in pleasure and breathes delightedly in the next minute as Vincent pushes his hips upward, mming his lower body between her thighs.


    Hailee pressed her eyelids as waves of delightful sensation filled her body. The warmth bath turned hotter as seconds passed.


    Vincent continues, lifting his waist to reach the depths of her core. Hailee grinds her hips to meet Vincent''s thrusts.


    "Uhnn¡­" A satisfying sigh let out from Hailee''s mouth as they both reached their climax.


    Hailee grabbed Vincent''s neck, and she rested on his shoulder¡ªas her body shuddered from the waves of pleasure. Hailee hooked her arms around Vincent''s back.


    After the sensuality subsided, Vincent helped her bathe and dry her hair.


    Hailee was half asleep when he tucked her in under the quilt. She immediately threw her arms around his waist after heid down next to her; now, she was sleeping soundly.


    Indeed, she was exhausted today, and they have plenty of time to snuggle and y with their bodies after she regains her strength. Besides, he must take it easy since Hailee is pregnant with four.


    Vincent ces a loving kiss on Hailee''s forehead before he closes his eyes.


    They could always have an intense honeymoon after she gives birth. For now, Vincent is content holding her like this.


    *


    The next day Hailee opens her eyes; the sight of a sexy man lying next to her side she sees.


    She already has been waking up with this view, but she still can''t get enough of this man.


    Hailee grabbed her phone from the bedside table and took several photos of that desirable body disyed in front of her.


    She browsed her gallery to check on the photos she had just taken and thought of posting one. However, she remembered what happenedst time. The inte feasted on her husband''s half-naked body.


    Hailee withdrew her thought of posting one, but she could not remove her eyes in the next second, staring at the photo as if she was daydreaming.


    "Ahem. Why would you look at the photo when you have real, right here?"


    Hailee curled her lips into a seductive smile after the man she drooled and fantasized with suddenly spoke at her side.


    Vincent sat up and leaned over, cing his arms beside Hailee''s head to support his weight.


    "Good morning, my temptress."


    "Good morning, sexy husband."


    Vincent chuckled when Hailee gave her an endearment while her fingers ran from his chest to his loins. He could tell her hormones kicked hard this morning at how her eyes twinkled with hunger.


    But Hailee is not the only one who''s hungry first thing in the morning; his buddy is also aching for attention.


    Instantly it turned rock hard when Hailee''s hand strokes its length outside his boxer shorts. It was already semi-hard when he woke up, and it started throbbing upon meeting those alluring eyes gazing at his half-naked body.


    Soon, he shortens the craving they both feel over their bodies. Vincent showered Hailee with kisses on every inch of her body.


    They could not constantly make love with her condition at this time around, but he could satisfy her orally. Vincent kneeled on the floor and lowered his head between her things after he helped Hailee ce her hips on the edge of the bed.


    Vincent pleasured Hailee with his knowledge. Listening to her sighs and crying with contentment put his body on fire.


    He lifted his gaze and met Hailee''s eyes, who were looking at him hungrily. She stretched both her arms for him to help her sit up, then she turned over and stuck her bottom upward.


    From that sight, Vincent swallowed hard. Who would not ept such an offer?


    But he has to remind himself to do it slowly.


    He runs the tip of his rock-hard rod into Hailee''s opening. She gasps for air when he slowly fills her insides and moves in a timely period.


    Hailee buried her face on the pillow. She opens her mouth to breathe steadily as her body slowly res up.


    Vincent grunts with pleasure close to her ears, brushing his mouth on her nape, down to her shoulder des.


    He grumbles under his breath after Vincent can feel Hailee''s insides tighten. He added a little more speed as they were closer to the peak of their release.


    Hailee cried in pleasure after her sensuality erupted and white liquid gushed down her thighs.


    Vincent carried her to the bathroom and washed both their bodies.


    Since it was still a chilly season in Australia, she put on some clothes; before she and Vincent went to the dining hall.


    It was ten in the morning when they got out of the bedroom.


    Hailee''s nannies quickly prepared a brewed coffee for Vincent and hot milk for her, while her nutritionist and dietician quickly fixed a healthy breakfast for them. They immediately vanish from the dining hall after they''ve finished preparing the meal.


    Vincent breathes with a sigh of relief when there''s no sight of Hailee''s knights all morning. He could really feel that it was their honeymoon.


    They were lounging on the settee after breakfast, snuggling and recalling their wedding, while watching the beautiful saltwater mming on the yacht''s windows.


    When it was finally time for lunch, Hailee brought Vincent to the pool area where James and Pitt grilled some meat and baked potatoes.


    Hailee was on the phone having FaceTime with the girls while lounging on the lounge sofa. Vincent brought over the food and fed her.


    "Oh, gosh! You guys don''t need to remind us you''re on a honeymoon!" frowning, Sheena shrieked from the other side of the video call.


    Hearing his little sister, Vincent raises a brow as he tells Sheena,


    "Should I only take care of my wife during our honeymoon? I would do it even if it''s just an ordinary day."


    Those who heard Vincent bowed to him.


    Sheena raised a thumbs up before bidding farewell and hung up the video call.


    Not that long, the world was in great joy after they had a glimpse of the newlywed. Sheena posted a clip of the video call when Vincent fed Hailee and phrased those sweet lines.


    Theizens cannot take too much sweetness from the newlywed, disying such intimacy.


    "The Empress has been served well!"


    "Look at her glowing skin! Our preggy Empress looks more than content!"


    "Our empress even looked happier after she married Mr. Shen!"


    "Certainly!"


    Morements flooded in Sheena''s posts.


    Reading those positive responses, numerous hearts felt differently about it.


    The smile on Jacob''s face never disappears.


    Hilda even held his head high, and Fred was delighted that his son was finally settled down for real.


    On the other side, some hearts remain broken and confused.


    *


    Extra Scene:


    Geoffrey tried to recall everything that happenedst night. He had a perplexed expression on his face.


    ''What urged me to do itst night? Is it because I am drunk and not in my right mind?''


    He drowned himself with alcoholst night, and the one who helps him is¡­


    Geoffrey looked at the woman lying down on the other side of his bed, naked like him.

 Chapter 391 - Game Of Love (One)

    <h4>Chapter 391 - Game Of Love (One)</h4>


    Dream City, Australia


    "Please be careful of that!" Hazel reminded the temporary hotel boy who loaded her bags in the car. "Thank you!"


    Hazel thanked the guy gleefully when he followed her request. There was a smile on her face. But then it disappeared after she turned around and saw the person she had been avoiding for many days now.


    "Hazel, where are you going? Isn''t the flight back to P Country scheduled tomorrow night?" asked Jake, scanning the bags on the ground.


    Hazel didn''t reply to Jake but turned around and left the hotel front door. However, Jake quickly catches her up with his long, athletic legs.


    "What are you doing?" Hazel stopped in her tracks and snapped at Jake. It upset her that this guy didn''t give her a chance to breathe, and he was pestering her every time they saw each other. "Stop following me!"


    "I just wanted to talk to you."


    "Alright. I''m not going back yet. All the girls will go to Melbourne, where one of Hailee''s yacht docks is waiting for us. Hailee wanted to treat her bridesmaids and the grooms to rx and have fun after a long week of preparation. We''re going shopping and sailing from the South to the Northern coast!"


    Jake creased his forehead as he asked, "Why wasn''t I notified?"


    "I don''t know, and it''s not my business to know. So can you stop bothering me?"


    Jake pressed his mouth against Hazel''s dismissal. His heart filled with protest.


    "I would not bother you if you weren''t ignoring me like this." Jake''s voice is even getting lower the more he speaks to Hazel.


    Somehow, he was already familiar with her attitude. It was too dangerous to provoke her; otherwise, his attempt would be vain.


    "But there is nothing we need to talk about!" Hazel retorts at Jake.


    "I am asking you to start over again. Please, I will be a better boyfriend this time."


    Hazel raises an eyebrow at Jake''s statement. From what she remembered, she and Jake only have a mutual understanding of what she remembered, but they aren''t officially in a rtionship.


    Yes, they were dating as Jake acted like he was courting her. The guy asks her out for brunch or a movie after dinner date or just apanying him somewhere. But Jake didn''t ask her if she wanted to be his girlfriend or confess that he loved her.


    Instead, on several asions, Jake came to cross his ex-girlfriends while they were on a date. Jake seemed still intimate with those girls. As they were throwing their bodies at him, which he didn''t actually avoid, he seemed to enjoy flirting!


    What was that?


    Are you supposed to fool around if you are interested in someone?


    Some people say she had no right to get jealous or entitled because she was not his girlfriend yet.


    But howe?


    Is it that likely she is stupid?


    Then, as she has no title in Jake''s life, she starts ignoring him and rejects all of his invitations. What''s the use of sticking around with him if he could not respect her as hispanion on a date?


    She has different principles from everyone.


    If someone is interested in her, his eyes should be fixed only on her and not on other girls. How could she trust him if he could not alreadymit himself to her?


    Isn''t dating is to show she could trust him?


    She is not an easy girl, so she wants a man equal to her beliefs. When she started dating Jake, she didn''t entertain other suitors.


    But Jake deliberately flirted in front of her every time he met someone he knew, especially his ex-girlfriends.


    People would say he is just friendly. But she knew the difference between being friendly and being flirtatious.


    ''Ah!'' Hazel screamed inwardly. These thoughts drove her crazy. Jake was not her boyfriend yet, but he had already made her insane.


    "Jake, I''m sorry. I can''t date you anymore."


    "Why? Is it because of James? Will you really choose that kind of manpared to me?"


    Hazel''s ears buzz listening to Jake. She sneered inwardly, shocked at how boastful he was.


    "Yeah! James cannotpare to you! He is nicer than you! He is actually more of a gentleman! How about you? All you know is flirting with other girls!"


    Hazel knows to herself that she is acting childish. But she is scared to gamble because she can''t give Jake what those girls are willing to offer to him.


    She is unwilling to have a physical rtionship with him. But is it wrong to ask for an emotionalmitment in a rtionship?


    She and Jake arepletely opposite people, and it''s what she sees.


    In Jake''s past rtionship, he didn''t want any strings attached to all of his girlfriends. However, she wants her boyfriend to be emotionally invested in her.


    She doesn''t want to y in a game of love. Once one of them is tired or finds a new me¡­ Just like that, they can walk out the door without drama.


    It''s not what kind of rtionship she dreamed of since she knew love. Hazel thought she wanted to be coveted in love, seriously. And so, she didn''t want to y around.


    On the other hand, Jake clenched his hands into fists on his sides. He was notpared to anyone before, and his past rtionships and fling were satisfied with him.


    Howe that a noisy guy can be greater than him? Is Hazel blind? Jake thought.


    His heart filled with resentment toward James. However, James is very close to Vincent''s wife, and there is no way he would start a dispute that pressured Vincent''s rtionship with Hailee.


    Vincent is head over heels to his wife. He knew Vincent would not side with him. Besides, Hailee is a lovely person; he could not dare to bring trouble to the couple.


    Jake was in a rage a while ago. But he calms down and chooses not to meet Hazel''s anger; it won''t result in any good.


    "Alright. What do you want me to do?" Jake yields, which stuns Hazel.


    Hazel is the only one who made him work up like this for all the girls he showed an interest in. He chases none of his ex-girlfriends because it was them who crawled back to his bed.


    But when ites to Hazel, he was willing to kneel on one foot. And so he has to persuade this girl.


    However, Jake''s face frowned when Hazel burst outughing. It means this girl didn''t take him seriously when he was already bathing in a cold sweat, and his heart was beating violently.


    The people whoe out from the hotel''s entrance door look at them curiously. Jake gritted his teeth and hissed inwardly. It was clear that Hazel would y hard to get so that he wouldn''t give up, of course.


    "Hazel, I''m serious."


    "You''re not, and so you can stop wasting your time with me because I would still give you the same answer. NO. I won''t date you again."


    ''I''m notpletely blind yet!'' Hazel added in her head.


    After she says that, she leaves Jake and looks for Nadia and Liza. Hazel sneered in her heart after finding her friends exchanging WhatsApp with a French and Italian hunk!


    ''What a traitor, friends! They made a vow with me that we will ignore all the boys and focus on building our careers rather than having a rtionship with anyone!''


    She was the one who will go to Korea and then Paris soon to take an alternative course, and she will start working as the Davies Cosmetic Ambassador. So then, she has to be familiar with how Vera formted those amazing skincare products and cosmetics.


    And speaking of her boss, she hasn''t seen her yet. Hazel walked closer to Nadia and Liza after the two guys they''ve been chatting with climbed to their cars and left for the airport.


    "Girls, have you seen Miss Vera?"


    Nadia and Liza only shrugged their shoulders. They also did not notice Hailee''s beautiful cousin after midnight as they had fun dancing with others after a DJ began ying upbeat songs. It was the time too when they met the two boys who''d just left, and they only flirted with them, ignoring anybody else.


    ***


    On the other side, Fraine is trailing down the hallway, pushing her small luggage. Most of her bags were already brought by a hotel boy, but she preferred to carry this luggage as it has important documents and her medicines inside.


    "Mommy Fraine!"


    Fraine was surprised when a six-year-old girl rushed to her and tightly hugged her waist.


    "I missed you, mommy Fraine."


    Fraine softened her gaze and squatted down to return a tight embrace to the little girl that was fond of her. "Hello, Sam."


    Sam parted from Fraine; she stared at her with teary eyes as she asked,


    "Mommy Fraine, when are you going home?"

 Chapter 392 - [Bonus ] GAME OF LOVE (02)

    <h4>Chapter 392 - [Bonus ] GAME OF LOVE (02)</h4>


    On the other side, Fraine walks into the hallway, pushing her small luggage. Most of her bags were already brought by a hotel boy, but she preferred to carry this luggage as it has important documents inside.


    "Mommy Fraine!"


    Fraine was surprised when a six-year-old girl rushed toward her and tightly hugged her waist.


    "I missed you, mommy Fraine."


    Fraine softened her gaze and squatted down to return a tight embrace to the little girl that was fond of her. "Hello, Sam."


    Sam parted from Fraine; she looked at her with teary eyes as she asked,


    "Mommy Fraine, when are you going home?"


    Fraine was stunned for a moment.


    She could feel a pang inside her heart upon seeing those tiny tears rolling down on Sam''s delicate cheeks.


    Fraine carefully wiped them, and before she could reply to the little girl, someone spoke behind Sam.


    "Samantha, you shouldn''t have done that. It''s not nice if you suddenly run toward someone, and you can knock them down or startle them."


    Fraine notices when Sam''s body stiffens and slight fear shes in the little girl''s eyes. She looked at the man speaking just now. Fraine didn''t hide her displeasure at Christian, but soon she reced her expression with emotionless and averted her eyes.


    Still, Christian only reminds his daughter of proper manners. Fraine stood up from squatting and straightened her back. On the other hand, Samantha turned around and lifted her head to search for her dad''s face to see his expression.


    "I''m sorry, daddy," Sam muttered, then lowered her gaze to the floor, staring at her pink doll shoes.


    "You''re supposed to apologize to Fraine, not to me."


    Before Sam could turn around to face Fraine, she had already raised her two hands and gestured in the air.


    "No. That''s okay, and it''s unnecessary. Besides, I am totally fine," said Fraine. ''He''s putting pressure on his daughter!''


    "Fraine, I am spoiling my daughter, but there are things she needs to learn and understand."


    Fraine wanted to argue with Christian, but she had no rights over him as Samantha''s father. However, it could not hinder her from coaxing the little girl.


    She pursed her lips into a smile, then ran her hands over Sam''s head.


    "It''s alright. You just missed me, right? I missed you too! I''m sorry if I haven''t spent more time with you in the past two days."


    When the Dale family arrived in Dream City three days ago, Fraine was actually hiding from the Lopezes, including Zayn and Rodney. Also, she doesn''t want to bump into their mothers, so she stays in her hotel suite.


    Instead, she worked on her reports to submit to her bosses before heading back to P Country.


    "Mommy Fraine, I will not miss you like this if you will go home with us. I promised to behave!"


    Drained has rendered speechless as after Sam said this, she strode toward her dad and tugged his hand.


    She demanded, "Daddy, please tell mommy Fraine toe home with us."


    Christian blinks his eyes in dazed as he tries to maintain hisposure while staring back at his daughter.


    shes of frustration pass in his eyes as he is unsure how to exin that Samantha would understand.


    Christian lifted his gaze and cast an apologetic look at Fraine before responding to Samantha. He stretched his left hand and held his daughter''s frail shoulder.


    "Sweetheart, Fraine has a lot of work to do. She can''t visit us just like that."


    "Then why didn''t she just leave her work and be with us?" Samantha pouted.


    Christian stared at his daughter helplessly. He hissed inside his heart when his eyes caught his grandfather looking at him with a scolding look. The chairman''s face was expressing, "Don''t underestimate this old man''s judgment! Now, look at you? I won''t help you anymore!"


    He could imagine his grandpaughing evilly inwardly. Christian shook his head and shrugged at the thoughts.


    Heaving a long sigh inwardly, he controls his lips, not twitching them in front of his daughter when she looks at him with so much expectation he will convince Fraine.


    Samantha might have misunderstood him when he wore a scowling facial expression, which was actually for his grandfather, who is annoyingly grinning at him from a short distance.


    "Miss Michaels!"


    Christian regarded the two men walking toward them.


    Fraine turned her head toward that voice that called out to her. Upon seeing them, Fraine instantly parted her lips into a smile and greeted them politely.


    "Good afternoon, Doctor Ben, Doctor Derek."


    "Hello, Fraine! It''s been a while since thest time we saw each other!" Doctor Ben had his typical friendly smile to anyone he talked to. Probably because of the nature of his work, he developed such a warm attitude.


    Fraine replied, "Indeed, Doctor Ben."


    Doctor Ben Ryan is her private physician, while Doctor Derek Williams is the one who created her medicines and attended to her timely treatment.


    He is a prodigy. A genius scientist who breakthroughs science, discovering medicine for a rare case illness that no human ever sessfully researches for an advanced and effective cure. But of course, ites down to such fortune that she works harder.


    Fraine was very grateful to have these two doctors, who were charming and handsome, above all are wealthy men as well!


    Rodney, who saw Fraine with Christian in the corridor, rushed in. But then, these two doctors approached Fraine.


    He got jealous as Fraine looked at these men dreamily. Her eyes lit up, and even her lips pursed a smile that was too rare for her to show to him. Instead, Fraine only frowned at him all the time.


    "See you next month, Fraine." Doctor Derek reminded Fraine of her treatment.


    After that, he and Ben bid farewell.


    "President Lopez." Doctor Derek nodded at Zaijan, who appeared behind Rodney, whom the guy stiffened his back and didn''t show interest in looking behind him.


    Zaijan nods at the two doctors before he fixes his gaze on Fraine.


    The three men sneered as they grumbled inwardly, ''They were already married! So stop drooling at them, Fraine!''


    Samantha looked around when the adults remained silent. Then she was ted the moment she saw someone hiding from her dad.


    "Raine!"


    Raine quickly pulled her hand from Zayn and met Samantha halfway, who ran toward her.


    The two girls who hugged each other like two sisters didn''t meet for a long time, whispering in their ears, then giggled after, causing the adult to be curious about what they were talking about.


    However, the four adults were more concerned that it has an awkward atmosphere surrounding them at this very moment.


    Fraine is bathing in a cold sweat as she shifts her gaze from Christian to Rodney and Zayn.


    Meanwhile, Chairman Dale elegantly holds his teacup and sip on it demurely. His legs crossed as he leisurely lounged on the sofa while his eyes didn''t leave the four people a few meters away from him.


    "Hobert, you should also order some tart or cupcakes to pair with our tea." Chairman Dale nudged Hobert Lee, who was seated on his left side.


    Hobert crossed his long legs, copying the chairman, leisurely resting his back on the sofa while he sipped his tea with sophistication.


    "Chairman, if I left now. I might miss a beautiful scene."


    Chairman Dale only grinned and didn''t scold Hobert.. As excited as this assistant, he patiently waited for a drama to y.

 Chapter 393 - Game Of Love (03)

    <h4>Chapter 393 - Game Of Love (03)</h4>


    September 01, 2026


    An Oceania Airbus had justnded at Metro City International Airport.


    After checking out from the VIP lounge, Agent Bruce Ledesma pushed the cart full of bags, heading to the parking area.


    "This way, Mr. Andreson." Bruce nced over his shoulder to look at the man following behind him.


    Bryan, wearing dark sunsses, a casual shirt, and jeans with a brown leather jacket around his body, shook his head and lengthened his stride to catch up with Bruce.


    It was his first time visiting the country, and so he is not familiar around.


    "Bruce, I told you just to call me by name."


    Bruceughed awkwardly and replied, "Okay, senior."


    Bryan frowned when Bruce still gave him this unnecessary address, and he just let it go and followed him quietly.


    When they reached Bruce''s picked-up truck, Bryan didn''t wait for the guy to do all the work. He loads his luggage on the back. Once ced all their bags inside, Bruce pulled down the cover, then strode around his truck.


    "Hop in!" Bruce said, tilting his head to the passenger seat after he unlocked his car through his phone. He had already turned it on when they were approaching, so the car was already cold enough inside.


    Thanks to the advanced technology today, one can do many things just at the tip of a finger.


    Bryan got on the truck and fastened his seatbelt. Not long after, Bruce made sure that his car was in its perfect shape, with no scratch from reckless drivers. He climbed into the driver''s seat.


    His car was brand new. Although he could receive a notification when another car lightly bumped into his car, he still inspected it by himself. He does not care less about the line of his work. And so, he always makes sure of his safety.


    After half an hour of dealing with the congested traffic, finally, they almost reach their stop. Bryan traveled his eyes as he carefully studied the entire city.


    He was curious about what made Hailee fall in love with this country. Said that Vincent and his family contributed a lot to lead this city to walk the path of modernization but an eco-friendly environment.


    But the traffic is terrible. Sydney has the same problem, but often staying in Dream City made him enjoy driving around and used to the speed of his car. However, soon Dream City will open to the world, a possibility that they would have this same problem. They have to look into it.


    The city must introduce electric public transportation and private usage. dly, Montfort Motors is building electric sports cars; they will be eco-friendly to the environment and have less air pollution.


    "We''re almost there, senior!"


    Bryan pulled himself from falling into deep thoughts. He nodded at Bruce and looked ahead.


    There is no doubt that half of his heart was left in Dream City because half of it was still owned by Hailee. His life has revolved only on Hailee and their dreams.


    And so it must be the reason he can''t open his heart to other people, and he is guilty of hurting Eva. He could love no one but take them for granted. Although Eva agreed to their open rtionship, he missed seeing that Eva had been indeed in love with him because he didn''t pay closer attention to her.


    If Eva didn''t have deep feelings for him, she could not let herself be used by Liam. Eva is actually a strong woman. However, she took the wrong path that ended her life with a miserable death.


    Love could kill someone.


    Now he believed it was true. Also, love could make someone insane as love drives them crazy.


    Unfortunately, Love Has Many Faces: one of them is selfless love and selfish love.


    "We''ve arrived, senior¡­" Bruce announced.


    Bryan got out of the car and swept his gaze to the entire area. They were now at the private cemetery where Eva was buried, at the mausoleum owned by her ancestor.


    "Let''s go, senior."


    Bryan followed Bruce until they reached the ce. The mausoleum was closed, so they just put the flower outside.


    "I heard that Eva''s family is originally a servant of the Shen family," asked Bryan.


    "The n of Lan are warriors bowed to protect the Imperial princess, who married a Shu prince. Their family has served the Xing n for many generations. They protected the Imperial youngest prince from escaping C Nation and sailed toward P Country. And thest Xing descendants are in the line of boss Vincent. But since the princess is expecting four kids, they are the ones who will continue the bloodline of the Imperial family. Even though they no longer live in an Imperial City, the world will know soon..." After the documentary release. Bruce added to his head.


    "But Hailee is building her own kingdom," Bryan muttered.


    "You are the right senior! Dream City could be the Imperial City of the princes and princesses soon!"


    Bryan nods his head, concurring with Bruce''s conclusion.


    They didn''t stay long and left the private cemetery. Bruce drove around and then made a stop at Metro City Garden to pick up the takeout he ordered for dinner.


    Bryan''s appearance in Metro City is confidential. Even though the people didn''t know he was the boyfriend of Eva they were looking for, the media might already dig up, and the paparazzi will recognize him.


    And so, instead of staying in a hotel. Bruce brought Bryan to the apartment that belonged to Vincent and Zaijan. It is also the same apartment Fraine is living in with Zaijan and Rodney.


    Bryan was standing on the veranda, gazing out at the city below. The apartment was on a mountain hilltop, and so, from there, it could overlook the entire city skyline.


    He lit a cigarette and blew the smoke with expertise. Later, Bruce joins him after the guy finishes setting up the dining table with the takeout they ordered.


    "May I?" asked Bruce at the cigar box on the table.


    Bryan nodded; he shoved his hand in his back pocket and pulled out an antique brass lighter to light Bruce''s cigarette.


    "Thanks, senior."


    The two of them smoke silently in the next minute, and no one seems to have nned to break the silence. Bryan had finished one stick, and he lit one again.


    His eyes then fixed on a particr building in the heart of the city. After they learned Vincent was Hailee''s boyfriend, he also dug out all the information he could get about Vincent, and one property he owned was the Crescent Penthouse.


    "Boss Hailee and boss Vincent live on the top floor," said Bruce. It was apparent to him where Bryan glued his gaze at.


    Instantly, pain struck his heart with the thought that Hailee fell in love with someone she barely knew, rather than him, who she had known for almost her entire life.


    But he has to ept the truth and let Hailee be happy she deserves. She is the most important person in his life, and so, nothing he wishes but for her to live well.


    "Well, dinner is waiting," Bruce announced. He got up from the chair and went inside ahead.


    Bryan didn''t stay long in Metro City. Before midnight the next day, Bruce drove him to the airport for a first flight back to Australia, where he had a connecting flight to South Africa the following day.


    His only purpose ining to Metro City is to visit Eva''s grave andpletely bid goodbye to his dark past.


    "Bryan!"


    His ne is here, and so he has to board now. Bryan turned around and looked at Bruce with a curious gaze. It was the first time Bruce called him by name, and so it ddens him.


    He then waited for what the guy wanted to say to him.


    "Do you want me to send a love letter to you? How about someone I could introduce to you?"


    "Knock it off." Bruce snorted, then his face got serious. "I just wanted to say that you don''t have to worry about the princess. The time she came to P Country, and I started working for her¡­ I witnessed how boss Vincent cared for the princess, and so, I am sure he genuinely loves her."


    After listening to Bruce, Bryan pursed his lips into a bitter smile. He could see how Hailee was happy being with Vincent¡­ something that Hailee never had that kind of spark in her eyes when she was with that guy, so he had to move on with his life.


    "I know."


    It was the only reply Bryan could give to Bruce. After they exchange goodbyes, Bryan resumes walking and goes to the gate where his ne is waiting. , and he


    *


    CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, South Africa


    Bryan hurls his deepest breath, then releases them. He was standing outside the airport, waiting for his pickup.


    He looks around the ce, but there is no sign of someone carrying a card where it wrote his name on it.


    "Hope in!"


    A colored metallic brown 2021 Ford Ranger parked in front of Bryan. When he didn''t move from where he stood, the woman got out from the driver''s seat and walked toward him.


    "Maria Keita, if you forgot me, Mr. Anderson." The girl introduces herself, stretches her hand, and offers it to Bryan.


    ''Jeez.. I am a busy person, so please, get in the car for christ''s sake!'' Maria couldn''t help grumbling in her head when the guy remained to stare at her.

 Chapter 394 - Game Of Love (04)

    <h4>Chapter 394 - Game Of Love (04)</h4>


    DREAM CITY, Australia


    At the Office of the President a few days before Hailee''s wedding¡­


    A knock on the door; was then pushed open by La, Hailey''s secretary.


    "President Davies, Miss Maria has arrived."


    Hailee lifted her head from reading the reports in her hand, smiled, and nodded at her secretary. "Let her in."


    La widened the door and invited the beautiful woman behind her to enter the room.


    "Maria!"


    "Hailee! Oh, gosh, beautiful Mumma!"


    The two girls giggled and hugged each other.


    "I''m happy you have a safe flight. Please,e and sit down."


    "Thank you, Hail¡­." Maria followed Hailee to the sofa and sat down next to her. After they both seatedfortably, Maria spoke again. "So? Is it for real this time?"


    Hailee smiled and nodded. "It is. There will be no more calling off the wedding. This time, whatever happens. I won''t let go of my fiance, and I will fight for him to death."


    Maria reached for Hailee''s hands to hold them. "That''s our girl! I''m happy for you, Hail."


    "Thanks¡­" Hailee lowered her gaze, then bit the bottom of her lip. There were sparks in her eyes when she looked at Maria. "I am settling down with the man I am so in love with."


    Maria smiled with sincerity. "I''m d to hear that. It surprised me when Cassie called me and notified me about your breakup and that you called off the wedding, which it''s just a few days away. And then, we haven''t heard from you. But look at you now¡­ So blooming and so proud of your baby bump."


    "I am!" Hailee unconsciously reached for her bump and lovingly caressed her belly. "They gave me an inexplicable feeling, and like it made meplete and the happiest mom in the world."


    "You will be a great mom," said Maria.


    "I''m scared. But Vincent has shown so much thoughtfulness, and he never neglects me. With him, he made me feel so much security."


    "Then he is the one!"


    "Yes¡­" Hailee concurred with a huge, sweet smile on her face.


    "I could really see how happier you are now than your first attempt to get marriedst year."


    Hailee nodded at Maria as her response.


    Maria is supposed to be one of her bridesmaids for her wedding with Bryan. But before she could fly to Dream City, Cassandra told her the heartbreaking news that there was no wedding to happen.


    She was curious to know everything, but she chose not to ask Cassie and respect Hailee''s privacy.


    One yearter, now she was seated next to Hailee, as she chose her to be her bridesmaid again, and this time, it was going to happen.


    Anyway, it''s not the only thing why she has toe many days before the wedding. She has a very important job to do soon.


    "Have you met Cassie yet?" Hailee asked Maria afterward.


    "I already did. She called me the moment my nended. It''s been many years that we haven''t seen each other."


    Maria and Cassandra have been good friends since they were kids. Cassandra''s father is a volunteer doctor, and her mother is a volunteer nurse in Africa. They were doing medical missions around the continent, and Cassie was born in Cape Town and grew up there.


    Then she befriended Maria.


    Maria received a schrship from Young Foundation, and she got her master''s degree at Oxford University. It was then she met Hailee and Kelly.


    Since they both know Cassandra, they also be good friends until Maria represents South Africa in the Miss Universe pageant.


    After her reign for one year, she continued her advocacy about Education, reaching those who couldn''t afford to send their kids to primary school. Maria has be an Ambassador of Youth and Education funded by the Young Foundation and Davies Foundation.


    She started the mission in thest two years, but her hard work is not enough. Until Cassandra told her about Hailee''s ns, she was d to be one of the volunteer teachers since it was her graduate course.


    Hailee is building a special academy for girls who are excellent students but cannot afford to send them to prestigious schools. But she is also supporting isted townships with ack of schools and support, the reason she needed a lot of volunteer teachers to send out at different ces.


    It was a very ambitious vision, but she will do her hardest to realize this dream until many people will recognize their mission.


    "Hail, thank you so much for opening your heart to us," said Maria after Hailee exined the things she wanted to happen to their projects.


    "What are you saying? I am actually happy that you have the same advocacy as me, and I have someone I could trust to share my dream."


    "You are an angel sent by heaven. I will do my best! And thank you for assigning me this job. I really love it!"


    "I''m happy to hear that. Anyway, you will not be alone. I am actually assigning someone to do this project because I wanted to talk to you personally before my wedding. You are familiar with many ces in Africa and speak many nativenguages. So, please apany him and work with him. I know you guys can get along."


    "Okay. No problem with me." Maria smiled confidently. For one year that she reigned as Miss Universe 2023, she has been around different people, either big shots or local leaders from other countries she visited, and many of them became her good friends.


    "Alright! I''ll call him now." Hailee stood on her feet and walked over to her desk to phone La and give her an order.


    Not that long, the door pushed open, and an undoubtedly beautiful man walk-in.


    "Hail? You wanted to talk to me?"


    The guy was actually surprised to see that Hailee was not alone.


    "Yes, Bryan. Do you remember Maria, right?"


    Hailee is trying to help Bryan recall her university days with Maria, as he often visited Ennd to see her and Kelly. Also, she once surprised Bryan when she flew to New York to support Mariapeting for the crown of Miss Universe in New York City, where Maria really won.


    "I guess I am¡­" said Bryan, trying to be polite despite uncertainty.


    He remembered Maria, but he didn''t much-put care about her, as he was only all over Hailee during those encounters. In his eyes, he only sees Hailee.


    On the other hand, Maria only controls her brows not to knit together. ''How dare this cheater guy to be still here?''


    She wanted to ask Hailee about it, but Maria restrained herself from doing it bluntly since Bryan was in the same room as her.


    *


    Maria came to her senses after a shback passed through her head. She tried to maintain her not-so-friendly smile, as it was more likely a sarcastic one toward Bryan.


    ''Atst¡­'' She sighs with relief inwardly when finally the guy shakes her hand.


    "I remember you, Miss Keita." Bryan only had a handshake with Maria for mere seconds, and he quickly withdrew his hand.


    He was lost for a moment as he tried to process a few things into his head about why Hailee trusted this woman to work with him. He had no problem with it. But during their encounter at Hailee''s office, this girl was too cold toward him, like she had hidden hatred towards him. They aren''t really close but only havemon friends.


    "So? Can we now get on the truck, Mr. Anderson, so that I can take you to your destination?"


    "Okay. I''m actually looking around and figuring out who my pickup is."


    "You didn''t expect that it was me?"


    Maria''s tone was a little sarcastic, and Bryan could sense it.


    "Sort of¡­" Bryan honestly admitted it. ''It looks like she has an issue with me. Or to every man?'' Bryan thought.


    Maria shrugs her right shoulder, then turns around and walks toward the driver''s seat and tells Bryan, "Be careful putting your luggage at the back. I have important things there."


    Bryan was in a helpless state while looking at the back of the truck. It really made him wonder why Maria was too cold to him. It''s not that she should be overly friendly. However, they will work side by side for at least two years.


    Bryan had no choice but to follow Maria''s instructions. He scanned his eyes to the things Maria mentioned that were important, and what he saw were ckboards, small stic chairs, and tables. It intrigues him why Maria is carrying this stuff around.


    "So, where do you want to head first? To your lodge or the headquarters?" asked Maria after he sat in the passenger seat.


    "I think I better visit the office first," he replied.


    "Great then! I will drop you off there since it was on my way."


    "Are you in a hurry? Or you don''t want to pick me up?" Bryan could notice her indifference toward him. He didn''t understand, but Maria seemed irritated, and he wasn''t sure if he was the reason.


    Maria nced in Bryan''s direction, then returned her eyes to the road.


    "Both¡­" she replied with honesty that stunned Bryan.


    ''What does it mean?'' He could feel that this woman was starting to frustrate him.

 Chapter 395 - Game Of Love (05)

    <h4>Chapter 395 - Game Of Love (05)</h4>


    LA PRAIRIE COURTYARD, Dream City


    A man in histe thirties came out of the bathroom, drying his hair with the extra towel in his hand.


    He threw the bath towel on the bed and then stepped into the closet to put some clothes on.


    The man wears a ck boxer. He was about to put on his pants when he noticed a girl standing at the door, frozen on the floor.


    Upon realizing he was not alone instantly, Tyler''s face darkened.


    "What are you doing here?" Frowning, he asked the girl coldly. Then he ignored her and continued to wear his pants and ck shirts with long sleeves.


    "I''m sorry, Mr. Lopez. Madam Sol sent me to help you pack up your clothes¡­."


    "Don''t you know how to knock?" Tyler snaps at the girl, cutting her exnation unfinished.


    Ryza attempts to apologize, but she is only cut in by her cold boss.


    ''I knocked! But no one is answering! I thought you were dead!''


    She wanted to exin further, but she felt it was meaningless to argue with an older man like him. Ryza lowered her gaze and secretly rolled her eyes in annoyance.


    This guy was too drunkst night, and she saw Mr. Rodney and Mr. Rick Lopez help him get to his suite.


    ''I''m just wasting my time worrying about this old man! How meaningless!''


    "I''ll be back when you are done, sir."


    Ryza turned around. When Tyler spoke, she was about to reach for the door handle.


    "What''s the use of leaving now? You''ve already seen enough."


    Ryza gritted her teeth and hissed inwardly. She was really tempted to kick this older man''s ass.


    ''Like there is good to see!'' She wanted to pull her own hair out of annoyance with her boss.


    She won''t be in the same ce as this older man if she isn''t picked out as a recement for Nurse Judy. But she was highly rmended by the hospital she works at, and nurse Judy herself rmended her to Madam Sol, which she can''t say no to nurse Judy.


    Thedy helped her financially and taught her how to give her sick grandma first aid when she was fifteen.


    Even though she is just a fresh graduate now, which was with honors, the Medical School that owns a hospital hired her directly the moment she got her license.


    Now, she also nned to apply for a schrship to take up Physical Therapist courses.


    Ryza doesn''t want to work for the Lopezes, even though she could enjoy traveling with them around the world. But the Lopezes are the major owner of the Medical School she graduated from.


    If she does an impressive job, the hospital director promises to talk to the other board members to grant her a full-time schrship for the second course she desires.


    That is why she forced herself to please this older man. But his aloof attitude irritates her so much!


    "No wonder he isn''t married until now," Ryza mumbled to herself that she did not know her boss could hear her mumbling.


    ''Probably no girls wanted to stay with him.'' She added to her head.


    "Did you say something?" Tyler cast a suspicious stare at the girl.


    He asked his uncle, the hospital director, to send his best nurse, but he sent this girl instead. He wanted an older nurse with a long year of experience and not someone who just graduated from a nursing course and recently had her license.


    However, it''s not because of nurse Judy, who has been serving with them for almost twenty years. He would not ept this inexperienced girl. But nurse Judy assures him that Ryza Melendrez is a good child and can be trusted.


    Ryza, on the other hand, wanted to stomp her feet and throw a tantrum when her boss threw a dubious look at her. She knew that this older man was underestimating her capability.


    Shepleted all the training she needed to be a certified nurse. Still, this older man behaves like a demented person, distrusting young people like her.


    ''What proof he wanted to see that I need not a lot of experience, and I could satisfy his preferences?''


    Ryza couldn''t stop grumbling in her head. They really can''t be together in the same room as she couldn''t take being alone with him.


    "You are hired to be my mom''s private nurse, not my nanny," said Tyler with a sarcastic tone while he buttoned up his shirt then tucked it into his pants.


    Ryza was on the brink of her patience. But she remembered her training in dealing with a hard-headed patient, and so, all she could do was clench her jaw and smile when she turned around to face her boss.


    "Mr. Lopez, it was your mother who requested me to check you out and help you if you needed one. Do you know how much you made her worriedst night when you passed out from drinking too much?"


    Tyler contracted his eyes.


    "Where is she now?"


    "She was in the dining hall with Madam Hilda."


    Just like that, before her boss left, Ryza was speechless. ''Let''s see if there''s a woman who wants to stay with you for a longer time! I bet only a gold digger will have patience with your attitude!''


    Ryza wanted to growl at her boss, as his attitude pissed her so much.


    "Even if you stay naked in front of me! There is nothing good to see!" Ryza cannot stop grumbling to herself while packing up her boss''s clothes. "Grrr!"


    All she could do was to calm down. Even if she wishes to vent her anger on the clothes, her schrship is at stake here. She needed to be patient!


    *


    Dining Grand Hall


    Entering the hall, Tyler checks his emails and does a quick look at the crucial documents his secretary sent to him.


    "Tyler!"


    He lifted his head and looked around to search for his mom. He found her was seated near the floor-ceiling window.


    "How are you feeling, son?"


    "I''m fine, ma. Don''t worry." Tyler warmly smiled. When ites to his mother, his voice is gentle and loving.


    "You must be hungry. I''m so worried, so I sent Ryza to check on you and help you pack your clothes."


    "Are you sure to stay here? Nurse Judy is not with you." He could not be at peace thinking that his mother would be left in Australia, and the only person who was always around her was the new nurse he didn''t fully trust. She could handle the job.


    "Don''t worry, okay? Your aunt Hilda will bring me to Sydney and Jessa will take me to Maind City. It''s been a while since myst visit to her home."


    Now that his mom mentioned all these ns, the more worry-filled Tyler''s heart.


    "Ma, are you sure to be okay?"


    "Of course, I am. Why aren''t you trusting Ryza? She is a good girl. Do you know she has been taking care of her sick grandmother since she was fifteen? It must be too hard for her; she has to attend her sses, and then she has to work to buy her grandmother''s medicine."


    Tyler remains silent and listens to his mother carry on talking about their newly hired nurse.


    Nurse Judy is supposed to be with them on this trip, but her husband got into an ident and needs several months into rehab for him to walk again. Of course, all expenses were paid by him.


    The woman has be a part of their family. He knew it was difficult for the nurse not to care for her husband, so Tyler hired a new nurse to attend to his mother.


    "Tyler, be nice to Ryza. I am delighted with her work, and so, you have nothing to worry about."


    Tyler nodded and smiled in response to his mother.


    Honestly, he doesn''t like city girls. For him, most of them are just pretty girls, but there is nothing much to like. Many are just party girls and gold diggers to sustain the luxurious life they desire, and they are too easy to spot.


    Some women tried to seduce him back on the South Ind, but he didn''t show any interest, as he knew what they wanted. They are not serious in life.


    Especially to the new generations these days. All they know is nightlife and spending money. Some are doing inappropriately online to earn money, except for those who do a decent job.


    And so, it was too rare to find someone who thinks about family.


    Evening¡­


    Tyler is set to go. His luggage was already in the airport and was finished checking in by Tim. All he needed to do was show up at the airport when it was time for their flight.


    At the hotel lobby gathered his rtives and their business partners that invited to the wedding. A few of them are Hailee''s knights, like Bruce Ledesma and Keith Cole. He also sees Hailee''s ex-boyfriend Bryan Anderson talking to them.


    He heard he would visit Eva''s grave.


    ''Huh. Eva is an example of a gold digger.'' Tyler thought to himself.


    Somehow, he was grateful that Eva didn''t fall in love and was obsessed with Vincent. If it happens, he could not imagine what would happen if Eva never signed the divorce papers and kept chasing Vincent to death.


    Then there is Liam Huo, who is obsessed with Hailee. dly, Bryan is different, and he didn''t give a headache to Vincent but let Hailee go and be happy. It just proves that Bryan genuinely loves Hailee.


    Did he also make the right choice? To let his ex-girlfriend leave?? But he can''t tolerate her mistakes. However, he is still in love with her.


    Should he give her a second chance?


    Or a second chance for himself? Tyler pondered.


    It''s been many years that have passed, but the pain is still here.

 Chapter 396 - Got Your Back

    <h4>Chapter 396 - Got Your Back</h4>


    State of Tasmania


    Anchored near the city port, Hailee got dressed to have a night stroll at Hobart. She was putting on light makeup and tied her hair into a ponytail.


    Hailee''s eyes glued to the mirror, drooling at that handsome man putting on clothes behind her.


    Vincent''s movement was in a hurry but remained graceful the way he fixed his shirt around his body.


    He turned around, instantly the corner of his mouth pushed into a smile when his wife gawked at him.


    Those burning eyes told him of something. And if he will allow himself to be tempted, there will be no more night out tonight in the city but another wild night with this girl.


    Vincent took theb from Hailee and helped her tie her hair.


    Hailee, on the one hand, remains to stare at her husband. It''s rare for her to see Vincent in casual attire, as he often sees him in the suit.


    But damn! Vincent wearing jeans, a white turtleneck shirt made him look manly and boyish at the same time.


    Vincent''s office suit makes him look like a mature, hardworking man, but now that he is only wearing casual clothes, her husband is more appealing and desirable.


    On the other hand, Vincent could read what was running on Hailee''s mind. He knew her hormones were always kicking in, but they had to limit it and take it slowly.


    She''s not just conceiving three but four babies in her belly.


    And going out tonight is the best way to distract themselves and enough activity to tire this girl, so then she''ll just go to bed when theye back to the yacht.


    "Come on. I''ll help you put on your coat."


    Vincent helps Hailee get up from the stool; he walks toward the cab where they hang their coats.


    He chooses the white fur coat and drapes it around Hailee''s shoulders. And for himself, he chooses a gray trench coat.


    Hailee is wearing pink leggings and red knitted high neck and long sleeves. Vincent helped Hailee put on her socks and pink boots.


    Now that her belly is swollen and bigger. She started having difficulty bending and putting on shoes.


    Hailee throws her arms after Vincent straightens his body. She coquettishly rubs her body as she mutters, "Thank you, daddy."


    Vincent always had a feeling of warmth surging inside his chest every time Hailee called him daddy.


    He could not help but bend and ce a loving kiss on Hailee''s baby bump and replied, "I love you, all." Then, im his sweet wife''s lips.


    "Let''s go."


    Hand in hand, Vincent and Hailee went to the hangar where a smaller yacht was waiting for them.


    Pitt presses a button. A door on the side opens, and he releases the two boats.


    When all set, Vincent sped Hailee''s hand and carried her to board the boat.


    The sunset was not too long ago, but the city lights have already lit. Every street was decorated with beautiful flowers andnterns.


    The city is weing them in silence.


    Hailee and Vincent saw the banners with congrattions and best wishes.


    Everyone in the state was already aware that they were traveling to Tasmania for their honeymoon. But Jacob, lord of the Oceania Continent, requested not to post any information and stole a shot when they spotted the newlywed on the ind.


    The residents respected these requests; however, it wouldn''t stop them from expressing their delight.


    Hailee had enjoyed the streets of Hobart City.


    Many people they meet, but everyone pretends they are just an ordinary couple who choose Tasmania to hold their honeymoon.


    Anyway, patrol police were clothed in casual winter outfits and casually lounging around the city for silent protection to the princess. They know very well that few paparazzi would be persistent and not afraid to take a risk to get a photo of the couple.


    "We''re here, hubby!" Hailee drags Vince inside her fave restaurant here in Hobart.


    Jacob already reserved the ce as part of the itinerary for the newlywed''s honeymoon trip in Tasmania. Tomorrow, they were sailing to visit other localities on the ind before Hailee and Vincent stayed at the Davies Chateau for another week before heading to Sydney.


    "Wee, Mr. and Mrs. Shen!"


    The restaurant manager warmly wees them. She then escorted them to their table in the middle of the hall.


    "Thank you." Hailee thanked the manager.


    "Please, enjoy and rx..." said the manager before she left. She then went to the pianist she booked to y tonight, especially for their special guest.


    Hailee smiled to listen to the soothing sound of the piano. It made her remember her mom, Marilyn.


    But Hailee stops learning to y the piano because she misses her mom. Her mom is often ying the piano while she is also singing. And so, no one has been ying the piano anymore in many years.


    Vincent knew this story. His hand instantly reached for hers and covered them with his.


    "Don''t you want me to dance?" Asked Hailee to Vincent yfully.


    He curled his lips and replied, "I love to, but aren''t you tired?"


    "I would love to dance."


    Vincent promptly gets up from his chair and bends his back while holding Hailee''s right hand.


    "May I have the honor to dance with this beautiful Empress?"


    Hailee chuckled, then stood on her feet. Vince ced his hands on her waist, and she wrapped his neck around her arms.


    "Tonight, I celebrate my love for you...."


    A beautiful female voice filled the room. Hailee rested her head on Vince''s shoulder and let their bodies sway with the rhythm of the beautiful love song.


    When the song finished, the food was already neatly set on their table. Vincent pulled the chair for Hailee, and she sat down with caution. Her belly is getting heavier.


    She''s in her fifth month soon, and the time passes by too fast.


    After the sumptuous dinner, Hailee drags Vincent to the other part of the city. She did a lot tonight, and so Hailee wanted to walk a little more to digest some of the food she had eaten.


    She wanted to go to a coffee shop where she likes their bread and cakes.


    Hailee kicked out Pitt, James, and the other knights that apanied them and urged them to visit a shop to have some booze.


    She just wanted to solo Vincent without them following behind.


    It''s been a while since she and Vince had a date.


    Vincent would take her to Metro City Garden for shopping in the past. Yes, and it''s more likely a pretense and showing off his mistress to the public.


    But she didn''t know. Everything is not an act for Vincent. For him, he was taking her out because he wanted to date her.


    "Tell me if you are already tired."


    "Even though I felt heavier, I am fine. I like us strolling like this when there''s no camera pointing at us."


    "Is this the reason you urged the men to get lost?"


    Hailee giggled, then nodded.


    "I can''t run to hide from them. Look at this baby bump."


    Vincent chuckled and shook his head. He could imagine that younger Hailee tried to escape from her bodyguards.


    Now he could already imagine his daughters inheriting this side of their mom. He is less worried about the boys as he wants them to be independent at such a young age.


    But about his girls, that''s another story.


    "Hubby, what''s wrong?"


    Vincent was pulled back to his senses when Hailee touched his face.


    "I''m just thinking about the near future." He honestly admitted it.


    "Are you worried about our kids?"


    "I can''t help too. I love them so much, and so I want to protect them, but at the same time, I want to give the best for them."


    Hailee cupped Vincent''s face. She brushed her lips on top of his and muttered, "You will be a great dad. I''m sure of that."


    "I can''t do this without you."


    "I know we can do this together."


    Vincent nodded, concurring with Hailee''s words. They have nothing to worry about as they got each other''s back.


    "I love Mrs. Shen. My life is so meaningless without you."


    "My life will be repainted without you, Mr. Shen... Oh, my gosh!"


    "What''s wrong?" Vincent was startled when Hailee suddenly gasped and shouted. In his face was written how worried he was if Hailee felt pain. "Is it hurting?"


    Hailee nodded, then shook her head that it confused him. Moreover, Hailee began welling up.


    "Wifey, you are making me worried. Do you want me to bring you to the hospital? Which way, by the way?" Vincent looks around to spot Hailee''s knights or local police to help him give direction.


    "I''m fine, daddy. It was the first time I felt it, so I was started and felt a little pain. But I will get used to it soon."


    Vincent was still perplexed, and so Hailee shared the excellent news. She took Vincent''s hand and ced it on her belly.


    Soon, Vincent widened his eyes. "They''re kicking!"


    Hailee nodded as tears kept falling from her eyes. The way Vincent looked delighted was priceless. She regrets she didn''t record it and showed it to their family.


    "Mrs. Shen, do our kids tell us we also got their backs?"


    Haileeughs between her sobs. How amazing that their children also answered when their mom and dad made promises to each other.


    Vincent kneeled on one foot and pressed his ear at Hailee''s belly.


    The people around them who heard Hailee scream began to worry if she felt in trouble. Now that they saw Vincent Shen''s action, they understood what was happening.


    The babies had their first kick, and the mom and dad were ted.

 Chapter 397 - Beautiful Memories

    <h4>Chapter 397 - Beautiful Memories</h4>


    Vincent gently strokes Hailee''s belly as he speaks.


    "Hello, boys. How are your little sisters? Take care of them."


    Hailee shed tears upon watching Vincent talking to their children close to her belly. He also kisses the ces where the kids are moving before he stands on his feet to im her lips.


    Vincent didn''t stop kissing Hailee but deepened it.


    It was the loud apuse from the surrounding people that ended their kiss. They look around and smile at everyone.


    The nearby people figured out that it was the babies'' first movement inside their mommy''s womb, the reason they heard the new mom gasp loudly.


    Vincent''s reaction was also a priceless sight before their eyes. The new dad immediately kneeled on one foot to feel his children''s movement inside their mom''s womb.


    The expressions that they disy on their faces are adorable.


    The couple didn''t know them all, but they were happy to witness such an event and share this moment of joy.


    "Congrattions!"


    "Congrattions, princess!"


    "Congrattions, Mr. and Mrs. Shen!"


    Everyone couldn''t help expressing their greetings. Hailee and Vincent thanked them, waving their hands. And before they resumed walking, they kissed one more time in front of everyone, which they cheered for.


    "Let''s go back to the yacht," said Hailee afterward. She added, "I''ll text Pitt and James to stay and continue drinking."


    "Aren''t your feet in pain now? Let me carry you." They have been walking a little longer; now, Vincent knows Hailee is a little tired.


    But Hailee shook her head.


    "You don''t have to! I''m heavy now, you know."


    "Still, I want to carry you. I would love to piggyback you if it would not press your belly."


    Hailee''s eyes instantly glowed upon hearing Vincent say that... It took her back to the time when Vincent brought her to one of his out-of-town business trips.


    It was a three-day work schedule, but Vincent finished his work on the second day, and by the evening, Vincent brought her to the famous tourist spot on the ind.


    The locals wanted the guests to feel the historical atmosphere of the area, so they prohibited any vehicles from entering the premises. So then, they walked from their hotel to the ce.


    Unfortunately, because she was overjoyed strolling around, she sprained her ankle when she missed a step, which caused her terrible fall from the stairs.


    Vincent has only one choice, and that is to carry her on his back. Fortunately, there was a nearby clinic, and after that, Vincent still took her on his back and walked toward the hotel.


    But honestly, they could already get a local public transport, but Vincent insisted on carrying her. So her only choice is holding tightly around his shoulder and burying her face into his neck to bnce her weight.


    That time, she was nervous as she wondered if Vincent noticed how wildly fluttered her chest.


    "What''s wrong?" Vincent asked Hailee when he noticed she was in a trance.


    Hailee shook her head after she came back at present. She smiled at Vince and shared how she remembered their beautiful memories when she was pretending to be his mistress.


    "I just remembered the time you brought me to Hal Ind."


    Instantly, the beautiful memories Vincent had cherished shed through his mind. Hailee sprained her right ankle, and so he carried her on his back.


    Indeed, it was a beautiful memory as he didn''t bring Hailee on a date to disy his affair to the public and give the paparazzi a good show, but because he was really in love with her and wanted to spend as much time as he could.


    "It''s a wonderful memory."


    "Mr. Shen, you''re such a tricky man." Hailee pouted, then red at him as if she was annoyed by his pretenses, to which Vincent only chuckled in response.


    Vincent indeed offered her a contract to pretend as his mistress, not knowing he just pretended she was not the love of his life.


    "Humph. Now that I remembered your act, I wanted to punish you. Are you ready, Mr. Shen?"


    It sounded sweet to Vincent''s ears.


    "It looks exciting." He whispered while his eyes glowered in anticipation. Whatever his wife came up with, he would be d to submit and y along.


    Hailee''s threat thrilled his chest instead.


    Pampering this girl is his happiness.


    Vincent leaned over and kissed Hailee one more time before they resumed walking.


    They were showing so much PDA on the streets of Hobart City. However, people don''t mind at all. They are delighted to witness the newlywed''s lovely moments disyed in front of them.


    Strolling the streets of restaurants and cafes, the shop''s owners approached Hailee and Vincent to give them freshly baked from their stores.


    "Princess, this is freshly baked from our oven!"


    "Oh, thank you, Mr. Jones!"


    Hailee also receives varied delicacies that are famous in Tasmania, which were part of her childhood. Her parents often visited the ind to visit her great grandparents, who owned one of the vastest vineyards in the state.


    In one shop, Hailee stopped and dragged Vincent inside; it was the ce where her parents always brought her for an afternoon snack.


    Hailee sweeps her gaze to the entire room. The shop only changed little, which gave her a nostalgic feeling.


    "Hello, Mrs. Gibb!" Hailee greeted the elderly behind the cash register with glee. The olddy instantly brightened her face upon recognizing her.


    "Oh, Princess Hailee! It is really you! I hear you were on the ind for your honeymoon. Thank you for visiting me."


    The olddy''s eyes started shedding tears. Seeing Hailee made her remember that little girl who always had a bright smile when she stepped inside her shop and greeted her cheerily.


    "Of course I will, Mrs. Gibb." Hailee sweetly smiled at the olderdy.


    Mrs. Gibb hurriedly got up from her stool and went to hug Hailee warmly. "Oh, I almost forgot that you are pregnant now."


    "It''s alright, Mrs. Gibb. By the way, this is my husband, Vincent Shen." Hailee introduced Vincent and Mrs. Gibb to each other.


    Mrs. Gibb eximed, "Ah, the blessed man!"


    Vincent smiled at the olddy as he politely nodded and concurred, "I am truly blessed, ma''am."


    When Vincent said that, he looked at Hailee with eyes filled with love. The olddy smiled and said,


    "It reminds me of your mother. She also came and introduced me to your dad."


    "Then, I will tell my daughters to introduce their husbands to you as a family tradition," Hailee replied. She didn''t look at Vincent, and so she missed that sh of protest in his eyes.


    Vincent always felt ufortable when it was mentioned the marriage of his girls.


    He valued family traditions, but what he doesn''t want to think and talk about at present is the distant future when his daughters are married.


    What he only thought once they were born was how he could pamper and dote them. Also, he would not allow them to get a boyfriend at a young age, not until they haven''t finished college yet.


    Of course, there are rules they have to follow.


    Ah, wait¡­ That''s not it!


    He acts like his mom, who would like to imprison him inside their mansion but take extra lessons from his tutors and perfectly learn self-defense that masters in martial arts teach.


    Now, he hasplete control of his life with Hailee. Together, they will build their own family and raise their children with all the best they can do.


    "Wait a minute, princess. Let me give you a box of freshly baked doughnuts."


    Vincent heard the olddy tell Hailee.


    "Ah, my fave! Thank you, Mrs. Gibb!"


    "You''re very wee, dear."


    "I''ve really missed the ce."


    Hailee told Vincent while they were standing in front of the shelves filled with different loaves of bread, cakes, tarts, and all sorts of pastries.


    "You have wonderful memories with your mom in this shop, right?"


    He only guessed, but the emotion that wrote on Hailee''s face told him out loud.


    "Thank you for sharing this wonderful feeling," Vincent added. "I could imagine our children would leave a mess at the ce."


    Hailee giggled, but she stopped when she felt a kick once again.


    "I think the kids protested with your statement, daddy," she told Vincent coquettishly.


    "Alright. Daddy is wrong." Vincent bent down and kissed Hailee''s bump. "Daddy will reward you guys as long as you stay behaved."


    "Oh!" Hailee gasps.


    "Are they still kicking?" asked Vincent.


    Hailee nodded. Vincent ced his palm, and he indeed felt the babies'' movement beneath his hand.


    "Did the babies kick?" asked Mrs. Gibb, who now came back with tworge boxes in her hands.


    "Yes, Mrs. Gibb," answered Hailee.


    "That''s wonderful! I wished them to grow up healthy and happy."


    "Aw, thank you for blessing them, Mrs. Gibb."


    "I am delighted to see you happy," she told Hailee. Then Mrs. Gibb moved her gaze at Vincent and handed the boxes. "Here, it''s for the babies!"


    Vincent took the boxes and thanked the olddy. "Thank you, ma''am."


    Hailee bid goodbye to Mrs. Gibb when Pitt and James arrived in a car.


    "Good night, children!"


    "Good night, Mrs. Gibb!" James waves at the olddy.


    "Goodbye, Mrs. Gibb." Pitt also bid farewell.


    They were often hanging out at the bakeshop when the princess had her stop from sailing the Oceanic Continent.


    "You guys should continue spending the night on the ind."


    "Princess?" Pitt instantly protested.


    "I saw the local coast guards were on high alert tonight to watch me. So, you guys take this opportunity to enjoy the night."


    Pitt and James shared a look and then grinned.

 Chapter 398 - Got Engaged Again

    <h4>Chapter 398 - Got Engaged Again</h4>


    The following day, Hailee sleeps in and walks upte morning.


    After returning to the yacht, she and Vincent were stargazing at her sun deck until they fell asleep.


    She was having hot milk with donuts, while Vincent had chardonnay wine given freely by one shop they passed by. Honestly, she was drooling to have some wine, too. But she must restrict herself now that she is pregnant.


    Hailee buried her face in Vince''s warm chest. He was only wearing a boxer, and she sought the warmth of his body.


    "Good morning, Wifey," said Vince, cing a loving kiss on her hair.


    "Hmm¡­ Good morning, hubby."


    Hailee is still half asleep. She pressed her body into Vincent, making some slight moves that made him grunt in pleasure.


    Hailee rubbed his crotch with her leg. Now it slowly stiffened inside his boxer, which his silly wife is grinning at the moment.


    Vincent assumes Hailee did that intentionally, which he is willing to take revenge. He runs his fingers into Hailee''s smooth legs upward to her thighs.


    He continued massaging her body, running his hand toward her back, pressing his fingers to her muscles around the nape, down to her hips. Vincent squeezes Hailee''s bottom. His hand continued roaming Hailee''s body until it rested between her thighs.


    Vincent rubbed her core above her lingerie, and because it was only a g-string, thece fabric giveaway and his hands contacted her skin.


    Hailee turned on her right, giving her back to Vincent. He grabbed her leg and ced it on his hip. In that way, he had more easy ess between her thighs.


    She pressed her eyelids as waves of pleasure surged inside her core. She could also not control her body to move upward, meeting Vincent''s fingers, thrusting deep down inside her¡­


    Hailee grabbed a pillow and buried her face to control her moans. Although no one would attempt toe in the sun deck when they knew they upied the room, still she would not feelfortable for others to hear her crying in pleasure.


    Not long, Hailee reached the peak, and she had her orgasm. Her a*s pushing into Vincent''s length that was rocking hard now.


    They were kissing passionately while their bodies rubbed at each other. Vincent only controls his desire not to put inside her but suits himself by grinding his hips on her bottom.


    "How about you?" asked Hailee with concern. She badly wanted him inside her, but they must stop risking the safety of their babies.


    "I will take care of it."


    Hailee understood what Vincent meant about that. He will try to relieve himself.


    "Let''s go have a shower together."


    There''s no way she would let Vincent suffer alone. Hailee helped Vincent release under the rushing water; after that, Vincent bathes Hailee and puts on some clothes.


    But Hailee wanted to swim in the pool with pregnancy exercises she learned online. She was only wearing a sexy brown bikini.


    Vincent wanted to protest, but she heard Hailee phone her nannies to clear the pool area. When they arrive, the table is filled with his and Hailee''s favorite dishes.


    Hailee took their photo and posted it on her Instagram. Instantly, it was flooded withments the usual in her posts these passing months.


    "Oh,!"


    "What a sexy Mumma!"


    "So, gorgeous!"


    Hailee only appears in a bikini when she swims at an exclusive ind beach resort or indoor pools like an all-girl out.


    The farthest she went wearing swimsuits around the boys is a decent two-piece or a bikini covering her ass with swimming pants because Andre never allows her to wear sexy swimwear around the boys. And the boys themselves would throw a t-shirt at her to cover her body.


    The reason she really loves them. To be honest, she just realized why the men acted that way because many of them thought of her romantically. And they don''t want to think ill of her.


    Like Bryan confesses to her, he was fighting the monster inside him.


    "What''s wrong, Wifey?" asked Vincent when she stopped eating. They were soaking in the pool while a food tray was floating on the water.


    Hailee shook her head. She lifted her head to reach Vincent''s lips and smack a kiss on him.


    "I''m just thinking of sending out thank you cards to all of my knights soon."


    A sh of jealousy appeared in Vincent''s eyes, but he quickly hid it. They were on their honeymoon, but Hailee was thinking about another man. Not just one man, but hundreds of men.


    However, Hailee was already familiar with Vincent, so she had already guessed what was on his mind.


    Hailee stretched her arms and ced them around Vincent''s neck as she uttered, "Don''t worry. Once we settled in Sydney and left home alone, I would just do it. It will be my pastime. And you don''t have to get jealous because you are going to help me write a letter."


    Then, in that case, he has nothing to be anxious about. Vincent thought. He wrapped his arms around Hailee''s waist, then kissed her lips.


    *


    They wandered the other parts of the inds in the following three days before they settled North of Tasmania and stayed for five days.


    Vincent enjoyed collecting all the kinds of wine that were avable in Tasmania. He was delighted to receive a vintage wine Hailee''s family kept.


    Hailee was too amused, staring at Vincent with a massive grin on his face. It could bepared to a child who receives a toy that will be his favorite from here on, so she teases him.


    "Hubby, you know that all I have is also yours?"


    Vincent looks at Hailee with surprise. Of course, he married her not because of her wealth but with a desire to grow old with her. He already lived in luxury all his life and even made a fortune himself, and so he wanted to sign a prenuptial agreement, but Hailee didn''t agree to it.


    He even convinced his father-inw, but Hailee, her dad, doesn''t mind at all. But Vincent still wanted to pursue Jacob, and he would do that once they were home in Sydney and started his training of managing Davies Corporation.


    Vincent leaned over and kissed Hailee on the lips. He said, "It''s actually only simple things that make me happy. Because you,ing into my life, are too much ready for me to thank the heavens."


    Hailee could not control her mood swings once again. Vincent''s simple words had caused the flood of tears in her eyes. This guy bes a sweet talker, which she loves very much.


    "I love you, Vincent."


    "I love you too, Hailee."


    At that moment, their hearts had found another haven. Hailee and Vincent knew they wanted a simple, peaceful, and happy life.


    They didn''t wish for more wealth and power in this world. However, as they were both born for greater things, they must ept that they belong to High Society and continue living on top of the world.


    "For the future of our children," said Hailee.


    "For a better world for our children," Vincent replied.


    To give the world they wished for their family, Vincent and Hailee made a vow to walk this life with their hands holding together.


    There''s nothing wrong with making a difference and doing good things, contributing to a better tomorrow.


    Building a better future can start with small things. But since they can do more, Hailee and Vincent will do all their best to do the right things in this world.


    "I''m indeed so blessed I walk this journey with you," Vincent whispered to Hailee.


    They were seated behind a pickup truck, watching the sunset above the hill. Below are the vastness of the pinot noir grapes and ake at a distance.


    "And I am blissful to be the mother of your children."


    "Even in my next life, I want to meet you again."


    Upon hearing that, Hailee remembered the second wedding she had nned already. On their first anniversary, she wanted to marry Vincent one more time, which by that time, she had already given birth to their quadruplets.


    "Hubby, have you ever heard about Soul Binding Ritual?" asked Hailee Vincent after she studied his face.


    "Hmm? Is that really true?"


    "Then you''ve heard that already?"


    "Well, kind of. I only heard that from someone when I was in college... I mean, I actually heard it at Hiryuu Ind."


    "Wow! Really?"


    "Yes. Ady told me I should go back to the ind with the woman I love to get married through Soul Binding Ritual," said Vincent.


    "Oh. Who''s that woman? Have you remembered?"


    "Hmm¡­ Let me recall it. It was kind of night, so I didn''t see her face. Also, she is wearing red gloves and a red hat which made her look mysterious to me like¡­."


    Vincent was stunned for a moment. Now he just remembered about it!


    "Hubby, you were describing Aunt Isabe."


    Vincent''s eyes widened slowly. Now he knew why Lady Isabe seemed familiar to him! They met before he got in an ident and was in aa, then had his rehab for many months.


    "It was her!"


    Hailee smiled.


    "Aunt Isabe knew all the shamans that performed the Soul Binding Ritual."


    Vincent wondered when Hailee stood on her feet, but then she kneeled on one foot and asked him,


    "Mr. Vincent Shen¡­ Will you soul binding be with me?"


    Vincent dropped his mouth open. He actually immediately stops Hailee from kneeling as he never sees thising. Now he could feel his eyes welled up with tears.


    "I want to meet you in my next life and my other next life."


    Vincent didn''t expect that Hailee had prepared a ring for them.


    That evening, all social media tforms were down because of the flood ofments everywhere.


    The entire world hasn''t calmed down yet from the wedding of the millennium fever, and now the couple has made an explosive announcement once again.


    "GOT ENGAGED FOR A SECOND TIME"


    Vincent posted with that caption showing the ring Hailee gave him. Meanwhile, Hailee also posted with a caption,


    "HE SAID, YES! I PROPOSED TO HIM! THERE''S ANOTHER WEDDING NEXT YEAR!"

 Chapter 399 - Home

    <h4>Chapter 399 - Home</h4>


    Hailee once again struck the entire world with hertest post on Instagram, which every social media tform and TV station reported Hailee''s proposal to her newlywed husband, Vincent Shen.


    "They were just on a honeymoon, but the couple was thinking of getting married again!"


    An entertainment anchorwoman reported on the national morning news TV the very next day.


    *


    Davies Mansion, Sydney, Australia


    Jacob had a huge grin on his mouth while browsing his phone and reading the articles he found online.


    It came to his mind how his daughter lived a low-key profile life and hid from the media all the time. However, recently, his daughter loved to drop bombs on the world.


    He thought Hailee had already been bold when she started stalking Vincent Shen and signed a Mistress Agreement with him.


    Yes. The world will learn about this soon after the release of the documentary.


    It really shocked him to watch these two answering Jessa''s question. Before they spoke up, a meaningful smile appeared on the couple''s faces when they shared how everything had started.


    And it all began on a piece of paper.


    Vincent offered a contract to Hailee to pretend to be his mistress. And since Hailee wanted to know more about Vincent, she epted it without knowing she would fall hard for him.


    Now his daughter made her own proposal to Vincent, even they were already married.


    At the long table, the Shen and Hillson family were also present. They were having a family gathering, discussing the surprise they prepared for Hailee with Vincent''s help in secret.


    "It was Hailee who proposed this time. Are they eyeing to renew vows back in P Country?" Sheena wondered.


    "No. Hailee nned a private wedding, just the two of them at Hiryuu Ind," Gigi exined, recalling thest time Hailee burst out crying as she started feeling conscious of her appearance. She was thinking that she would not look sexy in her wedding photos.


    "Oh. Why Hiryuu Ind?" asked Deana.


    Meanwhile, Jacob and Fred shared a nce and smiled as they both knew what the couple was trying to do.


    "When are they arriving?" Hilda didn''t hide her worries for Hailee, thinking she was still having morning sickness and if Vincent dealt adequately with his wife''s mood swings. Also, if she ate healthy food, cravings are hard to control during pregnancy. Hilda hopes his son will watch his wife''s diet.


    "Mom, don''t be so in a hurry. Let brother and Hailee enjoy their honeymoon," said Deana.


    "I know. I just thought¡­."


    "Hailee had her doctors, and so we have nothing to worry about." Sheena chimed in, cutting her mom''s sentence.


    "Even so¡­"


    "They are adults, mom." Deana and Sheena said at once.


    Hilda twitched her mouth, ring at her daughters. She tried to exin why she was anxious, but her two daughters have be the duo to contradict whatever is in her mind. It always has to be them who would react in everything she wanted to do.


    Hilda fretted inwardly when she heard Fred chuckle. Instantly, she red at her husband, sitting next to her.


    "What?" she snaps at him in a low voice, trying not to attract attention.


    Fred shook his head and whispered to Hilda, "you have nothing to be shocked about. Your daughters inherited your stubbornness."


    ''Frederick Shen!'' Hilda sneered at Fred inside her head as she could not disy her temperament in front of Vincent''s inws.


    Although she could see how Jacob and Fred were getting along well, she didn''t want Jacob to have a poor impression of Vincent''s family.


    "Alright. You girls bettere with me. We have to buy all the things the babies would need."


    "Mom, let Hailee and brother enjoy shopping for their babies," Sheena told her mon, to which Deana nodded, supporting her younger sister''s statement.


    Hilda shrunk her pupils, ring at her two daughters. They really won''t stop contradicting her ns, although they were right. But she wanted her daughters to stop embarrassing her in front of the Davies and Hillson family.


    "Mom, you''ve already done an excellent job so far. I know Hailee wants you to rx and have a break after the stressful months preparing for the wedding. Then, you have to deal with Eva''s death issues that are thrown at us."


    "That''s right, mom. You have nothing to worry about. We''re sure that Hailee would love our wedding gift for them."


    Hilda has rendered her silence for a moment. She looked at her two daughters as she contemted... She had forgotten that they were mothers now as well.


    It''s been a while since she shunned Deana and Sheena because they went against her arrangement for their life. Now they are all through the past and starting anew.


    "Eva''s name will be a taboo to mention from now on." Afterward, said Hilda to her daughters.


    "Yes, mom." Sheena and Deana instantly nodded their heads. They also don''t want to remember Eva as she is insignificant in their life.


    "Alright. Don''t you girls have to prepare to go back to Metro City? Thepany needed your attention." Hilda urged her daughters to start packing up.


    "Note, Chairman Shen!"


    The sisters were in the mood to tease their mom, causing Hilda''s eyeballs to jump out from their sockets. Even though after settling down, they were still naughty.


    ''These daughters of mine!'' She should have known already.


    *


    The following day, Hailee''s yacht anchored nearby at Davies Private Club.


    The media heard about their arrival on that day. So, they have already crowded outside the said club sincest night.


    "They''re here!" The reporters immediately take out their cameras.


    "News live at Davies Bay Club. We caught a glimpse of Queen Marilyn''s yacht owned by Princess Hailee that, as we have known, had a new title now as Mrs. Shen."


    *


    Somewhere in a nearby building... Several snipers are on standby.


    "Everyone in position¡­."


    "Copy that¡­"


    *


    Somewhere in Maind City Observatory Center...


    "ATHENA is on standby¡­."


    "Start the search¡­." Shun gave out the order.


    "Starting the search¡­." Dn Lawrence repeated; he then took control of ATHENA. He scans a particr area somewhere in Sydney, Australia. "No threat detection," Dn reported to Shun.


    "Great! Keep monitoring, Dn."


    "Copy, boss!"


    ***


    A few hours ago¡­


    "Pitt, I want to greet the media."


    "Princess, we better not take some risk."


    "But Pitt? I''m already tired from hiding!"


    "Princess... You need to understand that after you marry Vincent, now your worth has be twice because of Shen''s bloodline history." James exined. He received an order from Shun to not ck off guarding the princess as they receive some unusual activities in Sydney.


    "James is right, Princess." Doctor Hector seconded.


    Hector actually often sailed with Hailee as her private doctor during the voyage. And on this voyage, they now need to bring an OB-Gyn, as she is pregnant with a very sensitive condition.


    "You were conceiving heirs of the Xing family. The High Royal Society just wanted to protect you," Pitt added.


    ''Is that so? Now they were exaggerated?'' Before the elders were opposed, she married Vincent.


    Hailee bit her bottom lip. She has no issue that everyone thinking of her safety. However, the suffocation in her life is even greater now that she is married. She can''t take this anymore.


    This is not the life she wanted for her children. All she wanted was a free life for them.


    Hailee suddenly felt distressed thinking about this... She wanted to throw a tantrum, but she felt Vincent''s palm massaging her shoulder. As she looked up, she met Vince''s tender gaze.


    Hailee reached her forehead and rubbed a spot that itches. ''Dammit.'' It was her mood swings. She must not stress over her loved ones'' concern for her safety.


    "Okay. I won''t go near anymore. But I will show up from the upper deck to greet them."


    With that, Pitt and James agreed. Pitt reported to Shun about their discussion and Hailee''s n.


    After the yacht anchored, Hailee and Vincent stepped out on the upper deck and waved at the reporters waiting for their arrival.


    Hailee is wearing a deep V-neck white boho dress, and Vincent wears a casual blue shirt and jeans.


    The media was ted when Hailee spared time to grace her presence. After standing on the upper deck, showing a public disy of her and Vincent being intimate, she waved at everyone before boarding the helicopter.


    Hailee waved at the media one more time from the aircraft before they flew away. The helicopter made its way above the busy highways of Sydney.


    In the next few months, she and Vincent will stay in the city before moving back to Dream City when her due date approaches.


    After several minutes, the helicopter slowlynded in the mansion''s garden. Hailee has tears in her eyes, seeing everyone waiting at the outdoor pool area.


    "Hailee!"


    Before Hilda could get near them, her two daughters rushed forward. She was infuriated by how they hugged Hailee without concerning her bump.


    "Would you two be careful?" she stressed out at the girls, which the sisters only giggled, looking at her soured face.


    The sisters just knew that their mom was jealous. Anyway, she always likes that when ites to her family.


    "Hello, mom." Hailee hugged Hilda with a warm smile on her face. She was already familiar with her mom-inw''s mood, but it still brought happiness to her heart. Once her mom-inw is fond of someone, she will be sweet-tempered toward that person.


    "How was the trip? Don''t you feel nauseous? Are you feeling alright?" Hilda threw Hailee a series of questions that even widen her smile.


    "I feel wonderful, mom."


    "I''m d¡­ Come, you must be hungry now."


    "Yeah! I know you guys are preparing something for our arrival."


    Hailee walked with Hilda toward the mansion. She runs to her dad and snuggles inside his arms.


    "Dad¡­"


    "Ah, my princess. Wee home."


    "I am truly home, dad."


    Jacob smiled. He perfectly understood his daughter''s words. As long as Vincent was by her side, she would always feel at home wherever she went.


    "Wee back, Hailee."


    "Thank you, dad Frederick." Hailee exchanges a hug with her dad-inw and then her grandpa Allen and Andre. "Ah, you are all here too."


    "Of course." Andre tightened his embrace but was extra careful not to press Hailee''s baby bump. "I''m so happy seeing you this cheerful. Now I would be at peace and stop worrying about you the whole time."


    "I know." Hailee sniffed as she started sobbing. Andre is not just her uncle but also her best friend. "I love you, Andre."


    "I love you too, princess."


    "Please, get married soon."


    "It will be next year," said Andre.


    "Yay!" Hailee smiled gleefully.


    Andre chuckled. It delighted him to catch a glimpse of that little girl who was very clingy to him.


    "I''m so happy that the real Hailee was back," he muttered.


    He honestly always worried about this sweet and pure-hearted girl, whose heart was hurt and broken. Now, she found the person who became the first man in her heart.


    "You deserve all the happiness in the world, princess."

 Chapter 400 - Wonderful Surprise

    <h4>Chapter 400 - Wonderful Surprise</h4>


    Hand in hand, Vince and Hailee walked toward the indoor pool at the extension building at the right wing of the mansion.


    The moment they had a glimpse of their mom, the five dogs rushed toward Hailee. The knights quickly restrained them as Hailee was now five months pregnant, but her belly was almost like a seventh month''s preggy.


    "Jolie! Mason! Ah, Lyche! L! Hey, girl!" Hailee wanted to hug her dogs. However, she can''t bend anymore with her bulge. "What happened to Gael?"


    Hailee noticed this male dog sitting obediently in the corner, just looking at them, but his tail wagging with eagerness.


    "Gael,e here!"


    The dog just then runs toward Hailee and licks her feet.


    "Ah, good boy. It seemed like you were the only one behaving, huh?" Hailee petted Gael''s head.


    The dog was sitting obediently in front of her while eyes looked at her baby bump with intent. His nose moved like he tried to determine through his smell what was on his human''s belly, and it grew bigger like that than thest time he remembered.


    Hailee was amused. She nced at Vincent, and he also had guessed that Gael understood that there were lives inside her womb.


    "Are you excited to meet my babies?" asked Hailee. Gael barked and twirled around, expressing his excitement.


    "Good boy¡­ Hey, meet daddy Vincent!"


    "Hello, buddy!" Vincent squatted on the floor and tried to interact with the dog. At first, Vincent studied Gael''s behavior toward him. When the dog wagged his tail, Vincent didn''t think anymore to pet him. "Good boy!"


    Gael allowed Vincent to rub his back. Soon, the other dogs rushed to him and wanted to be pets as well.


    The times that Hailee was away. She was video calling with her dogs when she couldn''t hold anymore, not missing them. Later, she introduces Vincent to them through FaceTime, and she''s happy that the dogs recognize Vincent.


    "Alright! Come here! Time for dinner. Momma needs to feed her babies too." James called out the dogs; they immediately ran toward him.


    "They were pups when I started bringing them when I sailed out," Hailee told Vincent.


    "It''s the reason they were close to James."


    "Yes. He''s the one who would bathe them, soaking in the bathtub with them."


    "Heh. I see¡­" Vincent nods his head, with a grin on the corner of his mouth, watching James disappear into the garden with the five dogs. He added afterward, "It seems like he''s your greatest knight."


    "James will be a great uncle."


    "I have no doubts." Vincent concurred.


    Hailee smiled upon hearing that. In these passing weeks, she could see that Vincent and James had a better rtionship than before, making her happy. She hopes that the rest of the boys will open up to him soon.


    At the pool area, Hailee was envious, looking at the kids enjoying the water.


    They were riding on floaters while their dads'' ying with them. Hailee thinks the kids were too cute. Every time theyugh loudly, it fills her chest with inexplicable happiness. She could imagine Vincent babysitting their kids, ying with them, swimming with them, bathing with them.


    "What''s wrong?" Vincent was also enjoying looking at the kids having fun in the pool. But then he heard Hailee sobbing. "What''s the matter, Wifey?"


    Hailee shook her head, burying her face into Vincent''s shoulder. "It''s nothing, hubby. I''m just feeling excited to meet our babies."


    Vincent ced his left arm around Hailee''s waist while one arm stroked her back, coaxing her. He understood now why she suddenly cried while her mood swings were still up. Anyway, like Hailee, he also looks forward to meeting his kids. Watching his two brothers-inw made him envious.


    "It will be just four months, and we will wee them soon."


    "Thank you." Hailee nodded, and this time, she felt better. She could not imagine her life without Vincent. She has felt all kinds of emotions since she met him.


    She was frightened of losing Vincent. Happiness that the boys failed to make her feel before. And fear that she never felt before, even when her mom died.


    Hailee wipes her tears with the help of Vincent. Hilda noticed them and wondered why her daughter-inw cried. In her heart, her son must do something.


    "Vincent, why aren''t you bothing over yet? Come here, and I want to interrogate you! Hailee must be hungry already." Hilda added to her head.


    When her son- and daughter-inw came over to the dining table, Hilda didn''t wait for her son to sit down.


    "Why is Hailee crying? What did you do?"


    Vincent was dumbfounded while meeting his mom''s re. Her queries made him speechless. ''She remained the Great Hilda Shen!''


    His mom still scolded him! But this time, it was funny because his mom was siding with Hailee and was very protective of her. At that thought, Vincent smiled at his heart.


    "Mom, you know that making Hailee cry is thest thing I would ever do. Maybe it was you who said something."


    It was a joke. But Vincent saw the panic sh in his mom''s eyes. When Hilda saw Vincent curled his lips into a smirk, she wanted to smack him on the back.


    ''Ridiculous! My son dared to joke on me!'' But it concerns her; might her tongue slip through some words that sometimes she didn''t think about¡­


    Vincent steps closer to his mom and hugs her. "Don''t worry, mom. You know, Hailee had mood swings all the time. Even happiness brought her tears."


    Hilda sighs with relief after listening to her son''s exnation. It makes her worry if she causes Hailee''s tears.


    "Alright. Go feed your wife."


    Hilda was actually blushing when her son let her go. To be honest, she isn''t much used to being intimate with her family members. Buttely, even Vincent is constantly giving her a hug which warms her chest.


    Vincent knew what his mom was feeling at the moment. He could see how she was trying to hide her flustered face from him.


    They were not intimate with each other in their family, except for Sheena, who was raised being too spoiled. She is sweet and clingy to all of them. And because they pampered her, she has the nature of a rebellious teenager.


    Over dinner,ughter and lively conversation filled the table. For Hailee, it was one of the best meals she ever had. She has been sharing a lovely meal with everyone, but tonight, this asion brought a strange joy.


    Probably because the people she shared a table with are her two-most favorite families that she loves so much.


    "Hail, we have a surprise for you!"


    "Oh, what is it?" Immediately, Hailee''s chest overwhelmed with anticipation. She knew it would bring her tears once she found it out. "Wait, why does my husband look not surprised at all? Do you know this already?"


    Vincent only smiled to hide his guilt at hiding something from his wife. Ever since he confessed to Hailee, and she has been honest, they shared everything and hid nothing.


    "Do you remember when I asked you random questions?"


    Hailee indeed remembered those asions when Vincent suddenly brought up some stuff rted to their kids. Now she wondered what it was all about.


    "You guys are so¡­" Hailee already cried even before she found out what kind of surprise they had prepared for her.


    And not to make them wait any longer, they brought Hailee and Vincent to the mansion''s second floor. Hailee looked at her dad when they stopped in her bedroom.


    "Go ahead, princess." Jacob urged his daughter.


    Andre pushes the door open; Hailee steps inside, then gasps with awe. They transformed her bedroom into something she imagined since she was sharing a room with Vincent from here on.


    "Thank you, dad!"


    Using his thumb, Jacob wiped the tears from her daughter''s eyes. "Well, this is not the surprise we are preparing for you."


    Hailee looked up at her dad with questioning stairs.


    "Come here, princess." Andre was standing in the door that was new to Hailee. That''s right. That door was not originally there.


    "What''s going on?" Hailee walked toward Andre. She welled up seeing what was behind the door.


    "Surprised!"


    "Oh, my god!"


    Hailee covered her mouth from the emotion that rushed into her chest. Her inws and Gigi gave her a really wonderful surprise.


    The room next to her original bedroom is now the babies'' room; since she had two boys and two girls from here, the bedroom was divided into half with a boy''s theme on the other side and a girl''s theme on the other side.


    "What do you think?" Vincent asked Hailee, who wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately in front of their family.


    "I love it so much!"


    "Ah, we''re happy that you like what we''ve done here. Anyway, if we didn''t stop, mom. She wanted to go shopping again to fill this room with more toys."


    Hilda shrunk her pupils after Sheena exposed her. ''This daughter of mine!''


    Hailee rushed to Hilda and hugged her mom-inw with so much love. "Thank you, mom. Please, apany me to go shopping on one of these days. Vincent will be busy soon, and I already feel bored just thinking about it."


    "Sure! Since your dad, Fred, and the girls will soon go back to Metro City, I would love to apany you. It was a brilliant idea to kill boredom."


    "I''m happy that you are staying."


    "Yes, I am to take care of you."


    "Thank you, mom!"


    The sisters winked at each other after they made a correct guess. Deana and Sheena shared a knowing look. They knew their mom would stay in Sydney; that is why they deliberately rejected her n of going shopping every day.


    It was enough for them. She showed great care to all of them. Allowing them to manage their business is an excellent step that their mom has changed now.


    Their mom transferred a few assets and properties under her grandchildren''s name that she inherited from the Lopez wealth.


    Hilda''s gesture secured their children''s future. Besides, Deana and Sheena have nothing to be jealous of if their mom is too concerned about Hailee.


    She is a self-made billionaire. She established her ownpanies.


    Hailee''s pregnancy is not only important for Shen but also for Davies. Shen''s wealth is actually nothingpared to what Hailee inherited from her family, not to mention thepanies she established. She is a self-made billionaire, owning jewelry and cosmeticspanies well-consumed by the world.


    "We forget something!" Sheena announced. "Of course, we didn''t forget our surprise for our brother!"


    Vincent looks at his younger sister suspiciously. "What is it?"


    Sheena was actually filming the entire time. She walked toward a door, gesturing at her brother toe closer.


    "Open it, brother!"


    Vincent nced at his sisters before he turned around and searched for his wife. He stretched his hand toward Hailee. She quickly strode toward him, and together, they opened the door.


    The couple is both touched to see that it was a study room, which made them so happy to ess it from the nursery room.


    "I love it!" Hailee saw two office tables face each other. It will be hers and Vincent. Indeed very convenient for them that it will be easy to check on their kids when they are working overtime.


    There are also long couches and chaise lounges on the corners.


    "There''s another mini-room in this study!" said Deana.


    "Oh, god!" Hailee could not stop screaming with delight when she entered the pantry. She sees that they filled the three-door refrigerator with her favorite food.


    "It was everyone''s idea," said Andre.


    "Yahoo! I would love to babysit the babies, princess!" James appeared behind them out of the blue, rushed to the fridge, and began picking out chocte-vored ice cream.


    "No way! You are prohibited from stepping inside my study!" Vincent immediately snapped at James. "That food is not yours!"


    However, James turned deaf, ignoring everyone, and began eating the ice cream.


    Everyone could only shake their heads.


    ''I know this guy would be such a nosy in my marriage life! I won''t have any privacy at all!''? Vincent sneered inside his heart.

 Chapter 401 - The Feeling

    <h4>Chapter 401 - The Feeling</h4>


    Waking up to a new day, Hailee found the other side of her bed empty.


    She nced at the giant wall clock in the corner of her bedroom. Still, it was too early for her to get up since it was the weekend. But she didn''t find Vincent next to her.


    ''Where did he go?''


    Hailee sat up and stepped out of bed, grabbing a robe to wrap her half-naked body. She checked out the bathroom, but there was no sight of Vincent.


    ''Right!''


    Hailee then remembered that there was now a nursery room next to hers. She strode toward the door; it left open a small gap, enough for her to see inside.


    Her gaze swept to the room; she then found a half-naked man immersed in building a baby''s crib.


    The look on Vincent''s face was peaceful. Hailee noticed that sometimes, Vincent would smile while looking at the pieces on the floor, picking up one part of the crib, then inspecting the items.


    Actually, Vincent was thinking of his girls, the reason for his smile. He is meticulous in putting the parts together. Even though he had already memorized the structures, this time, he still looked at the manual guide to ensure that he did it correctly. He thought to himself that his children''s safety was very important.


    Hailee has been standing by the door for a couple of minutes already. She left and walked toward the telephone by the wall and called the kitchen.


    "Mrs. Brown, please, bring our breakfast to the nursery room."


    "Right away, princess."


    "Thank you."


    Hailee put down the receiver and stepped into the next room. She hugged Vince and ced a loud kiss on his cheek from behind.


    "Good morning, my happiness."


    Vincent nced at the woman clinging to him from behind. He stretched his arm and pulled Hailee''s head to kiss her lips over his shoulder.


    "Good morning, my temptress." He said as he felt one of Hailee''s breasts rubbing on his back.


    "Hmm¡­ they''re lovely," said Hailee, looking at the work that Vincent had done so far.


    "It was lovely indeed," he replied meaningfully.


    Hailee nced at Vincent, and he found him grinning at her. She realized Vincent was talking about something else. She reached for his waist and pinched him.


    "Silly!"


    "Hmm? Who''s being naughty early in the morning? Mrs. Shen, do you know the danger if you are seducing me like this?"


    Hailee followed Vince''s gaze when it lowered to her exposed chest. Thece silk robe she was wearing covered only a little of her skin, which one sleeve slid down from her shoulder.


    She pursed her lips into a silly smile and said, "They want to be pampered."


    Vincent swallowed saliva after hearing a heavenly invitation his wife hadid down in front of him. His eyes be passionate, and the temperature in the room suddenly bes hotter.


    Hailee ced her palms on Vincent''s shoulders as she got up, borrowing strength to support her weight. Then, she stepped in front of him, squatting on hisp.


    As their mouths meet, their hands make their way all over their bodies. Vincent stroked Hailee''s back with one hand, and the other was on her other breast.


    Vincent left Hailee''s lips. He nted kisses on her forehead, cheekbones and nibbled her ears. Then, he lowered his mouth, trailing down her long neck, and ced a soft bite on her corbone while both of his hands kneaded Hailee''s breasts, taunting her swollen nipples with his thumbs.


    He was on his way down her chest, ready to put one nipple in his mouth, when there was a knock on the door.


    Vincent suddenly felt like a bucket of water poured down on him. He straightened his back and met Hailee''s gaze with a questioning stare if she had any idea who it was¡­


    Hailee said, "I called the kitchen to bring our breakfast over."


    "I see¡­" May he be disappointed a little, but Vincent doesn''t want Hailee to starve.


    "You may now enter!"


    After Mrs. Brown heard the princess, she pushed the door open, entering the room with the three maids following behind.


    "Good morning, princess, Mr. Shen¡­." Mrs. Brown bowed partly upon greeting the newlywed couple.


    "Good morning, Mrs. Brown. Please, set the food on the balcony."


    Mrs. Brown nodded. It didn''t take her long to arrange the food on the table; she left the room with the maids.


    "Let''s go¡­ You must starve now." Vincent helped Hailee get up.


    "Hmm¡­"


    Hailee slowly stood on her feet. As days pass by, it''s getting harder for her to move around.


    "Hubby, why don''t you want some help?" Heading to the balcony, Hailee queried Vincent regarding the baby cribs. She knew Vincent could do it alone, but it would finish soon once someone helped him assemble the four baby cribs.


    Indeed, Vincent could ask for help from the boys or his dad. However, he enjoyed doing it alone, which is a precious memory he would cherish until he''s out of breath. It is one of many things he wanted to do for his children.


    "I love the satisfying feeling of doing hard work for my kids," he replied Hailee after a moment.


    Hailee was too satisfied with his reply. She always knew that Vincent would be a great dad.


    "Oh!" Hailee gasps.


    "Are they kicking you?"


    Hailee nods her head. "Yes. I think they want to let daddy know how happy they were."


    Vincent was teary-eyed when he kneeled and ced his hands on Hailee''s belly to feel the movement of the babies.


    "Hey¡­" Vincent pressed his ear into Hailee''s womb to listen to more movement. "Ah¡­ are they ying inside you?"


    Hailee smiled. It amused her watching Vincent have different emotions on his face. Sometimes he was smiling; then, he sniffed as it seemed he was close to bursting into crying.


    "We love you so much, daddy!" said Hailee from the bottom of her heart.


    After breakfast, Vincent continues assembling the four baby cribs. Hailee noticed that Vincent first set up the crib for the girls. It made Hailee believe Vincent would dote on his daughters more than the boys.


    The entire day, the couple just locked themselves inside the nursery room. James attempts to get inside several times, but Vincent ignores the guy until he cannot take it anymore.


    "Stop pounding the door, bast*rd!" Vincent yelled at James. He knew why this guy wanted toe inside.


    James just wanted to raid Hailee''s food at the pantry; even the kitchen had all the food he could satisfy himself to the extreme.


    "Those foods are for the babies, not yours! Scram!" Then Vincent shut the door on James'' face.


    *


    The weekend passed by swiftly. Today is Vincent''s first day of training to familiarize every aspect of the Davies Corporation, the empire his father-inw has built after his forefathers.


    Hailee deliberately wakes up early to send off Vincent. She was tying his tie and helping him put on his coat. He was too neat. She could not stop kissing him several times already.


    "Do you want me to go to the office, or you will only keep me on the bed?"


    "I want thest one." She said coquettishly.


    Standing just a few meters away from the couple, Jacob sighs helplessly to watch this scene.


    It was just yesterday that his daughter helped him fasten his tie. But now, another man owns all of her attention and affection.


    "Uncle Jacob, we are feeling your pain."


    James is trying tofort him. However, how could he believe this guy when grinning ear to ear? Jacob red at James and said, "Do you want me to cut your sry in half?"


    "No¡­" James deliberately shook his head. "I''ll go walk the dogs, uncle! Don''t forget my bonus this month!"


    ''How dare this kid to poke fun at me!'' Jacob sneered, lifting the corner of his lips.


    "Dad¡­"


    Jacob turned around and watched his daughter walking toward him. "Princess?"


    "Please, take care of Vincent," said Hailee, who is making her dad spats inwardly.


    ''Like he''s just five years old to indulge.'' Jacob thought.


    But he knew his daughter was only concerned about her husband entering the cave full of wolves. Today''s conference will determine who wouldpletely support Vincent and those who remain in doubt.


    They may already meet Vincent during the wedding, but it''s different when they''re at work now, and Hailee knew some directors would cause trouble.


    "Don''t worry, princess. I''m certain that Vincent was fully armored for this battle."


    That might be true. But Hailee knew everyone would make things hard for Vincent.


    She nced at her husband, who was talking to his mom. Vincent was standing proud and tall, with his hands inside his pockets.


    In Hailee''s eyes, her husband is the most handsome man in the world.


    She knew Vincent would never back down to those who wanted to bully him. But Davies Corporation is also a family to her... She doesn''t want any dispute among everyone, especially when they are both the upper boss. It''s the more she wanted everyone to get along.


    "Have a good day, dad."


    "You too, princess." Jacob kissed his daughter''s cheek before heading to the car.


    "We''re leaving now... I''ll call you during my breaks," said Vincent to Hailee.


    "I would love that, hubby."


    "I love you."


    "I love you too," Hailee replied before Vince covered her mouth. "Take care."


    Vincent nodded and ced a kiss on her forehead before he walked toward the car and sat in the back seat next to his father-inw.


    "Goodbye, young madam Shen."


    "Have a good day, Tim."


    Tim bowed at Hailee before he climbed to the passenger seat.


    "Be careful driving, Kris!" Hailee told her dad''s assistant that soon Kris would work with her once she took her dad''s office.


    Kristian, seated in the driver''s seat, salutes at her. "Goodbye, princess."


    Hailee waved as three cars left at the front patio, then slowly disappeared into the giant gate.


    Now she could feel a little sadness being left behind. She could not wait to go to thepany together with Vincent soon.


    But of course, she would also miss the babies every time leaving the kids at home.


    ''Hmm¡­ So this is the feeling of being a wife and a mom¡­.''


    Somehow, it overly warms her heart.

 Chapter 402 - Davies Corporation (One)

    <h4>Chapter 402 - Davies Corporation (One)</h4>


    Davies Corporation, Sydney HQ


    Three ck cars parked in front of this giant building. Vincent looks up as he steps out of the vehicle after Tim opens the car door for them.


    Heaving a long sigh to relieve the tension he feels now, Vincent calms his nerves.


    Vincent isn''t afraid to face those wolves waiting for him inside. However, he doesn''t want to embarrass his wife and disappoint his father-inw, so he has to be careful about mingling with the other big bosses working in thispany.


    The Sydney headquarters was the principal office of all Davies''s business worldwide. It includes building real estate, hotels, resorts, malls around the Oceania Continent, and industries such as building aircraft, goods, and everything. Name all kinds of businesses; Davies has it all.


    Vincent was in deep thoughts when his father-inw patted on his shoulder.


    He said, "Let''s go."


    The warm smile on his father-inw''s face eases the things that trouble him.


    Vincent nodded at Jacob, matching his steps climbing toward the entrance. He already received her ID at the same time as his pass to enter thepany.


    "Good morning, Mr. Davies!"


    Five security guards standing at the door politely greeted Jacob.


    "Good morning! I want you to meet Vincent Shen, my son-inw, and your new boss."


    "Good morning, Mr. Shen." They greeted him politely.


    "Good morning. How are you doing, boys?"


    "We''re good, boss." The five security guards replied in unison.


    "Great." Vincent made a soft smile. It is important he could get along with everyone, which he has no problem doing back in P Country.


    However, this is not P Country, and everyone inside this building would be either his friends or a foe with the letter ''s''.


    After the introduction, Jacob proceeds inside and walks straight to the elevator. There will be a wee gatheringter at lunch. Until then, Vincent will meet a thousand employees working in this building, and in the following months, he and Jacob are scheduled to visit the branches around the globe.


    *


    Inside the Executive Elevator, Kristian pressed the top floor button that he and the other five assistants were the only ones who could ess it.


    The offices on this floor are the Chairman, his assistants, and two secretaries.


    As the head assistant, Kristian has the bigger room, then a separate office of the other two assistants and the two female secretaries sharing a room.


    There is also a waiting lounge area, a pantry, and a big conference room next to the Chairman''s office.


    Tim had already memorized all the floors and departments of this building. When his boss was on his honeymoon, Tim was busy following Kristian to be familiar with the headquarters.


    If someone wants to see the chairman, a security protocol must be performed. Of course, the chairman is also a mafia lord. Who knows if an assassin was sent over? They must ensure his safety at all costs.


    And soon after the princess takes over her dad''s chair, they remain to follow this security protocol.


    "Vincent, there is a penthouse on the rooftop. You can remodel it that suits yours and my daughter''s liking. When she started taking office, there were many chances that you both wanted to stay to begin overtime. Also, the conference room will be taken down soon and reced as your office. For the time being, you will share an office with me."


    Jacob exined this during their ride. Now that his father-inw had mentioned this, Vincent queried.


    "If we can share a room, maybe it should remain that way for me and Hailee, dad."


    "No. Hailee deliberately asks me to give you a separate office."


    Vincent studied his father-inw''s face. He tried to search for the answer through his words and facial expression, but he failed to find one.


    On the other hand, Jacob knew Vincent needed the boration of his statement.


    "My daughter knew you needed a peaceful time when you draw. Hailee wanted you to continue designing during your spare time."


    ''But I would rather spend it with her if I have a break time.'' Vincent thought to himself.


    But then, he agreed to his father-inw. Vincent still wanted to draw the blueprint of the castle he wanted to build for his family, and he might do that in his free time if he had.


    So maybe it isn''t entirely a bad idea.


    "Dad, how about a partition? Hailee and I would still be in the same office. But we could have our privacy."


    Hailee had her ownpanies, which she needed virtual conferences on a timely asion like him. He also had his ownpanies he was required to check regrly. It will be many video calls with his sisters with essentialpany matters.


    Although he had already assigned trusted people to help his sisters, it was still different to run his ownpany.


    Vincent waited for his father-inw''s reply regarding his suggestion. After a long thought, Jacob smiled at him.


    "It was a brilliant idea. Since the management of thispany was full on your and my daughter''s shoulders, you both can discuss what suited most in your working space."


    "Thank you, dad."


    Jacob nodded his head. It was then the elevator opened.


    "Good morning, Mr. Davies." The two other assistants and two secretaries greeted the boss politely.


    "Good morning, everyone. I would like you to meet your future boss. Vincent Shen."


    "Good morning, Me. Shen."


    "Good morning." Vincent returned, sweeping his eyes to each face of these assistants.


    "Good morning, Tim."


    One female secretary greeted Tim with glee. Vincent senses a meaning to that secretary''s smile; he red at his assistant with meaningful stares saying, ''Should I tell your fiance?''


    On the other hand, Tim pretended he didn''t see his boss'' using stares. "Ahem! Good morning, Secretary Brown."


    He put his hand on his mouth as he coughed, disying his engagement ring on his fourth finger.


    Secretary Brown understood it was a rejection from Tim, as he was already engaged. But in the passing days, she assisted Tim, and she could not help develop a special feeling.


    Lena Brown is Davie''s head maidservant, Mrs. Brown''s granddaughter. She just graduated from college and was on her internship as Hailee''s close secretary soon.


    "Alright. We have a wee lunch party at noon for Mr. Shen... You can all go back to your desk."


    "Thank you, sir."


    As the five employees walked toward their offices, Jacob brought Vincent to the penthouse while Tim followed Kristian to his office.


    Vincent looked around the moment he got inside the penthouse. Hailee and her mom, Marilyn Hillson, were the only pictures in the room.


    The photo of histe mother-inw proves how in love his father-inw is with his wife as he never had the interest to remarry.. Vincent''s admiration for his father-inw has been even greater.

 Chapter 403 - Davies Corporation (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 403 - Davies Corporation (Two)</h4>


    "If you want to change anything in this penthouse, go ahead. This interior design has been outdated. We are walking the futuristic path, and so, I entrusted everything to you youngsters the new age of Davies Corporation."


    At the moment, Vincent and Jacob were looking outside the floor-ceiling window from the second floor of the penthouse, where they have the entire scenery of the city.


    Vincent nced at his father-inw and said, "Dad, I think I don''t need to change a lot in this penthouse. I''m sure Hailee had memories in this ce. Possibly, I will do a little renovation that suits Hailee''s taste and install thetest technology."


    Jacob had a huge smile on his face upon hearing Vincent saying that. Instilling a sense of priority on his daughter, whose dad would not feel satisfied to have a son-inw like Vincent? It was what Jacob had in mind.


    "I''m d you have cared for my daughter a lot. Don''t stop making her happy."


    "She is also the source of my happiness, dad¡­ Your daughter made meplete."


    Jacob stretched his arm and patted Vincent''s back, delighted with everything that Vincent had said. He knew that it was not just promises or sweet flowery words as he is witnessed how Vincent thoughtful and attentive to his wife.


    After Jacob showed the penthouse to Vincent, they went back to his office just below.


    Soon, at lunchtime. All the employees, including the bosses and other higher-ups, gathered in the auditorium for their new boss wee gathering.


    Jacob introduced Vincent to everyone, and they all warmly weed them. After a brief talk, lunch was served.


    *


    A ck Mercedes Benz Sprinter JetVan was pressed against the traffic on a busy highway.


    "Are you alright, princess?" Pitt asked Hailee worriedly. He has been noticing her constant massage on her forehead.


    "I''m fine. It''s just a slight headache," she replied and smiled at Pitt to assure him she was okay.


    "We''re almost in thepany, princess," James announced after he checked their location.


    Ten minutester, they''d finally arrived at thepany. James opens the door. He and Pitt make sure the surroundings are safe. Even though Hailee had dozens of other knights apanying her, they stayed vignt as the closest to hers, ensuring her safety.


    Hailee gets out of the vehicle; she remains standing near the van for a moment.


    "What''s wrong, princess? Have you forgotten something?" Pitt asked her with concern in his voice.


    Hailee has been frowning almost the entire trip. They were worried that she was ufortable now she was five months pregnant, which her baby bump looked like nearly seven months.


    "I hate the interior color of this van. I want something metallic, a brown maybe or a whitebination," said Hailee before she walked toward the entrance.


    Pitt and James shared a look. It seems like it was why the princess was in a bad mood. The van triggered her mood swings.


    "An purchased a new van for the princess that suits her liking," Pitt ordered.


    An, one of the twelve knights that followed the princess closely, nodded at Pitt, then quickly made a phone call to certain people.


    "Good afternoon, Miss Da¡­ I mean, Mrs. Shen." greeted by the security guards at the entrance.


    "Hello¡­" Hailee was timid in replying to them as she just walked straight to the door.


    They were slightly stunned as it differed from the usual treatment she showed them every time she came and visited the main office.


    "The princess has mood swings." One knight told the guards, which they understood right away.


    "We understand."


    "Time has really gone by so fast." Robert, the chief and oldest security guard muttered to himself. He was working with the Davies for many decades now, and seeing the princess pregnant gives an inexplicable feeling.


    He told the other guards, "I''m d that I have the chance to meet the third generation soon."


    Robert is talking about the babies in Hailee''s womb. He began working here when Jacob was the new CEO of the Davies Corporation, and then he got married and had a daughter. Now the princess is a mother herself.


    "I think I should retire soon and let a new generation take over my job," he announced to the others who were younger than him.


    Hailee walks straight toward the hallway inside the building, leading them to the auditorium.


    In thepany lobby, a kid was running around. James quickly catches the kid when it runs toward Hailee.


    "Hey, little man! Where is your mom?"


    "Tristan! Oh, I''m very sorry, sir James."


    James looks at the woman when she seems familiar. The woman also noticed the wrinkles on his forehead. She showed herpany ID and exined,


    "I am a nursery teacher at the Daycare Center."


    With the woman''s exnation, James gave the kid to the woman. Davies Corporation has an excellent DayCare system that is perfect even for the princess children.


    "It will be convenient for you and Vincent soon when the babies attend school, princess!" It will be just within thepany, and he could still watch over them, thought James.


    Hailee, whose mood swing had triggered, was now good. She looked at the hallway toward the DayCare center, then back at the kid.


    "It looks like it needs more security. It is dangerous if a kid gets lost."


    "I''m sorry, ma''am Hailee. This kid is too naughty. He is brilliant and finds a way to get out."


    "Aha! Do you like to be a knight?" said James. "A knight must be smart a*s to protect a princess!"


    "Knight!" The kid tried to mimic James. He is raising both of his hands in the air, then pping. "Knight!"


    The woman apologized one more time before she went back to her tracks.


    "Bye, bye!" The kid waves at Hailee, which she also waves back.


    "James, go to the Daycare Center after the wee gathering and check their security system to see why a kid can easily get out when they need an ID to get in and get out."


    "Hmm¡­ I think the kid is holding an ID when I pick him up," said James.


    Hailee was dumbfounded. The kid must have high intelligence to understand the adult''s actions to observe them. It looks like I would agree with James that an intelligent person like that is suitable to be a knight.


    "James, we should keep an eye on all smart kids whose parents are my employees for potential next generation to work with me in the future."


    "No problem, princess! Leave it to me!"


    Hailee felt a lot better now. Thinking of the bright future for Davies Corporation, Hailee unconsciously strokes her belly and mumbled to her head,


    "Everything is for you, my little ones¡­."


    A future where the children carry the Legacy of both their mom and dad¡­ Hailee felt warmth surge in her chest upon thinking that¡­ She could not wait to see the future.


    "Soon¡­"

 Chapter 404 - Faith In Me

    <h4>Chapter 404 - Faith In Me</h4>


    Meanwhile, at thepany''s auditorium, the employees enjoyed the free lunch given out today. The big bosses were on the tables at the stage while the rest upied the row seats.


    Suddenly, everyone cheered when they recognized the beautiful pregnant woman who entered the door.


    "It''s Miss Davies!"


    "Hello, Miss Hailee!"


    "What are you guys saying? She is a missus now, remember?"


    "Ah, that''s right!"


    "Hello, Mrs. Shen!"


    "Hello! Please, continue your meal." Hailee swept her gaze to the entire auditorium as she waved at the employees.


    Seeing that Hailee came to thepany, Vincent rushed toward the door and met his wife halfway.


    "You''re here!" Vincent was ted to see his wife. His arms wrapped around Hailee''s waist, and he leaned over to kiss her lips lovingly. "How''s the trip?"


    "I''m fine. The trip is smooth andfortable, except when entering the central city."


    "There was heavy traffic everywhere like P Country."


    "Yeah." Hailee chuckled, and Vincent joined her. Suddenly, they both missed Metro City as they had a lot of beautiful memories they would cherish for the rest of their lives.


    "I''m d you feel okay," said Vincent, relieved to see her sweet smile. He often worries every day as Hailee''s bump grows bigger.


    Meanwhile, the employees have that smile on their faces. Seeing a couple disying intimacy in public is nothing to them. However, a few men shrunk their pupils and cast a dark re at Vincent, as their hearts were full of jealousy.


    These men knew they were never a match for this princess, but Vincent Shen was no different between them.


    ''So what Vincent Shen did to the princess, and he won her over?'' It was what was on their mind.


    They knew that hundreds of wealthy men from prominent families and royal men worked hard to win over the princess.


    But she only ended up with someone like Vincent Shen.


    Not aware of what other men had in mind, Vincent is very careful holding Hailee as they climb the stairs to join the big bosses at the table.


    "Princess, you surprised us!"


    "Hi, dad!"


    "Come here. I''m sure you have not had lunch yet."


    Hailee shook her head and replied, "Not yet, dad. I want to have a meal with you."


    Hailee joined them; Vincent offered his seat to his wife and attended to his wife''s needs. He went to the buffet table and filled two tes with Hailee''s favorite food.


    At the table, the board had a huge smile chatting with Hailee. She will rece her dad soon, so everyone tried to earn her favor.


    Anyway, all of them are trusted business partners and good friends. Hailee had less concern, but she still needed to ensure that everyone treated Vincent with respect, like how they treated her very well.


    "Good to see you, princess! I could see how blooming you were! It looks like Mr. Shen takes care of his wife!" said Mr. White, James'' adopted father, working as one of their general managers in a particr field.


    "Hello, Uncle John! Thank you for yourpliment. Vincent indulges me so much."


    "Good! Happy wife, happy life!"


    The older men at that table, including Jacob,ughed and agreed to John''s quote, except for the younger managers, who were displeased at seeing Vincent. But these men were just jealous of him. They were not impressed at all.


    "Dad, you are an embarrassment!" All of a sudden, James appeared and joined their conversation.


    However, his father immediately scolded him. "What did you say? How dare you talk to your father like that!"


    Everyone was already familiar with this father and son bickering. And so, they were ustomed to seeing this scene.


    "Dad, I missed you." James suddenly behaved and had a big smile while persuading his father.


    "Shut up! Make sure you do your job properly! The princess is pregnant now!" John White continued berating James.


    The table bes lively because of James'' loud voice. Hailee could not stop giggling, listening to the father and son bantering, then bickering over nonsense things. He did not stop joking with his father until lunch was over and everyone went back to their offices.


    Hailee rested in the penthouse that afternoon while Vincent and her dad had a board meeting in the conference room. She wanted to join them, but she was very sleepy.


    Hailee felt a light kiss on her forehead. She was very familiar with this scent, so she did not need to open her eyes to look at who this man was. Her arms unconsciously reached out and wrapped around the man''s neck.


    "Hubby¡­ Is the meeting over?"


    "Yes. Dad urged me to join you here instead. He went out to meet a few business partners for a contract signing."


    "Hmm¡­ Dad had a lot of dyed work to help us out preparing our wedding."


    "Yeah. So I will do my best and study more to be apetitive CEO of Davies Corporation. I have to exceed everyone''s expectations."


    ''Including those who wished for my downfall and failed as a leader.'' Vincent added, but he didn''t voice it out. Of course. He doesn''t want Hailee to feel trouble in her condition.


    Hailee opens her eyes and meets Vincent''s tender gaze. She cupped his face and brushed her lips over his.


    "Hubby, I know everyone would always question your capability. But I believe in you, and dad also sees you are capable. Honestly, I am worried. But I''m thinking, what would you feel if I threatened everyone to fire them if they don''t respect you? Do men need protection?"


    Before he replied, Vincent leaned over and covered Hailee''s lips. It was long and full of love.


    What Hailee told him moved his heart. He always thinks about how blessed he was to win over this girl who continues to make him feel special.


    Although he was treated like a prince growing up and always received praises from everyone, he has never been this happy.


    Vincent lifted his right hand and brushed Hailee''s face as he replied to her¡­


    "Wifey, men don''t want protection from a woman. But a husband needs his loving wife''s support.. Having faith in me is more than enough."

 Chapter 405 - Mine Is Yours

    <h4>Chapter 405 - Mine Is Yours</h4>


    Hailee sat up from lying down on the lounge chaise to better look at Vincent. She reached for his face, held him, and kissed his lips.


    She whispered, "I never doubted you since the very beginning."


    Vincent had a very tender look in his eyes, brushing his fingers on Hailee''s hair.


    "That makes me feel so blessed. I was actually too delighted when you agreed to be my contractual mistress¡­ I was scared that you would think of me as an irresponsible man, as I am desperate to get my divorce. However¡­"


    Vincent paused and poked Hailee''s nose, broadening the silly smile on her lips.


    "However¡­ you have no idea that I already know about Eva." Hailee finished Vincent''s words.


    "Yes, my darling." Vincent brushed his lips on top of Hailee''s and murmured, "It was mind-blowing every time I look back on how our lives tangled because of some people we crossed."


    "I concurred with you, hubby. I have known Eva because of Bryan. But Liam is actually the one who caused our misunderstanding. And then, when I found you and fell in love with you¡­ It was Liam, again, who tried to separate us from each other."


    "But thanks to the people surrounding us. They took a very important role in our life that now, that I have you in my life forever."


    "You are right, Mr. Shen¡­ and so, we have to write a Thank-You card for all of them. It will be Christmas soon! I wanted to send them handwritten greetings."


    "Hmm¡­ If everyone, that would be at least hundreds of handwritten letters."


    "Yup! So, I have to write at least five cards a day or more to send out when December arrives."


    "Okay. But if you aren''t feeling well, take a break and rest." Vincent reminded Hailee as Doctor Dave warned them that Hailee would be difficult in thest trimester. "Please, tell me if there are ces you would like to visit. I will manage my schedule to apany you."


    "I would love that! I may havee every time I am feeling better. So, I will tell you ahead before we leave the mansion."


    "Okay, Wifey." Vincent kissed Hailee once again.


    He could say that simplemunication can even draw them closer; at the same time, it made him feel at ease.


    "Thank you. I am truly blessed to have you in my life. Honestly, I am worried that you are anxious about me; might everyone be causing trouble for me? Like I told you earlier, having faith in me is more than enough. Let me protect you instead, rather than protecting me. Let me be the man you can trust the most."


    Hailee held back the tears that threatened to escape from her eyes. Vincent''s words were like sweet promises that Bryan once broke. But she believes in Vincent. Ever since she met him and got to know him well, he never stops showing how much he loves her like she is his very existence.


    "You upy a big space inside my heart. Although it will also upy soon by our sons, then dad who took the second, Andre, and you know how much I care about the men as to how they catch a bullet for me. But I want you always to remember¡­ You are the only man my heart beats to and the man who owns my whole heart."


    "And you are the only woman who owns my whole heart too¡­" said Vincent from the bottom of his heart.


    "And our princesses too..."


    "Yes... I love them and you so very much..."


    This endless confession had never happened when they were dating back then because they put a wall in between them most of the time.


    They both struggle to maintain a boss and employee rtionship. Hailee wants Vincent for Dream City, and Vincent wants to pursue Hailee after his divorce.


    Even though he wanted to confess to Hailee but thought he had a nominal wife, he doesn''t wish Hailee to feel a real third party in his marriage.


    There are many cases where a man promises the second woman that there is no love between him and his original wife. However, he could not actually divorce her for a particr reason.


    In his case, he wanted to show Hailee that it was purely an arranged marriage between him and Eva, who has her own man.


    And the reason he tried to hide his feelings and act indifferently is that all he wanted to do was wrap this woman in his arms and never let her go. As days pass by¡­ He bes tired of pretending.


    "You are holding me so tight."


    Vincent came back to his senses after Haileeined when his hug tightened.


    "Did I hurt you? How about your belly? I didn''t press it hard?"


    Hailee shook her head and said, "You were falling into deep thoughts. I am wondering what bothers you all of a sudden."


    Vincent pursed his lips into a smile as he stroked Hailee''s baby bump. He leaned over, kissing her belly before he moved to her lips.


    Hailee was a little curious about Vincent''s sudden strange behavior. He suddenly went quiet.


    "What''s wrong?" asked Hailee.


    "I''m just reminiscing about the time we were in Metro City."


    "Is it those times you were pretending I am your pretend mistress?"


    There is a tease in her tone that causes Vincent to chuckle sexily. Seeing himugh like that, Hailee remembered something.


    "Hubby, do you remember what we talked about when I was in my office at DV Inc.?"


    Vincent tilted his head to the side and rolled his eyes to recall it.


    "You have forgotten now." Hailee pouted and pretended she was irritated now. However, Vincent is also ying along.


    "I might have, so I need a kiss to remember what it is," he said yfully, causing Hailee tough out loud.


    Meanwhile, hearing theughter inside, Tina and Tim, who were at the door, shared a meaningful look. They were reluctant to press that buzzer on the door and disturb the happy moments of their bosses.


    However, the folders in their hands are very heavy. The male boss wanted to review them to understand how Davies Corporation had its humble beginnings and expanded as an empire to the entire world.


    Rather than be scoldedter, Tim had decided to interrupt his boss. He holds the folders in one arm, and his other arm knocks on the door.


    "Probably it was Tim. I asked him to get all the data regarding Davies Corporation. It was the very first thing I should have done¡ªis to learn and understand the core of thispany¡­."


    "Ourpany¡­" Hailee corrected Vincent. She went on, "What I have is also yours, like how you wanted me to own everything that you have. Suppose you will only think of thispany as only me who owns it. Then I would think that you will only treat it half-heartedly. So, please think that thispany is your life, your family, and your very own children."


    "I promised to care and love thispany as I know how important this is for you."


    Vincent lifted his right arm, pushed the strands of hair that covered Hailee''s cheek, tucked them behind her ears, then brushed his lips into hers...


    The light smooch became a fervor kiss that left them both gasping for air.


    "Hubby, did we forget something?"


    "Do we?"


    Hailee nodded her head. She was still chasing her breath after the kiss. Slowly, her eyes dramatically widened as she remembered what they had forgotten.


    "Tim has been waiting at the door!"

 Chapter 406 - The Offer

    <h4>Chapter 406 - The Offer</h4>


    "Ugh! I thought we would wait forever!" Tim continued mumbling, even after he and Tina went back to their tables.


    "And you have to go back and deliver these fresh fruits and blueberry cake that Mrs. Shen had cravings...." Tina reminded Tim, then ced the shopping bags on Tim''s table.


    "Right away!" Tim mayin, but he actually isn''t serious about it. He and Vincent have been friends since they were in High School.


    Tim actually sees things that his boss has never done to anyone, especially to a woman that isn''t his family or rtives.


    That entire afternoon, Vincent read as many data records regarding the founding of Davies Corporation.


    Hailee insisted on preparing their snacks. She was in the sink, washing the fruits, brewing coffee for Vincent, and blending fresh fruits for herself.


    On the other hand, Vincent could not concentrate on reading, as he was worried about his wife. He was peeping between the folder he was holding and to the woman in the pantry.


    "Let me prepare them." Earlier, he told Hailee this, but she insisted on doing it.


    She only answered him. "I missed preparing your meal like what I do when we are in the penthouse."


    He also loves how she spoiled him with her ten-star dishes when they were still in a mistress contract. But now, he wants the one to pamper her, even in simple things that do not involve money or material things.


    Vincent took another nce at his wife. Then he noticed Hailee cing a bowl of fruits and two dessert tes of slice cake on the wooden tray, poured coffee into the mug, and scooped some sweetener from a jar.


    Vincent made an abrupt stand from the couch, took a long stride toward the table, and took the tray before Hailee could lift it.


    "Let me¡­"


    "Okay. Thank you." Hailee nodded and smiled, following Vincent from behind.


    They went back to the living room with the tray in Vincent''s hand and carefully ced them on the coffee table. After Vincent sat on the sofa, he held Hailee by the waist and gently pulled her to sit.


    Hailee sat down next to Vincent and started eating the cake; asionally, she would give him a big portion.


    "Next time, let me do them. I may not be good in the kitchen, but I can do a few things," said Vincent halfway through their snacks.


    Hailee looked Vincent in the eyes as she replied, "Don''t worry, Mr. CEO¡­ you are good at many things."


    She winked at her husband, making Vincent drop his mouth open as his wife flirted with him. He chuckled and shook his head, catching that meaningful look in Hailee''s eyes.


    "Have you forgotten that you asked me before as your private assistant, Mr. CEO¡­." Hailee teases Vincent further, cing her hand on his shoulder, traveling down toward his necktie, and ying with it. "You offered me once before that you need someone as apanion, and she can take advantage of your body as a bonus. So, I am applying now."


    Soon, she and Vincentugh in their stomachs. Indeed, he offered Hailee something like that after revealing her identity to him and now recalling that he actually had a thick face to have such an offer to this billionaire heiress.


    "I love you¡­" said Vincent, tracing Hailee''s soft lips; he could not control biting them.


    Hailee ced her arms around Vincent''s neck and uttered, "I could already foresee that you will take over most of the work and left only a little for me. So I have to oblige in rewarding you."


    "I would love that¡­." Vincent whispered, nibbling Hailee''s earlobe.


    They could feel their bodies re-up. Hailee climbed on top of Vincent''sp with his help, holding her bottom and pulling her close to his body.


    Hailee crouched on top of Vincent once heid down on the couch. They were kissing passionately when the penthouse door was pushed open by James.


    "Princess! Holy shot!"


    Both James and Pitt were dumbfounded to see their princess on top of a man and taking advantage of him¡­


    Ah¡­ Nah, that''s not it. This guy is her husband, after all. They were the ones who were nosy. They should not forget that she has her own family now, and privacy is necessary.


    Meanwhile, Vincent threw a murderous look at them, which James grinned nervously.


    He said, "Alright. Just call us if you guys need us¡­."


    "Wait, James! What is it? Do you have something important to tell me?"


    "Ah, yes! It was Daisy''s birthday! She bumped into Uncle Jacob and ryed a message to Kris asking if you could attend the party tonight."


    "Hmm¡­ Which hotel?" Hailee looked at Vincent, who remained at the bottom.


    "At Sris Banquet Hall."


    Hailee pondered for a moment, then told James. "Alright. Let''s go then."


    "Okay! I''ll let Daisy know you''re attending."


    "Thanks, James, and tell the stores I''ming to choose a dress."


    James made a gesture and left with Pitt. When the door shut, Pitt immediately scolded the guy.


    "How could you forget to knock?"


    "Alright! It''s a mistake!" James admitted it right away, which surprised Pitt a little.


    "She is married now and has her life. There are many things that we are not in control of anymore, and so, we have to mind all of our actions."


    "I understand!" James pouted.


    Before work is over, Hailee brings Vincent to the hotel she owns in partnership with Shun, but under Cassandra''s name.


    At thepany''s door, Hailee widened her eyes after she saw a new JetVan waiting for them at the entrance.


    "What is this, Pitt?" she asked the guy.


    "As your request, princess."


    "Oh¡­" she was speechless. Then Hailee smiled at Pitt as she thanked him. "Thank you, Pitt."


    On their way toward the hotel, Vincent cannot help to ask as his curiosity eats him up inside.


    "A new van? Did something happen?"


    "Earlier on our way here. I was too irritated, which caused my headache. After we arrived at thepany, I realized what triggered my bad mood. I hate all ck colors."


    "Hmm¡­ I see. So, how about now?"


    "I''m happy!"


    "I''m d. You made me worried.." Vincent held Hailee''s face and kissed her forehead.

 Chapter 407 - Knife On His Neck

    <h4>Chapter 407 - Knife On His Neck</h4>


    SOLARIS HOTEL


    Arriving at the hotel, Hailee walked straight to the stores of her hotel. She held onto Vincent''s elbow while he was carrying her handbag. Pitt and James walk ahead of them, and her dozen knights follow behind.


    "Princess!" Kian Lynch, General Manager of the hotel, is meeting them halfway. Kian is also Hailee''s knight, and Vincent already met himst time at the Give-Away Night and during their wedding. "Vincent! Wee to the Sris Hotel!"


    "Thank you, Kian." Vincent smiled and shook hands with the guy. It can be noticed how friendly he was toward Kian because he didn''t feel threatened. After all, the guy was already married and had kids like Kristian, so he didn''t feel threatened as one of Hailee''s secret admirers.


    "Hey, guys!" Kian greeted the knights, who were his good friends. After some pleasantries, he led them toward the western wing of the hotel, where all the brand stores were located.


    Here, VIP members can shop for the famous brand of clothing, bags, and shoes, while the non VIP guests can have temporary ess while staying at the hotel.


    Hailee came up with this idea as she came across an incident in the past where outsiders caused trouble to a guest in a hotel she stayed in one time when she went on a vacation. It was crazy, so she wanted to ensure the safety and privacy of the guests in her hotel.


    "Janise should put up her stores here. What do you think?" Hailee told Vincent while they strolled around.


    "It''s a good idea. I will talk to Hansen to invest with me."


    Hailee looked at her husband with a big smile on her face. She could already guess what was ying on Vincent''s head.


    "Are you proposing to Hansen that he must offer this as a betrothal gift?"


    "It''s not only a proposal. I am cing a knife on his neck." Vincent nced at Pitt when he stated this to ry the message to his cousin. He may sound joking but he is serious. "I have to make sure Janise is well taken care of. She is also a self-made millionaire. Still, I want all the best for my sister."


    Pitt, who heard Vincent stating this, nced over his shoulder and saluted at him.


    Hailee felt ted. She could already picture how Vincent would guard his daughters against their suitors. She thinks Vincent would not give his daughters just like that to someone else.


    Of course, it was what her dad did. Countless billionaire sons ask her hand for marriage. But her dad only ignored them, including those royals.


    Her dad doesn''t care whether they were his major investor. He would rather lose billions than give her away to someone she doesn''t love or is happy with.


    "Hubby, you will be a great dad. I''m so happy you are the father of my children," said Hailee to Vincent.


    "Hmm¡­ But I am more blessed to have you in my life."


    "We''re meant to be."


    Hailee and Vincent kissed while roaming around the hotel, making Pitt and James roll their eyes.


    ''Too much PDA!''


    *


    Meanwhile, this scene was captured by Hailee''s staff and posted to their social media ount with a caption:


    "Lady Boss is here with her beloved husband. Thank you for gracing us with your presence, ma''am Hailee! We all love you!"


    Several social media tforms reposted the photo throughout Australia, then the entire world in just a few minutes.


    "Yay! How sweet!"


    "What a blooming preggy!"


    "Pretty as always! Thank you, ma''am Hailee, for taking care of your staff!"mented an employee of the hotel.


    "Hey! Are you saying that Mrs. Shen is the owner of that hotel?"


    "She is! You all should know that Mrs. Shen never shows off what property she owns."


    "That was true! All we saw in her Gram were her expensive travels, her superyacht, and super-fast cars! We all could think at first nce that she is just a spoiled princess, but she actually owned countlesspanies aside from everything she will inherit!"


    "Then she and Mr. Shen are no different! Mr. Shen founded his own yachtpany and real estate and invested in foreignpanies from his inheritance. Now he is a young billionaire!"


    "There''s no doubt they were a match made in heaven!"


    "They knew how to manage their fortune!"


    "FYI¡­ Our empress never asks her dad to buy her a car or a yacht. What she asks from her dad is to build her apany, and thispany earns well, and that fortune is what she bought most of what she has now."


    "Gosh! Where could I find a dad like that!?"


    "Let''s ask Mr. Jacob to adopt us all!"


    Outside the city, on the road, headed back to the Davies Mansion¡­


    "Sir, I think you should see this." Kris handed his TAB to his boss.


    Jacob took the gadget and browsed the articles from the trending topic on the inte. Halfway through his reading, his face cannot stop grinning.


    Thementers were correct in their presumption. Hailee indeed asks him to invest here and there, aside from his investments in specificpanies for his daughter''s future.


    He gave everything to Hailee, butter, his daughter''s expenses mostly came from her fortune, including founding a schrship program for all young girls who want to go to college and be secret supporters of many foundations throughout the world.


    "My daughter deserves all the love in the world," Jacob muttered.


    "The princess is worth all the happiness in this life, sir." Kris concurred.


    "As a father, I am so happy that our problem with Liam is over. I will ensure he will speak up and point out all the members of this organization we are watching."


    Jacob actually likes Liam. But his love for Hailee seemed to go in a different direction, and he became obsessed.


    "Kris, what do you think made Liam turn his back on us?" he asked Kristian after a long pause. "Liam is supposed to be undercover to know all the movements of the criminal organization in the underground world. But what changed him, and he betrayed and started killing his friends?"


    Kristian had only rendered his silence as he also didn''t know what made Liam turn his back, being Hailee''s knight. He only knows he was jealous that Hailee had more knights, and he seemed to ept that as time had passed.


    So, what is it?


    Liam is Hailee''s, First Knight.


    However, he became the Dark Knight.


    Is love enough to lose someone''s sanity?


    Kristian thought to himself, as there was no answer he could find to this question.

 Chapter 408 - Better Mood

    <h4>Chapter 408 - Better Mood</h4>


    For a while, Kristian stared at Jacob. His boss is the most genuine person he has ever met, but he is not someone to mess with as well.


    He has been following him for almost twenty years, and he witnesses what he could do once provoked, which his bottom line is undoubtedly his daughter.


    When Liam turned his back, he saw the disappointment in his boss'' eyes.


    "Liam must have seen something the reason he changed his belief. But whatever it is, that made him not worthy of my daughter. He cannot weigh what is wrong and what''s right even if that thing we believe is fragile."


    Fragile¡­. Kristian blinks his eyes. His boss has been speaking about riddles.


    And this fragile thing he was pointing out was about the reality of this life.


    We aren''t living in a perfect world. But is it also "right" that we are one of the causes of its imperfection?


    Others choose thefort zone of their life, while others take risks.


    But the sad thing is, many intelligent people have their own wrong version of what right is for them, and they would insist on it to the world that they were on the "right" path.


    And those who have demons inside them and struggle to fight against are often influenced, like Liam.


    So, Liam is weak as he cannotmit to the truth he sees but believes in the other forge fact that someone wants him to embrace.


    Kristian knew this because he was once in Liam''s situation. The association and the criminal organization had many contradictory beliefs, and Liam fell for it. But he didn''t fall for it.


    Kristian chose to believe in Jacob, and he didn''t regret it as his boss is one of those who supported the new transformations in the association by the present emperor, Shun Crow.


    Sadly, Liam lost faith and let himself be swept by feet by those who wanted to trouble the Alliance. Now he was drowning in quicksand inside a ss.


    "Kris, do you know why among everyone you are the one I choose to stay closer by my side?"


    Kristian met his boss'' eyes, looking at him earnestly. He wanted to assume, but he was intrigued to hear him say it from his mouth.


    "You''d rather die than betray me," Jacob answered his own query, which made Kristian smile. "I wanted you to know that you are the one I trusted most."


    "If it will happen again. I would still choose my death rather than speak up and betray the alliance, sir." Khristian replied from the bottom of his heart.


    "How about if I didn''t arrive that time?" Jacob felt like continuing to measure his assistant''s loyalty.


    "At least, I know you are not abandoning my family if ever I die." Kristian knew this very well.


    Jacob Davies''s principles are not leaving behind anyone.


    Fifteen years ago, Kristian was captured by an international crime syndicate. He was tortured and forced to speak. But he never says a word.


    He was on the verge of hisst breath when his boss arrived and saved him. Since then, he has sworn to follow him anywhere. But his boss had another n.


    "Soon, my daughter will take over thepany, and since you know the core of Davies Corp. and how I run it these passing years. I want you to stay by my daughter''s side to guide her and help her out." Jacob paused and lowered his gaze as he pondered for a moment.


    He went on, "I would travel the entire world soon, which can be a perilous journey. Still, my daughter''s safety matters to me most, and you know that, Kris."


    "I know very well, sir."


    "Great! Don''t worry. I never thought you betrayed me when you hid her stay in P Country."


    Kristian coughs and averts his eyes, pretending to look outside the window of the car. His boss kept saying he never betrayed him. But the truth is, he holds a secret regarding the princess'' activities in Metro City.


    "About that, sir¡­" he wanted to exin, but his boss raised his hand to stop him.


    "But to think that you give your loyalty to my daughter. It only means that she has the charms you did not feel able to escape from. Am I right? My daughter is charismatic enough to intimidate others."


    "She is, sir. However, the princess is toozy to use her influence most of the time. She is timid in showing off her capability. Instead, sometimes, she acted too innocent, like ten years old. But when she put up her ownpanies, she worked hard to bring sess and stability. Finally, she found her bottom line," said Kristian.


    Jacob nods in agreement to everything his assistant has been pointing out about the princess.


    "Yeah. It''s Vincent Shen¡­ my daughter would do everything for him."


    *


    At the Sris Hotel¡­.


    Hailee was sitting on the sofa in the store''s lounge while three men were trying on a set of suits to wear at tonight''s party.


    Vincent has already tried two suits and a tuxedo, but Hailee isn''t satisfied with any of them.


    The store manager tried her best to entertain thedy boss, who was frowning the entire time, as she didn''t like any of the coats her husband had been trying on.


    Pitt and James have already found a perfect silver tuxedo for them. But none Hailee thinks is good enough for Vincent. So, he bes a male model in the next half hour, trying on more coats to please his beloved wife.


    Vincent looked at his wife with amusement in the mirror. If it happened in the past and someone else was not satisfied with his clothing, that opinion would never be a matter. But the picky one is his beloved wife.


    On the other hand, Hailee tries to keep her calm. Vincent walked toward the sofa, then ced his palms on the backrest.


    Hailee''s brows knitted while she looked up at her husband, who was leaning over at her. "You must be tired. Why don''t you take a seat and have some rest?"


    Vincent shook his head. "I will try a few sets if you see nothing good on me yet."


    Hailee frowned as she ced her arms around Vincent''s neck. To be honest, she is upset with herself for being this demanding.


    "You were only patient with me, weren''t you?" she asked Vince coquettishly.


    Vincent smiles and pokes Hailee by the nose before he ims those red lips that have been pouting for an hour now. After the kiss, he parted two inches away and murmured to his wife, saying¡­


    "I''m actually enjoying it. It made me remember those times you were the one who was in the fitting room, and most of the dresses you tried on, I didn''t approve of because of how they are so revealing."


    Hailee widened her eyes upon remembering such precious memories.


    "It was when we visited Janise''s store for the first time, as you will take me to your friend''s birthday party. But you rejected all the dresses Janise let me try on. She was annoyed with you because she was very confident that the gowns are perfect for me, but you don''t like them."


    "I have my reasons. Men were looking at you with intent when you were just wearing a casual dress. What''s more, when you wear those sexy evening gowns? I would only get jealous when other men look at you. And so, I want you to dress only for me."


    Hailee suppressed, notughing aloud. Vincent indeed could onlyin inside his heart, as she was still wearing one of those revealing dresses thatplimented her body''s curves. Janise was truly talented, and so she became her favorite designer.


    "Hmm¡­ You don''t know how I struggled to conceal my feelings for you, especially that I was honestly physically attracted to you," said Vincent afterward, which was filled with honesty.


    "I see¡­ I could imagine it." Hailee fluttered her eyes as she said this, which caused Vincent to blush a little.


    He indeed did those which are normal for a man, right?


    "I love you¡­." he whispered with so much tenderness in his voice.


    Hailee pulled Vincent''s neck closer to her to brush her lips into his¡­ "I love you too, Mr. Shen. And you can no longer hold back. Also, you can confess to me anytime."


    "Yes. That is why I would say all those corny lines from the bottom of my heart. And so, prepared for it, Mrs. Shen."


    Haileeughed once again.


    Pitt and James, who were discussing something in the corner, looked in the couple''s direction after hearing the princess giggles while Vincent whispered in her ear.


    Both the men shared a knowing look at each other. It made them wonder what Vincent was saying to his wife, and she was in a better mood now.


    They have to admit that Vincent can coax the princess. It was admirable of him. They have been witnessing what affects the guy on the princess.


    Not only that, they never saw her being seductive to other men, but only in front of that guy. She was sweet toward them. But the way she looked at Vincent was very different.


    He is the only one she fell for¡­

 Chapter 409 - Matching Clothes

    <h4>Chapter 409 - Matching Clothes</h4>


    "Miss Jones, can we have a minute with you?" Pitt called out the manager.


    Miss Jones, instructing her staff to bring out more suits for thedy boss''s husband, made an abrupt step toward Pitt and James.


    "Do you need anything else, sir?" Miss Jones was already familiar with them since they were the ones who always apanied thedy boss every time she appeared in the hotel for timely visits.


    "Do you have a color brown or a gray suit, perhaps?" James queries once the manager gets close.


    "Yes, sir James. However, we don''t have stocks in the store. Only the main store has all the colors and designs." But thinking about that, it was in the opposite direction, and it will take time.


    "How about if you made a phone call to the main store and asked them to deliver a few other colors the princess might like?" Pitt suggested.


    The manager''s face brightened, and she looked at the two men with gratitude for helping her out. She honestly feared she might get fired from her job today, as thedy boss wasn''t happy with all the disys in the store.


    Somehow, thedy boss is demanding today, in which she actually has a good temperament for everybody. But Miss Jones understood it was because of thedy boss''s pregnancy, the reason it was hard to please her this time around.


    Also, all the clothes avable in the store are of high quality and the most expensive ones than the disy in the main store. In fact, all the coats that Mr. Shen has already tried so good on him.


    "Alright. Give me the catalog, and I will deal with the princess. Tell the main store to bring light brown and dark brown suits and a few more navy blue ones. The princess doesn''t like any all-ck color this time, so don''t show any of those anymore."


    "Understood, sir Pitt. Thank you so much! I am very sorry if I was intimidated by the princess''s presence." Miss Jones thanked them and took this opportunity to apologize.


    "No problem. But you have to work harder, okay?" said James.


    While the two men deal with thedy boss, Miss Jones makes a quick call to the main store. She narrated thedy boss was in the store and nothing she found suitable for her husband to wear at tonight''s banquet. The manager breathed out with a sigh of relief.


    Miss Jones also mentioned all the colors thedy boss preferred for her husband.


    When the main store heard about this, they immediately checked all the items and confirmed that they had all the colors the branch store manager had requested.


    "We will deliver them immediately." The main store general manager assures it, as they cannot dy any longer. It was theirdy boss who they needed to serve.


    Meanwhile¡­


    "Princess, you might like to see these." Pitt walked toward the lounge with the gadget in his hand while the store manager walked behind him. "There is a more avable color of these suits at the main store. If you prefer them, they will deliver them right away to your suite."


    Hailee took the TAB and flipped through the catalog. In the next few minutes, she studied the suit''s details and colors, whether it was pleasant to her eyes.


    Miss Jones had already finished the call; she rushed to the lounge and stood three meters away from the sofa, waiting for thedy boss if she needed anything.


    After a while, Hailee finally made a choice. She approved of seeing ten different styles and designs in different colors.


    "Alright. I like this color and this¡­ the design of this one is not bad either." Hailee began pointing out what she liked in the catalog. She looked at the manager and said, "Okay, that''s all. Send them right away to my suite when it arrives."


    "Right away, ma''am!" Miss Jones answered at once, sighing with relief inwardly.


    Hailee then looked at Vincent and said, "Let''s go?"


    Vincent nodded and helped Hailee get up from the sofa and headed straight to the door hand in hand, where Pitt and James followed silently, feeling relieved that it had solved the matter.


    *


    At the presidential suite, Hailee and Vince took a shower together. After washing, Hailee called her team to give her manicure, pedicure, and makeup.


    It didn''t take long, and Vincent''s suits arrived. He immediately tries them on, and Hailee is satisfied with everything sent over. Now, she can''t choose what she likes the most.


    At exactly eight in the evening, Hailee, Vincent, Pitt, and James appeared at Sris Grand Event Hall on the 20th floor with beautiful scenery of the famous Sydney Opera House and the dazzling Sydney Harbour Bridge.


    The moment they stepped inside, it gained all attention toward them.


    The couple is wearing matching clothes, which everyone notices at first nce. Hailee is wearing a red off-shoulder long gown that fits her body while her hair is in a perfect curl. Vincent, on the other hand, is wearing a red wine suit.


    "Hailee!" Daisy rushed to the door to meet her special guests. Immediately, she and Hailee hugged and kissed each other''s cheeks. "So great to see you, girl!"


    "Happy Birthday, girl! Sorry, I forgot your birthday, so I have prepared no gift yet."


    "Shut up! You refunded my expenses for fifty percent, and the cake was for free? And are you still thinking of sending a gift?"


    That was true. After James told Hailee about Daisy''s birthday, she immediately instructed the event organizer to refund half of Daisy''s payment.


    "The cake was from dad. Actually, he wants to split the expenses with me."


    "Ah, uncle Jacob is always the best!"


    Daisy was ted to hear this. Although her family is not as wealthy as Hailee, they can afford to give her a grand twenty-fifth birthday party. But the Davies really know how to maintain a good rtionship with their good friends in this circle.


    "Is he noting?" Daisy asked Hailee when she didn''t see the older man.


    "Dad has many things to deal with, so he wanted to rest home early," Hailee exined.


    "I see. Well, please thank him for me," said Daisy, then her eyes darted to Vincent and whispered. "Your husband sure is charming."


    Hailee giggles and gossips back, "You have your own charming fiance."


    "Then that made the two of us!" Daisy didn''t hide the joy in her eyes when she said this as she was undeniably madly in love with her longtime boyfriend. "Let''s take some pictures!"


    Daisy brought Hailee to an exquisitely decorated backdrop to take a photoshoot.


    Hailee and Daisy made beautiful poses until the two of them made funny faces. Later, Hailee waves at Vincent to join them. He quickly came over and ced his hand around Hailee''s waist while making a pose with the two girls.


    Next, Daisy had the photoshoot with Pitt and James, who acted like supermodels with their poses. Daisy also makes sure she poses like a model with these two handsome men beside her, and the usual, they make funny faces before they stop the photographer.


    "Thanks, boys!"


    Daisy was delighted, hugging both James and Pitt. Then she walks toward Hailee and holds her elbow.


    "I will kidnap this queen for a while! You men enjoy yourselves!" Daisy giggled as she announced this, dragging Hailee slowly toward the group of girls near the stage.


    Vincent was helpless. He doesn''t want to be apart from his wife, but her friend already snatched Hailee. Actually, he is just too worried because Hailee''s pregnancy is still sensitive.


    Pitt and James notice the displeasure on Vincent''s face. They immediately console him and drag him to the group of men that they are familiar with.


    "Don''t worry. The princess hasn''t seen her friends for a year because she was sticking with you."


    Vincent cannot argue because it was true. It''s been a year already since he met Hailee again. At that moment, Vincent was clouded with such emotion as he remembered his meeting with her.


    Now that Hailee was married to him, he had nothing to fear that she would disappear one day.

 Chapter 410 - Married To Eva (One)

    <h4>Chapter 410 - Married To Eva (One)</h4>


    "Hailee!"


    The girls immediately wee Hailee with hugs and cheek-to-cheek kisses. These women are Hailee''s High School ssmates she got close to.


    They were actually at her wedding, but she had little time to entertain them as she mingled with more of Vincent''s rtives, and she had to take a seat many times to rest. Now, this is the best time to have a chit-chat to their heart''s content, inquiring about each other''s recent life events as they all are career women.


    "Girl, look at you! How did you do it?" Kmented regarding Hailee.


    "Hmm?" Hailee had a puzzled look on her face. It confused her with what K was pointing to as recently so much happened to her life.


    Thenter, it was the other girls who enlightened her.


    "You look so gorgeous, preggy!" Crystal echoed.


    "True! You are glowing, Hail! What is your secret?" J chimed in with a tease in her tone.


    Hailee smiled at her friends as she now understood what they meant. She could not hide the happiness that always filled her heart, and it registered on her face.


    She is madly in love with her husband, and being a mom soon somewhat made her feel so proud. Such events change so much her life, which she embraces lovingly, as it gives her the feeling ofpleteness.


    Indeed, nothing she could think of now, but her life was perfect.


    Some people believe she must have done so many good things and sacrifices in her past life that in her present life, she was too blessed in this lifetime.


    She has a loving husband who showered her with so much love she could not ask for more, but Vincent exceeded what she prayed to God to have in her life. And her inws treated her well; she knows not because of her wealth but as the woman who loves Vincent the way he is, no less.


    People think her husband is inferior because he could never surpass Davies''s wealth. But what is she going to do with so much wealth if Vincent happens after her family status and they are only bound for business benefits and not love?


    She and Vincent tie a knot not only because they want the sacred blessings of the Holy Matrimony. But they want to seal their love into eternity.


    "Is that even a question? Of course, our dear friend always had her fill! Can''t you see how round the belly is evidence here!"


    Hailee was zoomed out from her deep thoughts when Daisy jested and touched her belly. The girlsughed at Daisy''s tease, which made her drop a jaw before Haileeughed vigorously. She is used to this girl''s teasing. So she could only shake her head and pursed her lips into a sweet smile.


    "Alright, girls... Why don''t we have a toast for our Queen?" said Daisy afterward.


    "But Hailee cannot drink any liquor that has alcohol, remember?" K interrupted and reminded the girls.


    "Don''t mind me," said Hailee, waving both her hands. "I''ll be fine with cold water."


    Daisy immediately called a server and asked for a ss of cold sparkling water. The six girls raised their sses and had toast cheerily when it arrived.


    "Girls, Hailee shouldn''t remain standing this long. We should take a seat." Carry suggested after they sipped on their wine sses.


    "Carry is right. But first, let''s get something to munch on. Hailee must be hungry," said Daisy. Everyone nodded in agreement.


    "Yeah. Let''s go to the buffet table!"


    Daisy leads them to the buffet table, and the girls get Hailee a te and help her fill it with her favorite delicacies.


    Hailee''s eyes twinkled with delight after she found her favorite cheese and macaroons. She fills half of her te with smoked air-dried speck and fruit tarts.


    "Do my godchildren like potato sd?"


    Hailee looked at Daisy and smiled. This girl is already offering herself to be the godmother of the unborn children.


    "Yes, we are!" Hailee replied gleefully.


    "Don''t forget! We would love to be the pretty godmothers too!" chimed by the others.


    Once they got something to eat before the main course to serve, they headed to a French chaise lounge and continued chatting about random topics, which they ended upughing at. These girls are all beautiful women in their unique ways.


    But the girls are not the only ones who had the fun. Pitt and James introduced Vincent to their friends and acquaintances in that circle.


    Vincent already met a few of them at his wedding, but they only shook hands after expressing their wishes and congrattions, as there were so many guests to mingle with one by one.


    "Vincent Shen!" A tall guy in a navy blue tuxedo walks toward the group with a massive smile on his face. "My man!"


    "Mikael Davidson!" Vincent shook hands with the guy, then a quick embrace, and pats each other''s backs.


    "Good to see you, brother!" Mikael cannot close his mouth from smiling.


    "So am I... How were your wife and your twins?" Vincent asked afterward, clicking ss with Mikael.


    He replied, "They''re doing great!"


    "I''m d they are well," said Vincent with sincerity. He added, "Congrattions, by the way."


    "Thank you. Same for you! You are a father soon too!"


    Vincent smiled and nodded at Mikael. Then, the guy added,


    "I apologize. We weren''t able to attend your wedding to the princess. My wife was actually excited, but we never expected that two days before the wedding, she had to do CS when she was just twenty-eight weeks pregnant."


    "That''s alright. It was an emergency, and the condition of your wife and twins is the most important."


    Mikael stretched his arm and raised his ss toward Vincent. He immediately brought close his ss and clinked it with Mikael''s, drinking the content with one go.


    The other men in that group watched this interaction with great curiosity as Mikael and Vincent spoke like they were close friends.


    "You know Mr. Shen, Mikael?" asked one guy who could not keep his curiosity to himself.


    "Yes, I am! Vincent, who designed my resort." Mikael replied with proudness on his face, tapping Vincent on his back.


    "Oh." The other men made that astounding look on their faces.


    "Well, it didn''t highlight him that much because that was Vincent''s coboration with the Lewis Construction Firm," Mikael exined. "But he received recognition the following year."


    "Yeah. I was just new in making my name as an international licensure architect back then, and Prof. Lewis offered me to design Davinson Resort as my internship project." Vincent then rified about that matter five years ago.


    "You were just an intern when you designed Mikael''s resort?" Rob Dawson queried. Recently, he invested in Davinson Resort with a new project, and they are looking for the best designer to handle this project.


    "Vincent has been designing since he was just a freshman in college, the reason he didn''t need toplete five years of architecture course. Am I right?" Mikael nudges Vincent by his elbow.


    Vincent immediately added to Mikael''s boast about him.


    "I am grateful to Prof. Lewis for guiding me. He is the one who offered me the internship in my third year."


    "And Vincent passed his course with flying colors!" Mikael carried on. "Anyway, now that we have brought about my resort.. I was actually shocked that Miss Eva Lan is married to you. How did that happen? Have you both developed a feeling when you designed my resort and Eva did the interior designing?"

 Chapter 411 - Married To Eva (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 411 - Married To Eva (Two)</h4>


    "Eva Lan? She is Bryan''s girlfriend. Howe she is married to you when she and Bryan were on and off in a rtionship?"


    Vincent felt the scrutiny of these men. When Eva died inside the prison, his name once again linked as the ex-husband, then hot topics began about her boyfriend.


    "Eva is just my wife in name. When we got married, I knew she was living with her boyfriend, but I didn''t know who. She and I are just acquaintances during a few projects, but our parents are good friends. My mom began nagging me to unite our family. But we never live on the same roof. After our civil wedding in New York, we went separate ways and never cared for each other. But as I receive benefits after I married her, I do my obligation of giving her a monthly allowance."


    "Received benefits, huh? Is this about, if you marry her, you will inherit our conglomerate!"


    The other men in that groupughed when onemented, but the rest remained expressionless. Vincent is Hailee Davies'' husband. They would never be careless to joke about Jacob''s son-inw.


    Soon, Vincent Shen bes one of the most powerful men in the world once he inherits Jacob''s seat as CEO of Davies Corporation. The men whoughed didn''t realize this yet, knowing Davies Corporation had signed a contract with theirpany. When Vincent pulled out the investment, then it was their end.


    Mikael and Rob shared a knowing look. They knew the risk of going overboard in taunting Vincent. These men aren''t careful at all.


    Vincent remained silent for a moment as he emptied his goblet. He pushed the corner of his mouth into a grin as he spoke afterward.


    "You''ve guessed it right, Mr. Smith." He said. His voice was full of sternness, which made the men shut their mouths. Vincent raised his ss and studied the rity of it.


    He added, "My mom is wealthier than my dad, after granting her desire that I would get married soon because of the rumors in our circle that I am gay as I only hang out with men. She gave me all of her wealth as a condition... And with the inheritance I received, I established my yachtpany and built modern residential and offices buildings that internationalpanies upy as their branch offices. I also got projects and built hundreds of new malls all over my country. I bought my own shares in our US-basedpany. Not only that, I became Theo Shang''s business partner in his casino and hotel in Las Vegas, so I earned billions of dors each year."


    "Ironically, Eva cannot choose Bryan because I am wealthier than him. If Bryan dumps her, she still has her husband, who she can ckmail. In exchange for her silence and letting me live in peace, Eva demands a new car each year, then I pay for her travels and shopping around the world. She also asked for a yacht aspensation as we didn''t consummate our marriage. Yeah. She tried to seduce me, but she had no chance as I was not interested in meeting her. But the fact that I am also using her, so I blindly funded her luxurious living even though I know she flirted with different men. Anyway, I don''t regard her as my wife. So I never give a damn f*ck who she sleeps with."


    Vincent added, "Now, who do you think lives a good life? I, who works my ass to have a name in this world? Or my nominal wife, whose capriciousness spoiled by me?"


    "Damn. How did you bear all of that? I actually salute you for spoiling Eva, even with how many men she sleeps with. If that is another nominal husband? O know they would enrage if his wife cuckolds him on the head. But you just ignored this for how long, man?" said Mikael with admiration.


    "We should get a divorce after two years, but she began hiding from me. I know Liam Huo, but I never met him in person, or we crossed paths before. Soon then, I learned that he used Eva to break Bryan and Hailee''s wedding. Then once again, Liam used her, and this time it was against me and Hailee''s love."


    Vincent paused and swept his gaze to the eight men who were listening to his story keenly.


    "Our original agreement is I will divorce her after I found the girl I fell in love with four years ago."


    "Whoa! Are you telling us that this woman is the princess?" Mikael burst out all of a sudden. Their eyes shifted toward him.


    Vincent looked at Mikael. He nodded at him, and a sweet smile appeared on his lips.


    "Most of what I said will be mentioned in the documentary that will be released next month. You guys heard it exclusively from me. If I were to charge you, I am more expensive now." he joked, which caused them to chuckle.


    "Damn! I''m d that I put a lot of good words about you to the princess!" said Mikael with glee; there is pride in his eyes to what he didst year.


    "What do you mean by that, Mikael?" asked Pitt with curiosity in his eyes. He is only watching Vincent have a conversation with these men, but the topic is getting interesting. There are actually more things they didn''t know.


    Mikael turned his head toward Pitt''s direction and said, "Do you remember your stop at my resort a year ago?"


    Pitt is raking his head to recall his voyage with the princessst year. He didn''t know that Mikael and the princess had an interesting conversation back then. Indeed, when Hailee returned to Australia through her yacht, they made a stopped at Papua New Guinea, at Davidson Resort that Vincent actually designed.


    "Okay. Yes, I remembered now. How about it?"


    "The princess didn''t stop inquiring who designed my resort. Although the Lewis Firm, who built Dawson Resort, it was Vincent who designed everything. In fact, I could still perfectly remember the princess'' facial expression¡­."


    Mikael paused and fixed his posture, then made a soft expression as he muttered,


    "Mikael, are you sure that Vincent Shen is excellent? The princess asked me with her usual sweet voice while folding her arms above the table, and her chin rested on the back of her palms. Then, I answered confidently¡­ Yes, princess! Vincent Shen is not just excellent, but he is the best among the best! And I added more good words about you, bro."


    Mikael patted Vincent''s back, grinned, and added, "See? I am right! You''re the best, man! Just in a blink of an eye, four babies on the way!"


    The men who eagerly listened to Mikael''s story dropped their mouths open and blinked many times, including Vincent.


    "You a**hole! We''re talking seriously here, and you were actually thinking sh*t!" It was James who reacted immediately. He grabbed Mikael''s neck and strangled him.


    "What? How did it be a sh*t when it was Vincent''s¡­ Ahhh¡­." Mikael didn''t finish his words as James tightened the arm; he circled his neck.


    Vincent had rendered speechless while shaking his head. The other men alsoined and wanted to help James beat up Mikael.


    Tonight, they discovered that there is actually another side of the story of why the princess began chasing Vincent Shen to work with her.


    Vincent had just learned this as well. He designed the Davidson Resort didn''t, and it impressed Hailee so much, which he actually coborated with Eva five years ago.


    To think about it now, he and Hailee are destined to entangle their lives with Eva, including Liam. The world is too small for them.


    He is not happy that Eva died. But he is d that the thorn in their life now disappeared and cannot threaten them anymore.


    Vincent continued having conversations with these men until the event organizer announced that the main course was serving now. He walked toward Hailee, helped her stand on her feet, and followed everyone headed to the dining hall.


    "Hubby, I''m d that you enjoyed mingling tonight," Hailee whispered to him when they settled down on their table and began eating.


    "I am Wifey. Thank you for taking me to your friend''s birthday bash." Vincent smiled and nudged his forehead to Hailee.


    Hailee ced a kiss on Vincent''s lips instead of a reply. Well, she knew Vincent had to meet all the important people in her circle. Vincent needs to build a good rtionship as these people can help him in the near future.


    "You did great, hubby."

 Chapter 412 - New Partnership

    <h4>Chapter 412 - New Partnership</h4>


    Over dinner, Hailee took her time eating the food prepared by her dietician and nutritionist. Since she attended the party and decided to stay at the hotel overnight, no one could make her food but only her private dietitians. Her body must meet the requirement for her babies to grow healthy.


    Vincent was discussing something with Pitt, James, and Kian when Daisy''s boyfriend, Owen Silva, one of Hailee''s knights, came over and invited the men to another table.


    "Princess! I''m going to borrow the boys!" said Owen, asking permission.


    Hailee looked at Vincent, then at her knight. Later, she nodded her head. "Okay."


    When the men leave, Daisy and the other girls move over to Hailee''s table and keep herpany.


    "Hail, have you prepared the names of your babies?" asked Julie.


    Hailee replied, "I did, but I''m kind of having difficulty choosing the right names."


    "Gosh! We should have a date to do that!" Crystal suggested. She is always the enthusiastic one to do things like that.


    "Crystal, dear. Why aren''t you getting married yet and having kids? You were always the one excited when someone in the gang got pregnant." Daisymented, which she smacked Crystal on the hand.


    Crystal rolled her eyes and replied, "Jeez. Can''t I give my suggestion?"


    "Girl, you can always make babies of your own!"


    "And how should I do that when I don''t have a boyfriend?" Crystal twitched her mouth with disgust, recalling something from the past.


    "Jeez. You were just heartbroken once. Thest time you were in a rtionship was when we were in college." said K.


    "Your ex got married twice already. But you were still single till now," Carry chimed in.


    "Yuck! I''m d I was never married to him. I should be a divorcee now!" Crystal was actually happy that she and Rex broke up because the guy remained a cheater.


    Back in college, they were nning to get married after she graduated, but she found Rex sleeping with someone from thepany where he had his internship.


    "I am happy as f*ck!" Crystal added; the girls cheered and didn''t continue teasing her again but opened up another topic to roast the other girls next.


    Meanwhile, Owen brought Vincent to the other side of the grand dining hall and introduced him to the three men on the table near the floor-window ceiling. Vincent had already met two of these men, but he knew him very well. Although they rarely crossed, he admired the Martelpany.


    "Lucas Martel." Vincent shook hands with the guy.


    "I''m pleased to meet you, Mr. Shen," said Lucas.


    "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Martel."


    "Just call me Lucas."


    "Vincent then¡­." Vincent smiled and sat down on the empty chair next to the guy. "I haven''t seen you at the wedding."


    "Yeah. There was an important matter that needed my attention, so mom and dad could only attend."


    Lucas Martel is the new CEO of Martel Marine Boat Builders. Their family has been in the third generation of the business. But recently, Lucas faced a big problem as people are keener to purchase a yacht than a fishing boat and superyacht than a boat liner in the ocean.


    "Is everything alright?" asked Vincent. Martel Boat Builders is actually one of a fewpanies that inspired Vincent to start designing a boat until he focused on learning to design a yacht as it demands these days.


    Lucas smiled at Vincent and replied, "Things are almost getting back on track. But I don''t want to stay in the same course. Martel Boat Builders should take several steps to bepetitive in the line of maritime."


    Vincent nodded his head. He was delighted with everything Lucas had said. As an owner of a yachtpany, Vincent understood that to remain in the maritime industry, Martel Boat Builders and Designers should startpeting in building a more modern boat. Perhaps a futuristic design.


    "Vincent, do you want to join our family?" said Lucas out of the blue. "Perhaps some investment. I am selling some shares. I will give it to you at a good price to be one of thepany''s major shareholders. But we want your talent in designing. What do you think?"


    "Do you want me to train your designing team on how to design modern boats and yachts?" asked Vincent.


    "Particrly the yachts, yes." Lucas retorted. There is hope in his eyes that he could poach Vincent''s talent and surpass the leading yachts builders in Oceania Continent. "Perhaps you can work on our biggest client, and my designing team can learn from you."


    Lucas will ce all the stakes to get Vincent into hispany. Ocean liners these days are choosing to build superyachts rather than building cruise ships. Besides, Vincent would soon rece his father-inw as CEO of Davies Corporation.


    Davies Corporation was never involved in ocean liners but focused on building aircraft. Having Vincent wouldplete the industries thispany has invested in. From real estate, hotels, shopping malls, owning several goods factories, to nes¡­ Now, it''s time for them to invest in maritime liners.


    Vincent took a moment to ponder. Lucas'' offer is actually a good investment, as designing is his major.


    "Hmm¡­ It was actually a great idea," said Vincent, meeting Lucas'' hopeful gaze. "Martel Boat Builders is one of a few builders that inspires me to start designing a boat. In fact, the first fishing boat that dad purchased for our family was made by yourpany."


    Lucas was surprised at learning this. It made him happy that hispany actually inspired Vincent. This new information gives Lucas more hope of convincing Vincent to join them.


    On the other hand, Vincent thought Martel had already made a name in the world. Recently, he was fortunate to close a deal with European investors, as they were Hailee''s rtives and knights. It would attract more clients to a different level.


    "Well, let''s set a date to discuss further. Recently, I am working on the three superyacht designs that Mitchell Romanoff had ordered for his cruisingpany."


    The other men from the other table, eavesdropping, were shocked upon hearing it. Mitchell Romanoff was named Prince of Russia. And tonight, they were impressed that Vincent was not someone to be underestimated.


    "Hey, men! What are you discussing out here? Why did you guys forget us?" asked Mikael. Behind him is Rob Dawson.


    "You missed out already! Lucas and Vincent have been talking about some business." James, who replied to Mikael.


    "Really? What kind of business? Oh! Both of them are building a boat and yacht!" Mikael reacted.


    "Yeah."


    Mikael walks toward Vincent, who is busy on his phone. "Wow! Have you just drawn that now?"


    Vincent nced at Mikael, nodding, and then his attention returned to what he was doing. After a few minutes, he gave his phone to Lucas and said,


    "If I be a partner of yours, I''m thinking of keeping the Martel signature and mine."


    Lucas looks at the sketch Vincent drew in just a few minutes. "You can work this fast!"


    "Not really. It was more likely a scratch. The details are different. It needs to invest time to design the interior of each project."


    "That is absolute. I am already looking forward to working with you," said Lucas.


    The men continue discussing some business. Later on, Vincent excused himself and went to the washroom. After using the cubicle to release his drinks and wash his hands, a man suddenly spoke behind him.


    "Do you really think that you are greater than Liam?"

 Chapter 413 - Indulge Him

    <h4>Chapter 413 - Indulge Him</h4>


    Vincent lifted his head and nced at the man who spoke at the door. He pursed his lips into a malicious smile and carried on in washing his hands.


    "So, you are Liam''s friend. Mr. John Jackson, right?" asked Vincent. He straightens his back and reaches for the paper towel to dry his hands.


    "I could see that you are so overconfident because you be Mr. Jacob''s son-inw," said John maliciously.


    Vincent chuckled and shook his head. He muttered, "Isn''t it something to be so proud of as it made others envy like you?"


    Instead of feeling irritation, Vincent was in the mood to respond to the insult that clearly this guy was trying to throw at him.


    "It looks like you were a huge fan of Liam Huo," he added.


    "Liam is a good friend!" John sneered.


    Vincent did not withdraw his gaze from John. Instead, their eyes wrestle. John disyed how exasperate he was toward Vincent after failing to provoke him.


    On the other hand, Vincent sees this is only a meaningless conversation, and so he walks toward the door, but John blocks his way.


    "Mr. Jackson, I honestly have no time listening to your ridiculous rants. You were speaking to the wrong person. My advice to you? How about joining Liam Huo wherever he is now?"


    John clenched his jaw and gritted his teeth. He was thinking how arrogant Vincent is because his backer is Jacob Davies.


    "If you talk to me outside Sydney, I would not hold myself from punching your smug face!"


    Vincent let out an amusingugh that even annoyed John.


    "Did you just threaten me, Mr. John?" Vincent contracted his pupils. The smile on his lips disappears, and his expression bes solemn.


    John suddenly felt that intimidating aura emitting from Vincent''s body. The warm appearance Vincent has shown everyone at the party is now reced with coldness. John could even feel that chill lingering on his back.


    It was as if the person he was following had shifted to another person all evening. The smile he gives to every person trying to converse with him now disappears.


    John breathed inwardly and gathered his senses not to be intimidated by Vincent. He made a quick resolution on how he could counter.


    "Mr. Shen, don''t make a quick conclusion and misunderstand my words. I¡­"


    "It is clear to me that you want to annoy me. I don''t know for what purpose. But please, stop mentioning Liam Huo in front of my face because it will annoy me."


    With what Vincent had said, John was encouraged to provoke the guy. John parted his lips into a mocking smile as he said,


    "Liam loves the princess so much. He is her first knight. When they were kids, Liam proposed to Hailee for marriage, and Hailee promised him to¡­ Ack!"


    John was pushed against the wall by Vincent. His hands clenched John''s tie as he eyed him with a sharp re.


    "Mr. Jackson, I just told you I am not interested in listening to your bber about Liam Huo. I don''t care how much he loves my wife. Whatever he will do, my wife will never fall in love with a criminal like him!"


    Vincent tightens his grip on John''s tie that starts choking him. But he is not finished.


    "Piece of advice, Mr. Jackson. You should choose a perfect person to provoke. Because I would take it as an honor to beat your fucking face like what I did to your beloved Liam Huo. And this time, I don''t need my wife to shoot you on both of your knees to be crippled like your beloved Liam Huo, as I will do it myself with my own hands."


    After saying that, Vincent releases John, who is chasing with air. He was coughing, trying to loosen his tie, but he froze on the wall when Vincent lifted both of his arms and reached for his cor.


    John''s eyes be vignt as his pupils shrunk, anticipating what Vincent would do now. But Vincent only fixed his tie and the cor of his shirt that aptly crumpled. Vincent then patted John''s shoulder. He pursed his lips into a triumphant smile before he headed to the door and left.


    John breathed with a sigh of relief. He was still in a bit of a trance after Vincent pinned him to the wall. He thought Vincent would punch him in the face, but he only threatened and warned him.


    He could still feel the tension in his body. He tried to break free from Vincent''s grip, but he was strong. The more he tried to twitch the arm pulse that gripped his tie, the more strength he was putting into it.


    John calmed himself. He straightens his suit and nces at his reflection in front of the mirror. John turned to the door as he was ready to return to the party and act as if nothing had happened.


    However, seeing the person by the door brought a great shock to his entire system. The way this person looks at him is more intimidating than Vincent made him experience.


    "Pri¡­ princess¡­ What are you doing here in the men''s room?" John stuttered his words as the woman, none other than Hailee, walked toward him. Heughed nervously and said, "Thedies'' room was the other way, princess."


    "You are not my knight, and so, you have no right to call me that."


    Once again, John was shocked when Hailee snapped at him. The woman standing in front of him is far different from the girl he has known all his life. True, they were not close, but they hadmon friends, and he went to the same school as she was since they were in kindergarten. But Hailee doesn''t notice him at all.


    "I''m sorry, Miss Hailee..."


    "Mrs. Shen! Call me Mrs. Shen, nothing else."


    John had rendered speechless by being snapped one more time. He couldn''t look straight at her eyes, as it was so cold that it made him so ufortable. Probably because he only saw Hailee''s soft sides. He never witnessed her being angry before, but only her sweet smile, and so, he doesn''t know if Hailee knew how to get angry.


    "I''m sorry, Mrs. Shen." John has to yield and admit his mistake instantly. "I will bear that in mind."


    However, this didn''t please Hailee.


    "Mr. Jackson, I could see that you are crossing too much line when ites to my affairs. It seems like I need to rify to you that Liam Huo is likely a stranger to me. So please, don''t mention him again to my husband."


    John remained his mouth shut as he had no way to retort Mrs. Shen. He realizes that provoking Vincent Shen is indirectly infuriating this heiress.


    He couldn''t control his resentment when Vincent became the star of the party. Everyone wanted to approach him and get close to him. He was even boasting that annoys not only him but others too.


    For all men who like Hailee, she marries someone else. True that most of them had no courage to court her, as she was above heaven while they were only below the earth. But how did Vincent Shen make the Davies princess fall in love with him?


    The Davies princess was not only crazily in love with Vincent, but she was also very protective of him, something they all envy about.


    "Mrs. Shen, forgive me for saying this, but Liam did everything for you. If Mr. Shen loves you. Liam is also¡­."


    "I had just said Liam''s name is a taboo for you to mention, Mr. Jackson. So what are you saying now that Liam loves me? If so? Does it earn him the right to kill my friends and innocent people? Can that be called love if he causes my heartbreak, my sadness, and even suffering, thinking of how I could protect my friends, bring justice to others that have nothing to do with me but he murdered them, especially attempt to kill the man I love the most?"


    John could not retort but listened to Hailee''s scolding.


    "Liam did nothing but teach me how wrong I am to think that this world is perfect. I was too na?ve to think that this ce was a paradise where I could get everything in a snap of my fingers. But Liam made me realize a person like him should not exist in this world."


    John remained silent. Even breathing seemsplicated for him to do. Hailee uttered every word, full of bitterness and regret, that she met Liam.


    "I will not repeat this, Mr. Jackson. Do not hit my bottom line. Otherwise, you will regret siding with Liam. Stop provoking my husband as well because I would only spoil him and rather persuade him to go rogue and step on every person who would block his way. Remember, I am indulging Vincent this way."


    After saying that, Hailee turned around and walked to the door. Before she stepped out, she halted in her tracks and nced over her shoulder.


    "By the way, Mr. Jackson. Don''t forget that Vincent has the full authority to manage Davies Corporation soon. You would not want Jackson Enterprise to be the firstpany to be wiped out by him, right? As I said already, I would love to encourage him to do that¡­ and please, take a detour next time you see me. I don''t want to have a glimpse of your face anymore."


    John gulped when he received that warning. He knew very well that it was the end of the Jackson family if he would taunt Vincent again, especially Mrs. Shen.


    John felt like all of his energy had been sucked out of his body. The red warning from the Davies heiress is something to take seriously.


    Leaning on the bathroom wall, John pulled out his phone from his coat pocket and dialed a particr number.


    "Dad, I can''t touch Vincent Shen."


    ''Only an idiot would have the guts to do that, and I just made myself a fool!'' John added to his head.

 Chapter 414 - Jackson Family

    <h4>Chapter 414 - Jackson Family</h4>


    John tightened the grip on his phone as frustration surged his chest. His father has only scolded him after telling him about the encounter he had with Vincent Shen, which didn''t go well. Instead, he was warned twice by the couple in a separate conversation.


    "Dad, Miss Hailee... I mean, Mrs. Shen. She heard my conversation with Vincent and warned me not to be in the same ce as her..." John paused when his father spoke. "But Mrs. Shen clearly deres that we should take our hands off her husband. Otherwise, it''s the end of J Group."


    From the other end of the call, the old Jackson clenched his palm into a ball of fist and gritted his teeth as he contracted the pupils of his eyes.


    Listening to his son''s report, he doesn''t want to believe that Jacob''s daughter can truly be this terrifying. That girl was too sweet and fragile. She only relied on her knights, who would deal with everyone on her behalf. But John has no reason to lie and make up this story.


    Although Hailee Davies is aplished, many think she isn''t good enough to run Davies Corporation. She still looks like the brat princess Jacob pampered so much.


    This was why Jacob suddenly opened the search for apetent man to be his son-inw. However, he need not look far because he already had the men he sees suitable for his daughter, making outsiders stand no chance. However, Liam Huo did everything to harm these men.


    But no one actually thought she would disappear one day and when she returned. She brought a husband and soon a mother of quadruplets that ted Jacob so much to have four grandchildren at once.


    Not only that, he was too satisfied with the man his daughter brought home; he didn''t think twice but entrusted the entire Davies Corporation to that son-inw, Vincent Shen.


    "Alright. Let us talk more about it at home." Chairman Jackson hung up the call, cutting his son''s further report. He returned to his study, where his guest was waiting for him.


    Gideon Jackson sat across from the man in his early forties. He immediately apologized to the man. "I''m sorry to keep you waiting, Director Miller."


    "It''s alright. I enjoyed this Concord grape wine."


    "Ah! It is a vintage wine by Davies Orchard. All of their wines were meticulously fermented..."


    "Of course, I know that, Chairman Jackson." Director Samuel Miller raised his goblet and twirled the ss before gulping the liquid. "How was the princess doing?"


    Gideon Jackson flinched upon mentioning the Davies heiress which his son John had just had an ugly encounter with the princess at the party.


    "The princess is expecting quadruplets," Gideon wipes the beads of sweat that start forming on his forehead, as he isn''t sure what Samuel Miller wanted to hear.


    "It''s all over the news, Chairman Jackson," Samuel said in a calm tone.


    "Right!" The chairmanughs nervously. He thought that pleasing thiswyer was as challenging as dealing with his boss, Liam Huo, so he had to be careful with his words. "Ahem! I assume you speak to Master Huo?"


    "No. Not anymore. As hiswyer, I can no longer speak with him as before."


    When Samuel said this, Chairman Jackson could sense the anger that thiswyer had just controlled from exploding.


    "Even so, can I rest assured that Master Huo would not pull out his investments in J Group?" Chairman Jackson had an expectant gaze toward Samuel Miller.


    But to be honest, the chairman had hoped that now Liam Huo would be locked up on that isted ind. He is praying that Liam will be forever behind bars and can no longer return his investment to J Group.


    Liam may have given the authority to hiswyer, Samuel Miller, who took care of all of his properties and assets worldwide. Still, chairman Jackson is also cunning with his own interest. He thought of making a new agreement that Samuel Miller would benefit significantly.


    Samuel Miller looked straight Gideon in the eye. A moment had passed before he opened his mouth and muttered,


    "How''s the princess doing?"


    Chairman Jackson grew frustrated in his heart when Samuel Miller never answered his queries. But he had to respond and notin.


    "I heard they were settling down in Sydney as Jacob Davies will retire and appoint his son-inw in managing Davies Corporation."


    "Is that so?"


    "Director Miller, as we can see... Chairman Davies gives his full support to his son-inw. We could not touch him as we please, like¡­."


    "Are you afraid, Chairman Jackson?" Samuel cut the chairman''s words, as he had already guessed his entire sentence.


    The chairman cursed inwardly. It infuriates him that this younger man is deliberately mocking him. But the future of J Group is in Samuel Miller''s hands.


    "Look, Director Miller. I am just concerned about the bigger picture. We both know that Davies Corporation dominates the entire Australia, especially Sydney. If I let J Group crash into them, we both know whichpany will remain standing, and thepany has its destruction. I am just suggesting to follow the flow."


    Chairman Jackson shed a smile as he carried on.


    "I know you are a capablewyer, but in terms of business. We both know I am the experienced one."


    Listening to the chairman''s speech finish, Samuel pursed his lips into a thin smile. "You are right, chairman Jackson. I am a capablewyer. It''s just a matter of time to destroy J Group."


    Chairman Jackson swallowed the lump in his throat. The thought of taking the lead in this conversation had shattered. He was like a chicken standing between two giant rocks. Whoever approaches the other side, the certainty of him being crushed is definite. Either way, he could not afford to offend Davies Group and Liam Huo''swyer, as J Group''s future was both in their hands.


    As the chairman remained silent, Samuel Miller spoke again.


    "You have nothing to worry about, Chairman Jackson. If I am going to crush you... No one will update me about everything that is going on with the princess."


    Chairman Jackson almost peed on his pants when Samuel Miller read what was ying on his head. He tried to hide uncertain emotions to exhibit in his eyes, but this is not only about the J Group. It is also a matter of his life.


    "In that case, I must be grateful to Director Miller for being considerate and clever to see the benefits we will both earn."


    "Of course, I do. Liam will not put me in this position if I am not capable." Samuel said with so much confidence in his voice. The straight, thin line of his mouth curves into a mocking smile, scrutinizing the old man sitting across from him.


    He knew that Chairman Jackson was trying to y a game that would benefit J Group greatly.


    Chairman Jackson sneered in his heart, concealing the frustration surging in his chest.


    ''Capable of making other lives jump off the cliff!'' He muttered inwardly, as he had no way to show the disgust he felt in front of this capablewyer.


    "Director Miller, can I ask you a question?"


    "Hit it¡­" Samuel saidzily while leisurely enjoying the white wine.


    "Director Miller, are you the one who ordered to murder Miss Lan on behalf of Master Huo?"


    Samuel, who was about to empty his goblet, was halted. He pursed his lips as he responded,


    "Do you wish to be the next one, Chairman Jackson?"

 Chapter 415 - I Dont Want To

    <h4>Chapter 415 - I Don''t Want To</h4>


    Sris Hotel


    At the parking lot, John immediately climbed into the driver''s seat of his car and punched the steering wheel. What happened in the men''s room keeps ying in his head.


    No wonder Liam had difficulties walking when he saw him on the news a few months ago. Vincent had mentioned that Hailee, who shot Liam, caused him to be crippled now. Liam must have had an operation on his knees and reced it with steel to walk.


    The person responsible is the princess. She actually had the tenacity to shoot her first knight, which in his eyes, she is just a fragile princess whose knights pamper her so much.


    John could not believe she could really do it. But after his conversation with the princess, he proves she could actually go rogue, and this is because of Vincent Shen, as she was overprotective of him.


    And regarding Vincent Shen. He did not rely only on the support he got from his wife and father-inw. He could sense that was true as he tasted Vincent''s anger after he provoked him. The same as what the princess felt, Vincent''s bottom line was also her.


    J Group has been prosperous because of Liam''s support. However, it was Davies Corporation who dominated everywhere in Australia.


    If Davies blocked them, it would undermine their operations, which tonight''s encounter didn''t have a good result but only angered the heiress. He was lucky that she didn''t order her knights, Pitt and James, to beat him up, which he knew how those two were hot-tempered when the person involved was her.


    After the princess left, he found them outside. The two men were actually guarding the door so that no one interrupted the princess to say her piece.


    John felt helpless thinking about this now. He must talk to his father and make careful ns regarding their operations in Australia, particrly in Sydney.


    Liam may still be capable of making someone''s life in hell. However, he was locked up now while Vincent Shen was the free one and soon will dominate the business world under Davies Corporation.


    Regardless, John has his other worries. His father is too loyal to Liam Huo. It will be a family matter if he and his father are not on the same page.


    ~~~


    A little while back...


    Vincent entered the dining hall and immediately swept his gaze, looking for Hailee. However, he didn''t spot his wife. He kept looking for her when Mikael approached him and grabbed his arm.


    "Come on, bro."


    "I need to find my wife first." Vincent refused, but Mikael was persistent.


    "What are you worried about? Pitt and James are with her. I saw them escorting her out of the dining hall."


    When Mikael says this, he notices that other men are now taking the seats they had upied before. If those two men are with Hailee, then he could rest assured and stop worrying.


    Vincent followed Mikael and went back to his seat.


    "There you are, Mr. Shen! We are just talking about you."


    "Oh. Is that so?" Vincent raises an eyebrow upward. "What gossip is that?"


    "Ah. Don''t think we are gossiping about you! We were just impressed by you. The reason we can''t stop talking about you."


    One man exined that he concurred with the rest of that table. Vincent also noticed that more men came over and stood on the side to join their conversation.


    "That''s right, Vincent! We are discussing mytest project with Rob, and you are the person we have in mind!" said Mikael. to Martel Industry if you agree to design for us."


    "Project?" Vincent asked curiously.


    "Yes! I have been eyeing investing in cruise ships for so many years now. But the demands these days are people choosing to have yacht parties and renting superyachts for their travels. High Society is more selecting luxurious voyages such as private trips. So, Rob and I just made a deal with Lucas, and we hope you can design for us."


    Vincent pondered for a moment. He doesn''t want to give an immediate answer, as he has a few things to consider, and that is his time. He was under his father-inw''s supervision, learning all the aspects of how Davies Corporation operates.


    Aside from that, he wants to give all of his spare time to watch Hailee''s pregnancy.


    Vincent was immersed in chatting with the men on the table; he didn''t notice that Hailee hade back.


    Seeing that Vincent had a serious talk with the other men he had just met tonight, Hailee went back to the girl''s table and let him mingle with them. But before midnight, Hailee bid farewell, as she was getting too tired.


    The party had just gotten heated after a DJ yed upbeat songs. Hailee told Pitt and James to stay partying. She and Vincent could return to their suite by themselves.


    "Wifey, do you want to drink anything?" asked Vincent while he was drying up his wet body with a towel in his hand.


    Hailee had already washed up and changed into silk pajamas with Vincent''s help. When Vincent asked her, she only hummed as her response.


    It upied Vincent''s mind with the business proposal Lucas offered him. That''s why he didn''t notice that something was different with Hailee.


    He walked toward a drawer and pulled out a white boxer, wore it, and then chose the same pajama Hailee is wearing tonight, but he remained shirtless. After putting on the lower pajamas, Vincent stepped out of the walk-in closet and fetched Hailee some water.


    While Vincent is away, Hailee stares at her reflection in the mirror. The soft gaze in her eyes and sweet smile on her lips disappear. Instead, it reced with a dagger look that her eyes were des; the mirror was already shattered into pieces.


    "Wifey, are you not hungry? Do you want me to fix you something?" While heading back to the walk-in closet, Vincent asked Hailee,bing her hair.


    Hailee immediately parted her mouth into a smile as she looked up at Vince when he came back. She shook her head as a response and then drank the water in one gulp.


    "I''m still very full with the dessert I''ve eaten. My dietician would scold me again for consuming too many sweets," she said calmly.


    "Then, can you lessen it in the next few days?" Worries appeared on Vincent''s face.


    Hailee nodded, pulled him closer to her, and imed his lips.


    "The boys stole you from me all evening," said Hailee coquettishly after the kiss. She is not angry. She just wanted to act cute.


    Vincent chuckled as he watched how Hailee''s enticing lips form into a pout. He carried her to the bed and carefully put her down, then he leaned over and kissed her feverishly. He parted Hailee''s lips with his tongue to deepen the kiss while it wandered inside her mouth.


    Hailee moaned. She pulled Vincent''s neck as she slowlyy down on the bed. Heat erupted between them, but they both knew that it was not safe to make love anymore, but they must take extra precautions that Hailee was having multiple babies.


    Vincent parted his lips from Hailee to let her breathe some air. He nted soft kisses all over her face and neck while panting. He was in the mood, but he had to suppress his desires.


    "You must be tired. Mom will scold me if I let you stay upte."


    Hailee giggled when Vincent used his mom as an excuse. She nodded her head and obediently tucked under the quilt. She cuddled Vincent after she found herfortable position.


    Not long, they both fall asleep. But Hailee woke up due to needing to go to the restroom. Hailee slowly got out of the bed. Vincent moves and sits up, but Hailee presses him on the bed.


    "I''m just going to the toilet. I''ll be back."


    Vincent tried to open his eyes, but he was dozing off. He only manages to nod and settle back to the bed.


    Hailee made it to the toilet room and went back to bed after. However, she could not fall asleep again until it was about time for the sun to rise.


    Vincent was woken up by someone groaning helplessly. He realized it was Hailee, who was already bathed in a cold sweat.


    "Wifey, are you okay? What''s the matter?" He began panicking, seeing the tired expression on her face. "Are you in pain?"


    Hailee is breathing heavily. It was what Vincent noticed. He jumped off the bed and hurriedly went to the console table, poured Hailee a ss of water, and helped her drink.


    "Do you want me to bring you to the hospital? I will call an emergency."


    Hailee shook her head. "I don''t want to."


    "But, Wifey¡­" he could not stand seeing Hailee seem to suffer from unknown pain.

 Chapter 416 - Danger

    <h4>Chapter 416 - Danger</h4>


    "I''m fine, hubby." said Hailee and exined, "Said that I would experience such difficulties in breathing, and it will be hard for me to have a proper sleep on some nights."


    "Did you not have some sleep? Why didn''t you wake me up? How long did you stay awake?" Vincent fires Hailee with a series of questions as worries written all over his face.


    "You don''t have to worry a lot. It says it''s normal."


    Hailee tried to pacify Vincent, but he insisted¡­ "No. At least you wake me up to apany you."


    He is actually ming himself for falling asleep so deep and didn''t notice that Hailee was ufortable in her sleep.


    Hailee lifted both of her arms, stretching toward Vincent, a sign that she wanted a hug. Vincent leaned over and embraced her, then kissed her forehead and hair.


    "Please, wake me up if it happens in the future," said Vincent in a gentle, loving voice.


    "You need a good night''s sleep to deal with work. I will try to take a nap now." Hailee forced herself to respond cheerfully, not let Vincent notice her suffering. Even the truth is, she felt a slight pain in her lower abdomen, and her lower back was killing her.


    "Do you like some milk? Are you hungry? I will get you a ss. I will ask Chef Han to make you a light breakfast."


    Hailee nodded. "Okay."


    Vincent helped Hailee find afortable position, cing more pillows on her back and her sides before he rushed to the kitchen and made a ss of warm milk.


    While Vincent was at it, he quickly called Doctor Dave and summoned him to visit Hailee at Sris Hotel.


    "Wifey, here''s the milk. It''s a little hot, be careful." Vincent helped Hailee to sit up. He moved the pillows to support her lower back. He had seen the nannies doing this when his mom got pregnant with his sisters, and she couldn''t breathe as her due was close.


    Recalling that, Vincent was urged to call his mom and ask her if they could help Hailee from feeling ufortable and do something with her insomnia.


    When Doctor Dave arrived, he immediately took Hailee a blood pressure and the basic check-up methods. He already asked his secretary to bring a new syringe and needles. He will draw Hailee some blood to test to determine her conditionpletely.


    While Doctor Dave attends to Hailee, Vincent takes the opportunity to phone his mom. He went outside the presidential suite to make a phone call. Hilda was in a panic after she heard Vincent''s news.


    "Don''t forget to massage Hailee, especially on her lower back. She must be in pain now. Also, with her hips and legs, surely she was feeling fatigued. I''ll be there right away."


    "Okay, mom." Vincent feels a little relief to know his mom ising. He has no idea what he can do aside from the professionals'' help, but he also believes in alternative ways to help Hailee feel better.


    "Vincent! What happened?"


    Vincent frowned. Pitt and James rushed toward him, and the two men look not fully sober up yet, and they still reek of alcohol.


    "You shouldn''t go inside. Hailee would only feel nauseated if she were to smell the both of you. Doctor Dave had already checked up on Hailee, and her nannies were attending her." He knew that these two were partying until morning, and probably they just slept a few hours ago. He then added, "You both better go take a shower, then drink some ck coffee to sober up."


    Both Pitt and James smell themselves, and they truly still reek with alcohol. But they can''t leave without knowing if Hailee is fine.


    "Why didn''t you bring her to the hospital if she is not feeling well?" asked James.


    "I wanted to. But Hailee doesn''t want to. She said it would only stress her. She just wanted to take a rest here." replied Vincent.


    Pitt and James shared a nce. Both seemed to have an idea why it was happening. They recalled the eventst night. They were certain that it was what caused Hailee to feel anxious. Hailee requested them to say not a word to Vincent that she overheard his conversation with John. But in a situation like this, they were thinking it''s not worth keeping a secret.


    Pitt pondered for a moment to decide if they were to tell Vincent. But the door of the presidential suite opens, and Doctor Davees out.


    "How is she, Doctor Dave?" Vincent queried the doctor right away. He was too worried he could not stay still where he stood.


    "Mr. Shen, the princess''s condition is getting difficult for her as she is reaching the trimester of her pregnancy. It was a dangerous stage for her. You have to remember that stressing her out is not advisable at all."


    "Stress? Like what possible that would cause?" asked Vincent with a perplexed expression on his face.


    He recalledst night if he did something that might upset Hailee, but she only kept it to herself. Unlike his mom, she would rant if she was displeased or angered by someone most of the time. So it was easy for them to determine his mom''s moods.


    But Hailee¡­


    ''Is socializing at the party actually upsets her?'' Vincent thought as he was kind of lost now. If he had known, he would not have left her side for even a second! Now Hailee was showing danger in her pregnancy. That''s what he concluded.


    "Mr. Shen, I saw some signs of depression from the princess. You might fail to notice it, but I am his personal OB. Maybeing to the city won''t do good for her. She must stop working either until she gives birth and is ready to deal with some stressful matters."


    "But I am not sure why she suddenly feels depressed and stressed?" said Vincent honestly.


    Doctor Dave showed a slight disappointment hearing his remark. He already said to pay attention to his wife, but he told him he did not know.


    "Maybe the princess is better staying in the mansion and less time dealing withpany matters, or perhapsrge gatherings could also irritate her. I heard from my daughter. The princess attended the birthday partyst night."


    When Doctor Dave mentioned that, Pitt and James shared a knowing look. In the end, they could no longer stay quiet. It was Pitt who spoke the truth.


    "Actually, Vincent¡­ Last night¡­"

 Chapter 417 - I Gave You The Right

    <h4>Chapter 417 - I Gave You The Right</h4>


    After Pitt shared what happenedst night that he didn''t know Hailee overheard him, Vince cursed inwardly.


    So, indirectly, he was also the reason Hailee bleeds after she was exasperated and gone distressed. In this situation, it also saddened him that Hailee kept this a secret from him, which they promised to be honest with each other, but she chose to keep it herself.


    "Mr. Shen, either the princess feels worse or feels better. Please, take her to the hospital for an ultrasound. I''ll be there on duty all night. I have to go now and bring the princess''s blood sample to theb."


    "Alright. Thank you, Doctor Dave."


    Doctor Dave nodded and left.


    Vincent heaves a long sigh. He leaned on the wall and muttered in a weak voice. "She has been worrying about me that everyone in thepany is putting pressure on me. Hailee didn''t realize that she was also putting pressure on herself thinking of me."


    "The princess loves you so much. When ites to you, she lost her calm and modesty. She learned how to talk shit and threaten someone," Pitt remarked.


    "If topares her attitude in the past and at present. We almost believe the princess actually has a split personality she is just showing to us recently." James chimed in, in addition to Pitt''s statement.


    Vincent frowned when he heard this. He thought Hailee had been a tactless woman as she fearlessly fought whoevershed at her back the time she was pretending as his mistress.


    But Hailee has ss. She is sophisticated, a temperament he loved with a woman. And one thing is, she is a snob toward other men, except for her knights and a few familiar friends.


    Vincent returned inside the suite and told the nannies to eat some breakfast. He went to the bedroom and joined Hailee on the bed, slowly lying behind her.


    He buried his face in Hailee''s neck while his left hand rubbed her lower back and pressed the part on her hip. Vincent heard Hailee sigh.


    "Wifey¡­ Please, stop worrying about me. It kills me inside to see you suffering like this after you were stressed because of me." said Vincent tenderly, cing a kiss on her hair.


    "You knew already?" she asked with a hoarse voice.


    Vincent''s heart ached, listening to Hailee''s weak voice. She is just twenty-two weeks pregnant. How about if it was near her due?


    "I asked Pitt and James to tell me if something had happenedst night. I know they were loyal to you. But, Wifey¡­"


    "I''m sorry¡­."


    "No. You have nothing to apologize to me for."


    "I should have told youst night," said Hailee with sincerity.


    "I was to me as well. I didn''t share it first with you. That''s why I hate myself now. I am responsible for your suffering as well."


    "Yes, you are. My belly won''t grow a lump if I just do it alone."


    There was a brief silence that had passed. Hailee and Vincent both giggled afterward. Hailee slowly turns around to face Vincent. She then threw her arm around his waist and buried her face in his chest.


    "I love you so much," she muttered.


    "I know, and I love you so much too¡­ " Vincent kisses her forehead. " You haven''t eaten yet. Come, I will feed you."


    Hailee nodded. Vincent helped her get up and lean on the headboard. He brought the food tray table on the bed and fed her.


    "You need to eat too." Hailee urges Vincent.


    After the meal, Hailee pursues Vincent to go to thepany. But Vincent would not leave her until he ensured she was not at risk, such as miscarriage.


    "Wifey, even if I will go to the office. I could not focus on work if my mind were only thinking about you. Besides, I would only be restless."? Vincent did his best tofort Hailee.


    It''s a good thing Jacob arrived to check on his daughter''s condition before he headed to the office. After Hilda told him, he rushed to the city as soon as he could arrive.


    "Princess, your mom-inw was visiting Chinatown to get some fresh herbs to make a tonic for you."


    "Okay, dad. Mom is so nice."


    "Yes, she is. And so, rx, okay? Vincent will stay to apany you. Stop worrying about our firm. I am here until you are ready to go back to work and my grandchildren are old enough."


    Hailee nodded, then smiled at her dad. She guessed that Doctor Dave had reported what he had already advised her. "Thank you, dad."


    "Princess, trust your husband, okay? I know Vincent would let no one intimidate him, and he would fight back instead. He would let anyone just bully him."


    "But dad¡­ He is my husband. Everyone should show respect to him as much as they respect me. If they can not ept that Vincent is their boss, then they can resign."


    Jacob is actually happy to see his daughter willing to fight. But her current condition will only bring danger to her pregnancy if she stresses herself so much.


    "Okay. I understand. But remember this princess. If Vincent does not win everyone''s trust to lead thepany in a brighter direction, it will always create a dispute. The bosses should help each other grow our family, not break it apart."


    Hailee smiled. She knows how many hours her dad burns to work hard to build this family. Hailee hugged her dad and said coquettishly,


    "Dad, I''m sorry if sometimes I still act like a brat. I am a mother now..."


    "So what? I gave you the right! You are Jacob Davies'' daughter! It seemed like I had been cking these passing years... I have been indulging everyely! Do they think they can do whatever pleases them? They are wrong!"


    Jacob points out the people who wanted to sneak around on his watch. ''I will put them to the ce that suits them!'' He added to his head.


    Hailee giggled and ignored the other meaning of her dad''s words. Instead, what she wanted to believe was her dad tried to pamper her again, as usual.


    Ever since she started running her ownpanies and building her empire, she has been too busy and has less time for her dad. Most of the time, they only had phone calls and video calls unless they had important board meetings regarding Dream City.


    Yet, she would fly back to Dubai or visit her store branches and cosmeticspanies in Korea and France.


    "Thanks, dad."


    Jacob patted his daughter''s back as he nodded. His daughter is not the typical spoiled brat other people call her. His daughter actually did more charities than those old geezers who don''t believe in his daughter''s capability in running the corporation.


    Those men didn''t see how his daughter stood and was ready to fight against the most influential leaders in the world¡­


    The Elders from the High Royal Family and Mafia Association. His daughter is just too timid to use her power to shake the world of what she could do once provoked.


    So then allowed his daughter to act like a spoiled princess because she is not the typical rich brat like those old geezers'' families.


    "Princess, know that dad is too proud of you."


    Tears threaten to flood Hailee''s eyes. Her dad''s phrase warmed her heart so much. It was the praise she wanted to hear rather than receiving a billion euros from him.


    She could earn that herself, so money is not most important to her.


    "I''m happy to hear that, dad."

 Chapter 418 - Need A Beating

    <h4>Chapter 418 - Need A Beating</h4>


    Soon, Hilda arrived at the hotel. Kian, the hotel director, has been waiting to usher Hailee''s mom-inw toward the presidential suite.


    Vincent wondered what was with the shopping bags a few bodyguards carried following his mom entering the hotel room.


    "What with this many nts, mom?"


    "They''re herbs!" Hilda snapped, ring at her son. "I''m making Hailey some tonic."


    "Oh, okay." Vincent knew his mom would make Hailee a tonic, but he didn''t expect that it would need an entire market to make a ss of it.


    Hilda ignored her son and traveled her eyes to the entire suite. When she spotted the kitchen area, she walked toward the inclusion room and ordered the bodyguards to ce the shopping bags on the counter.


    "Madam Shen, what can we do to help you?" asked Hailee''s personal maids.


    "Alright. I need to wash them thoroughly. Then I will teach you what sizes you must slice these herbs," she said.


    "Understood, Mrs. Shen." The three maids quickly made their way toward the sink and washed the herbs carefully.


    Hilda went out of the kitchen and looked for her son. She found Vincent on the terrace, talking with Tim. She waited for him to finish the call before she approached him.


    "How''s Hailee?"


    "She''s resting now, mom."


    "What happenedst night? Didn''t you guys have fun?" Hilda saw the Insta posts on Hailee''s ount and other people at the party, which she didn''t know, but Sheena shared it with her to check out.


    "Yes, mom. But something had happened to me at the party, and I just learned this morning that Hailee overheard us."


    "What''s going on? Is that the reason Hailee is depressed now?" Hilda had just guessed, but she was certain that she was correct.


    "It''s nothing to me, mom. But my wife is taking things seriously on my behalf. Now Hailee is stressing herself out." Vincent exins.


    "Is it about your new position, and everyone is opposing?"


    "I am walking in someone''s territory, mom."


    "Nonsense! I am not afraid of who they are! I didn''t spend all my life raising you into an aplished man just to be questioned by them! Tell me who these people are, and I will give them a piece of my mind!"


    "It''s not worth your time, mom. The doctor advises Hailee to calm down, but you are the one showing fierceness now. Do you think it won''t trigger Hailee''s anger?"


    Hilda realized it was actually not good behavior for her daughter-inw to see.


    "Alright. I have to go back to the kitchen and start boiling some water. I need a big pot. Does the suit have it?"


    "Mom, this is a hotel suite, not the kitchen."


    "Then go ask the kitchen to bring one here! It''s for their boss!" urge Hilda.


    "Alright, mom." Vincent quickly dialed James'' mobile number and requested to contact the kitchen of this hotel. It didn''t take long; a hotel boy delivered a big pot to the presidential suite.


    While the tonic was in the process, Hilda walked to the bedroom to see Hailee. She knocks on the door and Vincent, opens it.


    "Can I talk to Hailee?"


    "Of course, mom. Please apany Hailee while I make myself a cup of coffee."


    Hilda nodded and stepped into the room. She takes a light step not to create some noise, but Hailee still feels her presence.


    "Mom?"


    "Hi. I''m sorry if I disturb your rest," said Hilda with an apologetic smile on her lips.


    Hailee smiled back, shaking her head, and returned, "It''s okay, mom."


    "How are you?"


    "I am feeling too tired at the moment like I want to sleep, but I can''t take a nap."


    "It was normal. But the doctor sees another cause why you are feeling depressed. You should stop worrying about small matters, even if it is big. Think of your children. They can''t protect themselves yet, but us mothers have to be careful, while their daddy is a giant lion, whom he can protect himself."


    Hailee looked at her mom-inw with admiration. She senses the double meaning of her advice, and she is right. She is only putting her children in danger of worrying too much, which their dad can protect himself perfectly.


    "Thank you, mom. I heard from dad. You are making some traditional medicine for me."


    Hilda nodded and replied, "Yes. I learned this from my grandma-inw. She teaches me how to make them."


    "Can I learn that too?"


    "Of course! The aunts of your dad, Frederick, immediately contacted me after they learned you were unwell. I am already familiar with the procedures, but Vincent''s grandmothers sent me the step-by-step instructions on how to make some tonic."


    "How sweet of them." Hailee was touched hearing this. It made her happy that those elderly were thinking of her.


    Outside, Vincent headed to the kitchen. The maids quickly queried him if he needed anything.


    "I just wanted to make a cup of coffee."


    "Let me brew you some, Mr. Shen."


    "Alright. Thank you." Vincent left the kitchen since Hailee''s personal maids volunteered to do it.


    *


    Meanwhile, Jacob was in the corner with Kristian, discussing crucial matters.


    "So, they really think they can walk freely in my territory?" Jacob sneered.


    The calmness he showed to his daughter a while ago was now reced with a grim expression on his face.


    "Kris, give your work to Jason and Tim. Instruct Jason to supervise Tim''s training for now. I want you to confirm who was siding with Liam and who will choose to be loyal to me."


    "Note, sir."


    "What do you mean about Liam, dad?"


    Jacob and Kris saw Vincent appear all of a sudden. Vincent ns to go back to the bedroom, but he notices his father-inw talking with Kristian with a grave expression on his face, the reason he eavesdrops on their conversation.


    "I''m sorry if I listen to dad. But it sounded like a serious matter, and I need to know."


    Jacob knew that he couldn''t hide this matter from Vincent for a longer time, so it was useless to keep it from him.


    "Vincent, do you know who Samuel Miller is?" asked Jacob.


    "He is Liam Huo''swyer, right? He tried to work on Liam to win the case but lost thewsuit, and even thewyer petitioned for a pardon, but it was only rejected."


    "Yes, he is. But he is not simply Liam''swyer. He was also authorized to manage all of Liam''s business. I just confirmed that Liam has been working on gaining power and control by investing in severalpanies here in Australia. He really is preparing everything so that he could make an attack."


    "Whichpanies are these?" asked Vincent.


    In the next several minutes, Jacob shared to Vincent as much knowledge as he had about Liam''s secret work behind his back. After the talk, Vincent went to the kitchen to get his coffee, which had finished brewing a little while ago.


    "Vincent, what''s wrong?"


    Vincent was lost in his thoughts; he didn''t notice his moming out from the bedroom and headed to the kitchen. He raised his gaze toward his mom and wore a determined look on his face.


    "Mom¡­ I''m thinking of asking my father-inw''s permission to run things in his territory."


    Hilda was stunned as she listened to her son.


    "Are you following in your granddad''s footsteps? You knew he died because of this underground world dispute over territory."


    "But these people need a beating."

 Chapter 419 - Overprotective

    <h4>Chapter 419 - Overprotective</h4>


    "Then, I will give them the beating myself!" Hilda blurted out.


    It infuriates her to think that people doubt her son''s capability. And because of them, Vincent wants to join the Mafia Association.


    "Mom, calm down. Let me handle things by myself now."


    They were not in P Country, which he needed not to do anything but his name enough to make someone tremble. Only a few dared to challenge him, which, of course, it was easy to intimidate them.


    He isn''t just known in the country because of the Shen name, but because of Lopez, as the n has been shaking the country for hundreds of years since the old age. His ancestors always led either during Gueri Warfare or other country invasions.


    Until these days, the n continued its Legacy, and it was he and his cousins who led the country to adopt the evolution to the new age, which is a life in modern times through technologies.


    Lopez Corporation has sessfully introduced a modernization system to themunity, which it''s not simple as they have to work and preserve the history of the country. Also, ensuring to promote an Eco faction asrge areas have to be destroyed, harming the environment in building a modern society.


    He is thankful that his cousins shared the same vision and became their mission, and it will continue.


    And so, even how influential his mom was back in P Country, his own battle is different now.


    He is creating a name in someone''s territory, which everyone raises a brow and thinks he is only riding on his father-inw''s influence, which is challenged this power at present by someone who wants to be the son-inw of Jacob.


    Like his father-inw told him, Liam ensured to buy someone''s loyalty all these years. Liam approached thosepanies that were on the verge of bankruptcy. He helped them get up and start anew, and at the right time, when Liam sees he needs them, he will collect the debts.


    Now, thesepanies have to make Davies Corporation taste a bumpy ride.


    ***


    The brewed coffee was served to Vincent while tea for Hilda. The mother and son sat down on ent chairs, facing the floor-ceiling window with the perfect view of the Opera House and a tea table between them.


    Beyond their sight are hundreds of boats and yachts either sailing, docked, or anchored in deeper waters near the city.


    Jacob had just left, so the mother and son resumed discussing what they''d talked about a while ago.


    Hilda studied Vincent. She could see the determination on her son''s face. In fact, she could feel the unusual aura that Vincent was always wearing in front of her.


    "Are you certain about this, Vincent?"


    He nodded as he replied, "Yeah, mom."


    Hilda sighed helplessly, feeling defeat. She asked, "How about Hailee? Did she know your n?"


    Vincent took a moment of silence before he shook his head.


    "I have to tell her what I''ve decided, but not now."


    "You are making her worried even more."


    "I know. So I have to exin it carefully and convince her I must do this. I want to protect Davies Corporation. Thepany does notck financial funds. Davies alone owns unimaginable assets. However, it won''t survive if we can operate it usually. Liam Huo knows how he could challenge Davies Corporation, and it happened when I was taking the CEO''s seat."


    "I think Liam didn''t expect that Hailee would marry someone like me. He has been working on it for many years already. He strengthened his influences both in business and the underground world."


    "And I am not afraid! Who do they think they are? A bunch of roguish almost made me a widow and a single mother at such a young age! While your grandfather died in the ambush, your dady on the sickbed for many months after being in aa as bullets stuck on his skull! It made me so angry that they have the guts to challenge me as Lopez!"


    Vincent was dumbfounded when his mom blurted it out with all of this. He knew that his dad almost died and had head surgery when he was barely two years old. But the way his mom sounded, it seemed like there was a story he hadn''t heard yet.


    "What did you do, mom?" he asked curiously, and he also felt some thrill.


    "Your dad is in aa, and so, no one can stop me from meeting those roguish mafias!"


    Vincent blinked his eyes. It rendered him speechless that there is such a thing his mom went to face the group who caused his grandfather''s death and his dad in a critical condition.


    ''Is it how it started everyone calling mom, as Madam Hilda the Great?'' thought Vincent.


    "Did you do a settlement with the boss?" He wanted to confirm this.


    "Why would I? They want to mess up my life! Then I will make theirs too! Our family has spread throughout the country! I am talking about our n and the group of revolutionaries who are grateful to your ancestors. Why do you think no one could harm you whenever you go within P Country? Wherever we go, we have our people. I am talking about the people who are ready to fight on our side."


    "You went and attacked the territory of the people who are indebted to us?" Vincent instead looks excited rather than feeling surprised.


    "They thought I was that fragile? I am not afraid of them!"


    "But mom, you were not thinking that I possibly lost a mother." Vincent softened his gaze as he muttered this.


    "I have your uncles and the Shen''s as well."


    Vincent stared at his mom with a new perspective. She may always be too loud and great at nagging. But she is actually cautious not to get involved in any scandalous situation, such as behaving with no ss. She loves to give a piece of her mind, but she did it elegantly.


    "Mom, did that meeting be a bloody encounter?"


    "And what do you think of those criminals? They are not the type to let their enemy get out alive."


    "So, you are also exchanging bullets with them?"


    "No. I poured wine on the boss''s head, pped him, and kicked his balls!"


    Vincent dropped his jaw. He was trying to process the scenario in his head. The way his mom gritted her teeth in anger must be a situation when the boss talks about something that made his mom do that without hesitation or fear of the consequences.


    "What did he say to you? Or what happened to your conversation with him?" Vincent asked, curious to hear the entire story.


    Hilda twitches her lips after Vincent throws this question. She took a sip of her tea to calm her throbbing nerves.


    "That roguish told me that after your dad died, he is willing to be your father, and he would love to marry me." Hilda sneered. Her face darkened, staring at the bay with a sharp re.


    Vincent rose a brow, and anger surged in his chest. He wishes he learned this earlier and would give that man a beating.


    "Who is that man, mom? Is he still alive these days?"


    Hilda shook her head. "Do you think I will let him live after what he told me? How dare he! I must kill him first before your dad dies if he won''t wake up from aa."


    It made Vincent rendered speechless once again. He bet countless men wish to court her and win her heart.


    His mom is beautiful and smart.


    But knowing his mom''s temperament, he is certain no one would dare to approach her, and if not for the arranged marriage, he isn''t sure whom his mom would marry.


    Vincent curled his lips. His mom always acted like she hated his dad as she constantly berated him, and it was strange as well why his dad never thought of divorcing his mom.


    Probably her act of avenging moved his dad''s heart, and even if his mom would not admit it, she actually loves his dad, but she is just too prideful.


    As he heard this story, he fully understood why the entire Lopez n would not dare oppose, but her words are aw to abide by. Even Shen n adores her so much. It must be when she avenges her husband and the death of her father-inw.


    Thinking of this, he came to realize that his mom and Hailee have no difference in how overprotective they are when ites to their beloved husband.


    "Mom, I am actually grateful that you were so strict with me as I was growing up."

 Chapter 420 - Beat Up

    <h4>Chapter 420 - Beat Up</h4>


    "I know you just wanted the best for me, mom. Without the advanced lessons and constantly nagging to focus on my study, I would not have be apetitive student, achieved academically, and seeded as a businessman. Now my knowledge is going to be challenged. In this battle, I have to show everyone what I''m capable of without relying on you, dad and dad Jacob."


    "So stay back, mom. Let me prove to my father-inw that he is not mistaken in trusting me," Vincent added.


    Hilda resigned,pletely surrendered now her son had made up his mind.


    "Alright. But you have to be careful. One thing I was infuriated about when they forced me to marry your dad is the kind of life that he is living in... I want a peaceful life, which I know is impossible for me to have since I have to take over the management of Lopez Corporation. But living like any time has some bullets flew toward us that will end our lives? It would certainly lose my sanity. Nichs Crow asked your dad''s help in transforming the association and leading it into a good path, but I didn''t allow him to continue doing such things. Might one day, he wille back as a cold body, and it actually almost happens. Yeah, I am still grateful that there is that word ALMOST¡­."


    Vincent understood what his mom was trying to convey to him. She feared for Hailee and their children.


    "Mom, you managed to defeat those who killed grandpa. You are qualified to be a Mafiady boss." A teasing smirk yed at the corner of Vincent''s mouth that made his mom shrink her pupils.


    He just wanted to lighten the mood, and dly his mom bought it. She is ring at him now.


    "Nonsense! I have no interest in chasing roguish men and wasting my time outside, other than raising my kids!"


    Vincent curled his lips into a warm smile. Again, he realizes his mom thinks the same way as Hailee. She is keener to raise their children than run this world with her influence and wealth. She is capable of that, and he began having that fetish of imagining his wife clothed in a mafia attire and doing badass stuff.


    ''It''s dangerous to think of this now.'' Vincent muttered to himself. He shook his head and wore a grim face.


    "Liam never stops messing around, mom. He once brought trouble to Theo''s Hotel and Casino, where I have my investment and then Metro City. If it weren''t for Hailee''s smart knights, I''d be facing the same problem as Theo if Liam seeded in bombing one of my establishments after he abducted Hailee." Vincent exins further for his mom to understand why he wanted to do this. Moreover, he wanted her to feel at ease. If she acted strangely in front of Hailee, then she would panic.


    "Hailee must know, but in her current condition, she must avoid hearing this kind of news."


    "I know, mom. We promised to be honest with each other, but she has been upset. So¡­ Can you cover me until it''s the perfect time for me to tell her? If I open this up now, I will only add to her worries." Vincent sighs helplessly.


    "Don''t worry. I will take care of Hailee. Maybe the tonic I learned to make from your great-grandma would help Hailee soothe her nerves and stop worrying a lot."


    "Thank you, mom. I''ll go check on Hailee, then arrange a room for you."


    "Alright." Hilda nodded.


    *


    The following day, Hailee feels better, but she still has no energy to go home.


    "I don''t want to see anyone." Frowning, she told Vincent when Doctor Dave advised her to visit the hospital for further tests and ultrasound.


    Vincent sighs helplessly as she has acted stubbornlytely. "Okay."


    Brushing her hair, Vincent softened his gaze, then cuddled Hailee inside his arms until she fell asleep. Hailee still had no proper sleep, as she would wake up suddenly. It also made him awake all night to ensure he could attend to her needs, like apanying her to the bathroom, giving her a ss of sparkling water, or getting her warm milk and something to eat at midnight.


    As Vincent also worked up, he fell asleep and took a nap with Hailee all day.


    When Vincent attended a conference meeting on the third day, he heard some gossip in the corridor.


    "Does he think he could do as he pleases because Chairman Davies is his father-inw?"


    "He is actually so arrogant in threatening our partners," chimed in by the man standing near the floor-ceiling window.


    "Who?" queried the man seated on a single couch.


    "The J Group¡­ We coborated on many projects which Davies Corp benefited a lot. But he dares to challenge the new president."


    "John Jackson? J Group is the leadingpany in Northern Australia. Vincent had the guts? How dare he act rude to the CEO," said the other.


    "That''s right. And now, he justes to the office whenever he wants. I don''t understand why the princess fell for him. It looks like she was blindly in love with azy man."


    Tim, who was following behind Vincent, wanted to rush to these men to give a piece of his mind. But then another person spoke.


    "What are you guys talking about? They are supposed to be traveling for a honeymoon until now. If I were him, I would have locked up the princess and never let her leave the bed!"


    "What a lucky bastard!"


    It was a joke, so typically, everyone cracked up, not knowing that someone darkened his face and threw a dagger look in their direction.


    Vincent could ignore all criticism they would throw at him¡ªbut joking around about Hailee like she isn''t their boss?


    And above all, they were gossiping about his wife! It buzzed his ears, and he had the urge to destroy each and everyone''s face with his fists right there, right now.


    The groupprised seven men, the young directors, and deputy directors from different fields.


    Vincent walked over, and the seven men were startled seeing him; they immediately kept silent, and a few of them lowered their gaze, avoiding to look at him, but some managed topose themselves to greet him and smile.


    "Mr. Shen, right on time! The meeting will begin soon."


    One quickly pulls himself together and casually talks to Vincent. But Vincent didn''t hide his displeasure. On the other hand, Tim is exasperating at how fake these men are!


    Vincent lifted the right corner of his mouth and said,


    "Yeah. It is so good to be on time. Suppose I were five minuteste. I would not know how the Davies Corp. directors love to gossip dirtily about theirdy boss. Do her knights know about this? Perhaps my father-inw?"


    "I am certain they love to beat up anyone who had an ill intention or dirty thoughts at their princess. They usually do it at night¡­."


    Vincent scoffs, then smirks.


    "But as for me? I can do that in broad daylight."


    ''These men are not different from Howie Gu, who would only whine at their dad''s afterward..'' Vincent sneered in his heart upon remembering that futile guy.

 Chapter 421 - A Change (One)

    <h4>Chapter 421 - A Change (One)</h4>


    "Mr. Shen, are you threatening us?"


    The man seated on a single couch had gathered the courage to question Vincent. Looking at the man downward, Vincent opened his mouth and roared.


    "Threaten? Are you questioning your new CEO after you were caught gossiping about his private life? Whose wife are you dishing? Isn''t mine? Locked her up and kept her on the bed? Who''s husband would ignore after he found out that mypany''s directors actually had dirty thoughts for his wife? Not to mention she is your boss!"


    "Mr. Shen, it doesn''t mean that you were married to the queen of this empire. You will im it as yours?"


    "Exactly. I''m married to the queen, so then, it makes me the king."


    Someone from the seven men snorted and said, "Even in the royal families. There are times that the queen''s husband is not qualified to be crowned as king. Unless you are a king yourself, Mr. Shen."


    ''Yeah. I''m not a king because I am from the Imperial bloodlines! I am an emperor myself!'' Vincent clenched his teeth as he snorted inwardly.


    Too bad the Imperial era in C Nation is long gone! He could not boast about that anymore to face p this group of fools.


    Lifting one brow upward, Vincent curled his lips into a mocking smile as he answered, "Thest time I told my wife that Davies Corporation is never mine, she gave me a sour face. She scolded me for thinking that everything she owns is not mine. Now, what do you think my wife would feel if she would hear what you said, Deputy Director Webb?"


    Director Hayes didn''t respond but rendered his silence. Also, the other men lowered their gaze, embarrassed by what Vincent had remarked a while ago because it was the truth that they went overboard in gossiping about a sensitive topic which they are known as leaders of thepany.


    Now, they can no longer retort when Vincent overheard them giving out improper thoughts about theirdy boss.


    They cuss inside their heads as they were not careful of what topic they should have discussed. This time, it was their fault for not minding where they were at the moment and the possibility someone overheard them. Too bad it''s the BOSS who caught them in the act.


    At the look of Vincent, he would not let them off just like that without confrontation¡­


    "Each of you is questioning my capability. How about you? Are you that confident that each of you deserves your positions just because you were the sons of the major shareholders?"


    At Vincent''s phrase, these men raise their heads with hostility in their eyes. He is ultimately threatening them, and he is using his standing as the new boss, the son-inw, to step on them whenever he likes and as what pleases him.


    Vincent, on the other hand, did not need to say further, as they surely understood his meanings. A few of them remained silent upon his words, but the other men frowned and protested.


    "You are now being unreasonable, Mr. Shen." Spoke by the man who made a speech about his disgusting thoughts to hisdy boss.


    Vincent cast at him with a murderous re. Director Hayes swallowed after meeting Vincent''s intense gaze like he would throw him out the window from that floor, which was at the top level, in the right wing of the building.


    "I was the one who is unreasonable here? In which part? By confronting you after I found out that you had wild thoughts about my wife?"


    Director Hayes lowered his eyes. He reached for his forehead and pressed his fingers, simply wiping the beads of sweat that started to form. He could not retort to that, as he was the first to mention thedy boss.


    Seeing that no one attempted to react, Vincent carried on.


    "You don''t know what happened between President Jackson and me. That is none of your business, and I don''t care if we have a huge coboration with a traitor like him. Anyway, you sure want to maintain a good rtionship with him. Well, if J Group crippled Davies Corporation through our Northern headquarters, then maybe he will spare you to retain at your position, Deputy Director Layne." Vincent cast a nce sideways at the man standing next to Deputy Director Hayes.


    Director Layne is a representative at Davies Corp. Northern HQ. He raised his head when Vincent mentioned the possibility of J Group doing schemes to harm their operation in North Australia.


    "What do you mean about that, Mr. Shen?" At this moment, Director Layne has both curiosity and confusion in his eyes, followed by a loud thud in his heart that something is going on, and he missed seeing the picture.


    Vincent pulled the corner of his mouth, yet he said nothing. He simply nced at Director Layne and ignored him. His attention is now fixed on the other three men seated on the couch. One of them made ament earlier that buzzed his ears.


    "Maybe that''s the reason he rarelyes to the office. Why would you leave home if you have a beautiful wife you can snuggle with 24/7?"


    Followed by a cackle from others, then a few of them added their thoughts. And that made everyone even crack.


    "Director Webb, if you were so jealous of my marriage life. Why don''t you find a wife for yourself? Isn''t it too appropriate talking about your bosses'' private life? I don''t want to think that my father-inw had just mistaken when they assigned each of you in that position because in what I am seeing, none of you are fit."


    The seven men look at Vincent sternly. They didn''t like that he was now deliberately pointing at their assigned job.


    "Mr. Shen, how dare you talk to my son that way?" someone from behind spoke.


    Vincent nced over his shoulder, and he found out that the lobby was now crowded with more people.


    "Mr. Webb, I am just speaking of the truth. I know some of our directors and managers haven''t got their MBA and DBA yet."


    "Then what are you implying, Mr. Shen?" asked Mr. Webb, member of the Board of Directors, holding 15% shares of thepany.


    Vincent smiled at the old man.


    "Mr. Webb, I was used of beingzy toe to thepany but nestling on the bed with my wife all day. But sorry to disappoint the people who were thinking of that. While you were busy criticizing me, I was up all night reviewing all the information of every employee of Davies Corporation, the main branch, and our branches, including the subsidiarypanies around the globe. I''ve noticed that many of our managers and supervisorspleted their MBA degrees, and others even got a DBA degree. However, they remain in the lower position because they were not sons of the shareholders. Isn''t it unfair to those who work on their asses for many years but remain in their current positions when a fresh Business graduate without pursuing a higher degree took that seat?"


    "Your point is?"


    "My point is, I am doing a huge reformation in every field and department of every office that we have," Vincent announced.


    "Are you kidding us? You are talking about a hundred branches worldwide!"


    "Exactly," Vincent replied with a smirk on the corner of his mouth.. He then dered, "I will evaluate every branch if the directors that manage our offices are fit for the position."

 Chapter 422 - A Change (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 422 - A Change (Two)</h4>


    "You must be crazy, Mr. Shen! Do you believe the employees would not protest?" Mr. Layne could not just stand, so he chimed in. He would not allow Vincent to embarrass mainly his son.


    ''Who he think he was!'' Mr. Layne thought inwardly.


    And after what hemented, a few stakeholders also threw questions at Vincent, which didn''t budge, but his face only exhibits how determined he is that what he said isn''t a joke.


    With all the big bosses, the shareholders, corporate officers, the managers, and supervisors from different fields, including their assistants, secretaries, and every department head from other branches¡ªthe conference lobby is now crowded.


    But Vincent even spoke louder for them to hear.


    "Protest, Mr. Layne? Says who? Aren''t several of these lower-rank officers supposed to be the branch directors and general managers? But because they don''t have any investments or are inferior when ites to their voices in this corporation. They remain either only assistant deputy directors or simply assistant managers and supervisors, running around, working harder with their asses which they were the ones who are more than qualified to..."


    Vincent paused and didn''t continue his words, but he smiled meaningfully.


    "I''m sure they would be happy to be promoted." Afterward, Vincent added.


    Everyone heard his speech. Many lit up their faces among the crowd, and happiness filled their chests.


    But several also clenched their jaws as anger surged in their chest, which they couldn''t retort as Jacob was also in the crowd. It infuriates them that Vincent grows a set of horns on his head because the throne is passing to the chairman''s daughter, who is madly in love with him.


    Vincent turned his head slightly and swept his gaze to the crowd behind him. He pursed his lips as he nced over his shoulder at the seven men on the couch.


    "Why don''t we start the conference since everyone is already here? I need to go back to my wife and snuggle with her for an afternoon nap." There was a proud smile on Vincent''s face when he said this, as he intended to annoy the seven men, and he seeded. Their faces were soured and irritated.


    Vincent turned around and took a few steps, but he halted, nced over his shoulder, and said,


    "I am not done talking to you yet. If you have a problem with me, you can address it to me in a closed-door chit-chat for the reason my wife has many ears in thispany. I don''t want another news to reach her ears about how others are spreading rumors about me."


    "John Jackson is just a warning¡­ I would forgive no one who caused her distress that would lead to her miscarriage. She overheard John insulting me, and it provoked her. But what I didn''t like most¡­ Once I caught you and saw you had fantasized with yourdy boss, my wife¡­."


    Vincent emphasized the words "yourdy boss" and "my wife" before he added¡­


    "Don''t you dare to gossip in the lobby... Either way, I will fire you out on the spot."


    Vincent''sst sentences made everyone nce at the Chairman, in which displeasure is written all over Jacob''s face.


    They missed half of the conversation, so they didn''t hear what made Vincent infuriated. Now it gives them some ideas.


    John Jackson seemed now a taboo name in the corporation. The chairman stated,


    "I want to confirm what Vincent has said regarding John Jackson. He insulted Vincent, and my daughter heard it herself. It angers her that someone questioned her husband, which almost led to her miscarriage. Until now, my daughter is still not feeling better, which made me and Vincent can''t sleep at night nor want toe to the office."


    Jacob paused, then looked at the seven men Vincent had scolded when he arrived in the conference lobby. He went on,


    "John Jackson provoked my daughter. Vincent should not need to stay at his wife''s side but show up in the office every single day. Since that night of the encounter, she has been unwell as she was stressed by what she witnessed. Now you are questioning Vincent? He should be by my daughter''s side. But Vincent and my daughter were concerned about this corporation, so Vincent attended the meeting. What if he didn''te, as he was too worried about my daughter? Then he didn''t overhear¡­."


    "Dad¡­"


    Vincent cut his father-inw''s speech.


    "I want to overlook this matter¡­ But since I was in this situation, I think I better address this now for some rification. I respected how you built this family. To be honest, I would not have the idea of evaluating everyone if the higher-ups do their job instead of gossiping about their bigger bosses. But dad Jacob, I was disappointed that your employees aren''t reliable when the big bosses are absent. So, I will put the fit employees in the position that I stayed in bed all day and cuddled my sensitive wife because of her pregnancy. My trusted family took care of things for me in critical circumstances."


    Vincent breathed for a moment after his jaw clenched with a turmoil in his chest¡­


    "My wife is conceiving both the Davies and Shen heirs. If anything happened to them, I would not let off anyone, including the CEO of J Group. It is not the only pregnancy Hailee and I had nned out. Several higher-ups are against me. Dad Jacob, your daughter wants more children. What if she has multiple babies again? So, I want to do something and choose those who have sympathy for theirdy boss and not gossip about it."


    Vincent swept his gaze to the seven men once again, who only suppressed their annoyance after he embarrassed them several times in front of everyone.


    He pursed his lips and quoted,


    "I actually hate exining myself as I am used to showing results more than words. It is what my parents taught me."


    "And I am witness to that¡­."


    Everyone looked at the older man, who suddenly spoke from behind.


    "Chairman Kingsley!" Vincent''s face lightens up to see the newly arrived man. He walked toward the man and shook his hand. "It''s good to see you again, Chairman Kingsley."


    "Good to see you too, Vincent!" Chairman Dean Kingsley had a massive smile as he shook hands with Vincent. "I apologize that I have to rush after your wedding. I have some family affairs to take care of¡­."


    "That''s alright, Chairman. I was sad when I did not get to talk to you that time, but I understand."


    Chairman Kingsley smiled. He patted him on the shoulder and said. "You''ve always been respectful toward me. I''m d you never change, but even a great person in business. I can still remember the day I met you. I am visiting your dad to discuss our coboration. If I am not mistaken, you were seventeen years old back."


    Chairman Kingsley nced at Jacob.


    "Behind the CEO''s desk is Vincent. I learned from Frederickter on that day that his son started his training to understand how Shen Group operates. He was always by his dad''s side to learn how to deal with clients and make business deals. Or, he was with his mom to understand how to manage Lopez Corporation¡­ But he excels in architecture as he loves designing more. So Vincent chooses to run Shen Group instead of the Lopez Corporation."


    Jacob had a huge smile on his face when Chairman Dean Kingsley, one of the richest men from the UK, didn''t stop praising his son-inw.


    ''You all heard that?'' Jacob muttered to his head, silently conveying his thoughts to all people in that lobby.


    Everything was perfect already. But then, what Chairman Kingsley added infuriates Jacob.


    "I am really impressed by this man. Inparison, my sons are partying in the pubs or doing some drag race while intoxicated. Vincent is seated next to his parents to attend a business meeting."


    Chairman Kingsley fixed his eyes on Vincent before he finished his speech.


    "I always prayed that I have a daughter to arrange her marriage with you."


    His words displeased Jacob. He scowled and blurted inwardly, ''I''m d you only had a bunch of sons!''

 Chapter 423 - A Change (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 423 - A Change (Three)</h4>


    The arrival of Dean Kingsley calmed the tense atmosphere. Vincent set aside the issues he addressed to amodate the old man.


    He nced at his father-inw, nodding at Jacob before he shifted his gaze to Chairman Kingsley and said, "Sir, let me lead the way to the conference hall."


    Dean nodded and happily followed Vincent.


    Left behind in the conference lobby, everyone had a baffled expression on their faces. They did not expect Vincent to have a good rtionship with Chairman Kingsley.


    Kingsley Company is Davies Corp.''s major business partner in their UK branch. The twopanies coborated in distributing petroleum anywhere globally, including pharmaceutical supplies.


    Everyone remained where they stood and could only stare at the back of the two people swallowed by the conference door.


    If there is someone among their business partners they should not offend, was Chairman Dean Kingsley.


    Once everyone settled to their seatster, the quarterly meeting began.


    The only noise they could hear in the next few hours was the person reporting on the small stage in that conference auditorium as everyone listened carefully until the end.


    "What do you think, Vincent?"


    After the reports, Jacob asked his son-inw''s opinion concerning the sales statements for the third quarter of the year.


    It was the moment Jacob opened the floor to discuss the concerns in their operation to that year and then the preparation for the uing holidays in months.


    Vincent did not give his response instantly but lowered his gaze, took a nce at theputer screen in front of him before he met his father-inw''s eyes.


    "Chairman, I am hesitant to give my opinion because I want to do something first. In fact, I have a request."


    "Alright. What is it?" Jacob wears a solemn expression to show his authority, hiding his excitement that he looks forward to Vincent''s ideas, which he could sense will be beyond exceptional.


    "I wanted to review every sales report from all of our branch offices." Vincent''s request, which caused the Finance Department Head to frown.


    "Are you doubting our reports, Mr. Shen?" Mr. Webb asked with a hostile gaze at Vincent.


    "I didn''t doubt your reports, Mr. Webb. My purpose for this request is toe up with which work I should do first by next year. As I n to reform this corporation, I want to inform everyone ahead of time to have enough preparation for the changes that include the products we produce in every part of the world."


    He added, "I want to specify what product we have had the highest sales. If we keep distributing products that have fewer sales among others, then maybe it is the reason we have so many damaged goods. If we sorted out which ces and what products are in demand, then we should concentrate on that."


    Vincent shared his conclusion based on today''s reports and the data he reads in Davies Corporation''s past sales graphs.


    Davies Corp is a very sessful conglomerate; however, some aspects failed to profit. They are not losing from it yet, but they can actually work to raise their sales in these products with a new strategic n.


    While Jacob and Dean shared a satisfying gaze, the stakeholders began debating and sharing their thoughts. When everyone got divided opinions, Dean Kingsley spoke up.


    "Why don''t we listen to Vincent''s further exnation? I think he has better ideas to solve our problems in losing sales in some aspects of ourpany."


    Finally, everyone shut their mouths and looked at Vincent like they were putting him into a judicial examination.


    They were only waiting for him to make mistakes. If his solution wasn''t good enough, it was their perfect time to scold and embarrass him.


    Vincent nodded at Chairman Kingsley with grateful regard in his eyes. He then carried on¡­


    "Chairman Davies and I were nning to visit both of our local and international branches and production facilities. So I am hoping everyone prepared full reports of what was sold most during different seasons by then. I also need detailed records of a survey on our middle-ss and lower-ss consumers. It should be a nationwide survey, especially in rural areas. We all know that these groups of people have different preferences and priorities."


    "Mr. Shen is undoubtedly knowledgeable regarding this matter," Dean Kingsleymented with a smile.


    "I guarantee I am Chairman Kingsley," said Vincent with confidence. "Every summer break I have from college, I am on training at our otherpany that Lopez Corporation owns, including the ones in the United States. I got to perform for a couple of months, and sometimes I have to work outside, such as traveling to different parts of the country. Then I observed that other products that Lopez Corporation produces are not consumed well."


    "I took it as an assignment. During my trips across the country, I learned the importance of introducing more in-demand products to certainmunities. People are from different ethnicities. We all have different preferences, such as sweet, salty, or spicy foods."


    "Aside from that, are the group of consumers. I know you all knew this¡­." Vincent paused for a moment to study the faces of everyone before he went on.


    "One is eyeing the quality of the product, and the others prefer the prices that are affordable even if it is not good quality. But we should not forget the third group that wants a good product at an affordable price. It was like the real estate industry. More preferred thefort and privileges they would get, setting aside the cost. In contrast, the lower ss set their eyes only on what will cost them, even if the ce is ufortable, especially for a huge family."


    Jacob and Dean both chuckled inwardly. They were only talking about food products, but Vincent could rte a housing industry to the first basic needs of a person, and that is food.


    Vincent truly has his way of applying his expertise to other aspects of the business. It is what the two chairmen had in their minds.


    As no one seemed to oppose him, Vincent carried on exining¡­


    "I want to discuss our products that were demanded by the middle ss and lower-ssmunity. Our products appeal to the upper ss because of the brand, but how about those rural areas? Maybe it''s time for us to reach out to them, not just the significant consumers in areas with a higher percentage of families who can affordpared to small towns that are looking for cheaper brands."


    "So? What solution should we conduct? Should we develop an old product that suits their preferences? Or should we make new ones?"


    Vincent swept his gaze to the entire room, waiting for someone to answer his questions and share their opinions. This kind of work mainly falls on the Production and marketing team, so Vincent looked at the managers from that department.


    As they, who studied this matter and ran a survey, he expected they would be the first people to argue with him.

 Chapter 424 - Dont Want To See

    <h4>Chapter 424 - Don''t Want To See</h4>


    After a long time, someone from the beverage branch raised their hand and answered.


    "Should we develop the old product?"


    "How about making a new product instead?" chimed by the other department.


    Vincent is nodding his head as he listens to the discussion.


    "Is this a solution to our loss?" Another director queried.


    "Then why should we make new products?" someone from the upper boss spoke. "Why don''t we let them adapt to the products until they are used to it?"


    "Is that really the wise solution?" Murmurs arose in the hall.


    Vincent attentively listens before he speaks again. Davies Corporation goods are on top of the world. However, they were only appealing to the upper ss and least to the middle-ss families, which they tried to pursue the consumers from that group of people.


    "Competitors would appear suddenly from nowhere. We must quickly have a survey to see our advantages and boost productivity. Both ideas are good. So we must study which product we should apply this solution to¡­." Vincent''s suggestion.


    In the next hour, it filled the hall with discussion. The majority agreed with Vincent.


    The solution he came up with wouldn''t work on all their products. And so, they have to conduct a survey as soon as possible carefully.


    Jacob ordered the Production and Marketing team to work with Vincent. They must report to him and discuss making all their products profitably.


    The meeting ended. Vincent receivedpliments almost from the rest of the higher-ups and even the lower officials.


    "Vincent was trained to manage Lopez Corporation, so I am not surprised if he can handle Davies Corp.," said Chairman Kingsley to Jacob when they reached thetter''s office.


    Jacob concurred with Dean''s statement. "Frederick and his wife raise their son very well."


    It is also his pride that his daughter married a great man, so he is proud to entrust thepany to his son-inw.


    "I could retire at peace now."


    "Vincent''s yachtpany seeded. I heard Martel Boat Builders propose to Vincent a great offer if he invests and coborates with them. Davidson and Dawson keen that Vincent would design the superyachts they eye for their resorts."


    "Pitt reported to me. He had a lot of clients reaching out to him. They wanted Vincent, but he wanted to learn how Davies operates. Not only that, he is monitoring the construction of the La Merveille tower. Also, my daughter''s condition is critical now that she is closer to her due."


    "A few days ago, she almost had a miscarriage because some peoplepare Vincent and Liam Huo. You know how my daughter tried to remove Liam from her life. However, that guy has his ways to trouble her, even though Liam is locked up already to the ce where he could no longer get out."


    "It was great news. Liam is making things hard for me. I have my business in Southeast Asia, but the organization is a thorn. Now, I can breathe."


    "Dean, it''s not a time to chill." Jacob cast a meaningful stare at Chairman Kingsley. "Liam''s men are still wandering freely in our territory. I need to teach these men a lesson."


    "I see¡­ If you need my help. I''m just a call away."


    "I will tell Vincent."


    Dean curled his forehead. "Vincent?"


    "He wants to deal with them himself."


    Dean nodded his head. "So he is finally joining the association?"


    "The Shen is from an Imperial bloodline. His status is in the alliance." Jacob exined.


    "Right! He is also from the Royals. His background actually matches yours."


    Jacob shook his head.


    "I don''t mind if Vincent was only from a simple family. As long as his intention to my daughter is genuine. I would never mind letting him marry Hailee."


    "Of course. What will make the princess happy¡­."


    Jacob and Dean talked further. After the conference, Vincent had to deal with some documents, so he attended another meeting with the nning Team. After half an hour, he went to the chairman''s office.


    "Dad?" He knocked on the door before he pushed it open.


    "Come in, Vincent."


    "I want to head first, back to the hotel."


    "Sure. Take a half-day off and apany my daughter. She could only take a nap if you were there," said Jacob.


    "Okay, dad. Thank you." Vincent was delighted. He may work diligently, but his mind is always wandering and thinking of his wife.


    Vincent bid goodbye to Jacob and Chairman Kingsley. When he arrived at the hotel, it confused him to see Pitt, James, and Hailee''s nannies lounging outside the presidential suite. There are two long sofas and a long coffee table filled with dishes.


    "Why are you guys here?" he asked with extreme curiosity.


    The door opened before one of them could answer, and Tina came out. Hailee''s assistant was startled when she saw Vincent. Tina lowered her head and avoided meeting his eyes.


    "What''s going on?" Vincent scrutinizes the people in front of him.


    He guessed something had happened when none of them could look him straight into his eyes. Besides, the presidential suite is too huge for all of them. However, they choose to camp outside the suite.


    Vincent is impatient to wait for the answer. He strode toward the door, but Pitt quickly blocked his way.


    "What is the meaning of this, Pitt? Why are you guys acting strange? You don''t even answer my queries."


    Pitt sighed. "It''s the princess''s request. She doesn''t want to see anyone for now."


    "What? Why?" Vincent felt an extreme frustration in his heart. He doesn''t understand why Hailee doesn''t want to see anyone. "I am included as well?"


    Vincent asked pitifully. Frustration surged in his chest, thinking he could not see his wife. Not long, Doctor Dave exited the door. Behind him is a female doctor, and he recognizes her as Doctor Dave''s daughter; however, she is not an obstetrician or a gynecologist but an internal medicine physician.


    "What happened to my wife, Doctor Dave?" Vincent rushed to the male doctor, holding his shoulders, and shook him.


    Doctor Dave was surprised by Vincent''s action.


    "Please calm down, Mr. Shen. The princess is alright now. We have already given her a shot to prevent her from having a miscarriage. However, she doesn''t want to see anyone, especially men, so I asked my daughter to give her the shot. I already requested a female obstetrician. She will be here any moment."


    Vincent dropped his shoulders to his sides, clenching his fists out of frustration. He looked pitiful when he queried, "Why doesn''t she want to see, even me?"


    Doctor Dave shared a nce with the others in the corridor. He pursed his lips into a smile and consoled Vincent.


    "Don''t worry, Mr. Shen. I have been in this profession for two decades. I crossed hundreds of patients that they hate to see a particr person, even if the person is their husband."


    Vincent even felt helpless hearing this. He asked once again, "How many days will itst?"


    He wanted to know if Hailee felt better soon, and finally, he could be with herter.


    Doctor Dave rubbed his forehead. He met Vincent''s eyes, which expected him to say good news. And so, he was frightened when he told this¡­


    "Mr. Shen, most of the time, itsted weeks, and the longest time was several months."


    Vincent narrowed his eyes. He wanted to dig a pit, but he calmed down immediately and reminded himself that it was no one''s fault.


    When everyone thought he calmed downpletely, he threw a question.


    "Why does Hailee show a sign of miscarriage?" he asked coldly.


    Vincent believes it was triggered by something. However, no one wanted to answer him, but they lowered their heads.


    "Is no one going to tell me what happened!?"


    Tina, who was silently standing in the corner, began shuddering after hearing Vincent''s booming voice echoing in the hallway. She reached for her left hand, as it didn''t stop trembling from fear.


    "Mr. Shen, it was my fault!"

 Chapter 425 - Caught Him

    <h4>Chapter 425 - Caught Him</h4>


    Tina couldn''t stand how stern Vincent was casting a haughty re at her after speaking up. She could sense that Vincent was only suppressing his anger, and so Tina couldn''t raise her head to meet the male boss''s intent gaze.


    "What happened?!"


    Tina could feel a chill down her spine that caused her to continue shivering. She opened her mouth, but nothing woulde out because of the fright lingering in her heart.


    "Look at me!" Vincent yelled. He no longer could control his emotion but lost himself when it came to his wife.


    Tina quickly lifted her head and met Vincent''s fierce eyes, staring at her. She could only stutter her words, but she did her best to exin.


    "Mr. Shen¡­ I have been regrly reporting everything to Mrs. Shen. But in these passing days, I am limiting the information I am giving her as per your instruction. I don''t know who¡­ It seemed like Mrs. Shen received a message regarding this morning''s matter. The missus forced me to tell her the truth. I tried my best to lie to her; however, she didn''t believe me. She wanted to find out the truth herself. So she insisted on going to thepany. But then¡­ She started bleeding and then¡­." Tina could not continue further as tears filled her eyes.


    Vincent darkened his face like he wanted to kill at this moment upon remembering those men''s faces. There would be no issue if they did not gossip in the lobby.


    However, he is partly ming himself. He already knew that news would reach his wife. Still, he is careless and explodes in front of the executives. He could simply ignore them; however, he was provoked when they openly talked about his wife.


    "Are the messages still on her phone?" asked Vincent. He mainly looks at Pitt and James, believing these men already did something.


    "We better confiscate Hailee''s gadgets. I did everything and used all my knowledge in tracking someone''s IP address. However, an advanced system heavily protected it, and I cannot catch who sent those messages."


    It was James who answered Vincent. Since he was an expert inputers aside from being a retired Air Force, IT jobs are really his expertise.


    However, the sender uses a unique address that cannot trace. So now they cannot avoid thinking whether they consider the sender as the enemy or simply Hailee''s eyes hidden in the shadows.


    Vincent thought that his heartfelt even heavier listening to James'' exnation. Hailee has several people working secretly for her that even the closest knights do not know.


    "Can''t we do more about it?" Vincent queried. He is sure they could find a solution even if they have to pass through a needle''s hole.


    "I''m so sorry, Mr. Shen." Tina didn''t stop apologizing. She felt highly responsible for herdy boss'' critical condition.


    Vincent waves his hand, gesturing at Tina. He could not me her, as she tried to do her job. Besides, he instructed Tina not to report unnecessary things, such as what happened this morning.


    James and Pitt stayed silent as they were pondering a n to catch the person who messages Hailee.


    "There''s someone who could help us. We should contact Sandy. He could have ess better than me." James admitted his shorings.


    Vincent took a nce at James. He meets Sandy for the first time during Give-Away Night with Hailee''s knights.


    Sandy stayed at Dream City for days to ensure the security of the city''s perimeter and monitored the entire area for a possible threat caused by Liam''s people or the other group that had a n to trouble the wonderful event of his and Hailee''s life.


    Vincent learned Sandy was in charge of blocking any news regarding Hailee staying in P Country. It was Sandy''s work, why all the trending gossip about his and Hailee''s affair would suddenly disappear without him giving an order to take it down.


    Before Vincent thought whether to remove that gossip or let it die down on its own, Hailee did something about it already because she had Sandy eliminate those sites on the face of the inte world in just seconds.


    Vincent inhaled, then breathed out. He nodded at James, agreeing with the n. It was the best thing to do at this moment since they should not bother Hailee asking who reported the incident this morning.


    Also, they were sure she would not share this person''s identity.


    "Wait¡­ Even though we can contact Sandy, we still have a problem." James told Pitt.


    Pitt realized this matter as well. He turned his head to Vincent and said,


    "Vincent, you should be the one to make a call, Master Shun. Sandy would not listen to our request unless it had permission from the master. Sandy only regarded the princess'' order."


    Vincent nodded at Pitt. He took off his coat and dropped it on the single couch before he strode toward the window and dialed Shun''s phone number.


    *


    Maind City, C Country


    At the moment¡­


    Shun was currently in a meeting when his phone vibrated in his suit pocket. He took out his phone to check the caller, and the person would have no business with him unless it were an emergency.


    He dered an early lunch break to his subordinates and quickly answered the call without a second thought.


    "Vincent?"


    "Shun¡­ I hope I did not interrupt your work."


    "No, not at all!" Shun guessed that something had happened back in Australia. He knew Vincent would not seek for him if it weren''t serious.


    "Then can I bother you today?"


    "What can I do for you?" Shun asked Vincent.


    "Hailee almost had a miscarriage this morning when I was in the office. Something had happened to me, and it reached Hailee. The thing is, I warned them to be careful not to report to her. However, someone still reached her o. Now she was in critical condition. James hacked Hailee''s phone and tried to trace the IP address of the sender, but he could not get through it."


    Shun keenly listens to Vincent''s exnation. It was enough for him to understand what Vincent needed.


    "You want Sandy''s service?"


    Vincent replied, "Yes. Pitt and James suggested it. But Sandy would only get a direct order from Hailee and you."


    "Alright. I''ll notify Sandy to contact James for them to work together."


    "Thank you, Shun," Vincent said with relief. Now he could breathe a little more.


    "No problem. As I''ve mentioned before, we are family."


    Vincent nodded his head, even though he didn''t see Shun. He sighs with relief. Now he could breathe a little more.


    The call didn''tst long, as Shun had to contact Sandy. Soon, theputer genius contacted James; he immediately opened hisptop, and the two began working.


    While waiting, Vincent spoke to his mom''s nanny.


    "Where''s mom, Nana?"


    "Young Master, the young madam only allowed Madam Shen to apany her."


    Vincent bes happy hearing this. His mom has a stern temperament; however, he knew she would not neglect Hailee. She was fierce toward him and his sisters but hid a soft heart in the bottom of his mom''s chest.


    Since James and Sandy are still trying to locate the person''s IP address that sent Hailee a message, Vincent took this opportunity to call his siblings.


    *


    Metro City, P Country


    Deana is sorting out some documents when her phone rings.


    "Do you want me to answer it?" Sheena offered since she was free. Besides, the caller is Vincent.


    Deana nodded as permission to her younger sister. Sheena picks up the phone immediately and swipes the green button in a hurry so as not to miss the call.


    "Hey, brother! What''s up?"


    Sheena set the phone on a loudspeaker so that Deana would hear their conversation.


    "You were at the Shen Group. That''s good then," said Vincent.


    "Are you worried about thepany? Dad is doing his best to teach us." It was Deana who spoke.


    "That''s good. I trust you girls can handle all the matters in thepany." Vincent never doubted his two sisters'' capacity.


    In fact, he was the one who encouraged them to continue their studies. He was the one who funded their master''s degree with the help of their dad in secret.


    Deanapleted her master''s degree in London while Sheena was in Paris. Now, it is time they could return the support their brother showed them when they were lost after their mom cut ties when they chose to live their own lives.


    "Girls, I have something to ask you¡­." Vincent is reluctant to open up to his sisters. But since they''re the ones who could understand him better, he was like a little kidining to his older siblings.


    Deana and Sheena would love to burst outughing and tease Vincent after Hailee doesn''t want to see anyone, even her husband. But the situation is serious. Hailee almost had a miscarriage.


    "Brother, don''t worry. It is normal for us girls to change our mood to a severe one such as we hate our husband."


    Vincent''s heart protested hearing this. He would not ept that he could not take care of Hailee himself.


    "Okay, brother. How about this? We better contact mom and ask her about Hailee''s condition. Maybe mom can persuade Hailee to let you see her."


    Vincent would love to hug Sheena for suggesting this. He is blessed to have such sweet sisters in this lifetime.


    "Thank you, girls. I know Hailee would love to talk to you."


    Vincent hangs up the call so that Deana and Sheena can FaceTime with their mom and maybe Hailee as well.


    "Vincent, we finally caught him!"

 Chapter 426 - The Culprit

    <h4>Chapter 426 - The Culprit</h4>


    Vincent made hurried steps toward Pitt and James.


    "Who is it?" he asked.


    "We locate the IP address. It came from Northern Australia." Pitt answered Vincent''s query.


    "It shows that the user is staying in a hotel," James added to Pitt''s statement.


    "Hotel? Then¡­ that person is?" Vincent queried out of confusion lingered in his chest. So if that person was in a hotel, he was not permanently staying in Australia?


    James looked at Pitt before he fixed his eyes on Vincent, replying to his queries.


    "Samuel Miller is staying in this hotel. Sandy hacked the hotel''s guests'' records; there''s no other suspicious guest in the hotel but Liam''swyer."


    Vincent narrowed his gaze.


    Liam is locked up, but his men are amazingly loyal to him. He should be impressed, but Liam harms not only him but innocent people.


    "I think I need to settle a score for either Liam or his men," said Vincent.


    James and Pitt looked up at him before the two men shared a meaningful look in their eyes.


    Pitt asked, "What is in your mind, Vincent?"


    In the past, the boys acted immediately in a situation. Now that Hailee is married, Pitt is happy that her husband thinks the same.


    Since many Knights are busy with their own lives, like managing their businesses and the executive knights building Hailee''s Dream City, while Andre has his own life soon, they don''t need to wait for these men but rely on the princess'' husband, Vincent.


    Vincent hurls a long breath to clear his chest.


    "I would stay anxious if she weren''t talking to me," he said afterward. "I would definitely make everyone pay for harming Hailee. If no one brought trouble, it would prevent incidents like this. It seemed like they thought I would just sit idly."


    Vincent pursed his lips into a mocking smile.


    These people are hitting his bottom line on purpose. They seemed to believe he was a coward because he only worked silently. He only socialized on a significant asion.


    And it looks like maintaining a low-key profile made everyone underestimate him.


    "I might need the rest of the knights," he told Pitt and James.


    Pitt could see the determination in Vincent''s eyes. Since the princess is involved in this war, they cannot turn down Vincent.


    *


    Inside the presidential suite¡­


    Hilda lovingly stared at her daughter-inw. Hailee looked so pitiful, having an IV in her hand and blood transfusion on the other.


    It always impressed Hilda how advanced the state was with its moving medical tools that could be brought around if necessary. Hailee does not want to go to the hospital, so they must treat her in the hotel instead.


    dly, the air paramedics arrive in less than ten minutes, and Doctor Dave is a great obstetrician. His daughter also responded when the situation got critical around here.


    Hilda sighed, remembering what happened a while back. Once again, she praised the heaven that Hailee was quickly saved.


    Hilda picks up the clean facial towel and gently wipes the beads of sweat on Hailee''s forehead. She groaned, and slowly she opened her eyes.


    "Mom¡­"


    "I''m here!" Hilda quickly reaches out Hailee''s hand and holds it with both of her palms. "What do you need?"


    "I''m thirsty.¡­."


    Hilda quickly reaches for the tumbler with purifying water on the bedside table. She ced a straw for Hailee to drink conveniently. Hailee drank only a little.


    "How about porridge? I can make you some. I could add some chicken to it."


    "I am not hungry, mom."


    "You only ate too little during breakfast," Hilda said worriedly. She was anxious that Hailee was only rejecting everything she would suggest.


    "I''ll tell you when I am hungry, mom."


    Hailee slowly moved to her other side. Hilda quickly helps Hailee by moving the pillows.


    "Do you want me to rub your back?"


    Hailee nodded her head. She buried her face on the pillow, sighing with relief when her mother-inw could hit the spot that ached severely.


    Suddenly, Hilda''s phone rang. She ces her phone on the bedside table before she epts the video call from Sheena.


    "Hey, mom!" Sheena waved.


    "What happened? Is there a problem with thepany?"


    "No, mom." Deana chimed in. "Brother is just worried about Hailee, so we wanted to check her out. How is she?"


    Hilda nced at Hailee before she replied to her two daughters'' query. She remains motionless in the bed.


    "Hailee is resting now."


    "Can we speak with her? Brother sounded pitiful when he informed us that Hailee almost had a miscarriage. He was perturbed, dying to be with Hailee at this very moment."


    Once again, Hilda nced at Hailee.


    When her daughter-inw started bleeding, Hailee reminded them that no one would tell Vincent, as she didn''t want to interrupt the quarterly conference.


    It delighted her every time she would think that Vincent married a thoughtful woman. However, Hailee is putting herself in danger, as she does not stop worrying about her husband.


    Hailee must stop worrying about other things, but she should have only thought of nourishing the children inside her womb.


    Hilda squinted her eyes when Hailee moved. She realized Hailee was crying. She must have heard Sheena talk about Vincent, which moved Hailee in tears.


    She saw Hailee attempt to get up, and so Hilda stepped forward and helped Hailee sit up. She ces pillows on her back.


    "Thank you, mom." Hailee was always felt tired, especially since she was having difficulties breathing.


    She stroked her belly. Her way of conveying to her children was that it didn''t matter if she was suffering. She promised to herself to do everything for them to grow healthy.


    "Mom, can I talk to Sheena and Deana?"


    "Sure! Here¡­" Hilda quickly handed the phone to Hailee.


    "Hail! How are you?" asked Sheena.


    "Hail, please calm yourself. We know you are suffering double what we got through when we got pregnant with twins." Deana chimed in.


    Sheena concurred with her sister''s statement. "Yes, Hail. So, please¡­ Let brother see you. He is too worried about you."


    Hailee sobs. "I want to see him too¡­."


    Of course, there was no one she wanted to be with the most but her husband. However, she doesn''t want him to see her in that state. She looks so pale, haggard, and her body is covered with massage oil.


    "Don''t worry, Hail. Mom would also bring some essential oil and apply it to our whole body. Inter years, yourpany introduced these essential oils with wonderful scents! Immediately, it became my favorite. After that, I didn''t smell that stinky a lot as I mixed the two oils."


    "Really? I''m d you like them. Mom did the same as well. But I mostly like Lavender over Jasmine now I am pregnant."


    "I love the Camellia scent!" Sheena chimed in. She also loves Hailee''s products. They were a little pricey, but their creations were satisfying.


    When Vincent and Hailee started living together, she and Deana began receiving all Davies Cosmetics products, including skincare and therapeutic products.


    They thought it was just Vincent sending them. Now they knew the truth. It was all Hailee.


    It never urred to them that the owner of Davies Cosmetics would be their sister-inw. Hailee is really outstanding. She became a sessful businesswoman at such a young age.


    "Thanks to the amazing people surrounding me. They are my inspiration, and my sess is all because of my wonderful and proficient team."


    These were Hailee''s words during the interview for the documentary files.

 Chapter 427 - The Decree

    <i>In front of the presidential suite door¡­? </i>


    Vincent is pacing back and forth. James and Pitt were dizzying, staring at him, doing that for half an hour now.


    "Hailee isn''tboring yet. Would you settle down for once?"


    Vincent ignored Pitt, but only he was concerned with his phone, ncing at it every passing minute. Atst, he receives a text message from Sheena.


    Sheena shared everything they have talked about with Hailee, including why she is anxious for Vincent to see her in that state.


    Vincent slowly pushed the bedroom door open and walked with light steps toward the bed. Immediately, his heart twisted seeing the medical machines on the side.


    Vincent''s gaze softened, looking at Hailee''s hands punctured with needles. The fists on his sides dug into his palm, watching his wife in a pitiful state.


    "Wifey¡­"


    Hailee smiled timidly. Her eyes were red, evidence that she had been crying. Although his white shirt was around her body, she left it all unbuttoned, exposing her two-piece undergarments¡ªthe reason she didn''t want the men toe into her bedroom.


    "I can''t breathe¡­" said Hailee coquettishly.


    Vincent gently sat down on the bed. He wanted to hug her, but as Hailee had said, she had difficulty breathing. He stretched his long arm to brush Hailee''s hair; then, he leaned over to kiss her forehead.


    "How are you?"


    "I''m sorry¡­." Instead of replying to Vincent''s query, Hailee apologized.


    Finally, she was enlightened not to take everything to herself. She was used to leaning on the boys and choosing not to bother her dad. So he was always thest person to know she was in great trouble or pain and sadness.


    "We promised to be honest with each other," Hailee added, engulfed in guilt.


    "Wifey, you don''t have to apologize. Taking care of you is not just my responsibility. I want to be the first person who shares your happiness and your pain, sadness, and all your troubles. We didn''t tie the knot for you to keep it yourself. But for us to work on everything and anything together, husband and wife..."


    Hailee cried. She threw her arms around Vincent''s waist and buried her face into his sturdy chest. She breathes his scent as itforts her.


    "I missed you so much, hubby¡­." Now that she is married, the first person she should share her troubles with is her husband.


    Vincent chuckled upon hearing his wife''s sweet confession. They were just separate for hours, but Hailee sounded like he was away for a month.


    "I missed you so much, too. I can''t focus on work because all I am thinking about is you."


    Vincent has also been honest about his feelings. Since he met Hailee again and had a chance to be with her, he found himself honest about what he really felt.


    As he is growing up, he learns to conceal his emotions but does what is best for everyone, as to how his mom is too stern.


    "Hubby, I didn''t mean to hide it from you. It''s just that¡­."


    "Shh¡­ You don''t have to think about this matter anymore. Okay?"


    "Okay¡­" Hailee nodded. Her head remains resting on Vincent''s chest.


    "Can you promise me?"


    Hailee parted from Vincent to search for his face. She lifted her chin and then looked at his eyes while saying, "I promised."


    "Thank you, Wifey. I would only be at peace when you stop worrying about thepany and me working with them. All I want is to see you happy and enjoy your days. Let me work hard for our family."


    Hailee nodded. When Vincent lowered his face and brushed his lips over hers, she opened her mouth.


    "I trusted you, hubby," Hailee muttered between the kisses.


    Vincent controls himself not to tighten his embrace as he deepens the kiss. He is the first one to stop; he might lose control.


    dly, his mom knocked on the door. It helps him snap on himself.


    "Hailee?" Hilda peeked in the doorway. "I will make some porridge with chicken. Do you like other dishes? I will ask your dietician and nutritionist to prepare them."


    Hailee nced at Vincent before she responded to her mom-inw.


    "Mom, can you prepare a beef stew? Also, a buttered baked tuna with a lot of garlic potatoes. And¡­"


    Hailee fell in thoughts to remember the dishes she loved when she traveled Asia, particrly in P Country.


    "Can I also have noodle soup dumplings?"


    Hilda pondered for a moment, then she nodded. "Alright. I will head downstairs and borrow the kitchen."


    "Thank you, mom!"


    "You''re wee." Hilda gently shut the door.


    Hailee fluttered her eyshes when Vincent gave her an obvious gaze. "Hmm?"


    "Those are actually my faves," said Vincent.


    "I know."


    Vincent''s brows rose upward. He chuckled and shook his head. "Alright."


    "I wanted to have a meal with you."


    "I want to, too¡­." Vincent lowered his chin and kissed Hailee on the hair. "I love you, Wifey¡­."


    "I love you too, hubby," Hailee responded lovingly. Vincent kisses her once again, too passionately this time.


    After the kiss, Hailee cupped Vincent''s face and scrutinized him like she memorized every detail of his facial features.


    "Can I borrow your phone?" she asked him. Vincent was hesitant to give his phone, and so Hailee exined. "I have something to tell Pitt."


    Since they confiscated all her gadgets, she had to borrow one, but only she would allow them if it was a valid reason.


    "Okay." Vincent pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his pants. He handed it to Hailee.


    He watched her type speedily on his phone. It took less than a minute, and she handed back his phone.


    Hailee rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. He heard her breathing gradually stable. Last night, she kept waking up going to the toilet. Now, she finally falls asleep.


    Vincent had a chance to check the message Hailee sent to Pitt. It says,


    "Pitt, tell all the knights¡­ Everyone must assist Vincent with whatever ns he had to make. All of you must obey him."


    It was a decree.


    Pitt immediately posted the message to the secret group chat that only Hailee''s knights are the members.


    In just mere seconds, all the knights from every part of the world read the message.


    <strong>*</strong>


    <strong>Sneak Preview the Future Scene: (Bonus)? </strong>


    <strong>Jackson Suites North Australia? </strong>


    Samuel Miller leisurely sipped on his winess inside the private room given to him by the Jackson family, where he had his peaceful meals and held his meetings during his stay in Australia.


    "Mr. Miller, sir, our men had spotted. Several of the international knights had arrived in Australia. It looks like the princess has moved¡­."


    Samuel Miller curled his mouth as his gaze darted to the door.


    "No¡­ It was Vincent Shen."


    "What?" The assistant turned around and was startled to see the person walking toward them. "Who allowed you to enter this room!?"


    Tension esctes all of a sudden when Vincent steps inside the private room.

 Chapter 428 - Real Treasure

    "Hubby?" Hailee called out.


    Vincent quickly brushes his fingers into Hailee''s hair when she moves, and a few strands cover her face.


    "I''m here¡­." he replied with a hoarse voice.


    All he did the entire time Hailee took a nap was watch her peaceful face and listen to her breathing.


    "Did I sleep long?" Hailee is yawning when she asks this question.


    Vincent replied, "No. It''s only a couple of hours."


    Hailee rubbed her eyes, and then she felt Vincent''s warm fingers helping clean them. She had a satisfying smile when she opened her eyes and looked at her husband.


    "I see¡­ then, you haven''t eaten yet. Hmm?"


    "I want to share the meal with you," Vincent replied lovingly. He kissed Hailee''s forehead, brushing her lips with his, then he lowered his head to nt four kisses on her belly in different ces.


    While Hailee was sleeping, the kids were kicking around. Vincent had an inexplicable feeling after he noticed that there were movements in Hailee''s baby bump.


    He gently stroked Hailee''s belly and chatted with his kids until they settled down. It amused him. He felt like crying with joy to experience it as he had a chance tomunicate with his children even if they were still inside their mom''s womb.


    "You seemed happy. Did something happen while I am sleeping?" Hailee noticed the sparks in Vincent''s eyes while looking at her.


    "Yes. The babies were ying earlier while you were sleeping."


    "Oh, I''m happy you''ve witnessed that!"


    Vincent nodded cheerily. "I even took a video."


    Vincent reached out for his phone on the bedside table and showed the video he recorded.


    Hailee cried while watching the video. It could clearly see her belly moving.


    "They are so adorable. I think they were cheering for their mommy."


    Hailee wipes the corner of her eyes. Vincent dried the rest of the tears that fell on her cheeks.


    "Hush, now. I know our kids cannot wait to see the world. And so, you have nothing to do but take care of yourself. Can you promise me?"


    Hailee nodded as she replied to Vincent, "I would¡­ Our children are the greatest gift you ever gave me."


    "Yes. You and our children are my real treasure," said Vincent with all of his heart.


    "I love you, Vincent Shen."


    "I love you too, Mrs. Shen."


    Hailee closed her eyes when Vincent ced a long kiss on her forehead. Every confession they''ve shared always brought warmth to her heart; she could not stop feeling overwhelmed with such emotions.


    "Did dade by?" Hailee asked afterward. She and Vincent are now snuggled under the quilt, resting her head on Vincent''s sturdy chest.


    "Yes, he is."


    "He must worry a lot after he finds out."


    "Yes, he is. Dad loves you so much. After he talked with Doctor Dave and the female obstetrician, dad went home with the medical team to set up an emergency room in the mansion for you to stay until your due month."


    "Dad is the best father in the entire world."


    "He is the best father-inw," Vincent concurred.


    "Dad Frederick, too." Hailee echoed. She lifted her gaze and met Vincent''s eyes. She smiled, and then she added, "I am so blessed to have two wonderful dads."


    "So do I¡­." replied Vincent.


    Hailee lifted her chin, pulled Vincent by the neck, and kissed his lips. "Thank you, hubby."


    "And thank you too, my dear Wifey. You were so wonderful."


    Their lips meet again, and passionately kiss until they are out of breath.


    "You must be hungry now. I will tell mom you''re awake. The soup got cold now, so I have to preheat them." said Vincent after the kisses they''ve shared.


    "Yes, I am. Can you help me sit up?"


    "My pleasure, my Empress."


    Hailee twinkles her eyes, listening to Vincent''s sweet endearment. She felt delighted, and her mood was much better now.


    Soon, Vincent pushed a cart. He then ced an over-bed table and set the food. He then sat across from Hailee and fed her.


    "If you feel better in the next few days, the emergency helipad is ready to take us back to the mansion."


    "Okay, hubby," Hailee said obediently. She doesn''t like to stay in the hospital or live in a hotel. Going home to the mansion is the best idea.


    Hailee ate as much as she could take. She didn''t want Vincent to worry about her; she showed she was feeling better now.


    Later that day, Hailee''s permanent female obstetrician finally arrived.


    "Aunt Manni!" Hailee wees the female doctor with open arms.


    "How are you feeling now? I am worried sick about you after I heard the news from James. I immediately sorted out my schedule and requested a temporary transfer."


    "Really? Thank you, Aunt Manni!"


    Hailee was happy that James'' mom would be her second obstetrician, who would help Doctor Dave during herbor.


    Mandy Miura married Daichi Isagawa''s cousin, but her husband died in a war. When she meets a widowed Mr. John White, the two fall in love, and John adopts James and treats him as his son. James was five years old.


    "Is it true that James is dating your friend?"


    Hailee smiled at the woman. However, she couldn''t give her a clear answer as she wasn''t sure if the two had already reached the next stage.


    James only poured his entire time and energy into guarding her while Hazel focused on finishing college and building her career. So by now, she could not tell if James and Hazel were seriously dating.


    "James is getting older. I want him to settle down sooner."


    "I felt guilty, Aunt Manni. James is only thinking of working with me and spending no time on his love life."


    "Of course, it is most important to ensure your safety. Isn''t this generation''s trend online dating? Can''t James keep in touch with that girl through social media?"


    "If they have mutual feelings for each other, I''m sure James will make a move. What do you think, Aunt Manni?"


    "I hope so," said Manni.


    She doubted because James is actually hesitant to answer her when she asks him. Unlike before, James would quickly deny it, and he would say that the girl he dated was only a friend. But thest time she asked her son, James didn''t deny nor admit it.


    "Don''t worry, Aunt Manni. Hazel is a good girl." Hailee assured Manni.


    She is d that James'' mother shows a fondness for Hazel. She is confident that the two will get along well.


    "Hail?"


    Both Hailee and Manni turned their heads toward the bedroom door. A beautiful, preggy woman entered the room.


    "Gigi! I thought you went back to Melbourne?"


    Walking toward Hailee, Gigi nodded and replied, "Yes. But I''m worried about you, so Tom and I came back without dy."


    Hailee softened her gaze as she mouthed, "You''re three months pregnant now. It''s the most critical phase of pregnancy. You should be careful. Ouch!"


    Gigi reached Hailee''s bed, and she knocked her on the head.


    "Look who''s talking? You aren''t being careful as well! You were having multiple babies, and so you need to calm down and stop worrying about other things."


    Hailee''s tears began forming in the corner of her eyes, listening to Gigi''s scolding. But she is actually right. Her mom-inw is also correct, and Vincent, even her dad. They all remind her to be careful.


    However, she''s still being impulsive. She keeps acting like a spoiled princess without the right reason.


    "I am now reflecting on my mistake," Hailee admitted. "I should believe in Vincent all the time. And that, there will be a limit to what I should do because I am carrying our precious gifts that wouldplete our family."


    "That''s right. Let men do their work, and our job is to nourish our children. Men can''t get pregnant, but us carrying our children for nine months."


    "Thank you, Gigi." Hailee snuggles at Gigi. She sobs, but there is a smile on her lips. Gigi is the big sis she prayed to have. "You know what? After what happened, I realized my mom-inw really dotted me. You are the only one who scolds me while everyone pampers me."


    Gigi couldn''t help but be proud.


    Galvin''s family murdered her parents. Her only family left was missing and dered dead. She thought there was no more hope in her life, and she would remain a prisoner.


    But since she meets Hailee. A light shone on her life. That is why she would not allow losing this spoiled princess...


    However, Hailee is using her being a brat in righteousness.


    She used her family''s influence to free her from hell.


    "I love you, little sis¡­." Gigi muttered.


    "I love you too, big sis¡­."

 Chapter 429 - Pitiful Men

    Gigi rubbed Hailee''s head. One thing she could not ignore about this little sister was when she acted coquettishly.


    Hailee told her before that she had no big sister but only a bunch of boys. Thus, Hailee bes so clingy with her; however, Gigi likes it because she has been alone but imprisoned inside hell for so long.


    "Gigi, am I still allowed to act like a little child?"


    Gigi smiled and nodded. "I think as long as with the right people who know us very well, as there will be only little possibilities, they will judge us. There''s no wrong to be clingy to our loved ones, and I permitted you to act in front of me. I am the apple of my parent''s eyes. I am a spoiled princess as you are¡­ But after they were murdered, I was on my own, and even Galvin attempted to win my heart. However, he only disgusted me. He will never teach my heart to love him. Over time, my hatred grew. I felt nauseous to remember him and¡­."


    Hailee stopped Gigi when her voice cracked because of the emotion building up in her chest. Hailee apologizes to her.


    "I''m sorry! I shouldn''t have been brought up¡­." She felt guilty that she triggered sad memories. But Gigi shook her head and cut her exnation.


    "It''s okay. I buried it already and forgot about my past. I actually felt ironic when I recalled it because I never thought I could find my true love." Gigi paused as she curled her lips into a smile.


    "Tom pampered me and dotted me. In fact, I am acting childishly between us because I am still scared that something in my past will continue to haunt me. However, Tom never showed he was tired of understanding me. So I prayed he would never change. Instead, I am the one who should change for the better. I should stop thinking negatively and do not doubt Tom''s love for me. I need to teach myself to trust him entirely and should never have to ignore the person who loves me unconditionally."


    Hailee grasps Gigi''s hand and squeezes it gently. She was truly happy for her two friends to find each other and fall in love.


    She was d that Tom epted Gigi''s past and that Gigi allowed herself to have a new life in the name of love.


    "Like Vincent, he loves me; it''s not because of my wealth, but he is already in love with me as a stranger. I always remind myself to act like aplete adult, but sometimes I lose it. I should remain firm and train myself to act mature. However, I often lose my cool when ites to Vincent." Hailee said with honesty.


    Listening on the sideline, Doctor Manni has actually admired these two girls. So, she couldn''t remain silent.


    "Girls, listen to me. It''s not wrong to act yfully with your partner. It''s a spice in marriage. However, misunderstanding and feeling like you should not bother your partner with what you feel, especially a roller coaster of emotion boiling deep within, is not advisable to make it a habit. But it should be a practice ofmunication. Couples must always open up to each other, and a great partner would always be ready to listen. It means they are willing to work on the rtionship. Having a selfish partner would never lead to a happy day, but always an exhausting one."


    Both Gigi and Hailee felt delighted listening to Doctor Manni. No wonder the woman consistently heralded as a great OB-Gyn. She is truly excellent in her profession.


    "Thank you for the advice, Aunt Manni¡­ Vincent and I tried to be open as much, but recently¡­." Hailee gave a knowing smile to the doctor, which Manni understood.


    "You girls are in great anxiety at this period of your pregnancy. So, please avoid making things hard for your partner. Stop overthinking with the things that might lead to unnecessary decisions and actions that cause your pregnancy in danger."


    Both Gigi and Hailee nodded their heads. The female obstetrician further gave them a heart-to-heart talk, not only about pregnancy but, most notably, being a woman.


    Hailee was so grateful to be surrounded by amazing people. She can''t think of why she is so blessed in this lifetime.


    Maybe she did something incredible in her past life, and she has been granted a prosperous life.


    *


    In the following days, Vincent never left Hailee''s side. He spent the days on a videoconference with the Shen Group, Lopez Corp meetings, and his team at Dream City.


    Although he didn''t visit the site personally, he had the best people, so he was confident to leave the work on them. Vincent recently poached a skilled engineer, an old acquaintance, back when hepleted his engineering in the US.


    He was familiar with this man''s work as they shared passion and ideas. They are both idealists of promoting an eco-friendlymunity, so Vincent would not have difficulty working with this man. In fact, he is the one he asked to work on the restoration of Theo''s hotel in Vegas, and the Shang family was satisfied.


    By the weekend, Hailee finally felt a lot better. The emergency helipad that is on standby at the rooftop of her hotel this whole time has made its take-off. Doctor Manni apanied Hailee together with Vincent and a couple of paramedics.


    At the same time, a private helicopter piloted by James followed behind, with Pitt and Doctor Dave as his passengers.


    Hilda and Gigi, including the nannies, went home ahead of them to prepare things¡ªfor Hailee''s arrival.


    The media didn''t hear the news that the Davies heiress was in critical condition in the past week.


    They try to get information but cannot buy a story, as Jacob strictly watches everyone. Besides, all the Davies employees signed the contract with NDA uses.


    They should discuss nothing regarding the princess, especially with other people outside that is not part of Davies Corporation. Most significantly, no one should speak on behalf of their bosses but the legal team or the PR department.


    The two helipads had finallynded safely on the ground.


    Hailee wanted to walk around the garden; however, she was prohibited from moving too much. It is not advisable in her condition. So she suits herself sitting in a wheelchair, and Vincent pushes her toward the mansion.


    Vincent brought Hailee toward the left-wing of the mansion, where a salon room became Hailee''s bedroom until she gave birth. Also, she nned to get pregnant in the future. So it will be a permanent emergency room.


    The room was exquisitely decorated and was filled with Hailee''s favorite flowers.


    In a short time, they built an inclusion room withplete medical equipment in case Hailee would bleed again and had a sign of miscarriage.


    "They''ve prepared a wonderful lunch in the courtyard," Vincent told Hailee.


    "Okay, hubby. I missed seeing a lot of green."


    When she stayed in the hotel for an entire week, Hailee felt bored too much, not getting out of the suite.


    "Wee home, Hail!"


    Hailee was in great surprise to see the people waiting for her in the courtyard. She wishes to get up and rush toward the three girls she misses so much already.


    "Why are you girls here?"


    "Surprised! Our sses will not start till October." It was Nadia who replied to Hailee.


    Hailee knew sses in P Country started around August. But she guesses that someone made a special request to Mrs. Gomez. Hailee nced at her husband, who pretended innocent, though she was sure that this was Vincent''s doing.


    He wanted her to cheer up, so he made it possible to kidnap these girls from their studies.


    "And why are you here?" Hailee turned to Hazel next. This girl is supposed to be in France now, but here she is.


    "It was too unfair that these girls were only the ones to visit you. Besides, Miss Vera went to Dream City for an important project, so I have a few weeks'' breaks!" Hazel pouted as sheined, but then a gleeful smile appeared on her lips after she mentioned having a long break.


    Hailee then remembered¡­


    "Oh, right? Since I can''t handle overseeing the Davies Cosmetic Research Center project in Dream City, Vera has to take over."


    When Hailee muttered this, she looked at Vince.


    "Well, I should phone Geoffreyter. I haven''t decided yet on whom I will give this project, so I need Geoffrey to help Vera select. Hubby, can you also help decide who''s bid to win?"


    "Sure! It''s my pleasure." Vincent delightedly nodded at his wife.


    Dream City has so much work to do. Bryan is needed, but Hailee sent him away for a reason. Also, Vincent admits Geoffrey is a big help to Hailee as he is a very effective team leader.


    Without Hailee''s executive knights,pleting Dream City will be dyed further. Thanks to them, the work has been advancing and in tremendous progress.


    Hailee continued chatting with the girls when Doctor Manni joined them.


    "Are you Hazel? James, who is dating recently?"


    Hazel was in shock when the woman suddenly approached her and hugged her.


    "You were so pretty! My son really knows how to choose a girlfriend!"


    Hazel wanted to say something, but her face was bitten red when James'' mom presumed that she and James were already in a rtionship. She nced at James, who acted like he didn''t know what was going on!


    On the sideline, someone is sulking and wearing a long face. Vincent looked at Jake, whose face was darkened. Jake was here to report to him.


    Vincent cannot take sides. Jake may be his best friend, but it is up to Hazel, whom she would be given a chance.


    *


    Meanwhile¡­


    "I knew you would be here."


    Vera was startled when someone suddenly spoke behind her. She settled her heartbeat and casually nced at the man, who was none other than Geoffrey.


    "I was making lunch," Vera replied. She was on the rooftop of the Davies Group executive''s apartment building. She didn''t expect that Geoffrey would look for her.


    Geoffrey furrowed his eyebrows with ame excuse that she came up with.


    "There is a free lunch for the executives in the canteen. You don''t need to avoid me like this and trouble yourself to make your own lunch."


    Vera scoffed when she heard Geoffrey. She turned around to face him.


    "You are so full of yourself, Mr. Wilson. I''m following a strict diet, so I am not just putting food in my mouth. It was why I make my own meals. So please, stop overthinking."


    After she ranted this, someone appeared and interrupted the possibly vain conversation.


    "Hey, I''m back! As I said, I will be back in a minute!" said the guy, lifting the paper bag in his hands containing fresh vegetables and other ingredients.


    Geoffrey furrowed his gaze as he looked at the man. "Trevor?"


    "Hey, Geoff!"


    Geoffrey clenched his jaw when Trevor had just cast a quick nce when he passed him. Geoffrey''s face darkened, and he had the urge to rub out that massive smile across Trevor''s face while talking to Vera.


    But what enrages him is to see Vera kindly speaking to Trevor, which she talks to him roughly, and he doesn''t understand why he is feeling this way.


    On the other hand, Trevor was obvious with Geoffrey''s sullen look.


    "Are you staying for lunch, Geoff?" he asked.


    Geoffrey pursed his lips, wearing a solemn face, and nodded as he responded tly, "Yes."


    Trevor curled his lips and thought, <i>''What a pitiful man!''? </i>


    On the other side of Australia, Vincent thinks the same while observing Jake.

 Chapter 430 - He Is Smart

    In the following days, Haileepletely recovered. Doctor Manni performed an ultrasound to check the babies'' health, showing excellent results.


    "They were holding tight on to their momma!" said Doctor Manni. "Continue following the menu your nutritionist and dietitian prepared, and the tonic your mom-inw gives you is also good. I studied botany, and herb tonic teas are actually good for your health."


    In the next half hour, Doctor Manni further exins and educates the soon-to-be mom and dad on what they must watch out for now that Hailee is six months pregnant.


    Vincent was relieved that Hailee and the children were safe now and away from danger.


    "Hubby, I am rounder than during our wedding." Hailee pouted,ining to Vincent while they walked out of the Medical Room and headed to their bed.


    Vincent is holding her waist while Hailee ces her hand on her lower belly, and one is stroking in a circr motion.


    "So what? I would even worry if you were thin and looked malnourished," said Vincent in his most loving voice.


    Hailee giggled at Vincent''s response. She knew Vincent was only trying to coax her, and he seeded.


    "Why would Iin? You were carrying my children," he added¡ªthat even brightened Hailee''s mood.


    "Honestly, I can''t wait to get back my figure. I want to look beautiful in my eyes," said Hailee lovingly, resting her head on Vince''s shoulder. They had already reached the French chaise lounge on the footbed, and Vincent sat beside her after she sat downfortably.


    "You are always beautiful in my eyes. You are the bravest and strongest woman I have ever known. So, thank you for enduring all the pain and difficulties to carry my children. Your condition isn''t stable. It means your life is also in danger. I can''t help but love you more and adore you my whole life."


    There are beads of tears forming in the corner of her eyes.


    "Should I get pregnant often so that I could listen to more of your corny but sweet lines?" It was a jest, and Vincent''s sexyughs echoed in the room.


    Doctor Manni, who is casually watching the couple from the medical room, wipes the tears she didn''t notice that were already falling from her eyes.


    "Marlyn, did you see that? Your daughter found a great man who could bring sparks in her eyes that we had never seen before. Also, our princess is going to be a mother soon!"


    Mannie was genuinely happy for her best friend''s daughter. Hailee is a genuine person like her mom; both had a heart of gold.


    The female doctor silently exited the room, leaving the couple to continue being intimate with each other.


    Hilda is waiting patiently with Hailee''s nannies, and personal maids, lounging outside might Hailee needs them.


    "Doctor Manni, how are my daughter-inw and my grandchildren?"


    Mannie smiled, seeing the concern of Hailee''s mom-inw.


    ording to James, Madam Hilda Lopez Shen is difficult to please and has a temperament that needs to be watched out for. Yet the woman in front of her is a genuine person.


    "Why don''t we sit down and have some tea?" Manni suggested to Hilda, to which thetter agreed immediately.


    Seated across from each other, both women had rxed impressions on their faces. Manni then began exining to Hilda.


    "The babies are healthy, and Hailee is away from the danger of having a miscarriage, although she still needs to be cautious, as she is twenty-one weeks pregnant now. The uterus has almostpleted its development. So if Hailee is put in danger again, the only choice that we have is Hailee into forcedbor, which will risk her life."


    Hilda''s right hand that was holding the teacup trembles. She quickly put down the cup to calm herself.


    "You didn''t tell them about this yet¡­." Hilda guessed, waiting for the female doctor to concur.


    Doctor Mannie nodded her head and smiled bitterly. Hilda closed her eyes and took a deep breath, reminding herself not to panic. She needs to stay calm and avoid showing such a worried face in front of her daughter-inw.


    "I think we need not tell them. Both had already anxious for each other since my son had a great battle he had to win over the Davies Corporation, then Liam Huo''s men still bringing trouble."


    "I understand. And don''t worry, Madam Shen¡­ My husband is on your son''s side."


    "Hilda¡­ Just call me by my name. From here on, we are both taking care of Hailee."


    "It''s my pleasure. Then call me Manni."


    Hilda smiled. "Thank you. And please, convey my gratitude to your husband. Vincent may have Jacob backing him up. Still, he needs more subordinates that would trust in his capability."


    "Don''t worry, Hilda. My husband acknowledges your son''s talent. John is actually praising Vincent."


    "I am happy, then."


    "By the way, to think about the past. I still can''t believe that your son and Hailee would be destined for each other. You tried to save Marlyn from the ident; maybe it was fate you crossed path with the Davies."


    "Vincent and Hailee are destined to meet, yes. I met Marilyn before she and Jacob got married. They were having a vacation in Metro City."


    <i>''Should I share that I mistook Marlyn as Fred''s girlfriend? Well, never mind¡­.''</i> Hilda thought.


    During that time, she was persistent to annul the engagement with Frederick. Would Hailee and Vincent fall in love being childhood friends if Marilyn lived and became good friends?


    This thought stuck inside Hilda''s head all morning; she started having a scenario of Vincent and Hailee growing up close to each other. Then, she need not decide to use Eva to save Vincent''s face from malicious rumors.


    Later that day, she gives up having wishful thinking and epts the fact that everything happens for a reason.


    *


    After a sumptuous lunch, Vincent has to leave to attend a meeting with the production team.


    "Pitt will be by your side all the time from here on. In this way, I will be at peace," said Hailee to Vince before he left that day. "Take care, hubby."


    "I will¡­ Enjoy the rest of your day." Vincent kisses Hailee before letting go. He is less worried about her now they''re back in the mansion. In here, there are several bodyguards aside from Hailee''s knights.


    Vincent''s eyes flickered upon seeing the car waiting for him on the front porch. He owns several sports cars, but it would neverpare to his wife''s collection.


    Everything Hailee owns is personalized design and the most expensive ones. Somehow, he is proud that the Ferrari he gifted for Hailee to drive around Metro City is his design.


    It upsets him after Eva demands a brand new car from him, so he makes sure that when he got together with Hailee, she would own something that is nothing alike. Not knowing that Hailee is not just a billionaire heiress, but she held trillions, and her garage is five times bigger than his.


    Not to mention owning several yachts and one of the most extensive and most expensive private jets in the world.


    Vincent shook his head and pulled himself back to his senses. He descended on the steps and climbed inside thetest four-seater Bugatti that cost thirty million dors.


    Pitt was in the driver''s seat, and Tim was in the passenger.


    Tim handed him a folder when he was seated in the back seat.


    "dly, many capable employees of Davies Corp. are working for them. However, many deserve to be promoted to a higher position, like what you concluded, boss," said Tim.


    "It has already reached the news overseas about the reorganization you n to do, Vincent." Pitt chimed in, his eyes remaining on the road as they trotted after exiting the giant mansion front gate.


    "That''s good then. Now everyone will work even diligently and show off their capabilities."


    "That is definite." Pitt concurred. He speeds up a little more. He maintains a velocity as two cars follow behind them and one car leads them.


    Hailee''s knights were behind, and Jacob''s best men were on the front. Vincent thinks it was too much, but he was not on his territory. Back in P Country, he does not need many bodyguards like this¡ªas no one would dare to harm him but only someone like Liam Huo.


    Vincent nced on the back, and Pitt noticed him.


    "The princess doesn''t want to ck off in protecting you. Since Samuel Miller is a threat to her, then Haileeprehends that who he is after was you."


    "It was for Hailee''s peace of mind. I understand." Vincent may say it cooly but his fists tightly clenching into a ball.


    He was supposed to protect his wife, but what happened instead was the other way around.


    <i>''Then what I must do now is to win everyone in the Davies Corp.''?</i>It was his greatest battle at the moment.


    "Any news about Samuel Miller and the Jackson family?" Vincent asked, specifically for Pitt.


    Pitt looked at the rearview mirror to meet Vincent''s eyes.


    "Kristian garnered a piece of news from the Jackson household. The father and son were often arguing now. It looks like the two are finally not on the same page."


    "Heh. Did dad put our men to spy on them?" Vincent need not ask this¨Ceven so, it amuses him. "Is John willing to side with Hailee?"


    "He is smart."


    Pitt only muttered three words; Vincent immediately came up with a n.


    "I want to meet him in private without Samuel''s watch," said Vincent.


    "Copy. I will contact our men."


    Vincent nodded at Pitt.. The corner of his lips contorted into a vicious smile.

 Chapter 431 - Pay A Visit

    DAVIES CORPORATION HQ


    Vincent was in the middle of the meeting with the Production Team when Jacob received an important call from one of their branch.


    Kristian chose not to interrupt the meeting but left a word to Pitt on behalf of the chairman. Having Pitt around is much easier for those serving the big bosses.


    Pitt immediately ryed the message when Vincent came out of the meeting room and reached the CEO''s office.


    "What happened? Do you have any initial news regarding the matters in our Queennd branch?"


    "I contacted someone in the branch office, but he has noplete information," Pitt answered.


    "Does it have anything to do with me?" Vincent has the spection.


    Somehow, every time the corporation had a problem these passing days, Vincent could not avoid thinking he was the reason as many higher-ups and investors doubted him as they were concerned about the firm falling.


    That is why they were throwing a fuss at the chairman.


    "Stop overthinking, Vincent. It was normal in thepany that clients be demanding. And if they are not satisfied with your performance then, would you let them bully you?"


    Vincent curled his lips and looked straight at Pitt''s eyes as he muttered,


    "I don''t mind if they will bully me because I would never give a f*ck about them. However, the person who was affected is my wife. She had just recovered from almost having a miscarriage for the second time. What will happen if something happens to me again? I am only cautious now because of Hailee''s sensitive condition."


    Pitt nodded in understanding of Vincent''s point.


    Davies Corporation is a verypetitive workce. Everyone who works here is the best among the greatest.


    However, hierarchy is the system that cannot disappear in everypany.


    Vincent had already stepped on them. However, the princess became distressed as she worried about Vincent too much.


    "Why don''t we go to the canteen to have a cup of coffee? In this way, you will get to know the other employees better."


    "It was a great idea, yes." Vincent agreed to Pitt''s suggestion. Knowing the employees in the lower position is also fundamental for him to understand thepany better.


    During his training under Lopez Corp. and Shen Group, Vincent got to work with ordinary workers. After that, he learned the importance of ordinary workers.


    Davies Corporation already has a firm foundation as one of the biggest corporations in the world. However, he has to win every employee in this corporation, and the best strategic n is gaining the ones at the bottom while he is courting the higher ups'' support.


    After Vincent left some instructions to Tina¡ªhe and Tim followed Pitt on the ground floor level. Everyone who had their breaks and had brunch was surprised to see him there when the Chairman''s office has its pantry.


    As he entered the canteen, Vincent swept his gaze to the entire hall and nodded at people holding some position in thepany. He also tried to interact with other employees, who is flustered talking to him.


    Even so, many began whispering to each other. Since everyone was familiar with Pitt, they couldn''t help gossiping.


    Pitt''s presence beside Vincent Shen is a message from the princess that no one can touch her husband; otherwise, there are significant consequences.


    Although it was prohibited to gossip about the bosses, words would still circte about the incident the other week. That is why some employees who wanted a promotion tried to win his attention, and Vincent did not disappoint them.


    "Hello, Mr. Shen!"


    Vincent looked up and smiled at the man who approached their table. "Good afternoon, Director White."


    "Hello, Uncle John!" greeted Pitt to James'' dad.


    "Hey, Pitt! Good to see you! I''ve heard your appearance in the headquarters is a sight from here on."


    "Well, I hope my beauty won''t bring a great distraction to the office."


    Vincent raised a brow while John Whiteughed out loud.


    It''s a good thing that Pitt grew up with his son James, so John was familiar with how Pitt would jest around.


    Anyway, Pitterson Cha is indeed a good-looking man with wless and fair skin. Numerous students always mistake him for a Korean idol.


    Pitt must live up to his looks because he is also an endorser of Davies Cosmetics since he has a share in Hailee''spany as they built the Korean branch on thend owned by his ancestors.


    After John settled down, he carried on...


    "I am always wondering why you didn''t be a celebrity when all the televisionworks here in Australia are willing to cast you."


    Pitt pursed his lips. "Uncle John, I need not join the film industry. Standing next to the princess already made me a celebrity."


    John grinned with agreement at Pitt''s statement. Knowing they were Hailee''s bodyguards or known as knights, these men held an outstanding reputation.


    "Alright. I''m only dropping by to give my greetings."


    "Are you going back to Melbourne, uncle John?"


    "Ah, not yet. I''m going to visit the South Harbor to check some delivery this afternoon," John replied.


    "Can I join you, Director White?" asked Vincent. After a quick thought, he got interested in apanying the director on his round.


    "Well, I cannot say no when the next CEO has this request."


    After a cup of coffee, Vincent''s convoy drove toward the South Harbor. Director White joined him in the car, and the old man admired thetest sports car the princess purchased when it was announced for its release.


    "This car is surely a killer. I know the princess purchased it from her own pocket."


    "Yes, she is, Director White," Vincent answered with a smile. He is also stunned by this car.


    "Just call me John or Uncle John when we are alone and not in a workce," John said to Vincent. The princess surely has the best taste in everything.


    Vincent quickly shes a winning smile when the old man says that.


    "It''s a pleasure, Uncle John."


    Vincent silently thanked James for having such an adopted father at this moment. He could see that the old man supported him, as both father and son were loyal to the Davies family.


    It didn''t take long, and they arrived at the warehouse. John introduces Vincent to the workers in the port, and everyone is delighted to meet him.


    They were overwhelmed that the next CEO was gracing them with his presence.


    "Thank you for paying us a visit, Mr. Shen!"


    "It is not the only time I will visit you. It''s only the beginning, as I am keen to work closely with every field and department Davies Corporation has."


    Upon hearing this, the workers shared a look. Vincent Shen does not differ from their boss, Jacob Davies, who haspassion for his ordinary employees.


    In what they are seeing, Vincent is sincere in his words. Although they know how kind and generous the sole heiress is, it cannot avoid them being concerned if the management would be the same. However, meeting the son-inw this afternoon gave them hope that Davies Corporation would be in excellent hands.


    The workers pped their hands and beams. Vincent let out a breath when the workers responded positively to his brief speech.


    After spending almost three hours in the warehouse, Vincent and Director White headed to Northeast outside Sydney city where the Davies Mansion was located.


    John wanted to have a quick visit with his wife, Doctor Manni, and son, James.


    They were taking a suburban road when they were stopped halfway to the mansion.


    Jacob''s men, who were in the first car, got out and queried the road workers as they were blocking the way.


    "Hey, what is the meaning of this? You can''t just block the wholene!" The bodyguard seated in the passenger seat shouted at the workers. But they only ignored him.


    In the second car, Pitt immediately became extra vignt when he saw that the workers in the road seemed to ignore them.


    "Vincent¡­"


    Pitt took a peek at him in the rearview mirror. Vincent nodded and also raised his guard. Tim began praying that he would stay alive after this night.


    "What is going on, Captain Jones?" Pitt contacted the first car through a device on his ear.


    "Everybody down!"


    That is what Pitt heard from Captain Jones, the head bodyguard who has been working for Jacob for decades already.


    In the next seconds, bullets started flying over and rained the four cars.

 Chapter 432 - Hit The Veins

    Although the cars are bulletproof; still, they have to be vignt of the enemy using new kinds of guns and bullets.


    Pitt attempted to maneuver the car. However, they were rained from another direction,pletely trapping them in the middle of the road.


    He was cursing under his breath when he could do nothing but bear the sharp noise caused by the bullets when they touched the vehicle.


    Vincent frowned out of frustration as he wanted to fight back. Yet, what he could only do is let these men be satisfied and waste their bullets on him.


    It looks like Hailee had already perceived that someone would ambush him, the reason she brought him to her garage and let him choose any vehicle as his daily car was because they were all bulletproof.


    Hailee permitted him to drive any of her cars. But now that bullets are flying over him, he cannot avoid feeling at loss, thinking the hard work of his wife has be just a bullet catcher.


    The frown on Vincent''s face deepened when the men outside hadn''t stopped shooting at them.


    He is already growing impatient as all he wishes is to be by his wife''s side and have dinner together and watch the starry sky tonight.


    It has been their favorite thing to do when Hailee has her midnight snack. She would munch while she was leaning on his sturdy chest and her head resting on his shoulder, and then he would read the reports on his phone emailed by his sisters.


    It is one of many reasons he is looking forward toing home and doing things that be like a ritual for him and Hailee.


    Had this thought, Vincent''s chest tightened as he clenched both his palms into fists.


    Atst, the men stopped shooting at them.


    Pitt took a peek outside to scan the surroundings and watch out what these men''s next move was.


    "F*ck! I''m not sure who sent these men. Could it be that Liam? Or someone who opposes Jacob''s decision?"


    It was John who spoke. He simply bent down, as he was already used to this kind of situation. In fact, James learned martial arts from him until James joined the Camp and earned the title of a Lord.


    Vincent nced at the old man. He senses no panic in his tone and sees no fear in his face. It seemed as if they were only ying in a Virtual Reality game. Evidence that John has been around with his dad-inw. This kind of situation is normal for them.


    But as he was protected by his family like an Imperial crowned prince, his life faced less cruelty. It seemed like his parents'' choice was partially wrong. They should have introduced what kind of "real-world" they are living. So that he, who would protect his wife, instead of the other way around.


    "Vincent Shen!"


    Pitt narrowed his gaze when they started shouting at them and calling for Vincent.


    Meanwhile, Tim has been praying in his seat. He knew his boss would be in great danger after he married someone like Hailee Davies and provoked many big shots in high society. Not to mention Liam Huo''s madness.


    Vincent straightened up his back and leaned on the seat, knitting his brows as he waited patiently when this would be over.


    To ensure his safety, a protocol must be followed.


    Vincent would remain inside the car no matter what would''ve happened, while his bodyguards would face anyone that would attack them.


    "We only want Vincent Shen!" shouted the man, who seemed to stand as the leader of this group.


    When Captain Joneses out, Pitt opens his door and gets out of the car as well. The shooting that had just happened is only giving them a message that their situation is at a disadvantage, and all they can do at this moment is obey them.


    "You men sure had guts to attack us in our territory?" Pitt''s tone is full of scorn instead of fear. In fact, he admired these men''s courage to mess up someone as Jacob Davies.


    While Pitt upied himself in conversing with the opposite group, Vincent turned his head toward John.


    "Uncle John, is dading back to Sydney tonight?"


    "Jacob alwayses home when the princess is in Sydney," John replied.


    Vincent narrowed his gaze outside the window as he tried to figure out the position of other men hiding behind the trees.


    He pulled out his phone and quickly typed a message on a private group chat.


    "Any knights within and near Queennd¡­ Hurry and protect dad!"


    Vincent had guessed that his dad-inw was also dealing with an ambush now. Thankfully, Kristian is with him. Vincent felt a little rxed thinking about that.


    He believes these people intended to kill him and his dad-inw at the same time. Then the next person to die is Hailee.


    What would Hailee feel when her husband and her dad died on the same night?


    Vincent doesn''t want to think further. He shrugs off all negativity that popping out in his head.


    Meanwhile¡­


    "Pitterson Cha! Handed Vincent Shen to us and you all are free to leave!"


    Pitt would be loved to roll outughing at these men. What are they thinking? It seemed like they were truly out of their minds! He thought to himself because there is no way they would hand Vincent over. Not even over their dead bodies.


    "Please, stop joking with us! Tell your boss¡­ He better lick my ass!"


    Vincent shook his head, listening to Pitt provoking the opposite group.


    "I wonder what your son would spit out when he is here," said Vincent to John, in which the old man chuckled.


    "Indeed. James would deliberately aggravate these men andugh at his ass. Anyway, he will be here any moment."


    John showed Vincent his phone. Vincent scanned the screen. He realized it was a map of their location, and a red dot kept on blinking.


    No wonder the old man remained calm as if he was only watching a movie.


    It didn''t take long to wait, and Vincent could hear two helipads getting closer to them.


    The opposite group is promptly in an alert mood as they raise their guns and aim in the helicopter''s direction.


    The people who were hiding in the trees firing at the iing helipads. However, bullets returned to them, and they could hear men crying out after they were hit.


    At this moment, the knights and Jacob''s men are now aiming a gun at the opposite group. With the two helipads as backup, they can do nothing anymore but stand on their ground. However, dear or alive, there''s no way they will put down their guns. It was their oath when they entered the organization of assassins.


    The man who stood as the leader of the assassins squinted his eyes when a car door opened and Vincent came out. He was debating whether to shoot Vincent or forget this n. However, he aims to kill Vincent even if it costs his life as well.


    It was only a mere second apart for the assassin''s leader to pull the trigger of his gun; but before he can do that, he felt a sudden pain in the back of his palm.


    He realized someone had pulled a trigger ahead of him. Panicked shes in his eyes but it disappear right away. However, he felt helpless, as he could only watch his gun drop on the pavement as blood oozed from his hand and a threat echoed in the air.


    "Look up, or the next bullet will be dug between your brows!"


    The leader of the assassin stiffened, narrowing his eyes after he recognized this voice. He was intrigued to know who shot him, but his guess was wrong. He didn''t expect it will turn out like this.


    Now, he had to obey the man he should kill tonight. He needs to keep his head down and avoid raising his gaze as the man''s instruction.


    "F*ck, Vincent!" Pitt cannot help not curse when his ear buzzes after Vincent fires the gun, and it was so close to his head.


    "Remind me I owe you one," Vincent calmly muttered to Pitt.


    Pitt massages his neck, temple, and the back of his ear, to ease the pain. Anyway, there''s no surprise Vincent was holding a gun.


    Since Vincent came back from meeting the elders, he has been practicing firing all kinds of guns once again. dly, all Davies'' mansion has an underground practice hall and they can keep it from Hailee.


    Meanwhile, the leader of the assassin was now confused. No one told them that Vincent knew how to fight. Not only that, to have a good aim.


    "That looks bad!" Pitt ridiculed the assassin leader with a huge grin on his face.


    "Don''t you think you have to bandage it now?" said Vincent. He has a solemn expression on his face. No one could tell that he just fired a gun.


    "I made sure to hit the veins in your hand so that the blood keeps outflowing," he added.


    The leader of the assassin doesn''t know whether tough or cry. Everything that Vincent had said sounded like a joke to him when his tone was actually too serious.


    <i>''What kind of son-inw Jacob Davies had? It seemed like we underestimated him too much..''</i> He parted his lips into a sneer.

 Chapter 433 - Take My Life

    At this point, they were at a great disadvantage. The backup on the air was fully armed. There is only one choice, but to ept the mission failed, and the n went in vain.


    "Boss, the pilot was James White and Captain Andre Hillson!"


    The assassin leader heard hisrade reporting. He made hand signals, ordering those hiding in the shadow to retreat and leave them.


    "Drop your gun!" Captain Jonesmanded.


    They immediately followed him, dropping their guns to the ground then cing their hands behind their heads.


    Captain Jones stepped forward and ordered them to kneel. From afar, they could see more backup ising to them. He had guessed it was the special team who would clean the mess.


    "Pitt, you can go now and secure Mr. Shen... Leave these men to us. I will make sure they will speak up. It has been a while since I beat someone to death because they tied their tongue until theirst breath," Captain Jones had a sneer when he muttered this. He presses both of his knuckles and stretches his arms, preparing for the long night interrogating the assassins.


    Pitt nodded. He looked up at the two helipads circling them.


    "I will stay to help these men clean up. I also want to interrogate them myself," said Andre in the other line.


    "Copy." James and Pitt said at once.


    Pitt walked toward the assassin leader and took off his mask. He raised a brow and pushed the corner of his mouth.


    "You were from the ck Shadow Organization, right?"


    "Heh. What''s the use of answering your query when you guess it, right?"


    Pitt sneered before he tapped his palm on the assassin''s face. It was only light, so it did not hurt him. Pitt turned around and called Vincent.


    "Do you mind punching his thick face? We need to put them to sleep so that they would not know where they were brought to."


    Vincent squinted his eyes, staring at Pitt with astonishment. He nced at John, then returned his attention to the assassin.


    "I would love to¡­ However, Liam Huo is the only person who is lucky to get to taste my fists. I will keep that record."


    The assassins look at Vincent in disbelief. Liam Huo is a great fighter. Several of them witnessed how he fought, and a few of them spar with him before, and he got them good, putting them to sleep the entire day.


    Everyone was immersed in looking at Vincent, and they gave less attention to someone. Just then, they snap back to their senses when the assassin leader lost consciousness after someone hit the back of his neck.


    "Let me do the honor on your behalf, boss!" Tim eximed. After the situation calmed down, he was in great turmoil. Now he could release his frustration.


    These men made him almost pee on his pants. How embarrassing would it be if he left a mess in one of Hailee''s seats in her thirty million dors sports car?


    Without a second thought, he would resign in an instant and go back to the province and nt cabbages!


    Tim was in his train of thoughts when a palmnded on his back. He turned his head and found Pitt, who smacked on his back. The guy has a broad grin on his face.


    "That''s our Timothy Cheng!" he said.


    Tim reached for his neck andughed nervously. He has no choice now but to fight back as well, to stay alive.


    After he hurled a long breath, Tim nced at his boss and said, "Boss, if the young madam saw a trace of bruises on your knuckle, she might fume that you didn''t take care of your hands."


    John, who heard this, smiled. The princess indeed pampered her husband. No wonder Jacob didn''t make things harder for Vincent to marry his daughter. Hailee adores her husband so much.


    "Let''s go, Vincent!"


    Pitt patted him on the shoulder. Just then, Vincent could breathe normally. Finally, he could go back home and snuggle his wife.


    Vincent took another sidelong nce at the assassin leader, who lost consciousness now before he walk back to the car.


    Sat down on his seat, Vincent closed his eyes for a peaceful few seconds to pass, then opened his eyes and looked outside the window to contemte.


    He lifted his gaze and watched the beautiful night sky that was the samest night. Stars are scattered around.


    Pitt and the other two cars trotted away from the scene. Following behind was James, with the few knights who remained vignt to the surroundings down below.


    Vincent nced at the helipad. "Uncle John, I know Hailey''s knights were efficient men. But tonight, I''m really impressed."


    John turned his head in Vincent''s direction, who remained looking up at the helipad.


    "Most of Hailee''s knights underwent intense training in the Camp, under Master Shun. Not only that, several of them joined the army, the Navy like my son, or the Air Force like Andre. They are all well trained inbat."


    Vincent lowered his gaze, nodding his head. No wonder Bruce Ledesma became Hailee''s knight in an instant. The guy is a special agent who went through intense training as well.


    It didn''t take long, and they arrived at the mansion.


    Vincent rushed to the bedroom on the second floor to have a quick shower before he showed up to Hailee. After he worefortable house clothes, he marched toward the Salon Room.


    Lively chatter andughter caught his ears the moment he pushed the door open. His heart filled with warmth upon having a glimpse of Hailee''s bright smile.


    She was with the three girls making Christmas cards all afternoon. Vincent was grateful that Hailee had something to do while he was at work. Peeking at the room, it looks like Hailee did not notice that James had left with the other knights.


    <i>''That''s good then,''</i> he muttered to himself. Vincent felt relieved now he saw his beautiful wife.


    The nannies that were on standby in the corner greeted Vincent. Just then, Hailee looked up, and her eyes glimmered upon seeing her husband walking toward her. She studied Vincent, and she saw that he had a shower already, and changed intofortable clothes.


    "You''re home!"


    Vincent smiled as he quickened his strides. The girls were just preparing to leave, but Vincent didn''t wait for them to get out of the room. He just walked straight to his wife and threw his arms around her body, embracing her tight but careful not to press her baby bump.


    "I''m finally home," Vincent muttered longingly.


    Hailee didn''t notice any strange behavior Vincent acted. She simply believes Vincent misses her as much as she is to him. She buried her face between his shoulder and neck,pletely ignoring the girls and the nannies beaming as they walked toward the door in haste to give the couple some privacy.


    "I''m d you arrived right on time for dinner. Mom prepared stir fry noodles, fish filet, and your fave buffalo chicken wings. Gigi is also fixing a vegetable sd, and the girls baked me a carrot and strawberry cake!"


    Vincent curled his lips, hearing his wife''s cheerful voice. It is what he looks forward to when he gets home after a long day at work, listening to Hailee sharing how she had a wonderful day.


    And in a few months, he wants to hear Hailee telling him how their kids behave the entire day¡ªwhen they start to crawl or attempt to stand up. He would love to witness them muttering their first words and taking their first steps¡­


    That is why he must stay alive!


    If necessary for him to fight, he would never back down, even if his enemy is time and space!


    <i>''I will settle the score with you, Liam Huo! I will make you pay for attempting to take my life from Hailee!'' </i>swore Vincent.

 Chapter 434 - His Woman

    Vincent pulled himself to look Hailee in the eyes, then caressed her delicate face. After a moment, he leaned over and brushed his lips on top of hers as he muttered,


    "Darling, I love you so much."


    Hailee''s eyes twinkled, listening to Vincent''s husky voice. When he is calling her with this endearment, it means everything.


    "I love you too, President Shen," she returned affectionately as memories in the penthouse flooded inside her head.


    At first, the kiss was tender and his lips moved passionately. Later on, Vincent deepened the kiss, parting his lips to invade her mouth, longingly as if they were separated for a long time and now missing each other so badly, and their way to convey their feelings are silent words through the kiss.


    Hailee responded how loving Vincent was kissing her¡­ Soon, their mouths dance and yfully bite each other''s lips.


    "I heard you apanied Uncle John to visit the South Harbor warehouse, and everyone likes you."


    "Hmm¡­ There will be people who will remain doubtful with my performance."


    Hailee cupped Vincent''s face and uttered affectionately. "I''m proud of you."


    This is how Vincent runs hispany. He ensures all employees feel their importance, so he works hard to treat them fairly and equally.


    It is what she discovered when she started living with Vincent as his contractual mistress.


    She actually learned from Vincent how she should build her rtionship with her employees. In the years since she put up herpanies, only her executives have gone to meet them.


    And so when her contract mistress is over and Vincent, who will be the one to sign her contract soon, she wants to reach out to her employees herself.


    But things turned out differently. She falls in love with Vincent, and the contract she holds now is their marriage certificate.


    "What is in your mind?"


    Hailee was pulled from her train of thoughts after Vincent whispered in her ear while he nibbled her earlobe.


    "It was you, President Shen."


    "Hmm¡­ No wonder I am sweating, but I never get tired." He and Haileeugh out loud from their corny thoughts.


    "Somehow, these lines are never outdated," said Hailee.


    "Yeah. It''s always quite humorous to quote it," Vincent concurred, nodding his head.


    Hailee smiled, then she went on. "Honestly, I am thinking if something had happened aside from your visit to the warehouse."


    Vincent lowered his gaze at the woman inside his arms. He could see that Hailee noticed the emotion he concealed. As time passes, they are getting better at reading each other''s thoughts.


    "Your knights are very efficient, Mrs. Shen."


    "Tell me what happened."


    Vincent clears his throat before he shares with his wife how the assassin blocked them on the way home. Thanks to James and Andre, they came quickly.


    "No wonder those two disappear. I thought they went to the underground practice hall," said Hailee.


    Vincent replied, "No. They went to back us up, and probably I will join them to practice shootingter."


    Vincent waited for Hailee''s reaction. In the passing months, he hid the fact that he returned to hold a gun.


    He thought that if he stayed low-key, he would avoid having enemies. However, he married the wealthiest woman in the world. His dream of having a peaceful and simple life with his beautiful wife and precious children went in the opposite direction.


    "Alright," Hailee muttered after a while. She looked at him full of affection.


    On the one hand, Vincent actually thought that Hailee would fret after she learned Liam is attempting to kill him again.


    Anyway, it''s good if she stays calm and is less worried about him. Otherwise, he would not know what to do if something happened to her again.


    "I know you are worried about me as much as I worry about you, too. But I want to fight back. I want to protect our family, to protect you myself."


    "I understand," Hailee nodded thoughtfully. "Just promise that you wille back to me in one piece."


    "I promised."


    Hailee lifted her chin and kissed Vincent.


    Someone knocked on the door. Hailee''s head nanny informs them that dinner is ready, so she inquires where she would prefer to dine.


    "Let it be served in the indoor pool, Mrs. Brown."


    On their way to the other side of the mansion, Vincent brought up Andre.


    "So, is Andre on his vacation?"


    "For a week, yes. The couple will start nning the wedding. So, Andre and Jennifer will choose their wedding gown and tux."


    "Oh, is my cousining?" Vincent guesses. He already heard that Jennifer wants Janise to design her wedding gown.


    "Yes! Jennifer and Andre were supposed to fly to Metro City, but Janise wanted to visit us. And guess what? Jennifer will retire from the Air Force as she made a decision to be a full-time housewife. They also nned on having kids sooner. So, Andre told me about something since Jennifer made that decision."


    "He wanted to build a store for Jennifer. It is Andre''s surprise wedding gift for Jenniffer! Andre wanted our help to design the store. It will be a five-story building. Also, he wants to make a deal with Janise to disy her collections, my jewelry, skincare products, and cosmetics!"


    "Sounds wonderful."


    "It is, hubby! I''m happy! Andre sure knows how to please his woman!"


    "How about me?" Vincent asked, fluttering his eyes as it sparks like a puppy asking for attention.


    Hailee reached for her stomach as she let out a crispugh, amused at how Vincent tried hard to look innocent.


    "Stop acting cute, Mr. Shen!"


    "Why not?" Vincent didn''t stop teasing Hailee until they reached the pool area. The people who waited for them at the dining table smiled upon seeing Hailee in better health now.


    Jacob didn''t arrive at dinner time, butter that night. The knights reported that the big boss was safe, and they were arriving in Sydney. Hailee felt relieved upon learning about it.


    "I''ming home, Princess."


    "I''m d you''re okay, dad. Love you." Hailee felt relieved after she heard her dad''s. Now she could breathe.


    "Love you too, princess."


    While the men wait for Jacob at the entrance, Hailee hangs out with the girls, including Gigi, Jennifer, Doctor Manni, and her mom-inw Hilda, having tea while discussing Jennifer''s wedding ns.


    Vincent, Pitt, Tom, James, and his dad, John, anxiously watched the convoy pull over in front of the entrance. It was Vincent who first met Jacob and gave him a tight hug.


    Vincent was very grateful that his dad-inw was safe. God knows what Hailee would feel if something happened to her dad.


    Likewise, Jacob feels the same too. He''s too worried that the assassin will take Vincent. He is worried about his daughter if they kill Vincent.


    "Wee home, dad."


    Jacob smiled, patted Vincent''s back as he responded, "Thank you, son. I''m happy to be home."


    He also nced at the young men behind Vincent and his good friend John. Jacob also hugged and thanked them.


    "You do a great job, boys."


    "Wee back, Uncle Jacob!" They greeted him.


    That night, the men gathered in Jacob''s study to discuss the incident in thete evening.


    "I can''t wait to make them taste how we strike back!" said James. He is the eager one to take revenge as soon as possible.


    "Hold your horses, boy!" John scolds his son. "Remember, we take step by step nning to ensure our victory."


    "I know, dad. We must know our enemy first. But they are Liam''s people!"


    "What do you think, Vincent?" asked Jacob. His son-inw only remains silent. He wondered what was on his mind.


    Vincent contemted. He raised his head when he heard his dad-inw call him out.


    "I already asked Pitt to arrange a few things for me. I''m going to visit our branch office in Northern Australia."


    Hearing that, Jacob pursed his lips, then parted into a broad smile. Since he authorized Vincent tomand his men in entire Australia, it is up to him what steps he has in mind from here on.


    ***


    Extra Scene: Book Sequel Teaser (Note: The sequel has multiple main characters; both Shun and Vincent''s children''s story.)


    Jackson Suites, North Australia


    Director Millerfortably seated on a leather couch, gazing out at the city skyline and north harbor with dazzling lights from the port and ships, yachts, and fishing boats scattered around the coast.


    In his hand is a crystal goblet, containing Chardonnay wine. His gaze lowered to the cocktail table when his phone rang.


    Samuel shrunk his pupils upon recognizing the name registering on the caller ID.


    "Hello, Master."


    "You failed!" shouted the man at the end of the call.


    Samuel remained chill even after his master rebuked him.


    Instead, there is no trace of fear on his face, but the corner of his mouth pulled up.


    "Despite my failure¡­ However, we seed for the real purpose that we have." Confidently, Samuel replied. He raised the ss in his hand and twirled the content in it.


    The person who Samuel called Master narrowed his gaze. He then muttered, afterward a brief silence.


    "Enlightened me."


    "We let Emperor Xing kill himself," Samuel answered timidly.


    The person at the end of the callughed.


    "You are still useful to me. Anyway, do not dy any longer. It is the best time while Klein Williams is in his deep slumber. Carlisle is no match for me."


    After he says that, he hangs up the call. It was then that Samuel wiped the smile on his lips.


    <i>''Heh. Klein Williams is the one you feared so much¡­ But you forget how clever Carlisle Williams is¡­''</i> Samuel thought to himself. Too bad his master already ended the call.


    <i>''Well, how should I put it? Two souls in one body? For everyone, they call it split personality?''?</i>


    "Liam Huo¡­ Vincent Shen¡­ I look forward to witnessing how you would find a way to kill each other."

 Chapter 435 - Loyal Friends

    The following day, Janise and Hansen arrived in Sydney. Nothing could contain Hailee''s happiness to see all the maternity clothes Janise tailored for her.


    "They are so beautiful!"


    There is no ending to how Hailee praises Janise''s designs exclusively for her. She tried on as many dresses as she could. Later she got tired. Hailee took a break and had something to munch on. Since the girls were here, she was spoiled too much.


    Every day they bake her different pastries and desserts with the approval of her nutritionist and dietitian; they make sure that it was healthy for Hailee and the babies, such as not using refined sugar but natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup.


    At the moment, she felt like she was brought to heaven having the pies melted in her mouth. Today, the girls baked her a strawberry pie and donut strawberry fillings. Next, she took a bite of the macaroons, and then a bowl of potato sd.


    The girls looked at Hailee with a smile on their lips, bemused to see her having a good appetite after she almost had her miscarriage.


    Vincent also felt delighted that his decision to invite the girls to visit Hailee was right. They were the first people he could remember that were close to Hailee since her old friends were all busy in their careers and after having their own families.


    Besides, the three teenagers really had an impressive effect on his wife''s mood, and he trusted these girls to respect their privacy. They are not the girls who would gossip about them to other people. Especially with Hailee''s condition now.


    He already noticed how these girls would defend Hailee every time someoneshed her at the school or on social media. At first, he thought they were nice to Hailee so that they could take advantage of his status, such as giving them favors, as they were good to his fake girlfriend.


    But through time, these girls are really wonderful friends to Hailee. They are the ones who witness their love story since the mistress'' contract and until now; they were still here for them being loyal friends.


    The media was persistent in getting thetest updates about them. These girls were also bothered by reporters after they became known as Hailee''s closest friends in P Country, so he arranged a few people to drive them around, especially when they go to school and enjoy their lives.


    Reporters want a piece of news about him too, whether he was genuine to Hailee or he was only after her inheritance. He was infuriated at first, but now he doesn''t care anymore. He won''t waste his time and energy to mind theirshing.


    The entire world is watching them. dly, Shun can block the news and release only what others should know about their lives.


    Like at the moment, Hailee was scanning the photos that were taken while she tried on the dresses.


    "Hubby, is my face getting rounder?"


    Vincent blinked and studied his wife''s features. Although she really gained weight because of the four babies, Hailee''s face changed a little. Just a little fat. If Hailee wasn''t pregnant, it would be a huge mystery where all the food that she''s eaten.


    "It would only be normal that your body will be even rounder in the next three months." Instead of replying to Hailee''s question, Vincent reminded his wife about the future scenario. He wants Hailee to know that it doesn''t matter if her body size would double.


    She is pregnant, so the changes are normal. He doesn''t want her to feel insecure, as she could no longer wear her tiny thong and bikinis. Instead, he wants to encourage her to be proud of her motherhood journey.


    "Which one would you like me to post?" asked Hailee, showing the images on her phone.


    Vincent took the phone from Hailee and scrolled it down. Everything is beautiful. Although Hailee is already pregnant with his children, he does not agree to post these photos when they are actually revealing and daring.


    Most of the dresses are backless and deep V-neckline and do not require Hailee to wear a brassiere, which is convenient for her, actually. He is honestly a conservative guy, but of course, it doesn''t mean he would stop his wife from what she grew up with.


    Soon, Vincent had finally chosen a couple of photos that he could see the best ones as the angel was perfect.


    When Hailee updated her Instagram, the world was overjoyed to see thetest news about her pregnancy.


    Hailee also posted a photo of her, and Vince seated on the grass in the garden.


    She and Vincent are both wearing white clothes. Hailee''s eyes couldn''t take off away from her husband. Vincent looked so handsome when the sleeve of his shirt rolled up to his elbow and then three buttons opened, disying his sturdy chest.


    Added to that, both are barefooted. A picture offort and carefree on their weekend bonding time.


    "Look how in love they are for each other!"


    "Where could I find a man who would look at me like I am the only girl in the world?!"


    "Ah! What a pretty Mumma!"


    "Our Empress even looked happy and content!"


    The photo had be the most talked about on every tform in social media. Hailee chose it as the greeting card to send away to their friends and family.


    Another week had passed swiftly. Hailee was upied every day so there were no dull days, but she felt so much love from everyone.


    "Hail!"


    Someone shrieked at the door.


    "Miss Kelly!" It was the three girls who first reacted and rushed toward the woman.


    However, Alexander quickly moved in front of Kelly.


    "Hold up, girls! You can''t do that anymore," said Alex in a very serious tone. For the times he got to spend with these three teenagers, he became familiar with their witty and free-spirited personalities.


    Meanwhile, the three girls froze on their feet. The excitement that was exhibited on their faces was even more profound as they understood Alexander''s acts. However, the thought they have in their minds turns into uncertainty when Kelly hits the guy on his shoulder.


    "Don''t believe in him! He is just practicing!" Kelly red at her fiance.


    Alex burst outughing, followed by the men after they realized what was going on. They ridiculed his exaggerations and acts of trying to fool them. He joined the men, and he received light punches after he sat down on the couch.


    "Really, dude?"


    Alexughed and countered Pitt and James'' jeer.


    "How about the two of you? When will you guys n to get married as well?"


    Pitt and James only remained silent and did not retort, which was unusual for Alex. <i>''Oh¡­ Something is going on, it seems.''</i>


    Meanwhile, Kelly exchanges a hug with the three teenagers before she rushes toward Hailee and hugs her tight.


    "Gosh! You are so bloated!" Kellymented on Hailee. Anyway, she may sound like she is only joking. Hailee is used to her character.


    "Girl, prepare yourself! Having multiple babies is in mine and Alex''s bloodline!"


    After Hailee mouthed that, Kelly turned pale as she imagined herself being bloated with three mini Alex.


    <i>''Oh, my gosh! Can I really endure the sufferings?''</i> She was excited to conceive Alex''s children but thinking about having twins and more, she became nervous.


    Kelly calmed herself and stared at Hailee. She looked miserable having four babies in her womb. She also noticed that Hailee often hurled deep breaths and constantly stroked her bump.


    They often have conversations on the phone, and Hailee constantlyined about going to thevatory. She is almost living there as she says and Kelly is bing part of that as Hailee would chat with her if she was taking time in her new world and that''s the toilet room.


    It seemed like a very tough journey. But seeing Hailee and Gigi''s smiling faces.. Maybe it was so worth it after all.

 Chapter 436 - Infuriates His Master

    The following days at Davies'' mansion...


    Janise busied herself in designing Jennifer''s wedding gown and Andre''s white Royal Air Force suit while Kelly, who is the one to design the wedding bands for the couple and the bride''s wedding essories.


    Jennifer only had her dad after her mom left them when she was five years old to marry someone else, and she was grateful for the girls helping her n her wedding, including her soon-to-be mom-inw, Andrea.


    The soon-to-be bride cannot contain her happiness to receive extreme support from Andre''s family. She never thought about how down-to-earth people they are despite the power they were holding. Even their friends are also wonderful people.


    In the days she stayed in Davies Mansion, Jennifer witnessed how Hailee was taken care of by her mom-inw.


    Now, she couldn''t help feeling envious and prayed that she would get pregnant soon too and wished to be treated like that as she grew up without a mother. After the divorce, her dad spent most of his time overseas, and she was only entrusted to a rtive. So then, the reason Jennifer enlisted in the Royal Air Force was to get close to her dad, and it was the right decision because it was where she met her soon-to-be-husband.


    Thinking about that, Jennifer turned her head in Andre''s direction. The guy seemed to feel she was staring at him lovingly as he quickly met her eyes and his mouth muttered the words, "I love you."


    Jennifer feels warm in her heart. Until now, she couldn''t believe she was marrying a great guy like Andre.


    Her dad actually suffered from that divorce as he loved his wife so much, and so she swears to herself that if she would find the man who deserves her love, she''ll love him forever and would never leave him.


    As Jennifer thought of that, she could not wait to marry Andre.


    Jennifer did not know about the betrothal gift Andre prepared for her, and so Vincent discussed it with Andre in secret. And since Vincent is also busy in the office, he could only work on the design when he was home.


    Andre was the only child after Marlyn died, so Allen gave the Hillson Vi to Andre, and it will be his and Jennifer''s betrothal house. As they were aged now, Allen and Andrea would stay at their farmhouse in the countryside. They look forward to having more grandkids soon, and so they will just visit Sydney often.


    Everything seems perfect on the surface. But hiding in the shadows was the real danger, and Vincent knew it.


    "Samuel Miller left Australia," Pitt reported to Vincent. He was in the study on the second floor to have a video conference with his team in Dream City and his sisters in Metro City. After the meeting, he requested Pitt toe over.


    Vincent got up from his swivel chair, stood near the French window, and looked at his wife in the garden. Hailee is currently sunbathing after Doctor Manni gives her exercises for pregnant women inside the pool.


    At the moment, his wife is heavenly happy. But when they return to reality, there is a real battle they have to face and win. Otherwise, it will be a shadow that would never leave their side but continue haunting them.


    Vincent turned around to face Pitt. He leaned on the windowsill and asked the guy,


    "How about John Jackson? Is he willing to meet me up?"


    "Our guy is only waiting patiently. And now is a perfect time as Liam''s right hand flies off somewhere."


    "Good then. However, we still need to be careful and do it quietly. I am certain Samuel Miller left his men to monitor us."


    "We must, yes. Anyway, I could sense in your tone that you have something in mind."


    Vincent did not say a word, but a yful smile appeared on his lips.


    *


    Later that afternoon in the gym, eight couples were seated on the yoga mat, following Doctor Manni''s instructions. She was giving them pregnancy lessons, and the boys had to help the girls do some stretching.


    At first, the three young girlsin as they have no n to get married yet, and so to get pregnant. But Doctor Manni insisted on it, as she wanted to pair her son James with Hazel.


    Hazel was ufortable with it, but she could not refuse James'' mother after persuading her to get the lesson as well.


    Meanwhile, someone was sulking, displeased with the idea because his pair was Liza, and his heart was eaten with jealousy, looking at Hazel paired with James.


    "Ouch, brother Jake! Please, don''t push my back too much!" Lizains.


    "Oh, I''m sorry." Jake apologized. His mind was upied with Hazel and so, he was in a trance at the moment.


    Every weekend, Jake flew to Sydney to report to Vincent personally and handed the documents that needed his signature.


    He wanted to pursue Hazel, but the girl deliberately turned him down. More likely, she was dumping him. When they cross in the hallways or the garden, Hazel quickly avoids him and retreats to her heels.


    Jake felt helpless, at the same time, upset that he could not have alone time with Hazel because James was always around!


    "All right! That''s a great one! Let''s do this again tomorrow!" Doctor Manni pped her hands as she made an announcement.


    Vincent helped Hailee on her feet, but she was really having difficulties standing up from the floor with how big her baby bump was now.


    Thankfully, despite how busy he was every single day. Vincent ensured to do an hour exercise in preparing his battle for whoever would block his way like Samuel Miller.


    He practiced not only gun shooting but also sword fighting and martial arts.


    "You''re great, hubby!"


    Hailee praised him when they were on the elevator. They finally came up with an idea to install an elevator in case Hailee would have multiple babies again in the future.


    Vincent pokes Hailee''s nose before he leaned over and brushes his lips on top of hers. His wife has been witnessing his hard work and epts that he has to fight to stay alive.


    "I will give you a bath."


    "Okay," Hailee said gleefully.


    In the bathroom, Vincent isthering the liquid soap around Hailee''s body. They were squatting inside the bathtub.


    "Let me do it, too!" Hailee took the bottle and put a generous amount in her hand.


    She made a circr motion, starting at Vincent''s chest, down to his muscled abdomen. Now that Vincent has done regr exercise, his already firm body has even in great form Hailee couldn''t resist the urge.


    Vincent''s eyes flickered when Hailee''s palms made their way down between his thigh.


    Vincent squinted his eyes when his wife was looking at him naughtily. He clenched his jaw and gritted his teeth as he breathed out.


    "I couldn''t soap your legs."


    Vincent stood on his feet and let his wife finishthering his body with the liquid soap. However, it never crossed his mind that his wife had something else in mind.


    "Wifey¡­ You don''t need to do that¡­" he grunted.


    Although he originally stopped Hailee, Vincent could only sigh with satisfaction written on his face as he watched his wife do the job. Hailee wrapped her palms on his stiff shaft then open her mouth.


    At the sight, he could never hide his desires for his wife, and he could also see that Hailee wants to meet his needs.


    "I love you¡­" He muttered continuously until his release.


    Vincent kneeled on the tub and helped Hailee wash her mouth after brushing her teeth.


    "You didn''t know your husband was once trained by the monk on the mountain," said Vincent while he dried Hailee''s hair. "However, with you, their teaching didn''t work at all."


    Haileeughs out loud at Vincent''s confession. But then something came up in her mind.


    "What if we visit them one day?"


    "Oh¡­" Vincent fell silent and pondered for a moment. Hailee''s suggestions were actually good. "Let''s go then. But you need to prepare because climbing those thousands of steps is just ordinary stairs for the monks."


    "Are you underestimating your wife?" Hailee cast a yful re at her husband. Vincent''s sexyughs echoed in the bathroom before his mouth shut up after he imed his wife''s lips for an intense kiss.


    That night, a new video is on trending news once again.


    With Hailee''s permission, Doctor Manni posted what she recorded from the two events today. A video of Hailee doing aqua aerobics and the floor exercisester that afternoon.


    *


    <strong>Extra Scene:</strong>


    "What is the meaning of this, Samuel?"


    A mobile phonended on the table. Samuel Miller was summoned to attend an important meeting hosted by his master. However, a video of Vincent Shen enjoying doing yoga and stretching with the princess.


    "I told you to kill those children! They will only be obstacles to my greater ns!"


    Samuel remained silent in his seat, unfazed despite how his master exploded with anger. He tried to cause miscarriage to the princess, but the children held tight to their mom.


    So then, he came up to assassinate Vincent Shen and Jacob Davies. In that way, the princess will grieve and mourn all her life.


    So then¡­


    "Master, are you certain that Vincent Shen''s children are going to kill you? As in, will they seed this time?"


    Instead of a reply, Samuel''s master threw a dagger look at him before he turned on his heels and left his room.


    After his master disappeared, the corner of his mouth pulled up into an amusing smile.


    <i>''Heh. You trust Liam Huo so much that he could change your destiny by awakening his past life''s memories. However, he only failed. Anyway, he was still useful after doing an excellent job of investing secretly in severalpanies around the world. We are still at a significant advantage.''</i> Samuel muttered to himself.


    Sadly, his master left already. He could not express his thoughts.


    Samuel poured his ss with cognac and celebrated alone as Vincent Shen infuriated his master.


    <i>''Cheers, Vincent Shen!''?</i>

 Chapter 437 - Bucket List

    <strong>Davies Corporation? </strong>


    In the past few days that Vincent was busy dealing with documents and designing the store for Andre''s gift to his soon-to-be-wife, he did not forget to oversee the renovation of Hailee''s office by himself.


    The conference room was taken down and connected with the Chairman''s old office; now, it bes one room with two offices inside.


    Between these adjoining offices is a lounge with a vast floor-ceiling window to have a full view of the Sydney coastline. In the middle are two long sofas, two single couches, and a long coffee table, while the two doors are on the left and the right.


    Based on his wife''s taste, Vincent gathered the information of Hailee''s offices as references.


    The lounge was copied from her Dubai office. It was a rich and exquisite design, except for the theme colors. This time it was abination of gold, metallic ck, and pink theme colors. Feminine, yet the metallic ck shows her authority, while his office is marbled white with gold and metallic brown.


    Vincent never imagined he would design an office for him and his wife in the same room within the samepany. Four years ago, all in his mind was putting up restaurants and cafes for his wife to manage.


    He is determined to find Hailee again, and everything he puts up in the passing years is for her. He already made a n that she would be her boss on her own once she married him. But she is already the boss, his boss!


    He will instantly transfer all the restaurants and residential towers he owns.


    But it turned out, she is already the boss. His very own boss for real!


    It may sound insane, but the very first time his eyesid on his wife, he immediately felt that she was the missing piece of his soul.


    Thinking of that, Vincent unconsciously smiled to himself. The workers looked at one another after seeing that. Since they started working in the princess''s office, her husband meticulously eyed the details. He personally get the measurements to ensure that the floors were even, not his wife to stumble on her heels.


    He is an architect, but he does the engineer''s job. Anyway, they understood him. This boss is just a perfectionist when ites to his wife. He wanted to handle things himself.


    "Mr. Shen, Miss Tiffany is here."


    Vincent turned around and looked at Tina and Tiffany Lynch, the Senior Chief of Davies'' Interior Designing team he summoned.


    "Good. Let us take a seat." Vincent invited the twodies to the lounge and asked Tim to serve them coffee.


    "Mr. Shen, I can prepare it for us¡­" Tina instantly volunteered, but Vincent waved his hand to stop her and gestured for Tim to go.


    "Tim can do it." Honestly, he could ask Miss Brown to serve them some snacks. But he dismissed the thought.


    Tina and Tiffany looked at each other. They did not expect the boss would be this considerate, or, to say, gentleman.


    He has his reason for inviting these two girls, and that is to consult them with something. And once he spoke again, they finally understood.


    "I want to talk to the two of you about my wife as her friends, so you know more about what she likes. Her office is about to finish, so I want you to decorate it, Miss Lynch."


    "Sure, Mr. Shen! I will quickly work on it." Tiffany assured, honored to have her special task. It will be easier, as she was the one who decorated Hailee''s offices¡ªthe DV Inc. and Davies Group.


    "Great to hear that... Miss Tina, I want you to assist Miss Lynch if she needs anything."


    "I will, sir," Tina responded.


    Soon, Tim came back with a tray. He first poured his boss a coffee before the two girls. If they had not known he was engaged to Nancy, they would love to tease and flirt with him. But since Pitt was taken, they have to keep their hands on themselves.


    *


    Later that afternoon, delivery arrived in Davies Corp. Vincent curled his forehead, looking at the painting.


    "Who sent it?" Vincent asked Pitt, who epted the huge parcel.


    "It was from Theo Shang."


    Hearing that, Vincent pulled out his phone from his coat pocket and quickly dialed Theo''s contact.


    "Hey! I received the painting." Vincent informed the person on the other line.


    "Vincent? Great to know. Do you like it?"


    "Of course, I do. Aren''t you a busy man?"


    "Ah, my fam visited Remy Town after we attended your wedding. I''m working on renovating the ce, as Nikki prefers to stay in the countrysidetely. Maybe she also gives birth here, like when Violet was born."


    "Oh, they were born there?"


    "Yes. Nik gives birth to the twins in Remy Town. And during ourst visit, Nikki remembered Hailee loved the Gerber daisies in the garden, and I painted one. So there it is! I hope Hailee would like it."


    "I''m sure she will be. Thanks once again!"


    "Don''t mention it, man."


    Theo and Vincent talked a little more before thetter ended the call to resume their work.


    <i>''So my wife likes daisies.''</i> Vincent muttered to himself. "Pitt, I want to go somewhere¡­"


    *


    The following day¡­


    Hailee struggled to get out of bed after she didn''t spot Vincent when she woke up.


    "Hubby?" Hailee walked into the nursery room, holding her hip with one hand while the other was in her tummy. However, no sight of Vincent but a huge painting on the wall.


    "That is¡­."


    "Wifey?" Vincent emerges from his study, and in his hand is a tray. He hurriedly ced it down in one of their kids'' beds upon seeing her in the room. "Why didn''t you wait for me?"


    He rushed toward his wife and helped her sit down on the nearest bed.


    "I''m looking for you," said Hailee, purring, resting her head on her husband''s shoulder to breathe his morning scent. She must be crazy, but she loved her husband''s warm scent. It was pleasant to her nostril.


    Hailee''s eyes caught the tray. She saw a cup of coffee, a mug of warm milk, biscuits, and fruits on a tter. Instantly, a smile curled her lips. It has be Vincent''s habit to prepare something she could munch on the moment she woke up. Overly, her husband spoiled her every day.


    "Good morning, by the way, Mrs. Shen."


    "Good morning, Mr. Shen." Hailee open her mouth when Vincent covered her lips.


    When she opened her eyes, she just then realized that the nursery room was filled with all the colors of daisies.


    "Do you like it?" asked Vincent when he and Hailee sat opposite each other with a tray separating them. He referred to the painting on the wall he hung between the four beds.


    "I love it! Where did you get it? Did you buy it?" Hailee asked excitedly. She was surprised that Vincent had guessed that one of her favorite flowers was Gerber daisies.


    "It was actually a gift from our friends."


    "Wait! I knew this ce! Don''t tell me?" Hailee looks at Vincent, eyes twinkling with joy.


    The painting is a garden of daisies. Its background is the scenery of a small town with a church near an ocean.


    "It was a gift from Theo and his wife."


    "Ah! It was Nikki''s ce! The White House."


    Hailee suddenly recalled her memories when she attended Violet''s first birthday party held in Remy Town.


    She visited Shun and Cassandra, and the next day the family went to the town to attend the exclusive gathering.


    The world is truly small for all of them. Vincent is a wonderful friend of Theo, and she is with Nikki.


    "Let''s visit the ce one day," Hailee suggested.


    "We will¡­" Vincent nodded his head with glee. Thinking of going ces with his wife has been such a joy in his heart.


    Hailee looked at Vincent with wonder when he suddenly jumped off of the bed and rushed toward his study, and when he came back, there was a metallic ck notebook in his hand.


    "Hubby?" She had this puzzlement written on her face.


    Vincent smiled at his wife. He lowered his head as he wrote something in the notebook.


    "I am writing our bucket list," he finally replied to his wife, who instantly flickered her eyes as she heard his husband making ns for their trips soon.


    "Do you think we should do that on our first wedding anniversary?"


    Vincent contemted it. He and Hailee had only a quick honeymoon because of her pregnancy. It was not advisable for her to travel much for a while until she gave birth.


    "Mrs. Shen, since you want us to get married once again on our first wedding anniversary? Then, let us have our honeymoon traveling the world."


    "Thank you, hubby!" She felt ted just thinking about it.


    She cannot wait for the time toe too soon!


    *


    Vincent was extra happy that morning.


    However, when he walked into thepany lobby, a crowd gathered inside.


    "What is going on here?" Vincent asked the employees around.


    "Mr. Shen!" Everyone steps on the side to give way. The lobby suddenly fell silent after they realized that the big bosses had arrived.


    "Why is everyone still in the lobby?" It was Jacob who queried. "Aren''t work will start soon?"


    "Sir¡­" Before the chairman''s secretary could reply, someone yelled among the crowd. Everyone looked in that man''s direction, and they found it was Director Hayes.


    "Vincent Shen! How dare you beat up my son to death!"


    Even after being used, Vincent still looked so calm. He didn''t even flinch when the director pointed a finger at him.. Instead, the crowd heard him snorting.

 Chapter 438 - Accusations

    "What would I earn if I beat your son to death, Director Hayes?" asked Vincent.


    "You¡­"


    Director Victor Hayes was waiting for Vincent in the lobby to confront him in front of everyone. However, Vincent''s calm response infuriates him. He intended to throw a fuss in the crowd to embarrass him.


    But what he doesn''t know, Vincent would not let him do as he pleased.


    Victor Hayes only believes Vincent would apologize to him as he was trying to win over everyone in thepany. Vincent worked hard to court the directors from different departments and even their subsidiarypanies. Thus, give Victor so much confidence.


    But staring at Vincent grinning at him. Victor Hayes''s hand trembles in anger that he could not find the words to bellow at Vincent. He gritted his teeth and narrowed his gaze as he turned to Jacob to fret.


    "Look at your son-inw, Jacob! He had no respect for me as your long-time business partner! Is this the man you want to lead us? Why do you trust this man so much? Are you not afraid that this manpletely controlled thepany after he took over the seat? Listen to me, Jacob¡­ I am afraid of the fall of thispany because your daughter is blindly in love with him!"


    Listening to that, Vincent furrowed his browse. His gaze sharpened as he countered Director Hayes''s usations.


    "Director Hayes, would you stop joking around? Do you think I am that greedy with power and money? Without Davies, I could still make a name and achieve higher recognition with my hard work. However, I would not just sit idly by and watch my wife bullied by someone like you. I know many of you here would crawl into the shadows and challenge my wife''s leadership and capability to run thispany. I''m not sorry to disappoint you that I will allow none of you to do as you pleased. The reason I am here is to protect her and the sweat and blood of my wife''s forefathers in building thispany."


    The resentment in Director Hayes'' heart had been aroused with Vincent''s retort. He doesn''t like it at all as to how it looks bad. He could not ept that Vincent turned the table and use him. He pointed him instead as a person who has the interest in snatching thepany from the Davies.


    ''How dare this man to nder me in front of Jacob!'' Victor Hayes sneered in his heart. He didn''t hide the hostility he felt for Vincent. He cast an aggrieved look.


    Jacob, on the other hand, was fuming when Victor Hayes pointed his finger at Vincent.


    As the chairman and CEO of thispany, he knew very well that many of his directors were only riding the flow of Davies Corporation''s prosperity all these years.


    But in times of a situation, their true color will appear.


    With this possibility, Jacob is actually afraid to leave this world knowing that a bunch of wolves is only waiting for the right moment they could attack. It was the same reason he wanted to marry off his daughter to a trusted man he knew well that would protect and never will betray her.


    He honestly thinks before that either Bryan or Geoffrey is the best candidate.


    Bryan''s temper could send these men to their right ces, while Geoffrey has the power to manage thepany very well.


    Willson''s family has a vast influence that would be an advantage for Davies'' operation. Although Bryan is inferior in wealth, his character to negotiate business in his own way is also remarkable.


    Davies Group and Dream City would not be sessful without these two men''s contributions. However, none of them won his daughter''s heart.


    Instead, she falls in love with someone else.


    Fortunately, Vincent has all the characteristics of a son-inw he dreams of having. As a matter of fact, there is no perfect man for that position but only him. That is why he couldn''t ask for someone else but was dden that Vincent was the right man.


    He was very content with his performance. He not only knew how to take care of his wife, dots and pampers her. What is more, his daughter listens to him.


    Jacob concealed the smirk ying on his lips while he had these thoughts. As Vincent sees through these bunches of old geezers, Jacob is very much satisfied with him.


    On the one hand, since Victor cannot refute Vincent, Jacob gives him a look full of scorn. At the same time, proudness lingered in his heart.


    Vincent''s appearance in thepany triggered the thirst for authority. He knew why these directors were afraid. It puts their own interest into a grave.


    For a long time, they were riding and using his name. These people took advantage of the privileges Davies gave them, and having Vincent, it will end soon.


    Jacob cannot contend with happiness as he is already looking forward to Vincent face pping anyone who would challenge him.


    In the meantime, Jacob would not stay as a bystander only. These people need to be reminded who is the boss here.


    "Victor, you have to be careful in using Vincent. What evidence do you have? Are you certain that your son had no enemies outside?"


    He''s still the chairman of thepany. No one is going to break the family he has been grooming all these decades. Too bad that seemingly a typical father, he had been spoiling them all! Now, it is time to cut the horns in their heads! Jacob mused.


    However, Victor Hayes could not believe what he was hearing, and he failed to understand Jacob''s meaningful tone.


    "Jacob, are you telling me I didn''t discipline my son?" Victor Hayes bellowed. After he nced at Jacob sternly, he shot a dagger look at Vincent. ''This man is the reason we are fighting now!''


    Meeting Victor Hayes''s murderous stares, Vincent shook his head, listening to his nonsense b.


    "Director Hayes, as I recall, it was your son who brought up and started gossipping about my wife. You seem to have forgotten that the woman he had dirty thoughts with is his very own boss! If he has the guts to open his mouth about hisdy boss, what about other people? He never minds provoking me as his future boss. Now I could imagine what kind of mouth he has outside your home. That kind of behavior. Don''t you think it could not anger many people enough to kill him?"


    Upon saying it, Vincent had a scorn smile on his face when he made this speech.


    What Vincent said incited other employees to gossip about Mike Hayes. Victor was furious at all the ndering words he heard against his son. Thinking how brave these people are now. Victor mes Vincent for the cause of the dispute among big bosses.


    Seeing that Victor Hayes tightly pressed his lips and utter, no words, Vincent carried on.


    "It was true I encountered your son when I was on my way to visit a Botanical Garden yesterday to order a thousand of Gerber Daisies for my wife. But we only greeted each other, and then we went our separate ways."


    He added, "Director Hayes, surely you knew his friends. Why don''t you ask them what truly happened yesterday? If you still use me without evidence, I can show you the pinhole camera recording of my bodyguards. After talking to the florist, I went straight home."


    Director Hayes took a moment of his silence to process what Vincent had said. However, he would still not believe him, as they could edit the footage. Aside from that, he had evidence in his hands.


    Victor nced at hiswyer and signaled to him to hand him the evidence. He then threw a folder where pictures were scattered on the floor.


    Everyone bent and picked up the photos. They gasp as they recognize the back of the man, looking downward at Mike Hayes tied on the chair and blood oozing on his forehead.


    Vincent picked up one and scanned the photo.


    "Hmm. The photographer who took these photos is undoubtedly professional. They really took the right angle,"mented Vincent, stroking his chin. He chuckled, then turned his head at Pitt. "What do you think, Pitt?"


    "Well, if you truly beat up Mike. I don''t think you need to punch him more than trice. He would already pass out even before blood woulde out." Pitt broadened the grin on his lips, amused at the photos he was looking at.


    These people did not know that he and Vincent had a regr boxing practice. Thanks to the headgear, he survived their sparring!


    "Oh, my! I am hurt! They forgot to photoshopped me!"


    The people crowding the lobbyugh at Pitt''s acting. He reached for his chest and clenched his fist, showing how hurt he was. His handsome face was also twisting in disappointment.


    Vincent snorts at Pitt''s overacting. He threw the photos on the floor and shoved his hand into his pants. He looked straight at Victor''s eyes as he phrase,


    "What made you think I would waste my time with your son, Director Hayes? Besides, he is not worthy of tasting my fists."


    <i>''Good grief! How many times would I quote this to people?''</i> Vincent mumbled to himself as frustration overwhelmed his chest. He heaved a loud sigh to calm his nerves.


    "PR team, make sure this would not get out, and news reaches my wife. I don''t want her to clear this up for me.. I have to take care of this myself."

 Chapter 439 - Blessing In Disguise

    There is a hidden meaning in Vincent''s words. It was a deration that no one should take for granted his wife.


    Vincent swept his gaze to the entire lobby, then fixed on a few directors he recognized in the crowd.


    "I want everyone to listen carefully¡­ If there is someone I beat up in the future. It only means that person offended my wife."


    Vincent stared at Victor Hayes as he continued,


    "Director Hayes, it was apparent that these photos are photoshopped. They copied the color of my suit, but no one is much familiar with the person who tailored my suit. Most of my business suits were customized by someone close to me, and the person who photoshopped the photos never considered or looked for the details."


    "The one I wore is the same cut, but it''s a different color from yesterday. Do you spot the differences between those photos and my suit today, Director Hayes?" Upon saying this, Vincent pulled the corner of his mouth, and it enraged Victor Hayes even more.


    Everyone scanned the photos again and then looked at Vincent with keen interest.


    "Mr. Shen, the buttons on your coat!" said one employee, who quickly spotted the differences.


    "That''s right! Now I recalled most of Mr. Shen''s suits. The buttons have a carved gold dragon or ck dragon on the buttons!"


    "Yesterday, Mr. Shen''s business suit had golden dragon buttons." Concurred by other employees.


    "But in the photos, it was just in ck!"


    "These are hundred percent photoshopped!" said the person from the IT team. He has expertise in studying graphics. So, it''s easy for him to spot that it was just photoshopped.


    Victor Hayes tightly pressed his mouth after remembering the office suit Vincent wore yesterday. The employees are indeed correct. All of Vincent''s customized suits have unique buttons made especially for him.


    "Victor, you''ve been in the business for a very long time, as you imed a while back. However, in what you''re doing now. You seemed to have forgotten how to act properly. I understand you did it out of your overwhelming emotion after what had happened to Mike. You''re familiar with the world we are walking in. Our enemies would do everything to break our family, and so you must believe nothing immediately."


    Hearing Jacob stating this, Victor suddenly felt embarrassed. It was true. He and Jacob had been like brothers. They both walk the path where Davies Corp has its glorious days and times they stumble. But he believes in Jacob. The reason he stays and supports him throughout the years.


    Now, he enjoys the sess of thepany, and in many years, he and his family live a luxurious life.


    And because of that, a fear sprouts in his chest after Vincent arrives in thepany. He is anxious he will only bring thepany into the swamp. Recently, Vincent had a dispute with his son Mike, and so the first person he could think of that was responsible for his son''s terrible fate was him.


    Besides, he was in such turmoil. He could not think properly after what happened to his son. However, he would not yield if he was wrong. He has pride, after all.


    "Director Hayes, as this incident was clearly to frame me, I will help you solve this matter and avenge your son. Know that we are family, and family must help each other. I promise to all of you. I will protect our family and carry out my father-inw''s legacy. I have an oath to my wife that I will love Davies Corporation as much as I love her. I will do everything for this family."


    Vincent repeatedly mentions the word family for a purpose.


    The lobby suddenly filled with apuse. The employees were all moved and ddened by Vincent''s speech. While Victor has a flustered face, Jacob has a huge smile on his face. Once again, Vincent impressed him.


    What he is seeing now, the directors and senior officers standing in the crowd are also touched by Vincent''s words. He could see the satisfaction on their faces.


    On the other hand, Vincent dances in his heart. A meaningful smile yed on his lips. He was grateful to Samuel Miller or the Jackson family for framing him. The incident has be a blessing in disguise.


    In an instant, he won everyone''s heart that day.


    "Uncle Victor, I promised to settle the score with whoever did this to Mike. Your enemy is my enemy. Don''t you think we must help each other instead?" said Vincent.


    He decided to forgive Mike for the sake of unity in thepany. If he will return the anger Victor Hayes threw at him. He only let their enemy destroy them. He believes it was his enemy''s intention. They aimed for him not to gain anyone''s trust. However, their n failed and was in vain, as what happened was the opposite.


    Victor nodded his head in agreement with Vincent''s offer. He also felt warm in his heart when Vincent called him uncle.


    Finally, Victor Hayes softens his expression. He was touched by Vincent''s gesture. Maybe he was only overthinking that Vincent has ack of ability to manage Davies Corporation. Perhaps he has to give Vincent a chance to prove himself rather than continue to challenge him.


    "Jacob, I apologize for causing trouble early in the morning. I hope you''ll understand my feelings as a father. Mike is the only son that I have. Still, I have many dreams for him to achieve in this life and aplish in his career."


    "Of course, Victor. I understood. As Vincent had said a while ago, we are family. I have no son by blood but through brotherhood. Mike is also my son. So I hope you will treat Vincent like your son as well."


    Victor is now ashamed. He could not look Jacob or Vincent straight in the eyes. At this moment, he has to lower his pride. Vincent would be his key to knowing who beat up his son and almost killed him. Now, his poor Mike is in aa. There is a blood clot in his brain, and it will take time for his son to wake up. So he wants those criminals to pay for what they have done!


    Finally, the drama in the lobby is over. Thanks to Vincent for handling the situation properly.


    Before everyone headed to their designated departments, they promised not to say anything and kept their mouths shut, especially to the media. If news came out, it would be a bad image for thepany that would reflect on their stock sales. No one wanted thepany to face such a crisis.


    However, Jacob was still furious, thinking that they tried to frame Vincent this time.


    "I know this is what Gideon''s doing! That Samuel Miller cannot do things openly but the people who are still clinging to Liam! It seemed like the Jackson family wanted to taste my whipping!"


    "Dad, calm down. We know who our enemies are, so it is easy to deal with them. Let me handle it. I would not wait any longer but execute our counterattack from the assassination they n out."


    Jacob hurled at the deepest part of his lungs. After gathering the air, he wafted it violently. He was still upset.


    "Use everything that we have, Vincent. All of my men are only waiting for your order. Whatever n that you have, they will do anything for you."


    "Thanks, dad." Vincent pursed his lips into aforting smile. He is grateful for all the support he received. He is really blessed to have such a father-inw.


    Although he didn''t like this kind of life, in order to stay beside the woman he had loved so much, he had no choice but to use his fists to win this battle and ept his fate.


    *


    That afternoon, Vincent received an important report from Pitt. He went home early, which surprised Hailee.


    "You''re back!"


    Vincent brightened his face now he had seen the sweet smile of his wife. All the weariness and headache he felt were gone.


    "Hmm..." Vincent could only hum, as he was keen to im those lips. Then he said, "I''m home."


    "I''m happy. Let''s have tea together. The girls baked macaroons today!"


    "That''s wonderful. I want to try it." Vincent ced a loving kiss on Hailee''s forehead before he lowered his head and nted kisses on her baby bump. "Are they active today?"


    "Hum! They seemed to y inside my womb. I wonder what sport it is!"


    Vincent smiles tenderly as he listens to Hailee''s story. Heughs after she says this. "Maybe they are ying tag!"


    "Or maybe a football?" said Vincent.


    "Hmm¡­ As they were kicking around, then that is possible. So, my womb is a football field?"


    They both know that was a crazy conclusion. But as excited parents, as they are, they would like to think of happy thoughts on this parenthood journey.


    Vincent stared at Hailee with passion. His fingers brushed her cheek dotingly as his mind filled with so many ns for his family.


    "Wifey¡­ I am going to Northern Sydney in a few days."


    The smile that stered on Hailee''s eyes disappeared. Even Vincent says nothing. She understands what it means.


    "Promised toe back in one piece."


    Vincent nodded. "I will¡­ I promised toe back home real quick."


    "I love you so much!" said Hailee from the bottom of her heart.


    "I love you so much too, Mrs.. Shen," Vincent replied, he gave Hailee a long passionate kiss while he tightened his hold in her body.

 Chapter 440 - Love Truly Moves In Mysterious Ways

    After a few days, Vincent left Sydney for his Northeastern visits to their subsidiarypanies. He first stopped at Gold Coast then stayed at Brisbane for the night.


    Then, his next stop was Queennd.


    "I missed you, hubby." Hailee purred when she finally got a hold of Vincent that evening. Vincent immediately had a video call with Hailee when he came back to the yacht.


    Anyway, she understands how busy her husband was, not only meeting Davies'' business partners but also her knights and the Mafia members under her dad.


    "I missed you too, Wifey. Did you have a good day?" Vincent asked longingly.


    "I felt great! I did something today and I will not tell you as it was just a secret," said Hailee with glee. He pouted to show her that he was hurt being secretive.


    "It''s a surprise! Not one but two!"


    "Really?"


    "Yup!" Hailee smiled coquettishly. Vincent was still pouting and so, she kissed her Tab screen wishing it would reach Vincent.


    Soon, Vincent''s sexyugh echoed in Hailee''s ear. Vincent finally stops acting childish.


    "How''re the kids?" Afterward, Vincent queried as he saw Hailee stroking her baby bump.


    Hailee smiled as she responded, "They''re doing well! I feel them all day. Now I''m exhausted ying with them."


    It was absolutely draining to have four active kids in her womb. But she was happy that they are healthy. Therefore, every time the babies kicked on her belly, she would instantly tell them a story.


    The story is not just the typical children''s book but it was the love story of their parents.


    Hailee is always ecstatic when she recalls those encounters she had with their dad in Budapest and Metro City.


    She always giggles every time she would mention how their dad pretends as a customer so that he can get close to her and if he''s lucky, he could ask her for a date. She didn''t forget to mention that their dad dressed up as an ordinary man to approach their mom so that she would not be suspicious about him.


    Hailee also includes the times she chases their dad to offer him a project, the Dream City, their very own kingdom.


    She went to P Country to personally meet him. And every time Hailee recalled that elevator encounter that it''s not a pure coincidence at all, the three girls and the younger nannies squeal. They always love to hear it over and over again.


    They think it was so sweet that the woman he was looking for suddenly appeared in front of him, and so he never misses the opportunity that she will be his.


    Vincent has been telling her what strategies he would n out to make it a natural encounter.


    "Wifey, I could feel that when our children finally came out to see the world. They will request to hear their parent''s love story and it will be their favorite bedtime stories."


    Hailee giggled, concurring Vincent''s conclusion. She also thought about that and so, she started drafting a children''s story that features her childhood. This is one of her surprises for Vincent.


    She will write a glimpse of her childhood and the first book is about Friendship.


    Just to think about it, Hailee''s chest is filled with warmth. The people who brought happiness to her after her mom died in an ident are now called knights.


    A simple Friendship that bes Family as time passes by.


    "Wifey, are you thinking about something?" Vincent asked when he saw Hailee was in a trance after sheughed.


    "I''m just remembering all of my friends and how blessed I am."


    "I see." Vincent smiled. He wished he could embrace her and kiss her. "I could rte to how you feel. I just met your knights but I feel honored to work with them."


    "When I haven''t told dad about you, yet. I''m really worried that they will storm P Country and beat you up until you turn into a pulp. Somehow, Liam''s threats have be a way that you can be closer to them."


    "It was like a blessing in disguise when Liam nned out to break your engagement with Bryan." Vincent recounts. "And then his endless attempt to kill me made me close to your knights and we build a good brotherhood now. Also, I''m d that your knight epts mepletely."


    "I''m overjoyed every time I think of that hubby. Nothing that will make me happy is to see you all get along."


    Vincent nodded his head as he muttered, "I promised, Wifey. I will even work harder to show to everyone that I am worthy to stand by your side."


    He didn''t expect that Hailee would be emotional. He watched her head lowered, then heard Hailee''s sobs. Vincent quickly coaxes his wife and showers her with cheesy-sweet corny lines. Hailee immediately stopped crying and now she''sughing loudly in the next half hour.


    After she settled down, she notified Vincent. "Hubby, mom Hilda finished preparing my bath. She puts herbs, leaves, and flowers to help soothe my muscles."


    "I''m happy that mom is doing a great job. I wonder what rewards she wants to receive." Vincent curled his lips when he saw his mom halt in her tracks.


    "Stop talking nonsense! What do you think of me? I earned millions during my younger days! I don''t need your payment!"


    Vincent grinned while staring at his mom after she didn''t let off his tease but deliberately made ament. Actually, Vincent wittingly jokes on his mom as he knows what temperament she had.


    She may be truly stern and snobbish. But a gold heart is buried in her heart. She acted firmly not to be bullied.


    "Mom, I know you need not money. The reason Hailee and I work harder to give you four grandchildren at once."


    Hilda widened her eyes when her son bbed a sensual topic. She grew up being a conservative person and so for her, this kind of stuff is supposed to be just a conversation between a couple.


    Vincentughed when his mom rolled her eyes at him.


    "Alright. Get lost now and Hailee needs to drink her tonic after bath."


    "Okay, mom. Thank you." Vincent wishes to convey his gratitude to his mom and let her know how blessed he was to have an amazing mom like her. But because she was too stringent, he could not figure out how to express his love for his mom. So what he did is listen to anything that she would say, follow whatever she want for her, and do everything not to provoke her. Until Hailee came into his life.


    Love truly moves in mysterious ways.


    Not only for someone you feel in love with but also for people you call family. Love can teach you many things you never thought were possible.


    As well, love can bring peace to one''s life. Now they are living in harmony and helping each other in any way that they could offer based on their capability.


    While his dad-inw gave him all the resources he needed to win every battle that he had, he was at peace knowing his mom is taking care of his wife in her difficult pregnancy.


    "I love you, mom." Out of the blue, said Vincent to his mom.


    Hilda didn''t see iting that Vincent would show sweetness toward her. She did her best to conceal her emotion. But she failed to hide the glistening water in her eyes and so, Hilda red at Vincent to ease the embarrassment she felt.


    "You don''t need to act sweet to me. I am taking care of your wife and your heirs with all of my heart."


    After Hilda said that, Hailee hugged her and said.


    "I also love you, mom!"


    This time, Hilda could no longer suppress her emotion. She honestly was irrational before because she just wanted to avoid any scandalous situation for them. She is always in dilemma.


    "Would the two of you stop?" Hilda simply wipes her eyes.


    Vincent chuckled when his mom still did it elegantly. Her sophistication is on another level. "I love you both and of course my sisters."


    "I love our family!" Hailee happily chanted...


    *


    Vincent has been sessful in meeting the people he was courting to take his side. The meeting was in secret but Vincent is still vignt and believes that Samuel Miller has eyes to all ces that he went to.


    One evening, Vincent was seated on a long couch, patiently waiting for his very important guest tonight.


    On the deck, a helicopternded on the helipad. A man wearing a navy blue suit gets out from the chopper and walks to the man casually leaning on the railings.


    "Yo, John Jackson!"


    "James¡­" John nodded at the guy.


    Beforeing here, he receives a report that Vincent Shen has been seeing around Northeastern territories. He didn''t expect that James would also be here. He has knowledge that Pitterson Cha has been seeing on Vincent''s side.


    But this time, James White is also here. He would prefer meeting Pitt rather than James because Pitt is calmer than James. This guy only knows violence.


    "Wee aboard! I will show you the way."


    "Then, I would be honored." John understands that he needs to y with their game if he wants to get out alive here.


    "Nah. Drop the crap. Come on! Vincent is still upied in video calling with the princess. So wait for a moment in the game room."


    The game room James mentioned is an area where a pool table and another activity. There is also a huge TV and other knights watching football while some hang out in the bar for drinks.


    "Hey, John! You''re finally here!"


    It surprised John to see more men boarded on the princess'' superyacht.


    "Hey, join us ying pool!" Mikael Davidson invited him. John also sees Lucas Martel and Rob Dawson ying billiards.


    ''Why are they also here?" he thought.

 Chapter 441 - Invitation: New CEO

    "You guys are here too."


    "Yeah. We''ve signed our partnership with Vincent. Finally!" Mikael had a broad smile on his face. After saying that, he returned his attention to the table as his turn to shoot.


    When Mikael missed the second ball, Lucas quickly positioned himself to shoot next and sessfully made three hits.


    "Damn!" Mikael cussed.


    "Hey, John!" Rob walked toward him and handed a ss with spirit.


    "Thanks, Rob." John epted the drink and gulped half of the content. With the alcohol entering his system, it eases the tension in his nerves.


    John followed Rob¡ªhe strode toward a single couch near the pool table and took a seat. He watched Lucas, Mikael, Rob, and Kian Lynch ying. Then his eyes casually toured around and studied the other men in that room.


    On their way, he saw not only Hailee''s knights but also Chairman Jacob''s men. It was apparent that Vincent was taking over Oceania Continent.


    Mikael Davidson''s family had a vast influence in G Country, while Rob Dawson dominated T Country for its petroleum and coffee business.


    John sneered in his heart, thinking about it¡ªboth countries are where J Group has itsrge operation in South East Asia or as part of the Oceania Continent. Having these men, Vincent effortlessly suppresses his business.


    ''Vincent Shen¡­ They indeed underestimated you!'' He is undoubtedly a cunning man!


    "So, you guys are Vincent''s business partners now, huh?" John would like to hear about it more.


    Mikael replied with glee, "Yeah. Vincent eventually epts Lucas''s offer. So, Vincent is now the new Martel Maritime Builders Vice President."


    "What?" John was surprised to hear this fresh news.


    "Yeah. It was the only highest title Lucas could give Vincent, as he has a greater job from now on. We are celebrating Vincent''s promotion! He is officially the new President of Davies Corporation. Uncle Jacob formally stepped out in his seat, and he was simply the chairman now."


    ''So soon? Then it means Vincent is the big boss of the Davies Corporation, not only in the Oceania Continent but in the entire world where they operate their businesses.'' John muse.


    He doesn''t know what to feel, either be d or be rmed because it means people should think first about harming or offending Vincent. Now, he has the power of crushing anyone with his own hands. Contemting over this, John clenched his jaw as he emptied his ss.


    ''It was the end of the game.'' He grinned at himself. From here on, only a fool would have the courage to provoke Vincent Shen. To be in his good book, only wise men would survive.


    "Hey, John!" At the doorway, James called out to him, cutting his train of thoughts. James tilts his head toward the direction where Vincent was waiting, he goes on. "Vincent will meet you now."


    John nodded his head, got up from the couch, and followed James. He was brought to an elevator, and James pressed the upper deck button after his keycard scan by the system.


    The yacht would have its advanced security to ensure the princess''s safety the whole time, even though she was surrounded by dozens of knights protecting her.


    And by this time, the person whose privilege was none other than the princess''s husband, Vincent Shen.


    John smiled to himself as he rode the lift alone. James only escorted him by the door, saluting at him as the door shut-in. It didn''t take long, and he arrived without him knowing.


    ''What a smooth ride.'' He muttered inwardly. Before he exited the elevator, John heaves a deep breath to release the tension pent up in his chest.


    At the upper deck, he was weed by an extensive space. It was the first time John boarded Hailee''s superyacht as only special people are invited, and he did not consider himself lucky because he knew that there was a reason he was here tonight.


    John swept his gaze and praised the exquisite decorations on every corner of the hall that showed modern and luxury.


    As he continued scanning the room, his eyesnded on the man seated in the main chair in the middle of the hall. Then his gaze passed the ss wall, toward the sundeck, and saw four people lounging near the pool.


    John recognized Prince Alexander Martini and Mitchelle Romanoff, a man who has a title as Prince of Russia.


    All of a sudden, his feet were nailed on the floor. He was in a daze, realizing that tonight, there were more important people on board the yacht.


    To see Rob and Mikael tonight is already a shocking sight to him. What else to find the royal men?


    "Why don''t you take a seat, Mr. Jackson? Please, don''t treat yourself as an insignificant guest. Come and help yourself." Upon saying that, Vincent waved his hand at different liquors presented in the long cocktail table.


    He already noticed his arrival, but John remains standing in front of the elevator and is dazed while looking at the waterfall in the pool. As a designer, Vincent admits it was a beautiful idea. The pool was designed, specifically for Hailee as she loves watching a vivid lighting background.


    John walked toward Vincent and took the seat opposite him.


    "Wee to the Queen of the Ocean." Referring to Hailee''s superyacht, Vincent humbly wees John¡ªeven though he is the king in that vessel, he has a good intention of inviting him tonight.


    "Thank you, Mr. Shen, or shall I address you as President Shen?" John senses the humbleness in Vincent''s tone. It was far different from thest time they encountered each other, which was full of tension. And so, he has no reason not to lower his pride as well. Besides, in this vessel, Vincent was the boss.


    "Please, have a drink. These are the vintage wines I received from my wife during our honeymoon in Tasmania."


    Now that Vincent mentioned his wife, he suddenly remembered hisst encounter with Hailee and her warnings. Now it makes sense. What she said was true. The princess gives support to her husband to go rogue to whoever provoked him.


    Now, it''s not only her knights standing behind Vincent but even Lord Jacob''s trusted men.


    John snapped himself from dazed and met Vincent''s eyes. He smiled and uttered, "It was difficult to have the Davies Orchard vintage wine. So I will seize this opportunity to enjoy them."


    "Sure." Vincent nodded. There is a faint smile ying on his lips.


    Since Vincent offered him the drinks, John thought not to refuse. He picked up a clean wine ss and chose Pinot Noir. Carefully, he opened the bottle and poured the contents. He watched the red liquid adoringly. The pleasant aroma lingers in his nostril; he breathed in and indulged in its heavenly taste.


    John knew Vincent scrutinized him as he sipped on the wine. Since he already made a decision tonight, there''s nothing to be hasty.


    Besides, he and Vincent have been in the business world for a while now. So as both businessmen, they don''t need a lot of words to express each other''s thoughts, butprehend one word and convert it to a hundred meanings. All they needed is to read each other''s bodynguage and stick close to the things that they would both benefit from.


    "Well, we started in an unpleasant situation, and I want to bury it in the past. What do you think, John?" After a long silence, Vincent was first to speak, since he was the one who needed something from John.


    On the other hand, surprise has no more room for John as tonight, so many things seem to have happened to him.


    Now, Vincent is offering him a peace treaty by removing the formality between them. So then, who is he to reject that? He isn''t crazy yet, so he would dly ept it instead.


    "I would admit that it all started with my wrong judgment," admitted John.


    "Let bygones be bygones," Vincent proposed.


    John concurred, rephrasing Vincent''s quote. "Let bygones be bygones."


    Vincent picked up his winess and offered a toast to John. Thetter quickly stretched his hand and clinked his ss to Vincent, and both drank the content in one gulp.


    John ced his ss and raised his gaze. As he stared at Vincent with intent, thetter asked him a question.


    "You seem to have something in mind, John."


    "Ah, I''m just intrigued until now. It was the same reason I spat out something in the past." John is referring to their ugly encounter in the washroom.


    May he and Vincent be on good terms now, or what he wants to believe from here on; John could not stop himself from recalling it.


    "Then why don''t you share your thoughts?" Vincent urged him.


    John could see that Vincent was warming up to him, and it was a good sign. Then it wasn''t wrong if he loosened up around the guy by being honest with his thoughts.


    "Are you aware that you and Liam Huo have a lot of resemnces?"


    Vincent narrowed his gaze after John asked him this question. John is not the first person who brought this up to him, and he doesn''t like it, actually.


    "You are not the only people that noticed, and I actually hate it," said Vincent with honesty.


    He actually hated when someone would mention how he and Liam had a resemnce thenpared them¡ªthe reason he was triggered when John told him those words back then at the washroom.


    "Alright. I learned my mistakes now, so I would not mention him ever again." John quickly yielded, as he didn''t want this conversation to take a wrong turn. He doesn''t want to offend Vincent, so he will shut his mouth and will just open them when Vincent permits him to speak.


    However, Vincent is determined to open up to John. He waved his hand and said,


    "You can carry on. I am just expressing what I truly felt about it. So tell me what is on your mind."


    He continues to encourage the guy. He wanted to know more about Liam, and John is the perfect guy as he and Liam are good friends.


    Vincent had a cunning smile hiding on his lips as he thought of this.

 Chapter 442 - Invitation: Love Is Exceptional

    "I loved a woman once," John began. "When my parents got divorced, I stayed with my dad, but my twin brother chose our mom when she went back to Europe. After ten years, mom died, then my brother came back to live with us. I have a crush on this girl in our neighborhood, but she only treated me as her best friend. It was unfair that I was the one who was always with her, but she only fell in love with my twin brother."


    "I felt extreme unfairness as between me and my twin brother, I was academically excellent, and ying any sport. I have been awarded much recognition during our college years, and my twin brother, who is only interested in art, was the fortunate guy to have the woman I dreamt of growing old with."


    "I worked hard and became aplished. However, the girl I loved all my life never sees how excellent a man I am. Instead, the only great man in her eyes is my timid twin brother, who has nothing he would like to do in his life is painting and photography."


    "Where is this woman now?" asked Vincent when John took a long moment of silence.


    "Hah. My twin brother and she travel the world."


    Vincent could sense the bitterness in John''s voice. He pursed his lips into a thin smile, as he didn''t know what toment that he would not add salt to John''s wounds.


    "So, how does it rte to mine and Hailee''s love story?" Vincent was careful about querying John. He is careful what questions he should ask the guy as he has another goal for this meeting; that''s knowing more about Liam and Hailee''s childhood.


    John raised his head and met Vincent''s eyes. He could discern the sincerity in them, and so he answered honestly.


    "Liam and Hailee had a wonderful friendship when we were little kids. I witnessed how Liam is clinging around Hailee."


    "Isn''t Bryan and Geoffrey she was too close to?" Vincent wondered.


    "Liam''s parents and thete King Lamandi of V Country have an incredible friendship with the Davies family. As Lord among the Lords of the Oceania Continent, Uncle Jacob often traveled, including V Country. I guess it is the time Hailee and Liam''s friendship blossoms, especially after Liam loses his parents. Later, it was Hailee''s mom who died. Uncle Jacob travels alone, and Hailee stays home as she istes herself from everyone."


    "Andre then lives with them to apany and watch over her..." Vincent intercepts John''s narration.


    John nodded his head. "Yes. It was the time Andre''s friends would travel far to hang out with him, and Hailee got close to them. Inter years, the former King of V Country died. Attending the funeral, Uncle Jacob brought Hailee. She was fourteen years old, and Liam was a few years old."


    "From that moment, it restored their friendship. However, Liam couldn''t ept those other men were close to Hailee. But after King Lamandi became the new king, he proimed Liam as the crowned prince. Liam became upied in fulfilling his royal duties as the next in line of the throne."


    "Liam is determined to marry Hailee, the reason he works harder and bes Master Shun''s puppet."


    "Puppet?" Vincent raises a brow. ''Is he talking the truth? There must be a real story to that.'' Vincent thought to himself.


    Shun is always there to help him and Hailee; whatever it is, simple things or dangerous ones, that man is always there for them. So Vincent believed it was something else.


    John recounts further, "Liam did everything to prove himself to Shun and Uncle Jacob, even if it cost his life. Love blinded Liam. But something happened which I didn''t know the entire story about. I just learned that Hailee and Liam had be enemies."


    Vincent pondered that part of John''s story. Pitt told him what had happened by then. Liam began harming her friends, and then Hailee helped Gigi free from Galvin.


    ''But what made Liam change?'' Vincent couldn''t forget that part of John''s story. Something must have happened, and Liam chose the other path.


    Vincent wondered if he had a right to ask Shun regarding that. Curiosity got him good, and now he was dying to know.


    ''But if I want to protect Hailee. I should know everything.'' Vincent was contemting whether to contact Shun sooner. It seemed like a huge secret Shun had been hiding, even from Hailee.


    "John, you said that Liam did everything to win Hailee''s heart. You were putting your shoes on Liam, is it?"


    John snigger. "It was unfair how Hailee never sees Liam''s love for her. Instead, she fell in love with a stranger person like you she barely knows you."


    Vincent raised a brow and told John.


    "Is it important that you know this person your whole life?"


    John didn''t retort, as Vincent was right.


    In love, it is not a requirement that your significant other is someone you are familiar with your whole life. And on his part, it happens that his love was one-sided. It is the same with Liam.


    "Do you know that is it most exciting part is to love a woman you never knew?" Vincent asked John. "Together, both of you can discover things. As long as you are open to your partner, you both can work things out in your rtionship. Also, it is okay if both of you have differences. Love is exceptional. Remember that, John."


    John was surprised. He never thought that Vincent had such an understanding of love.


    "Vincent, how many girlfriends do you have? You sounded too experienced," asked John. He didn''t conceal the admiration he felt for Vincent at this moment.


    Vincent chuckled, shaking his head. "Would you believe Hailee is my first and only girlfriend?"


    "Are you serious?" Shocked exhibit on John''s face. His eyes grew wider as he stared at Vincent with amazement.


    "Since I was young, nothing I did but impressed my parents. So having a girlfriend is thest thing on my mind. Besides, my mom is too strict about it. She would always remind me that women are only after fame and money. Do you know that my mom even sent me to the monk so that I will learn how to have control?" Vincent shook his head, reminiscing about the year he was sent to the mountain.


    "You are hrious, Vincent!" John mocked.


    Vincent did not feel offended, as it was true. Heughed along with John.


    "My mom is determined for me to fight some sort of temptation, such as women. However, when I met Hailee. I experienced all types of feelings, and I can''t fight it."


    "Hmm... Now I understand," said John, nodding his head. "Now I have a desire to meet someone I could love dearly, who would return my feelings."


    "Of course, you will find someone that is fated to you. I am older than you, is it?"


    "Yes."


    "Then, you have more years to find love if you let yourself move on."


    "You are right, Vincent."


    "Well, how about let''s cheer for good luck?" Vincent raised his ss for a toast, John quickly clinking his ss.


    Vincent was happy that he seeded in making John warm up with him. After he puts down his ss, Vincent straightens his back and wears a solemn expression on his face. He looked straight into John''s eyes as he spoke.


    "John, I know you already know why I am inviting you tonight."


    John nodded. "What can I do for you?"


    "I need your help. I know it is not Liam who wishes to harm Hailee. It was thest thing Liam would do."


    "Are you talking about Samuel Miller?"


    Vincent darkened his face upon hearing that man''s name. "I know everything that is happening to me is all Samuel Miller''s doing. I also know that he is pressing your family to take his side. If you worry that yourpany went bankrupt after Samuel withdrew Liam''s investment. I can promise you that Davies has your back."


    John contemted what Vincent had said. Beforeing here, he already had some ideas in his mind. But he didn''t expect that Vincent would offer him a favor instead.


    What John keeps in his mind is that Vincent will push him to the corner. So then J Group would kneel to Davies, particrly before him.


    "I can help you free from Liam or Samuel Miller."


    John heard Vincent carry on. He asked Vincent, "What is your n, Vincent?"


    "I want to deal with Samuel Miller, so I need to meet up with him real sooner."


    "What do you want me to do?"


    "Just set up the meeting ce for us. The hotel owned by your family is the perfect ce. I know Samuel is not in the country now. But if you mention to him that J Group will no longer need him, I am sure he wille to you and threaten your family. Let me handle the rest."


    John pondered. He admitted that Vincent''s n was brilliant. He knew that there was no way for Liam to get out of prison, as the crime hemitted was so great. Besides, he doesn''t like Samuel Miller.


    "Alright. But Vincent, you know that Samuel Miller had vast influences outside Australia. He would not let J Group go easily."


    "I know. You have nothing to worry about. You know as well, whatever Samuel Miller holds into, Davies has dominion more than he did." Promised Vincent with pride. He could say that having so many influences can easily shake an enemy.


    Vincent admitted to himself that he once despised people using their wealth and power to step on other people.


    Who would have thought that he was that kind of person now?

 Chapter 443 - Ally (One)

    That night, Vincent and John agreed to a partnership. They shook hands to seal a new friendship and buried the unpleasant encounter they had in the past. John promised to convince his dad to stop working for Samuel Miller, so Vincent now believes that John is only working on his own ord.


    Liam has manypanies that are not under his name. John wondered if Samuel is now taking advantage of it as he was the one who works for thesepanies'' legal papers.


    "It looks like you guys came to an agreement, atst¡­"


    Vincent and John turned their heads toward the person who spoke. Mitchelle approached them and stood close to John.


    "Did we meet before?" asked Mitchelle.


    "Amon friend introduced us to each other, but that was years ago," John replied to Mitchelle.


    "I see. So, things are going well then?" Mitchelle is looking at Vincent when he says this. The guy nodded at him. "Then we should have a toast to that."


    Mitchelle grabbed a Chardonnay and poured his ss with the red wine, followed by John and Vincent''s sses.


    "Why don''t you join us?" Mitchelle called the other three men outside.


    Pitt, Alex, and Brent Morris approached them and joined the toast. After filling their sses with the vintage wine, the six men clinked their sses.


    *


    <strong>Jackson Vi? </strong>


    "Are you out of your mind?" Chairman Gideon shouted at his son after John told him about the partnership he made with Vincent.


    "Actually, dad. My brain works well."


    Gideon Jackson wanted to p his son. Now John is giving him a serious problem. He is nning to cut partnership with Liam Huo. So it means Samuel Miller would be displeased to hear it.


    "Do you know what happened to Mills Enterprise?" Gideon asked his son.


    The other day, the Mills Enterprise suddenly dered bankruptcy. But Gideon knew very well about their crisis. Chairman Mills rejected Samuel Miller''s partnership, and with only a snap of his finger, the Mills reached their end.


    Gideon would not allow that to happen. <i>''This son of mine is not thinking at all!''</i> But he is actually feeling strange. John seemed rxed hearing this.


    John bitterly smiled as he looked at his dad. He knew that his favorite son was his twin brother. All these years, he did everything to make him proud. Still, his dad was all over the moon when Jay came and lived with them again.


    Now, his dad still does not believe in his capability. Instead, he would criticize him if he found an opportunity.


    ''You don''t recognize my aplishment nor show to me I am your son as well.'' John sneered in his heart. ''From here on, I will take over thepany and kick you out soon.''


    John thought his father would continue being unfair to him. He is better at his own, and the best step he must do is no longer rely on his father''s decision.


    Thinking all of that, John pursed his lips into a cunning smile. Gideon felt his son was emanating a strange aura.


    "What''s wrong?" He cannot wait for his son to share his thoughts. Gideon had hinted his impatience to hear.


    "You seem to haven''t heard yet. Mills Enterprise is now a subsidiarypany of Davies Corporation."


    "What did you say?" Gideon was shocked to learn the fresh news.


    "It was not in the news yet. But it was Davies who bought Mills Enterprise."


    "How did you know?" As a chairman of thepany, he seems behind on thetest news.


    "Of course, the Davies Corp CEO told me." John shrugged a shoulder as he answered nonchntly.


    "Jacob? And when you have a pleasant talk with him? Jacob knows now that we are taking the side of Liam." There was a re in Gideon''s eyes when he queried his son.


    John curled his lips as he could see the shock on his father''s face. ''You are not the only one who can get a strong backup, dad.''


    Although John''s heart is filled with bitterness that up to now, his father has no confidence in him getting a great ally. He was enjoying annoying him now.


    "Uncle Jacob is already stepping down on the seat."


    "What? Are you saying that his son-inw is officially the CEO?" Gideon was stunned to hear the news.


    "You heard me right, dad. Vincent Shen is the new CEO of Davies Corporation. It was Vincent''s move as well to save Mills Enterprise." John pressed his mouth, not to let out hisugh after seeing his dad''s pupils want to jump out from the sockets because of shock.


    Gideon hurls a long breath. He was pondering whether Samuel Miller knew about this already.


    "I need to tell Samuel about..." Gideon picked up his phone on the table. However, his son stopped him.


    "Dad! I told you we were no longer Samuel''s puppet." John quickly stopped his father. He is sick of following someone, especially people like Samuel Miller.


    "Are you certain that you are going to fight against Liam Huo?" Gideon bellowed. He could not believe that Vincent Shen had sessfully brainwashed his son!


    "I am not fighting against Liam, but freeing from Samuel Miller. And if you n to be a puppet by that man. Go ahead, dad. However, you cannot bring down the J Group." John firmly told his dad.


    "What do you mean by that? I am the chairman! How dare you threaten me! Do you think you have more power than me?"


    "But you can''t do it when J Group is sinking," John smirked, which annoyed his dad. Determination exhibits in his eyes that he would fight his dad if they only disagreed with the n in his mind.


    "Is that how much confidence Vincent Shen gives you? Huh! Don''t you think he is using you as well?"


    "At least Vincent is better than Samuel Miller. What can Liam do? Where is he now? Do you still believe there is a way out for him? Who is in the massive advantage? Is it Vincent Shen?" John questioned his dad, who found it hard to retort or make a counter statement.


    At that moment, John knew he won in this argument. He picked the teacup and sipped on it. His eyes filled with pride, staring back at his father.


    <i>''I don''t need your recognition, dad. But I will show you that no one can manage the group other than me.''</i> John was on his train of thoughts when his dad''s phone rang.


    Gideon froze in his chair when the caller ID belonged to Samuel Miller.


    "Hello? Director Miller?"


    "Is your son out of his mind?"


    Gideon wiped the beads of cold sweat that formed on his forehead. It made him wonder. How did he know John had a good rtionship with Vincent Shen?


    He guessed Samuel wanted to confirm whether it was true. But he does not know that thewyer is talking about something else.


    "How dare your son email me a letter that J Group no longer needs Huo Holding''s assistance!?"


    Gideon Jackson wished for the floor to swallow him and hide from Samuel Miller''s wrath. He didn''t know that his son had made a move already behind his back.


    <i>''You piece of sh*t!''</i> ring at his son, Gideon cursed his son repeatedly inside his head. He was at a loss for words, also lost how he could put good words in Samuel Miller''s good book that now his son ruined everything he worked hard for.


    "It seemed like you only took for granted my warning to you, Chairman Jackson."


    Gideon was on the edge of his seat. That threat sure gives a chill down on his spine. Before he could open his mouth, the call had hung up.


    Gideon gritted his teeth at the tension he felt from that call. He rubs his forehead and tries to calm his shaking nerves.


    "Look at what you''ve done! You know what Director Miller can do to us?"


    John didn''t feel threatened at all. That is what Gideon sees in his son''s sullen face. While he almost peed his pants, his son only enjoyed his tea!


    Gideon could not sleep, even with just one wink. He was restless in his bed, which irritates his second wife. But she could notin and bear it when the bed bounced every time her husband turned on his side.


    The following morning, news broke out that authorities were searching one of the J Group warehouses at the T Country branch for possible smuggling products stored in the ce.


    At that moment, government officials run an investigation and question the branch office supervisors.


    "Now, what are you going to do?" Gideon shouted at his son.


    Remain silent in his chair; John is only minding eating his breakfast. He ignored his dad but enjoyed the sumptuous food.


    Gideon was on his wits that his son didn''t care at all. If they lose the T Country branch, it will bring a massive loss to theirpany.


    "Did you hear me, John?" He was infuriated by how stubborn his son was.


    John rolled his eyes. Listening further to his dad continues bellowing at him finally, losing his appetite.


    John pulled out his phone and dialed a particr contact. Gideon didn''t leave his eyes and watched his son''s every move.


    "Hey, Rob! Are you in the country?"


    At the other line, the person replied, "Yeah. I''m in thepany. Are youing?"


    "Yup. I''m on my way to the airport."


    "Alright. See youter, then? Are you treating me to a meal?" Joke by the man from the other line.


    "Sure!" John pursed his lips into a smile. Not long, he hung up the call and resumed having his meal.


    "Who did you call?" Gideon asked curiously. He wondered if that person was John''s friend and could help them solve the problem. At first, he thought John would call Vincent for help as he was too proudst night, announcing his partnership with that man.


    "Rob Dawson," John answered his dad with a cold tone in his voice.

 Chapter 444 - Ally (Two)

    It surprised Gideon to learn this. He asked, "When did you have good terms with Rob Dawson?"


    They were operating in T Country for many years now. Dawson is the most influential family because of its political connections. However, no one got too close to them as they were cautious who to be friends with and not let anyone take advantage of them.


    So that moment, Gideon felt admiration toward his son. He softened his gaze, and a faint smile appeared on his lips. He queried, "Is your friend willing to help you with the matter?"


    John sneered inwardly. He saw the sudden changes in his father after he learned he had a powerful man that could back them up.


    "Vincent promised to lend his hand every time J Group was in trouble. Now, your Samuel Miller exposed his own illegal business and used us as his scapegoat by pointing the crime at us. Is that even a smart move?"


    Gideon did not reply to his son but let him continue.


    "Do you know that Samuel Miller is only digging his own grave, dad? So which side are you taking at this moment? Dad?"


    It takes several moments before Gideon has decided. He mused, <i>''Maybe it is the best idea to cut ties with Huo Holdings.''</i>


    "What are you nning?" He asked John.


    "I have something I want you to do for thepany while I am in T Country, dad."


    At that moment, John felt the triumph to push his dad to yield to him. It was a great feeling. Thanks to Vincent, the n of provoking Samuel Miller was working.


    Vincent had already predicted that Samuel would not sit idly but n out how he''ll bring J Group down to the mud.


    No one has thought he would choose to expose the illegal activities that he, who handles them. It is one thing that John had hated his dad to have a partnership with Samuel Miller because of the illegal activities they did within their branch offices.


    But now? He will put an end to it.


    ''He is a funny guy.'' John shook his head, referring to Samuel Miller.


    That same day, John flew to T Country and met with Robter in the evening at a restaurant.


    "You''re finally here!"


    "Mikael? Why were you here too?"


    "Hey! Are you not happy to see me?" The guy sounded hurt. But John only rolled his eyes. Mikael isughing and dragging John to the dining table in the middle of that private room.


    "I just saw you the other week hanging out with Rob. Now you are still around, Rob. If you are not married and a father now, I would think that you are in love with this guy."


    "You bastard!" Mikael spat. He throws a light punch on John''s shoulder.


    "Hey, John!"


    Someone at the door called out to him. John got up from the chair when he recognized the man.


    "Brent Morris... I''m surprised you were also here." He stretched his arm and offered a handshake to the guy.


    "I was assigned to oversee the affairs of yourpany."


    "You mean, the association would like to be involved in this?" John didn''t know what to say further. ''Is this the help Vincent has said on the phone?''


    On his way here in T Country, he and Vincent had a long conversation over the phone. Now he''d remembered that Brent Morris was there when the Huo cousins, Liam and Galvin, were apprehended.


    Brent replied, "Yes. Master Shun called me after Vincent asked him a favor."


    <i>''Wow.''</i> John had rendered speechless. Even the emperor is backing up Vincent.


    "Hey, Rob! Food is ready!"


    A beautiful woman walked into the private room, followed by two waiters, pushing a cart filled with dishes.


    Uponying his eyes on the woman, John could not take his eyes off her. He felt like he was star-struck the moment his eyesy on her. But she called Rob just now. John wondered what rtionship they have.


    "Finally! I am starving!" Mikael groaned. He sighs with relief when the food is served on the table.


    John shook his head, watching Mikael fill his te, and began stuffing his mouth. The guy looks like he doesn''t own a resort and restaurants with the table manners he is showing.


    John moved his gaze toward the woman, who continued cing more dishes on the table.


    "They all look delicious." John could not help speaking to get the woman''s attention. He was curious to know her name, but no one remembered to introduce them to each other.


    So he was thinking of making a move to introduce himself. It worries him that she might be Rob''s girlfriend. With that thought, John felt the pain in his heart.


    ''What''s wrong with me? Why am I feeling this way?''


    John was in a trance when the woman''s voice snapped him back to the present.


    "I hope you like it. My brother didn''t tell me he had more friends toe over. I should have cooked more dishes."


    "Brother?" John was still dazed when he uttered this. "Who''s your brother?"


    "Have you not recognized Carmen?" Mikael spoke between, stuffing his mouth.


    John racked his head, recounting his memories. Carmen smiled shyly at him, and by what she did, suddenly something urred to him.


    "Carmen Dawson!" After he eximed, he turned his head in Rob''s direction and asked. "Is she really your little sister, Rob?"


    "What kind of reaction is that?" Rob raised his eyebrow upon seeing the shock on John''s face.


    "Hey. I was just stunned that your sister grew this beautiful now. I mean, of course, she was cute back then. But look at her now. She''s finally grown into a woman!"


    Rob shoots a warning stare at John. "Hey! I''m a guy. So I understand what you were muttering about. Even what you were thinking."


    "I''m justplimenting your sister," John exined. He nced at Carmen and smiled sweetly at her. The woman also smiled back then offered the dishes in her hand.


    "Why are you serving the food? Why don''t you take a seat and join us?" It made John wonder that a princess like Carmen was serving them as a waitress.


    "Hey, man! Carmen owned this restaurant!"


    "Oh, really?"


    "John, you were so focused on yourpany that you seem forgotten. Isn''t Carmen went to the same college as you are?"


    "Really?" John was surprised to hear this. He tried to dig into his memory only to get disappointed in himself.


    Back then, the only woman in his eyes was the one who didn''t love him back. He only sees her and no one else. Now that he woke up from his foolishness. He realizes that he actually missed so many things in his youthful days.


    "I''m sorry, Carmen if I remember nothing. I am so focused on achieving the highest recognition in college, so I am not friendly around." Unlike Jay, his twin brother has many friends because he didn''t give effort in his study but spent most of his time outdoors.


    "It''s okay, senior! You were always with your twin brother and his girlfriend so I always see you around."


    "Humm¡­ why senior?" John didn''t understand. But he suddenly felt ufortable upon mentioning the two people he wanted to forget in his life.


    "I was a freshman when I enrolled at Northern University. Then you are in yourst year."


    "Oh. I see. Then you spoke to my brother, too?" It was because Jay was easy to talk with, so many people wanted to be his friends.


    "Not really. I never talk to your brother." Carmen shook her head.


    "Really?" John pursed his lips into a tender smile. Then he noticed the blush on her cheeks. He thought, <i>''Is she feeling shy because of me?''?</i>


    John was regretful that he didn''t pay attention to other things during college. On the other hand, Carmen had the opposite in her mind.


    She badly wanted to approach John, but she was too shy to talk to him. Besides, she had a look of a nerd back then, and she could tell that John liked his brother''s girlfriend.


    Like her, it was a one-sided love¡­


    *


    Meanwhile, back in Northern Australia...


    Gideon Jackson is seated anxiously on his leather chair while waiting for Samuel to answer his call.


    After the five rings, finally, the man picked up his phone.


    "Hello?"


    "Director Miller, it''s me, Chairman Jackson."


    "I could see that it was you, Chairman Jackson. Now, what do you want from me?"


    Gideon swallowed his pride along with the lump in his throat.


    "Director Miller, I have a proposition with you. I am getting old, and I just wanted to enjoy my retirement. So I want to sell all of my shares to you."


    "Are you sure about that, Chairman Jackson? How about your son?"


    Gideon twitches his mouth after hearing his son''s name. His face darkened as he answered Samuel.


    "It was my blood and sweat that I invested in thatpany. It''s up to me what I will do about it. I will buy a yacht and travel around the world with my wife. My son can have three percent shares in thepany. You will get at least forty percent, so it is up to you which department you will demote my son to."


    Samuel Miller contracted his pupils while listening to Gideon''s bbed. ''What a selfish father!''


    He really hates a man like Gideon Jackson, who would abandon his family for money.


    "Alright. I wille to Australia."


    Finally, Samuel agreed to meet up with Gideon to sign the documents.


    <i>''Poor John. He does not know what his father plotted against him.''?</i>


    Samuel felt pity for him. At that moment, memories of his painful past sh in his mind.


    <i>''Gideon Jackson deserves to disappear in this world,''</i> he thought.

 Chapter 445 - The New Owner Of J Group

    It has been a week since the J Group was under investigation regarding the cargo stored in their warehouse. Thanks to the help of his friends, they solved the problem sooner.


    However, when John came home from T Country. Shocking news weed him.


    "What is the meaning of this?" John''s voice is echoing throughout the CEO''s office.


    His assistant had just reported; it shocked him after listening to him. He is no longer the CEO of J Group after his father sold all of his shares to Samuel Miller.


    Silence filled the office for a moment. Someone knocked on the door. A secretary walked in like a scared cat. She was afraid to see the rage on their boss'' face. However, she has to do her job.


    "Mr. Jackson, Chairman Miller''s assistant, made a call just now. He wanted to meet you in the hotel."


    John shrunk his pupils as he gritted his teeth, thinking Samuel Miller was now holding the highest shares of thepany, owning, including all of their establishments. <i>''You really are something, dad!''</i>


    Filled with resentment in his heart, John drove toward Jackson Suites. Now he has arrived at the hotel. He saw several security guards scattered around the premises.


    John shook his head and chuckled ridiculously. <i>''Samuel Miller, what are you afraid of now?''</i>


    He solved the matter in their branch office at T Country with the help of Dawson''s political influences. After Samuel Miller exposed his illegal activities; it was Vincent, who quickly worked on the matter by asking Dawson''s help. With his words, Rob''s family helped by releasing a statement that J Group has legal papers to store and transport the goods stored in their warehouses.


    He shows Samuel Miller that he can fight against him. However, he did not expect his father would push him into the mud. Now news in thepany that he will be demoted after the Jackson family only has three percent shares in J Group.


    <i>''Why am I not surprised?''</i> John asked himself while taking the elevator toward the presidential suite. Selling his dad''spany to someone like Samuel Miller is something Gideon would do because he is a selfish man and a selfish father.


    John rang his phone, he immediately checked on the call.


    "What is it?" He asked coldly. The caller is his assistant, who felt a chill on his spine hearing his indifferent tone.


    "Mr. Jackson, a report came in. The chairman, I mean ex-chairman Jackson, purchased a superyacht worth hundred million dors!"


    The news thunderstruck John. It took a few more seconds before he snapped himself to settle his breathing.


    "Is that so? Keep me posted." John hung up the call. He thrives on staying calm.


    Dropping both of his shoulders to his sides, John felt like the world copsed on him after he checked out the photos his assistant sent him. "Dad, you are really so unfair."


    The resentment he felt for his father had even worsened after John saw his dad and Jay fishing and have a great bonding time as father and son on a hundred million yacht while he was left alone with only a three percent share of thepany.


    The Jackson vi was left to him. At least, he will not live in the street or a single bedroom apartment from an extensive penthouse. He lives in one of their residential towers. But now, everything belongs to Samuel Miller. His good life was robbed!


    He should never believe in his dad to help him. Instead, he was trampled on the ground by him. John''s fingers digging in his palm. He remained not being himself even after he arrived at the presidential suite.


    "You seemed lost in thoughts, John."


    John was pulled out from deep thoughts when he heard a voice. He looked up, and his gaze met a pair of gray eyes, staring at him with intent. John realized he was already seated on a single couch across from Samuel Miller.


    "You¡­" He was still in a daze; he could not find the right words to throw at the man in front of him after everything he had done to him.


    "You must have already heard that I am the new owner of J Group." Samuel grinned at John, which annoyed thetter.


    "What do you want from me!? Are you not satisfied yet?" He tried to sound fearful, but John knew he was inferior no matter what he would say and how much he would bellow at Samuel.


    "Am I really the one who needs something between us? Is it you?" said Samuel nonchntly. Swirling the goblet in his hand, he sipped on the wine.


    John narrowed his gaze and asked with confusion written all over his face.


    "What do you mean by that?"


    "John¡­ John¡­ John¡­ Aren''t you angry to see your dad and brother having a good life, but you were left almost penniless? How long would you survive with the savings that you have in your bank ount?"


    John shoots a dagger look at Samuel. The man onlyughed at him.


    "Am I your enemy here? It was your father who proposed that I buy all of his shares. Who am I to reject such an offer?"


    John pulled the corner of his mouth and grinned.


    "Then what am I doing here? Don''t worry. I won''t beat around the bush. You are kicking me out of thepany. Right? Then you need not waste your time telling me in person. I will resign right after I sort out a few important projects that I handle. I won''t give you difficulties to fire me." Upon saying this, John got up from the couch and turned around, preparing to head to the door.


    "Did you hear me saying anything?"


    "Isn''t that the reason you summon me?" John retorted with a sneer.


    Samuel smiled and replied, "It was quite the opposite."


    "What?" Now his face is filled with curiosity. John stared at Samuel with impatience in his eyes.


    Samuel waved his hand, gesturing for him toe and take a seat once again, and John followed.


    "I''m all ears." Although he showed an interest in whatever Samuel would tell him, John hated him, so he had no reason to sound sincere. Instead, his tone was cold and stern.


    Despite the indifference John showed him, Samuel calmly smiled as he began.


    "As I''ve mentioned just now, I am not your enemy, John." Then he added with a soft tone in his voice. "I could feel your pain and suffering, John."


    "Howe?" There is a mocking smile across John''s face. <i>''A murderer like you has a kind heart? What a joke.''</i>


    "My father also abandoned me. I was just a kid back then. Unlike you, you can already take care of yourself. Moving on, I identally saw him. My father was happily married to a rich woman, and they have a son together. You know what? He loved him so much. He carried him on his shoulders, and they wereughing." Samuel took a brief silence before he carried on.


    "What is the difference between me and my younger brother? That is what I always ask myself."


    "Then what''s your point in telling me this?" asked John impatiently.. He had guessed that Samuel was trying to brew something.

 Chapter 446 - The Agreement

    "You need not suffer," said Samuel.


    The way he gazes at John is full of tenderness and sincerity in his voice like you will believe he is really genuine.


    "I will help you free from your father and the shadow of your brother," he added afterward.


    "Is that so? Enlightened me then," John uttered in a sarcastic tone. ''Is this how they manipted Liam?''


    It came to his mind that what made Liam change has something to do with the Organization that he thinks of as his family. It was strange to go from being an honorable mafia to a bad one.


    "I can give you everything. You will get back the J Group and all that owned by the Jackson family, including this hotel, yes, and your penthouse."


    "Why are you offering me this?"


    "As I''ve mentioned earlier, I could feel your pain being betrayed by your very own father."


    "Do you think that is enough to convince me?"


    "No." Samuel ced a folder on the table. He pushed it toward John. "Have a look."


    "What is this?"


    "Why don''t you see it for yourself?" Samuel encouraged him.


    John picked up the folder and flipped the documents inside. The more he read the contents, the darker his face became.


    The folder was Gideon Jackson, Last Will, stating that he left the yacht, the chopper, and arge amount to his son Jay.


    ''Even the money he would not split it for me?'' John sneered in his heart after learning the truth.


    "Well, everything will be yours if you will ept my proposal."


    "What is it?"


    Samuel pulled the corner of his mouth to see John in a daze of his anger. He could see how the side of the folder crumpled when John gripped it tight.


    "It is too simple. Be my eyes and ears to Vincent."


    "What? How would I do that?"


    "Come on. I know that you and Vincent are on good terms now."


    John replied, "You are wrong. Vincent does not trust mepletely."


    "Isn''t that what you should do? To gain his trust?"


    "What is your n, Director Miller?" asked John, with intrigue.


    "You will get everything you want in this life with just a snap of my finger if you meet my condition."


    "To be a spy to the Davies?" John guessed.


    Samuel curled his thin lips. "And to kill Vincent Shen."


    "Why are you so interested in Vincent Shen? Is this still about Liam''s will? Or this is just yours?"


    "You don''t need to ask many questions." A sharp re shed in his eyes, but it onlysted for a few seconds as Samuel quickly concealed them. He smiled and continued. This time, his tone was soft. "That''s the first rule. You will get everything you wanted even the woman you love. But of course, ites to a price."


    John saw the cunning smile ying on Samuel''s lips. He asked suspiciously, "How can I be sure you are not tricking me?"


    Samuel chuckled and shook his head. He told John,


    "Do you think I am after money? I have a lot of those. But I hate to see someone treated unfairly by their own blood."


    "Are you saying that I can trust you and be my good brother more than I have been with my twin brother?" John sneered mockingly at Samuel.


    "You don''t need someone blood-rted to be your brother or family. If you join me, we will be your new and real family." Samuel emphasized hisst two worlds before he went to convince John furthermore.


    "If we seed in killing Vincent Shen and bring down Davies Corporation. You got the privilege of meeting my master, the same man who opened Liam''s mind into reality."


    "Is he going to open my mind as well?" Raising an eyebrow, John has be intrigued to know more information about this ''master'' Samuel has mentioned.


    "Only if you agreed..." Samuel gave John a sincere gaze. His face looks too innocent that no one would believe he is responsible for many murders not only in wealthy families but also in people that have nothing to do with him.


    While John fell into deep thoughts, Samuel took this opportunity toy his proposal.


    "If you agree now, I can sign these documents. Soon, everything is yours. I can give back twenty percent shares, and you will get the rest once your job isplete."


    When there is no reply from John, he stays staring at Samuel. Thetter carries on encouraging him.


    "You don''t need to answer me real quick. You can think about it all night."


    "No."


    "Hmm?"


    "I don''t need to wait for another day. I want to show dad I don''t need him or his f**king family." There is firmness in John''s words, revealing the anger and hatred he had felt for his dad and twin brother.


    "Then..." Samuel got up from the couch and stood on his feet, stretching his hand for a handshake. "Congrattions, CEO John Jackson."


    John stood on his feet and epted Samuel''s hand. They sealed their agreement with a handshake.


    "You made the right choice." Samuel Miller''s smile broadened as he shook John''s hand.


    *


    Meanwhile, at Davies Mansion. Hilda is already preparing for bed when light knocks sound on the door.


    Hilda quickly opened the door with thoughts that something had happened with Hailee, and a nanny came to inform her. But to her surprise, it was Hailee standing in front of the door and the nannies standing two meters behind her.


    "What''s wrong?"She asked. "Why are you here? You should have called me if you needed something from me."


    The worries on Hilda''s face couldn''t paint. Hailee smiled warmly to see the sincerity in her mom-inw''s eyes.


    "I''m fine, mom. It''s just that I couldn''t sleep," said Hailee. Hilda guided her inside the bedroom and helped her sit down on the couch on the footbed.


    "Do you want me to heat a ss of milk? Perhaps cook you a porridge with chicken meat?"


    "Milk is fine, mom."


    "Alright. I''ll be right back." Hilda gets out of the bedroom with hurried steps. Hailee smiled after she heard her mom-inw instructing the nannies to listen and might as she would call for them.


    Since she was in a crucial condition, her mom-inw moved to the bedroom close to her and Vincent; so that she could attend to her right away, especially when Vincent was not home.


    When Hilda came back, a tray in her hand with a ss of warm milk, a distilled bottle of water, then there were also cookies and fruits.


    "Thanks, mom." Hailee did not forget to thank her mom-inw before she excitedly dipped the cookies in the milk.


    "You can tell me if you need anything else," said Hilda. She watched Hailee enjoying having her snacks.


    When Hailee was halfway to finish her milk, she stopped and looked at her mom-inw. Hilda, who never left her eyes on Hailee. She noticed the hesitancy of bringing up something.


    "Is there something bothering you?" She has to initiate; otherwise, Hailee would not share what troubled her.


    Hailee pondered for a moment, then smiled shyly after making up her mind.


    "Mom, can I sleep next to you?"


    "Oh..." It didn''t conceal in Hilda''s face how surprised she was. It never crossed her mind that one day, Hailee would ask for such a request. "Are you ufortable sleeping alone?"


    Hailee nodded. Actually, she could not tell her mom-inw that these passing nights, she has been having nightmares.


    Vincent is frequently on trips now that he is officially the CEO of Davies Group. The threats of the assassination were still up. She could not stop herself from worrying too much.


    "Alright. Let me go to bed." After saying this, Hilda brought more pillows and piled them on the headboard and in the middle of the bed where Hailee could hug them. She was only lying on her sides most of the time.


    The next morning, the moment she woke up, Hailee pursed her lips into a smile. dly, her decision to sleep with her mom-inw was right. Last night, she didn''t have a nightmare, but a pleasant sleep.


    "Good morning, gorgeous."


    Hailee quickly opened her eyes after someone spoke in a hoarse, sweet voice. She rubbed her eyes and squinted at them; maybe, she was only dreaming.


    "You can kiss me to check if you are only dreaming."


    Hailee''s eyes widened, and her smile broadened after her husband''s warm breath fanning her face.


    "You''re home!" She threw her arms around Vincent''s neck and kissed him longingly.


    Hailee sighs with relief that her husband came home in one piece.. Hence,? she knew, their fight isn''t over yet.

 Chapter 447 - New CEOs Welcome Party (One)

    "When did you arrive?" Hailee asked. She was purring on Vincent''s chest, snuggling him tight to cope with the days they were separated since her husband had been upied with more work than he had before.


    "I flew back after midnight."


    Vincentbed Hailee''s hair and brushed her cheeks full of love. He is missing her too much. When he asked his mom how Hailee was, he was always on the edge of his seats as he wished to go home sooner to apany her when she suffered from abdominal pain or chest pain.


    "Oh, you calcte to arrive before sunrise."


    "Hum¡­" Vincent hummed, nodding his head.


    "Perfect then!" Hailee pped her hands. "Janise needs you to have a fitting of your tuxedo for the party next week. I wished I could be there with you."


    "I wished you were there, too. Every moment of my life is something I want to share with you. However, I cannot bear to see you suffer after." Vincent uttered with regret.


    There is a wee party for him in one week. It will also be the official announcement of Jacob retiring as the President of Davies Group, but a new CEO will step in.


    The party will only tire Hailee, and it was a risk to her condition. She struggled to stand up, more so in walking around as she felt her bump were heavier as the week passes by. She always rubbed her lower back and stroked her belly from the ufortable she felt and her nannies to massage her foot.


    "Where''s mom?" Hailee wondered where her mom-inw went to after Vincent arrived and now upied the other side of the bed.


    "She was in the kitchen to make you fresh tonics. She will also ask Chef Lynn and Chef Han for a delicious breakfast."


    "Hmm¡­ I could feel her putting the pillows on when I turned to my other side. Then I also shifted positions. I wonder if mom had proper sleepst night."


    "Mom is fine. She woke up early, and she looked fresh." Vincent had this meaningful smile when he replied to Hailee.


    As a matter of fact, it was his mom who actually texted him to report how Hailee has been having trouble sleeping. Hailee did not admit it to her, but ording to his mom, she could tell it.


    And so, he left Dream City by midnight, and hended in Sydney before five in the morning. From the airport, he drove thetest Montfort sports car he designed, the one Hailee bought from him as she likes it too much. It has a speed of 301 MPH and 1600 horsepower.


    It just took him and Pitt, who drove thetest Bugatti Chiron, to arrive at the mansion in fifteen minutes, as there was no traffic on the way. Vincent then had the chance to close his eyes for a few hours next to Hailee.


    "It was nine in the morning. Are you not going to the office?"


    "I took a half-day off, butter I need to attend the conference meeting in the afternoon."


    "Okay. Then I will ask the chef to prepare a delightful lunch!"


    "That would be wonderful. I''ll instruct your nannies to arrange our breakfast on the terrace."


    "Okay. Let''s have a bath together after having our breakfast."


    "Sure." Vincent kissed the top of Hailee''s nose before he walked toward the door.


    *


    SOLARIS HOTEL


    One weekter, the entrance of Sris Hotel was filled with reporters and paparazzi to capture the Red Carpet of the special event tonight.


    Tonight, each of Davies Corporation''s bosses and business partners was invited. Including the entire Dream City constructionpanies that have projects with Davies Group.


    And so tonight, Hailee''s executive knights also attended the party as a representative of Davies Group and Vincent''s family were present to embody Shen Group.


    At that moment, a white limousine pulled over. Hundreds of cameras were aiming at the car as they knew it was the Shen family arrived.


    Frederick, Hilda, and their daughters, Deana and Sheena, are escorted by their husbands walking on the Red Carpet.


    "I thought your brother''s wedding would be thest grand celebration I would attend, like walking on the red carpet," Stephen whispered in his wife''s ear.


    Sheena smiled at her husband and whispered back. "It was only the beginning, my dear. We will always be present at every grand celebration of our family."


    Indeed, Vincent always shared the important happenings in his life with his family; through sadness or happiness, they learned to hold on to each other.


    "I never imagined the day I would be part of the limelight. I was always amazed that I married a princess." Stephen added when they were finally free from the media.


    Sheena halted and faced her husband. She fixed his bow tie and smiled at him.


    "Sometimes, a princess does not need a prince. But a kind heart man, who loves her with all his whole heart."


    Stephen was moved by Sheena''s words. He has nothing he could offer to his wife but his love.


    "I love you, babe." she peaked on her husband''s cheek.


    "I love you too, babe."


    Hand in hand, Sheena and Stephen resumed walking toward the Grand Hall of Hailee''s hotel. Tonight, some more important people have arrived, and the media was ted to take hundreds of photos of them.


    "Master Crow! Can we interview you briefly?"


    Shun halted in his tracks and walked closer to the reporters.


    "Shun, it is not a good idea." Daichi Isagawa persuaded Shun to stop, but the guy only smiled at him.


    He reasoned, "No worries. The sparrows are looking out from the sky."


    Shun was meant for his special team of snipers. When he halted in front of the reporters, many rushed over to have a chance to ask him a question.


    "I''ll only answer the best question."


    After Shun says that, each of the reporters throws their questions. Shun keenly listens if there are significant questions to answer with sensibility in return.


    "Master Crow! What update can you share with us regarding Liam Huo?"


    "Master Crow! Everyone is curious why your wife never looks old. Can you tell us your secret?"


    "Yes, Master Crow! Your wife had just given birth, but she quickly returned to her slender finger!"


    Shun nced at Cassandra, who was currently taking a picture in front of the signboard with the Montfort couple, Madison and Levi.


    Returning his attention to the reporter, Shun smiled and picked that question to answer.


    "Of course, I take very good care of my wife. That is why..." Shun trailed his words.


    The media are keener to hear hisment regarding Liam Huo, but the reporters give up in pursuing the question as obvious, that Shun would only dodge it if they ask a seriously rted question.


    "Master Crow, what can youment about the parents of your son''s ssmate regarding the viral video? The video contents are about your son saying he wants to be a scientist and he will build a time machine. Would the Crow and Williams Institution support this?"


    Shun nced at the reporter who threw this question. He chuckled and replied to that.


    "That video was during my eldest son''s ss held a Career Day activity. Allen chose a scientist costume, and the speech he prepared was to build a time machine. He was much influenced by his uncle Derek Williams, who broke through the line of medicine many times. So, if my son Allen truly pursues Science, then I will definitely give my hundred percent support to the career he will choose."


    "If your family sessfully built a time machine. Which time are you going to travel, Master Crow?"


    Everyone turned their head to the person who threw the question. Suddenly, the crowd shut their mouths, but the noise could only be heard by the clocks of their cameras.


    Each of them anticipated how Shun would answer this question. They all look expectant. On the other hand, Shun snickered upon recognizing that man.


    ''Samuel Miller¡­''


    The guy disguises but Shun still recognizes him. After a moment had passed, Shunughed heartily.


    "I would definitely visit the future, fifty years from now if my wife stops aging at eighteen. I am curious if she divorces me when I am like eighty years old by then?"


    The crowdughed with Shun''s jest. He looked at the man and beamed at him. Shun took this opportunity to divert the reporter''s attention.


    "It looks like the Shang family has arrived. Excuse me, everyone."


    Mentioning the Shang family, the media quickly positioned their cameras toward Theo Shang and his pregnant wife.


    Shun and Cassandra meet them halfway, and together, they pose for a photo.


    Meanwhile, Hailee watched the live streaming of the event. She was sad that she wasn''t there to mingle with her friends. She was also envious that Cassandra''s figure gets back so quickly like she didn''t give birth.


    "Would my figure return so immediately?" Hailee asked hopelessly.


    The three girls who apanied her shared a look at each other. At this moment, they cannot answer Hailee as they did not experience it yet, such things as being a mother.


    "We know you would definitely get back on your perfect finger once the princes and princesses came out to the world," said Hazel instantly, to console Hailee.


    "I seconded, Hail! I often remember how you ate too much. However, you never gain too much weight!" Liza echoed.


    "I concurred! We actually envy you! Just a brief run. You burn fat so quickly!" Nadia chimed in.


    "Really? Do you think so?"


    "Yup!" The three girls nod their heads vigorously. dly, the next couple that walked in the Red Carpet caught Hailee''s attention. The girls sigh with relief that Hailee stopped throwing tan tantrums out of the blue.


    "Oh, my gosh! It was Carmen!" Suddenly, Hailee eximed and seemed excited as her index finger pointed at the TV screen.


    "Oh, I remember her at your wedding! She is so gorgeous!" Hazelplimented the beautiful woman wearing a white satin evening dress.


    "Yes, she is. Wow! Carmen and John look so great together!" Hailee could see that something was going on with the two. The way they stared at each other''s eyes was like she and Vincent.


    Hailee fell silent. For a moment, she contemted if John was a perfect guy for Carmen.


    ''But if Carmen loves John. Then I will give my support to my friend..'' It was what was on Hailee''s mind.

 Chapter 448 - New CEOs Welcome Party (Two)

    "Look at that! It was Miss Vera! Who is her handsome date tonight?" asked Nadia.


    Heard the girls discussing, Hailee snapped herself and stared at the TV screen. ''Huh? Trevor? When did these two get so close to each other?''


    She knew that her cousin Vera was a little distant from the boys. But judging by the way Trevor smiles and the two interact¡­


    ''Is something going on with them?''


    Hailee was left puzzled. Even though Vera and Trevor look like a great match, Hailee could feel that something was off.


    "Look, Hail! It was Miss Tiffany Lynch and¡­ Wow! It was Mr. Wilson!"


    Hailee was surprised to see Geoffrey together with Tiffany. Although Tiffany''s older brothers are Geoffrey''s closest friends, those two only treated each other as workmates.


    "Gosh! Life is so unfair! Why are these women so perfect like you, Hail? They were not only rich, beautiful, and had distinguished careers. They even had a handsome boyfriend!"


    Hailee could only shake her head, watching the three teenagers having a daydream. And so she put on encouraging words.


    "You girls are also beautiful. You are young, and in a few years, you will even look beautiful when you girls age a little more."


    "Do you think so, Hail?"


    "Of course! You girls will be prettier when you get mature."


    The three teenagers were delighted to hear Hailee''s words. They are definitely believing in her!


    However, Hailee was still left in wonder if her friends might have been into a pair for real.


    Hailee watched Vera and Tiffany hug each other, then the girls whispering into their ears. She wondered what the two were chatting about as they both giggled afterward.


    She wished to be there as well. She was a little envious that she could not attend her husband''s wee party as the new CEO of Davies Corporation. Anyway, her safety and her children''s health are the most important at this moment. Thinking this, Hailee lowered her gaze to her baby bump and ced both of her palms, creating a circr motion.


    Once again, Hailee''s gaze was fixed on the TV screen. The two pairs pose together for a picture, and undoubtedly they were a good match for each other. Well, she would be happy to see her wonderful friends in a rtionship. It is time for her knights to get married and have their own kids, so then the children will y together.


    With that thought, a smile appeared on Hailee''s lips as she started daydreaming about it. She believes it would be so fun to have ydates every weekend.


    *


    Back in the hotel, infamous tycoons wearing tailored tuxedos and coats can be seen happilyughing and mingling with champagne in their hands.


    All the guests that received an invitation attended this banquet not only to witness Jacob turning over his throne but also a chance to talk business and make a deal to even be wealthier than they already have been.


    As for their dates, the women are all dazzling with their evening dresses and jewelry gleaming from their bodies. It cannot deny how morous this evening is with these rich wives and daughters.


    Near the floor-ceiling window with a view of the Opera House, Vincent casually chatted with his dad-inw and Chairman Kingsley when Shun approached them.


    "Hey, Shun! Thanks foring!" Vincent was delighted to see this guy. He has been a great help to any trouble he and Hailee are in.


    "Don''t mention. I would love to take part in your wee party because I have high expectations from you to make me even richer in the next decades."


    "You are making me nervous, Shun." Vincent chuckled. The two younger men banter for a brief moment, which made the two older menugh, watching the young businessmen chatting cheerily.


    "That would mean we will also retire happily." Chairman Kingsley chimed in, joining the fun.


    "You are both chairmen yourself. Don''t pressure my son-inw. I don''t care whether Vincent would make my daughter even richer. All I want now is to spend time with my grandkids." Jacob stated that soon countered by Shun.


    "Uncle Jacob, you promised something to me." Shun reminded the old man.


    Jacob frowned and said, "Can I take it back?"


    "That was an oath made by you, Uncle Jacob."


    The four menugh. Only they, who can understand what they were talking about. Chairman Kingsley was also active in the Alliance, and so he was thrilled that Jacob stepped in as an Elder.


    As the merry conversation went on finally, Frederick could excuse himself from the guests that approached him for small talks.


    "Vincent!"


    Vincent turned his head toward his dad. He took long strides to meet him halfway, embracing each other. Fred patted his son''s back as he eximed delightedly. "Congrattions, son!"


    "Thank you, Dad¡­" Vincent thanked his dad. He then led him toward the three chairmen.


    "Jacob¡­" Fred shook hands with the man before he turned his attention toward the other two men. "Chairman Kingsley, good to see again."


    "Great to see you too, Frederick."


    The two older men shook hands. Fred then fixed his eyes on Shun. "Master Shun, please ept my gratitude for helping Vincent all the time."


    Fred humbly greeted the young man, who was known as superior in the business world and the Alliance.


    "Uncle Fred, don''t treat yourself as someone else. Nichs has been thinking of you as a brother. Hailee is my beloved little sister. So, we are all family."


    "It was my great honor." Fred smiled. He felt warmth in his heart to see these men unconditionally ept his son Vincent into their family.


    Running Davies Corporation is a bigger step for Vincent than managing Shen Group International. It means that his son is going to rule the world along with Shun and other aplished men that are present tonight. And as the father, he could not hide how proud he was.


    "Dad Fred, Dad Jacob, Shun, and Chairman Kingsley. Please excuse me for a while. I have someone I want to speak with."


    "Alright, son." Fred nodded at his son.


    "Go ahead, Vincent." Jacob patted his back. Shun and Chairman Kingsley nodded their heads.


    Vincent walked toward the other side of the grand hall. He approached the group of Mikael, Rob, and John.


    "Hey, President Shen!"


    "Thank you foring." Vincent shook hands with the three men, then was introduced to their dates afterward.


    "This is Carmen, Rob''s little sister, my date tonight," said John when he was thest man to introduce his date.


    "Hi, Carmen. You and Hailee are friends, right?"


    "Yes. How was she? We''ve chatted sometimes, but I''ve been busy with the opening of my restaurant."


    "She''s really having difficulties in her pregnancy. So, she cannote tonight." Vincent replied, an idea suddenlying to his mind. "How about visiting her? She would love to see her friends."


    "Can I?" Carmen felt excited to hear Vincent''s invitation. She would definitely ept it. In the past, she was hesitant to visit Hailee because she knew everyone was tightly guarding her.


    "Sure you can. Hailee would be d." Vincent assured Carmen with a small smile on his lips. The Dawson family is the most influential in the T Country. Having a good rtionship with them is essential.


    Carmen nced at John with expectant eyes. The two of them already made ns to go on a date tomorrow. But Carmen would not miss the chance to visit Hailee.


    "I will drop you tomorrow." John wanted to spend more time with Carmen since the woman was busy managing her new restaurant. But he knew she and Hailee were good friends.


    "Don''t you want to visit me too?" Raising one eyebrow, Vincent told John.

 Chapter 449 - New CEOs Welcome Party (Three)

    John chuckled and shook his head with the idea.


    "Am I really wee?" He asked Vincent.


    John wanted to confirm first because thest time he had an encounter with the princess, he was warned to take a detour and never show his face to her. He wanted to think that the princess felt disgusted in his face because of her pregnancy, but that was not the case.


    "Of course, you cane too. Hailee had already forgotten what happened in the past."


    "Then, I''m d to hear that." John pursed his lips into a meaningful smile. The glint in his eyes is unusual.


    Vincent did not notice all of that as Mikael tugged on the hem of his tuxedo like a little child.


    "Hey, Vincent! Why did you just invite John? How about us?" Mikael had pleading eyes, twinkling them as he fluttered his eyshes.


    Vincent shook his head at how disgusted Mikael looked at that moment. His wife elbowed him for how ugly he looked like doing that. She gave him a warning stare.


    "I should have invited you too. But I changed my mind now." Vincent jested.


    "Hey! Don''t show favoritism now! We are old buddies!" Mikael meant about John. Although they already bury the issue between Vincent and John, Mikael would love to tease the men.


    "Would you settle down for once?" Mikael''s wife Tess warned her husband. She could not believe how Mikael acted in front of Vincent, especially now that he was the big boss of Davies Corporation.


    The menughed along with their dates when Tess berated her husband. They all knew that Mikael had better shut his mouth and not talk back against his wife.


    Vincent was amused seeing this and so, he added, "Of course, you all cane as well. Our wives are good friends."


    After a while chatting with them, Vincent excused once again to mingle with the other guests. This time, it was Theo he approached who was talking to other Asian tycoons.


    "Hey, Theo."


    "Vincent! Congrattions, bro!" Theo and Vincent shook hands, hugged, and patted each other''s back.


    "Thank you, bro. I''m d you made it."


    "I would love toe. I''m happy my wife came along too. Otherwise, I could not leave her behind."


    Theo and Vincent nced at the corner where Shun''s wife was lounging on the long sofa with Theo''s wife and their friends. Vincent recognized Levi Montfort''s wife, Madison, and Shun''s sister, ire Ivanov.


    "I''m really d you all came. Hailee would love it if the girls could visit her."


    "Yeah. I heard they were nning to do that tomorrow."


    "That''s great! A barbecue party then?"


    "Sure!"


    Vincent could not contend with happiness. He had nothing he always wished but to make Hailee happy every minute of her days.


    Vincent swept his gaze to the entire hall, searching for his mom. He needs to inform her that guests areing to visit Hailee. He knew his mom would freak out if he would tell herter, so he need to notify her asap.


    Finally, Vincent found Hilda chatting with Theo''s stepmother, Nina Li Shang, and other elderdies from prominent families in high society.


    "Hey. I''ll excuse myself. I have to talk to mom," said Vincent to Theo.


    "Sure! Go ahead." When Vincent left, Theo walked toward the other tycoon he had a partnership with. "Hey, Spencer!"


    "Hey, Theo."


    "When is your wife''s due?" he asked, looking at Spencer''s wife, the owner of the Reynolds Vineyard, talking with Riley Isagawa and Jean Lawrence, the one who sang in Vincent and Hailee''s wedding.


    Hailee loves to hear Jean singing. So, Vincent specially invited Jean to this banquet. When he made the decision, he could imagine his wife''s face would brighten after she learned of his surprise.


    Spencer answered Theo''s query. "She will be due in three months."


    "Hmm¡­ Nik would give birth first, then."


    "Hum¡­" Spencer nodded his head. Soon, more men approached Theo and Spencer, who were Swiss descendants like them, and they all met during the Swiss Expo.


    When it was about time, Kristian and Pitt came to the stage to announce that the banquet had officially started. The two assistants acknowledge every guest''s presence tonight. After then, to give the opening remarks, Kristian called on Jacob on the stage.


    A round of apuse echoed the entire hall when Jacob walked on stage. He raised his left hand to settle the guest.


    "Good evening,dies and gentlemen. Thank you foring tonight. As you have already heard, tonight, I am formally stepping down as a chief executive officer of Davies Corporation. However, you have nothing to worry about. Davies Corporation had a morepetent leader that will move us to a new era. I assure you that this man is more innovative than me. We are now walking to a more advanced world. So I believe in this man''s capability that Davies Corporation will lead everyone''s lives to a more convenient world!"


    "I will not hide the fact of how impressed I am that my daughter has indeed chosen the best man to marry. Now, I am proudly presenting to you my son-inw, Vincent Shen! The new President of Davies Corporation and Davies International!"


    Loud apuse filled the entire grand hall.


    Wearing a white tuxedo with golden dragon buttons, Vincent climbed the stage staircase and stood next to his dad-inw. Jacob handed him the microphone. Vincent took it and faced the crowd below.


    He was a little nervous, but it''s nothing about his wedding day because he had mixed feelings at that moment. But tonight, he has confidence in himself because he is a little rxed.


    "Good evening, everyone. First of all, as the new CEO of Davies Corporation and Davies International¡­ I wee you to tonight''s Special G. If you think it was just my wee party and dad Jacob''s farewell party. You are wrong¡­" Vincent trailed his speech to have more anticipation in his words.


    "Before I ept this greater task. I promised my wife that I would love Davies Corporation as much as I love her. And so, I am standing before you, and tonight I am marrying Davies Corporation that for the better or the worst, I will take care of her for the rest of my life."


    Once again, the grand banquet hall filled with apuse. Hailee, who watched the live stream, shed tears at how proud she was of Vincent. Davies Corporation is her family''s pride and glory.


    In the future, she will pass it down to her children and so on to the next generations that will continue the legacy.


    And she was thrilled to see her future....

 Chapter 450 - New CEOs Welcome Party (Four)

    In the other part of the world, someone was infuriated by watching the news. Every media outlet was thrilled with reporting about the new big boss of Davies Corporation. The man was enraged because from here on, they would even have more difficulties in ending Vincent Shen''s life.


    This person made an abrupt notion, picking up his mobile phone from the long coffee table and dialing a particr contact.


    "What happened to the n I instructed you?"


    The man couldn''t hide his frustration. This is the first thought Samuel had the moment he heard his master''s voice.


    "Be patient, Master. I assure you, a good result will fall into your hands soon."


    Samuel Miller wasfortably seated behind the steering wheel of his ck Rolls Royce, watching the video ying at the Sydney Opera House, including the Harbor Bridge.


    Tonight, it was announced all over Australia that the new CEO had finally stepped in. Samuel Miller had a grin on his face upon watching the video ying over and over again.


    "Enjoy your remaining days, Vincent Shen¡­"


    Samuel could not wait for the near future toe. The expensive coffin where Vincent Shen rested inside forever is always ying on his head.


    Having a happy thought, he grabbed the bottle of champagne he prepared specially for this asion. Samuel got out of the car; then walked to the front. He leaned on the hood as he popped the cork off the bottle and let half of the content spray into the air.


    "Congrattions, Vincent Shen. Let''s celebrate the countdown of your remaining days!" After muttering this, Samuel gulped a mouthful of wine from the bottle. He then threw the bottle when it was emptied.


    When he got in the car, he saw a new message on his phone.


    "Vincent invited me toe over to the Davies'' mansion tomorrow."


    It was what the text message had said. Samuel pulled the corner of his mouth as his fingers typed for a reply.


    "Good job! I don''t need to instruct you what to do."


    "Of course, I know what I should do."


    *


    Back in the hotel...


    The person who sent that text casually put back the phone in his coat pocket.


    He looked at the stage with conflicted emotion, but then he quickly concealed them and listened further to the man giving his speech at the moment.


    He simply sipped on his champagne when apuse echoed the entire hall.


    "John?"


    A gentle voice called out to him. John turned his head to the woman moving toward him. His mouth instantly pursed into a sweet smile; stretching his arm and wrapping her shoulder, he dotingly rubbed her arm.


    "What is it?" He asked Carmen.


    "You''ve been drinking a lot of champagne. Remember that we are having lunch at Davies'' Mansion tomorrow." Carmen reminded him with worry in her eyes.


    The party had just started, but she noticed John had already drunk five sses of champagne. Carmen does not want to miss visiting Hailee because she has to leave in the evening to catch her flight tomorrow night. She could not reschedule it, as she had an important meeting the following day.


    "Don''t worry, I can hold my liquor well," John assures Carmen.


    Carmen pouted, hearing John''s reasons. Thest time John got drunk. The next morning, she woke up naked next to him. Upon recalling that, Carmen''s pinkish cheeks turned crimson red. She lightly shook her head to settle her chest when her heart started fluttering wildly. She quickly fixed her emotion as excitement crept into her entire body.


    But only for a moment. John''s palm ced on her hip, pulling her closer toward his body, where she could smell his pleasant cologne. Carmen lifted her gaze and looked at the guy lovingly.


    She has been in love with him since college. She thought it would be forever a one-sided love because even though she taught her heart to love someone else, she could not stop loving John.


    Now, the arm that encircled around her body belonged to the man she had been dreaming of.


    "If you don''t stop looking at me like that. I might be tempted to kiss you right here, right now." He threatens her.


    Carmen''s face immediately turned into a beet red after John''s husky voice reached her ear. As John lowered his head and whispered into her ear, his hot breath fanning on her cheek and his lips brushing on her earlobe.


    John was d to see that he affected Carmen. He pursed his lips and imed those red lips that were just an inch from his.


    It was only a quick kiss, but Carmen could feel her legs running out of strength. dly, John is gripping her tight as it takes all of her strength and sanity not to let out a moan from the sudden contact John made.


    In the next moment, Carmen was in a trance when Vincent ended his speech, and so she does not understand what was going on next. When John pulled her, she just followed him. Now she found herself swaying her body along with John.


    A while ago¡­


    "Ladies and gentlemen¡­ Before I finish my speech. I would like to take this moment." Vincent paused and looked at the camera that was live streaming for Hailee to witness the ongoing banquet.


    "My darling, I''ve wished for nothing in this world but to always be by your side. I love you forever¡­ I hope you like the surprise I prepared for you."


    "Ladies and gentlemen, as my wife can''t make it tonight because of her pregnancy. I want to honor the first dance with my mother. So I wanted to invite our special guest toe up to the stage¡­ Mrs. Jean Lawrence!"


    When Vincent acknowledges Jean, the invited orchestra ys the piece they''ve prepared as Vincent''s requests to y tonight. Not long, Jean''s soothing angelic voice filled the banquet hall.


    Vincent came down to the stage and walked toward his mom. Offering his arm, Hilda quickly holds her son and let him bring her to the dance floor.


    When Hilda and Vincent began dancing, the other guests walked to the dance floor and joined them.


    At the other part of Sydney, Hailee cannot dry her eyes when tears continue streaming down her cheeks. She was delighted to see Jean singing her mom''s favorite songs.


    Lately, she was ying these songs so that she could fall asleep. She told Vincent that her mom sang these songs as lubies. So she wanted to try if it would still have an effect now she is an adult and pregnant like that.


    "Hail, the boss is too sweet!" Hazel squeal. She was also crying as it moved her to see such a perfect couple who love each other and do anything to make their partner happy.


    "You should tell James what makes you happy too," said Hailee between sobbing.


    Hazel dropped her mouth open. After she confessed to Hailee the other day, now, this older sister deliberately teased her if she found a perfect time.


    "Hail, it should be nothing like that!" Although she pouted, she could not really hate this girl who was too kind to them. She would not get angry when Hailee only wishes for her friends to be happy as well.


    The other day, she and James finally had the chance to have a heart-to-heart talk. She was determined to ask James to talk to his mom to stop calling her daughter-inw. She always felt awkward when James never courted her, so there''s no "us" between them.


    Hazel nced at James, who was lounging on the couch in the corner while drinking beer alone. James chose not to attend the banquet and insisted on staying to watch Hailee when everyone else was at the party.


    James seemed to feel her gaze. He turned his head in her direction, and their eyes met and talked.


    Hazel, who has first averted her eyes and lowered her head to avoid seeing James'' meaningful stares. Maybe she will tell James what decision she made.


    The banquetsted past midnight. Many guests stayed longer, but Vincent bid good night early to go home. His parents- and dad-inw stayed behind to see off every guest leaving.


    Vincent made hurried steps to see his wife. But it surprised him to see the woman seated on the French chaise at the entrance.


    "Are you waiting for me?" Vincent asked Hailee as he walked toward her.


    Hailee spread her arms wide open to wee Vincent with a big hug. Vincent tightly embraced his wife and gave her a long kiss afterward.


    "Thank you. You really know what makes me happy."


    "I''m d. But you need to take your beauty sleep if you don''t want your guests to see your big eye bags like Panda."


    Vincent chose to tease Hailee as her eyes filled with tears. Hailee smacks Vincent on the shoulder andughs.


    "I can''t wait! I really missed those girls! Pitt, did you invite Geoffrey and others as well?" Hailee asked the guy the moment he appeared at the door.


    Pitt nodded his head. "I told them and they wille over tomorrow at lunch."


    "Great!" Hailee had something on her mind. She wanted to confirm if true Geoffrey was dating Tiffany while Vera was having feelings for Trevor.


    Ah! She could not wait to gossip!

 Chapter 451 - I Like You

    Later that night, Hazel cannot sleep. She strolled around the pool area, hoping to tire herself and fall asleep soon.


    "Hazel? Why are you not in bed yet?"


    Hazel made an abrupt turn when someone spoke behind her.


    "How about you?" She returned the question instead of answering James.


    "I can''t sleep yet, so I''m thinking of smoking before I go to bed. But you''re also here."


    Hazel lowered her gaze to James'' hand. He was holding a pack of cigarettes and a lighter.


    "Okay. Then why aren''t you smoking yet?" she queried, trying to be casual to hide the loud beating of her heart.


    James didn''t reply, but he only stared at her. Hazel figured out that James chose not to because she was around.


    "Go ahead. You should not mind me." Hazel waves her right hand. She pursed her lips into an encouraging smile to show James that it was totally fine with her. It made her happy to see that James was considerate toward her.


    "Is it really okay?"


    "It''s alright. My male cousins and older siblings are smoking. So, I''m used to it." Hazel urge James, at the same time exining to him.


    "Alright." James leaned on the balusters. He took out one stick of a known brand and lit it.


    "I only smoke when something is bothering me," he added afterward. More likely, he is rifying to Hazel.


    "I noticed." Hazel nodded her head. She lowered her gaze and watched her toes. She felt awkward with the silence between them.


    James is a typicaledic guy, but she always wondered why he was too serious around her, which made her nervous and speechless. Not so like her.


    "Have you already thought about it?" After a long moment of silence, James tried to break the awkwardness between them.


    James nced at Hazel. But the girl is hiding behind the pot between them. He frowned. Jame had the urge to kick the damn flower pot that separated him from sitting closer to Hazel. But this pot is precious to the princess. So, he must keep his cool.


    Hazel, on the other hand, was grateful for the flower pot in between them. She could hide from it. At the same time, she could peek at James, secretly stealing nces at him.


    But then, out of the blue, James queried about the other night.


    What actually happened the other night?


    The other night, Hazel was in the kitchen washing the vegetables and cutting them into small sizes before putting them into the juicer machine.


    "Miss Hazel, do you need our help?"


    Hazel cast a nce at the two kitchen helpers behind her. She waved her hand and said, "It''s alright. I will only make some vegetable juice so you both can take a rest now."


    "Okay, Miss. Good night."


    "Good night!" Hazel widened her smile as she dismissed the two helpers.


    Hazel is not hungry. She was in the kitchen to make some juice out of vegetables to detoxify her body before she went to bed.


    She has eaten too many carbs in the past few days because Gigi was craving Italian dishes such assagna, baked macaroni, and any dishes with tomato sauces.


    As Hazel is helping Gigi to fix her food, she ends up eating as much as the preggy woman had.


    Good thing that Doctor Manni is giving them aqua aerobics, yoga sses and inviting them to attend her pregnancy lessons for Hailee and Gigi.


    Speaking of the sweet doctor, she continues addressing her as a daughter-inw, which her face would instantly flush red every time she would call her that way. She felt really embarrassed since she and James were not in a rtionship, and the guy didn''t even correct his mom.


    "Hey! Why are you still awake?"


    Hazel gasped when someone suddenly appeared behind her. Thankfully, it was James and not Jake. Thetter has been pursuing her to go on dates again and to start over getting to know each other, but she did everything to avoid him.


    "Hi! I¡­ Well, I need to digest my dinner." Hazel replied to James. She waves her hand to the juicer machine for James to understand what she was talking about.


    "Hmm¡­ You are making some juice?"


    "Yeah." Hazel nodded her head and pursed her lips with a small smile.


    "Then can I have some?"


    "Oh, if you like it, I will make some more."


    Hazel averted her gaze from James. The guy was staring at her face like he was looking at her soul. She turned around and let out a sigh of relief.


    When she and James were alone like this, she didn''t know what to do as her chest was beating widely. It made her ufortable as James would remain silent and did not throw jokes on her, which was his unusual character.


    For James to speak in a serious tone is kind of strange.


    "Are you alright?"


    Hazel came back to her senses when she heard James querying about her. Turning her head toward James, she blinked her eyes in confusion. James took a step forward. It startled her, and so she stepped backward. Now she was pressed against the ind of the kitchen.


    "Wha¡­ What are you doing?" Hazel closed her mouth when James''s hand stretched out to reach her forehead. Her eyes widened when he was so close to her body. She didn''t leave her gaze on his face as she tried to read what he was thinking or what he would do next.


    James is towering over her even though she is also tall. She has a height of five feet and nine inches, but her upper head just reached James'' chin.


    Now she understood Nadia and Liza when they used to tell her it feels romantic when the guy was much taller than a girl. Hazel felt like James would kiss her head anytime.


    "Hmm¡­ I thought you had a fever when your face was red."


    Hazel had rendered speechless after James thought of her flustered face as having a fever. She contemted as this line sounded familiar, but she could not recall.


    After mulling over her head, Hazel finally remembered where she heard the story. Hailee shared something like this in the past.


    After Hailee and Vincent reveal in the interview that their rtionship started only as a mistress contract. Hailee then shared with them in private about everything that was happening between her and Vince. Hailee also mentioned what happened that evening when the boss picked her up after their field activity at M Resort. When they visited the wet market, the boss admits he is jealous when Hailee is too friendly with other men.


    ''The boss also mistook Hailee for having a fever after her face turned scarlet red. Now James is also mistaken for me. Do men are this stupid?''


    "What were you thinking?" James was waiting patiently for Hazel''s reply, but she seemed in a trance as she only stared at him.


    "Huh? Oh, I don''t have a fever!" Hazel quickly pushed James'' hand that was on her forehead the moment she came back to her senses. "What did you say, by the way?"


    "I asked what you were thinking," he repeated.


    "Ah¡­ I am thinking of getting another ss! That''s right! I will get you a ss!" Hazel quickly takes a distance from James¡ªhim being too close to her, actually giving her a fever. His palm felt so warm on her skin that it made her dizzy. Also, there was no way she would tell him what she was thinking. She actually calls him stupid!


    "Here!" Hazel handed James the ss with vegetable juice but she almost spilled it out as she wasn''t looking at him.


    "Thanks." She heard James mutter before he drank his juice. Afterward, hemented. "It was good and healthy. Can you make me a ss of it again tomorrow?"


    As James said that, Hazel unconsciously looked up at him, creasing her forehead, as confusion was written on her face.


    "Tomorrow?" Hazel is more likely talking to herself.


    "Yes." James smiled. He is actually noticing how Hazel would avoid meeting his eyes. Finally, she is staring back at him.


    He knew she had no fever either, but he wanted her to meet his gaze when he stood close to her. However, she is too shy around him, which is not her character at all.


    Hazel is a witty and bubbly woman. She is vocal, and it was something he liked about her.


    "If you want me to repeat what I said, I want you to make me another vegetable juice tomorrow."


    "Oh. Sure!" Wait, what? Did I just agree? No!


    Hazel was not in herself at all when she replied to James. After she contemted it, now she realized that something was not right.


    "I¡­"


    "No rejection!" James snapped, and Hazel wanted to protest.


    ''This guy is actually shameless! Why do I have to especially make him vegetable juice when he could make it himself?'' Hazel grumbled inwardly as she began regretting it. She could not take it back either, so she scolded herself for not paying attention as her mind was scattered all over the ce.


    "Now, go to bed," said James. He was about to leave when Hazel grabbed his shirt. "You have something to say?"


    "Ah, James¡­" Hazel was struggling to continue. She didn''t know how to start or to end it. ''Gosh! How should I put it that I would not look stupid in front of him?''


    "What''s the matter? Why don''t you tell me if you have something on your mind?"


    Hazel was stunned that James actually had this side of him. Most of the time, James is a loud andic guy. But every time she was with him alone. He is wearing a solemn look on his face.


    "Erm, James¡­ It was actually a kind of request. I hope you don''t misunderstand me¡­"


    "Okay. Spill it out then."


    Hazel took a deep breath. Then she pursed her lips and smiled nervously.


    "It''s about your mom. Can you tell her to stop calling me daughter-inw? We don''t have a rtionship, so can you exin that to her?"


    "Why? Don''t you like her?"


    Hazel creased her forehead. ''Why is he asking me this? Am I not clear?'' She didn''t understand what James was thinking.


    "Well, Doctor Manni is a sweetdy. But I am not your girlfriend. You should make her understand we''re not in a rtionship." Hazel is looking at James with anticipation. She was always embarrassed when the sweet doctor deliberately addressed her as a daughter-inw. But James only remained silent for a long time now.


    "What do you want, then?"


    "Huh?" Hazel doesn''t understand James. She felt like she was lost at the moment.


    "What if I tell you I like you? Would you like to be my girlfriend? Would you like to try it out by having a rtionship with a guy like me?"

 Chapter 452 - I Want To Take Seriously

    "What are you talking about?" All of a sudden, Hazel felt like things happened so fast. "Are you even serious about saying that?"


    She asked James to make sure he wasn''t just poking fun at her, leaving her heart hoping it was true.


    "I''m serious. However, you must be concerned with our age gap. I know you wanted to build your career, and I don''t want to be a hindrance to reaching your dream. Also, I will be busy guarding Hailee, so I could not date you often. We probably seldom meet."


    "Why are you already thinking of all these issues?" asked Hazel. Now she was frustrated. ''Do men think apprehensively before they enter a rtionship, or was it just James? He is suddenly too straightforward now!''


    Hazel pulled herself back to her senses when James replied to her. She looked at him and keenly listened to every word that came out of his mouth. At that moment, she even knew the other side of James.


    "That''s why I am asking, what do you want? What if we are in a rtionship and you demand my time, and I can''t meet it?"


    Hazel fell silent and contemted. Afterward, she retorted, "What if I was the busy one and I can''t give time to you?"


    At that time, it was James who pondered. He replied,


    "I am a mature man. I would not demand as much when I knew I could notpletely do my role as your boyfriend either way. It will be a long-distance rtionship. So can you bear it?"


    "How about you?" Hazel asked in return.


    "That''s why I''m asking you if you want to try it out."


    Hazel bit her lower lip. James is giving her every imaginable situation in their rtionship, and she didn''t find it bad. Of course, deep inside, she wants to try if it will work out.


    "I would not demand a frequent date. I moved to France, and I will travel often with Miss Vera to endorse the new products. Also, I will be busy then and possibly only see you asionally."


    "What if you meet someone the same age as you?" asked James further.


    Hazel took a step backward when James strode closer to her.


    "I have many friends the same age as me." What Hazel wanted to tell James was that she didn''t find them as attractive as him in her eyes.


    James'' mature look attracts her so much. She realized she doesn''t like baby-faced men, but someone like James'' facial profile.


    People usually pay attention to James''ical character. But Hazel never fails to see that solemn look in James'' eyes. That sharp re when he was vignt to his surroundings. She noticed many times already when Hailee was around, especially when they were in crowded ces.


    "So?"


    *


    Hazel snapped herself back to the present. She squinted her eyes, looking surprised because James was now standing in front of her.


    Last night, James told her to think about it first, and he would not hurry her to decide. But why is he asking her now?


    James confessed he wanted her to be his girlfriend, but he alsoid down on the table that there would be many issues between them.


    First, James was worried about their age gap.


    Second, James dedicated himself to protecting Hailee; it means it was his priority at the moment. It was a job he would die for.


    Third, James thinks the rtionship might be a burden to reach her dreams. James wants her to fulfill whatever career she wants.


    Fourth, they would spend less time with each other.


    And fifth, countless issues between them, and Hazel doesn''t want to think about it anymore; might it drive her crazy.


    ''Fine! Whatever!'' She finally made a decision.


    "Just one thing I wanted¡­" Taking a deep breath, Hazel began. "Don''t flirt with other women."


    She must be crazy, but there are so many girls around James, although she trusts him. But it made her insecure thinking about the distance between them. What if???


    Hazel was still in her own world when she felt a knock on her head.


    "You were thinking too much. The only other female I''m aroundtely is Hailee''s dogs."


    Hazel burst outughing when James mouthed that. Of course, she knew James was different from Jake.


    She was just childish and inexperienced, so she wants assurance. Besides, she doesn''t want to y around. The love of a lifetime is what she always dreams of. She is not a person who would deal with an unconventional rtionship one after another.


    She only set her eyes to dedicate her love to one person, and she always prayed that her first boyfriend is her forever.


    But at this moment, she doesn''t want to think about the walls she put up to protect her heart. It doesn''t anymore. She just wanted to gamble everything with James. And she would try to change as the better version of herself.


    "Would you bear my childish behavior?" Hazel asked coquettishly. Instead of a reply, James pokes her forehead.


    "Would I be this patient with you?" said James.


    Upon hearing that, Hazel''s eyes gleam with delight. She''s d that James is one of those men who would not take rtionships for granted, but everything is just a game.


    "Can I ask you about something?" Hazel still wanted to assure one thing.


    "Hit it."


    "Why are you too serious when we are alone?" She witnesses how James would jest andugh with other women. They are Hailee''s friends, but she also wanted to joke around with James and have a fun conversation.


    Seeing the genuine curiosity in Hazel''s bright eyes, James curled his lips into a smile. He lifted his arm and held Hazel''s chin.


    Looking at her eyes lovingly, he told Hazel.


    "It was because you are the person I want to take seriously in my life."


    Hazel''s mouth was agape. She wanted to retort. But the feelings James conveyed to her through his words overwhelmed her whole being. She understood what James wanted to tell her.


    She is special among all the women he meets.

 Chapter 453 - Two Hearts That Beat One

    At that moment, Hazel doesn''t want to think of any excuses anymore or any potential issues that would hinder her from having a rtionship with James.


    So what if James was already flirting when she was just learning to walk? James surely had his first girlfriend when she was just in preschool. It was just in the past, and James was not dating anyone in the present.


    Hazel threw her arms around James'' slender waist and buried her face into his chest. It is what she wanted to do when she was upset and James didn''t disappoint her; he wrapped his arms around her body.


    She has been dreaming James will hold her like this until she cools down and feels better.


    And after a long moment, that had passed. Hazel slowly releases herself from James. Suddenly, she felt shy about what she did. She was the one who threw herself into James'' arms when there was no rification between them yet if they were officially into a rtionship.


    Her doubts were answered when James spoke.


    "Are you sure to have a rtionship with me?"


    Hazel nodded her head.


    "Then¡­ Can I kiss you now?"


    Hazel''s face turned beet red when James asked her that. Jake tried to kiss her in the past, but since Jake hadn''t asked her to be his girlfriend or talk about having a rtionship like James did, she didn''t let Jake take advantage of her. She is the woman who likes to make sure everything is first.


    ''Pull yourself together, Hazel! Don''t you swear to act mature from here on? So stop feeling like a child!''


    After she scolded herself, Hazel nodded her head. She closed her eyes with anticipation for James to kiss her, but she instead felt his warm lips on her head.


    Hazel opens her eyes. Disappointment is exhibited in them when James didn''t kiss her on the lips. She pouted and red at him.


    James chuckled and nudged her forehead with his. "You were nervous. So I won''t kiss you when you are not ready yet."


    Hazel looked at James in amazement. She never imagined that James would really have patience with her. ''Did he learn, or he only guessed that I kissed no one yet?''


    Anyway, one thing she is sure of at that moment. She had fallen in love with James.


    "Are you sure you would not regret this?" One more time, James wanted to let Hazel be sure of her decision.


    Regret? If there is one thing she regretted is when she wasted her entire childhood thinking about only one man. She has fantasies that one day, Jake would notice her. She even jumped and rolled all over her bed when she imagined Jake would be her boyfriend in the future.


    But she was too wrong to have such expectations. Now her heart is full of disappointment. Jake is not the man in her dreams, but a pure mistake of puppy love.


    After a moment to think over, Hazel nodded her head. She mused inwardly.


    ''I might only regret it if I don''t try.''


    "Alright." Jamesbed her long hair. In the next minute, they just stayed snuggled together.


    Hazel lifted her chin and looked at James. She nibbles her lower lip when a part of her debates about something. Voices are fighting inside her head; Hazel shut them off as it only distracts her happiness. She tiptoed and reached for James'' lips.


    ''You are crazy, Hazel!''


    She knew that. So why does she have to pretend?


    And the moment Hazel brushes her lips on top of his, James responds to her with light kisses. He doesn''t want her to be like a scaredy-cat, and so he kisses Hazel gently and works hard to control himself.


    When Hazel pulled her head and ended the kiss. She looks at James with big eyes. She kisses James on her own ord!


    "You are no longer nervous, huh?" asked James.


    Hazel shook her head. "Not at all¡­"


    "Alright. We should not stay upte. You have to make the desserts for Hailee''s important guests."


    "Are you making sushi and tempura? How about dumplings?" Hazel asked excitedly. James has great culinary skills, and she loves everything he prepares.


    "Yup. The princess especially requested it."


    "Can you teach me? I want to help!"


    James nced at Hazel''s hand, tugging at his shirt''s sleeve. He''s d that she wasfortable around him now. He could see that she was shy and seemed stiff every time they were alone, so he was silent and serious. But he really loved it when she looked at him with those big bright eyes of hers and a sweet smile on her lips.


    "Sure. I would love it if you help me tomorrow." James agreed. That would be like a date at home.


    "Okay! Let''s go back inside!" Hazel grabbed James'' hand, but she was pulled back.


    What happened next is James imed her lips and kissed her feverishly. Hazel lets herself melt into James'' arms and forgets that the world is spinning in a circr motion.


    Meanwhile, on the second level of the mansion. Two shadows lurking in the dark.


    "You looked happy."


    Hailee nced over her shoulder and smiled at Vince, who joined her peeping at the two people talking intimately at the open pool area.


    "I''m just excited about tomorrow."


    "Then shall we sleep now?"


    Hailee nodded and let Vince guide her toward the bed. When they''ve already tucked inside the covers, Hailee shared her thoughts.


    "I''m actually happy for James and Hazel. So, I pray they will both work in their rtionship."


    "Hmm¡­ Those two have a temperament that possibly their character would sh. But who knows? They might work on their issues," Vincent''s peace of mind.


    Hailee tightens her embrace at Vincent''s arm. Since her baby bump is even bigger now, Vincent has to keep a little distance.


    "If they are both willing to grow in their rtionship. I''m sure everything will be alright."


    Vincent concurred with Hailee''s opinion. In a rtionship, there is nothing impossible when both are working together and as time passes by, it will be fruitful, such as maturity.


    "Hubby¡­ I am so blessed that I found you."


    "And I am blissful that I have you¡­"


    <i>Two hearts that beat one¡­? </i>

 Chapter 454 - Out Of His League

    Early in the morning, every servant was upied with their designated works.


    Madam Hilda Shen instructed them to clean every corner of the mansion and prepare the guest rooms, maybe some guests would like to stay overnight.


    The chefs also prepared all the ingredients they needed for the dishes they will cookter.


    Outside, the head maidservant instructed the male servants to add more tables and chairs in the courtyard.


    They also put up more beach umbres and lounge chairs around the open pool area and long tables in the garden as she already knew that the men would hang out away from them and have their own world to themselves.


    Also, the princess ordered them to ce some electric grilled pans on every table. It would be perfect to grill while drinking and chatting.


    They have known her toin about formal dining with friends as no fun at all, so Hailee always wants to mix up things with elegance in a contemporary setting.


    On the long tables that were exquisitely decorated with flowers are neatly arranged on the silver trays the marinated meats, spices, and cut vegetables. Then, different liquor, including bottled beers, is chilled on the buckets, while on the other tables disyed fruits, pastries, and desserts.


    Among the girls, Hazel was thest one who went to bed the night before, but she was the earliest one to wake up. Of course, she was excited to help her boyfriend prepare the Japanese dishes Hailee requested.


    After showering, Hazel could not decide what to wear. Since she became the ambassadress of Davies Cosmetics, she has to present herself as embodying thepany.


    Well, as she could not decide what to wear, Hazel chose a floral short jumpsuit. She braided her hair on the side and applied very light makeup.


    She was thinking about whether to use lipstick or just lip gloss?


    Obviously, she wanted not only to look presentable but also beautiful in her boyfriend''s eyes.


    Apart from that, Hailee''s guests today are all notable and gorgeous women. She has a job not to disappoint Hailee and Vera, being the spokesperson of their brand.


    Hazel scanned her reflection in the mirror before she got out of the bedroom and headed to the kitchen. She was gliding happily in the corridor when she bumped into someone.


    She quickly avoided him, but the guy held her in the arm.


    "What are you doing, Jake? Let me go in an instance." She bellowed at him in a low voice. It was embarrassing for her to yell aloud when it was still early in the morning.


    "You and James, huh?" Jake said with bitterness in his tone.


    Hazel red at Jake. She need not ask how the guy knows about it. She could already guess that Jake saw her and Jamesst night.


    Well, that is a good thing for Hazel. Now Jake has no reason to bother her.


    "What is it to you?" she snapped. "Now that you know, stop stalking me! Moreover, you have no right to touch me!"


    Hazel tried to withdraw her arm, but Jake gripped her tight.


    "What''s with him and I don''t have? We know more about each other than him."


    It feels like Hazel''s ears buzzed after she heard Jake stating that. She proved how stupid Jake was as a man.


    "What James had that you don''t have? Actually, you have something that James doesn''t have and that is being stupid! Yes, that was you!"


    Jake scowled. "Hazel, I know you were jealous of my past rtionships that''s why you are doing this to me. But they were just my past. They were just my friends now."


    ''Yeah. Friends with benefits!'' Hazel shrieked inside her head. Jake ispletely a thick-faced person in her eyes. She asked herself, ''What did I like about this guy?''


    "You know what, Jake? I don''t care about your past rtionships or past girlfriends. I also do not care even if you have multiple girlfriends at the same time. What I only care about now is for you to stop bothering me!"


    "You just wanted to get back at me. If your purpose is to get me jealous, then you seeded! I even regretted that I didn''t take you seriously. But I promised. You will be the center of my life. I will visit you in Paris if it''s not every weekend, then at least twice a month. How''s that?"


    "Jake, where did you get your confidence from?"


    "What do you mean by that?" Jake creased his forehead.


    "How are you sure I am buying all your bbering?"


    "That''s not just a b. I know you love me. You have had a crush on me since you were in elementary. You¡­"


    Hazel scoffs andughs to interrupt Jake. She felt ridiculous at the moment, listening to whatever he would say further.


    "You are right, brother Jake. I''ve wasted my childhood thinking you will be the perfect man for me. But sorry. As I grew up now? I realized that I have a high standard, and you did not meet that!"


    After Hazel blurted that, she grabbed her arm and marched away from Jake. It takes a little while before Jake can process every word Hazel throws at him.


    ''What did she mean about that?'' Jake was at a loss for words. He had never chased someone before but only Hazel rejected him like this, and so he would not allow it to just end here. Of course, he knew Hazel was only trying hard to get, so he must not give up but patiently chase her.


    "Hazel, I know you were just using James to punish me."


    Hazel stop in her tracks and turned around to face Jake.


    "Jake, stop! You haven''t figured it out, yet? Then I will say this to you now!"


    Hazel took a long breath before she began her lengthy speech. When she is ready she ced one hand on her hip while the other gestured in the air as she speak.


    "Jake, I can''t fall in love with you because you are not the man I want to waste my life with! You are right to think that I have had a crush on you ever since I was a kid! Do you really think we know each other very well? No! You are wrong about that! It does not mean that we have known each other for decades, you were already familiar with me. That is so wrong! You never know me at all!"


    She added, "And it didn''t take for that stranger I just met months ago to know who I really am and what I really needed. So, years would never matter to enter a rtionship, Jake. But a person who will care for my feelings. Did you ever care? No. You only take me for granted because you know that I have feelings for you. Yes! It''s a stupid puppy love! But I''m not crazy enough who will blindly believe that I am in love with you. Because I want respect, Jake. And you never showed that to me!"


    "So please, stopparing yourself to my boyfriend because he is iparable, and you are out of his league!"


    Hazel''sst sentences are a p on his face, especially that she firmly mentioned the word boyfriend. Jake prefers for Hazel to p him in the face for real rather than her to blurts all of that. Her long speech got him real good.


    Jake could retort none of Hazel''s statements, but he could only watch her receding silhouette.


    He was still in a daze when someone patted his shoulder. Jake nced at the man who appeared behind him.


    After he recognized who it was, he scowled at him. He tried to shrug the arm around his shoulder, but the guy was hard to shake off.


    "A friendly reminder, bro¡­ Don''t dare snatch what''s mine, because I am not an easy rival. I would be a jealous or an understanding boyfriend. What is for sure is I could y both, so hands off to my girlfriend. Do not test me or I will forget that you are Vincent''s best friend. I respect Vincent because the princess is crazy in love with that guy. So I will keep my cool. I''ll pretend Hazel never dated you, but don''t cross the line. Mind where and which territory is yours. However, Hazel obviously would never be included in those areas. So don''t touch her."


    After James made his speech, he let go of Jake and walked in the direction Hazel went to.


    Jake was left dumbfounded, and it took a long moment for him to recover. James'' words totally caught him off guard.


    And one thing is clear, James is warning him, more likely a threat. The guy may sound calm, but he knew the meaning of his words.


    In the kitchen, Hazel had hoped that she would find James there. However, to her disappointment, the guy was not in the kitchen.


    ''Where is he?'' Hazel was upset because of Jake. The guy ruined her wonderful morning, and she wanted to calm down.


    "Good morning, sunshine. What''s with the face?"


    Hazel instantly looked up at the man, who hugged her from behind. Now that she saw James, the curls on her forehead disappear.


    "I''m hungry." Hazel could not tell James what had happened a few minutes ago. Besides, she doesn''t want her morning thoroughly destroyed by it. Today is the first day that she and James are officially in a rtionship. She just wanted to enjoy the moment she could be with James.


    "Okay. Let me fix something for you." James let her go and went to the kitchen ind. "What do you think?"


    Hazel''s eyes gleamed with happiness. The ck boxes that were arranged at the countertop were actually sushi, and there was also fried tempura.


    James picked one sushi and brought it close to Hazel''s mouth. She parted her lips and ate the dish slowly. She wants to savor its heavenly taste.


    "Mmm¡­ This is too delicious! You really are the best!"


    The corners of James'' mouth pulled up into a grin upon hearing his girlfriend praising his culinary skills.


    "What time did you start making them? I told you to teach me!" Hazel wears a long face, pretending she was mad at him.

 Chapter 455 - Teach Me

    James knows her very well, so he just yed along. Petting Hazel''s head, he said, "If you learned my secret recipe, I can''t boost my cooking anymore."


    Hazel smiled with glee, knowing James knew how to please her. "Alright! Then I will eat them all!"


    She urges James to hurry to feed her more. The kitchen helpers, peeling the carrots, were giggling while watching the new couple. When James leaves the kitchen and heads to the pool, the maids rush to Hazel''s sides to gossip.


    "Miss Hazel, congrattions! You and Sir James are a match made in heaven!"


    "We''ve been working here for many years, but we never heard Mr. James has a girlfriend."


    "Is that so?" Hazel was delighted to hear the maids. When James came back to the kitchen, Hazel had the sweetest smile on her face. "What was that?"


    Hazel asked after she noticed James with the other knights carrying boxes and carefully cing them on the long table.


    "When Hailee woke up, she instantly requested some cheesecakes with berries as a topping," James answered Hazel while he checked the boxes one by one. Hazel joined him.


    "Hmm¡­ Isn''t Hailee does not like any color ck for now?"


    "You''re right." James concurred. "We could only use the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries."


    "The salmonberry and tayberries as well," Hazel added when she saw the contents of the other boxes. "Since Hailee preferred the cheesecake. Then it will be the first one I bake."


    "I''ll help you." James volunteered. He didn''t wait for Hazel''s reply. He walked toward the storage room and took out the ingredients one by one.


    Hazel beamed to see how thoughtful the boyfriend she has. She is happy that James is excellent in the kitchen; he also loves to cook like her, so she doesn''t need to instruct what ingredients she needs.


    After James brought all the ingredients, she hugged James and kissed him on the cheek. She knew to herself, she would not regret choosing James over her puppy love. Although James has a temper, he never was aggressive toward her, which is Jake is the opposite. That guy is a jerk.


    "That''s all?"ins James with a tease when Hazel only kissed him on the cheek.


    Instantly, Hazel''s face blushed pink. There are maids around them, so she smacks James on the shoulder to hide her timidity.


    "Stop being silly. We better begin now!"


    "Alright." James concurred. However, Hazel was left surprised when James stole a kiss on her lips and then acted as if nothing happened.


    She could only render her silence when the maids giggled in the corner. Starting today, there will be another couple that would feed them with dog food every day. Of course, they love to gossip and witness such disys!


    Later, Nadia and Liza finally woke up and joined Hazel in the kitchen. The two girls dropped their mouths open when they noticed that someone was flirting non-stop!


    "What''s the meaning of this, huh!?" Both Nadia and Liza nudge Hazel with their elbows when they have a chance to interrogate Hazel.


    "Ouch! Why are you hurting me?" Hazelins. James left the kitchen after a servant informed them that a few guests had arrived.


    "Tell us the truth! Are you and James a couple now?" Liza and Nadia were too excited to hear Hazel''s answer. When Hazel nodded her head, the three of them jumped and squealed.


    "Shush! Enough! Let''s hurry to finish making desserts before noon!" Hazel immediately settled down and continued mixing the ingredients for the carrot cakes.


    Both Nadia and Liza nod their heads, but there''s no way they would stop gossiping.


    "Have you and James kissed already?"


    When Hazel''s face turned crimson red, Nadia and Liza squealed and jumped again. They just settled down when Madam Hilda Shen came to check them out.


    After Hilda tasted the finished desserts, she left immediately and headed to the main kitchen of the mansion to check the soup. The girls spent the entire morning baking and gossiping while Hailee''s guests arrived, one by one.


    At the pool area, Hailee sat on a lounge chair with the other girls, waiting patiently for her guests. She was wearing a white bikini underneath a chiffon beach robe, which was slightly visible in her baby bump.


    When Vincent approached her with a smallyer of cheesecakes with a lot of berries, the babies in her womb started kicking, making a wave of fetal movement in her belly.


    "Thank you, hubby. Look! The babies were so happy!"


    Vincent quickly kneeled and stroked her belly while talking to the kids. "Are you guys excited to meet mom and dad? We can''t wait to see you guys too!"


    Hailee smiled, watching Vincent doing that. She often yed many scenarios in her head¡ªVincent ying with their boys or him holding their girls and rocking his body to put them to sleep. Her heart always melted when she imagined these scenes. At the same time, it brought tears to her eyes and warmth in her heart.


    "What''s wrong?" Vincent reached Hailee''s eyes as tears glistened in the corner. He dried them and kissed Hailee on the lips.


    "Nothing, hubby. I''m just happy. I wished every day was only a happy day."


    Vincent brushed Hailee''s cheeks with his slender fingers. He kissed her forehead as heforted her. "No one and nothing in this world I would allow to bring sadness into our life."


    They both know that they were walking on a perilous journey. That is why he and Hailee had already epted their fate but they will fight in order to protect their family.


    "I will get you some water," said Vincent afterward. Hailee nodded and smiled at him.


    Hailee watched her husband receding back as thoughts flooded her head. Thanks to her guests, anxiety has no room in her chest for today.


    "Hailee!" a few girls shrieked from the door upon seeing her.


    "Cassie!" Hailee beamed, seeing her cousin-inw rushing to her side.


    "How are you? Gosh! You look like you''re going to give birth soon!" Cassandramented after she scanned the size of Hailee''s baby bump.


    In her mind, she was grateful that she conceived only with twins. Cassandra could not imagine herself having quadruplets with the body that she has.


    "There are less than three months to wait, and I could not wait already!"


    "That''s great! We are excited to meet these princes and princesses!"


    "Where are the others?" Hailee asked after Cassandra sat down next to her lounge chair. She heard from Nikki that they were staying at Shun''s vi here in Sydney.


    "Madison and Nikki went to the powder room."


    "I see¡­" Hailee nced at the door where Vincent is now talking to Shun, Theo, and Levi. After the men wave in their direction and she waves in return, Hailee scrutinizes Cassandra.


    Suddenly, the newsst night crossed her mind. The reporters are correct in their observation. Cassandra, indeed, still looks young, like she was just a debutant when she was a year older than her. Cassandra is more likely the youngest among them all by looks.


    Until now, Shun was always used of dating younger women when that "woman" they''d mentioned was none other than Cassandra alone. But no one could me the media as sometimes Cassandra acted differently like she was a different person.


    When she asked Shun, her cousin told her that Cassandra had different personalities on some days. It is mysterious to her; however, she doesn''t want to query further.


    She knows many things are going on, but she doesn''t want to get involved in Shun''s world. What''s most important to her now is to live peacefully with Vincent and her children¡­


    "Oh, gosh, sushi!" Madison rushed to the table and cared less to greet the people around.


    "Is she pregnant?" Hailee was not thinking about it much and just blurted it out of the blue; then, after she realized her own words, "Oh my gosh! Is she really pregnant?"


    "Yup! Madison is four weeks pregnant, and she hopes it''s a girl this time." It was Nikki who chimed in.


    "Nik!" Hailee tried to hug Nikki, but the two pregnant women couldn''t do that. Nikki is also having a big bump, as she is due soon.


    "Auntie, mama said you had four babies down here," Violet, who sat down in front of Hailee, asked innocently with sparks in her eyes. The little girl was excited to be a big sister herself, so she always talked to any pregnant woman she met.


    "Ah, Violet!" Hailee hugged Violet, the little girl stroking her baby bump, and even kissed her belly. "What a sweetdy! You are so pretty like your momma! But she got her dad''s eyes."


    Hailee was looking at Nikki when she pointed out that.


    "I''m quite happy about it," said Nikki. She was always delighted every time she looked at her children''s green eyes like their papa. "I heard that Theo and Vincent had been pairing our kids even before we learned you are expecting a baby, too."


    "Really? Don''t we all hate arranged marriages?" Hailee, of course, heard Theo and Nikki''s love story.


    "We hate it. But Cassandra and Shun had been arranged even before Cassie came out to this world." Madison chimed in. She was now stuffing her mouth non-stop, which Levi walked behind her, reminding her to eat slowly.


    Levi has a hunch that it will be a girl this time. When he joins the men at the long table, grilling with barbecues, he immediately boasts he learns some techniques of which direction to move while making love to achieve what gender the couple wishes to have.


    "Is that credible, bro? Then how about you teach me about it?"


    The wives heard Alex querying Levi. Instantly, a slipper flew in the air.


    "God, my wife is skilled in ying frisbee." Alex scratched the part of his head that was hit by the slipper. He picked up the slipper and walked toward Kelly. He kneeled on one foot and reached for Kelly''s foot and slipped the slipper. "My Cindere¡­"


    Although she acts impulsive, Kelly is always moved by Alex''s patience with her.


    Alex was right to call her as Cindere. Her parents have tried hard to arrange her marriage with Arabian noble families. She was against it, so she never thought to marry anyone from the royal family.


    However, it is already carved in her fate that she will marry a soon-to-be-king.


    The pool area was filled with cheers and apuse when Kelly kissed Alex and whispered something in his ear that made him shout in excitement.


    No one noticed but Hailee when another couple had arrived.


    "Hey, Carmen!"

 Chapter 456 - Missing?

    "Hello, Hail!" Carmen walks toward Hailee and nts a loud kiss on each other''s cheeks. "So good to see you!"


    "I''m d you came too."


    "Of course, I would not miss any opportunity. We''re d Mr. Shen invited us." Carmen nced at John.


    Last night, John shared about an embarrassing encounter he had with Hailee, and so Carmen knew John felt nervous today.


    "Hello, John." Hailee initiated the greetings. After some thought, she agreed to Vincent in trusting John he could help them locate Samuel Miller to end everything rted to Liam. Until Samuel was in power to use all Liam''s men and resources, their battle would never end.


    John smiled and greeted Hailee politely. "Thank you for having us, Mrs. Shen."


    Hailee nodded and pursed her lips into a small smile. Vincent walked toward them and weed John and Carmen.


    "Come on! I''m sure the girls have many things to catch up on." Upon saying that, Vincent dragged John toward the long table where the other men had already had fun.


    "Hey, John!"


    John was offered a cold beer by Shun.


    "Thank you, Master Shun," John politely thanked Shun. He knew that Shun would be here. Still, it gave him a scare deep down in his bones.


    "We are not inside an office or talking business. You don''t need to be too formal. Today, we are family!" Shun patted John on the back. Thetter chuckled and offered a toast.


    "I want to give a toast to our new CEO¡­ Long live, Vincent!" John raised his bottle, and so did the others. Then, bottles clink in the air.


    The wives and girlfriends watch their partnersughing and jesting around.


    "We have to schedule a gathering more often," Cassandra suggested. She pitied her husband, who was the most stressed among these men, as Shun is not only watching over this world; but also the worlds that do not exist anymore, and that is because of her.


    So Cassandra was grateful thattely, Shun get involved in many parties, which he rarely attended because of the trouble the association caused him.


    "That would be great! I hope you guys wille to visit T Country one day," wished Carmen.


    "Surely, we will! And that is your wedding day! So?" Hailee teased Carmen after she saw them togetherst night and today.


    Carmen bit her lower lip and secretly nced at John. It always came to her mind that she would only marry the man she was in love with more than her life. However, she isn''t certain if John feels the same way. She always has the feeling that John still likes his twin brother''s wife.


    "What''s wrong, Carmen?"


    Carmen snapped herself when Hailee spoke. She smiled at the girls and reasoned. "John and I were on the stage of getting to know each other. Maybe if we arepatible and ready to walk the journey of a married couple. You girls will be the first people to know."


    "That''s right. It is better to know your partner very well before youpletely gamble your heart and risk everything." Hailee extended her arm and reached for Carmen''s hand.


    On the other hand, Carmen could not share what she really felt in her rtionship with John. She is sure to herself that she loves him, but Carmen doesn''t know if she has a ce in John''s heart.


    "Oh, well! I can''t imagine how you endure the pain of having four babies inside?" Carmen changes the subject to conceal the pain in her heart.


    Hailee caught that sadness sh in Carmen''s eyes and she had the urge to ask her, however, Hailee chose to respect Carmen''s privacy.


    She replied, "Yeah. I can''t believe it either. I only dream of being pregnant, but I never imagined having multiple babies on the first try."


    Everyone always expresses their concerns for her. Indeed, she''s in a lot of pain, such as backaches, and is ufortable. But every time the babies made fetal movements, Hailee could not describe the feeling.


    "Oh. It looks like there''s a story you can share with us!" Carmen said with glee.


    Hailee smiled sweetly as she shared with the girls when she started getting envious after she heard the other girls expecting another child again.


    Before it came to her mind to marry Vincent, she already had the dream of conceiving his child.


    As hours passed by, more of Hailee''s friends and executive knights had arrived. The pool area was now crowded, including kids ying in the pool.


    "Did anyone know where Vera is?" Hailee asked around after she realized her cousin hadn''t arrived yet. ''Even Geoffrey isn''t here as well.''


    Hailee wanted to inquire with Vera if she was dating Trevor and if Geoffrey was courting Tiffany. However, none of them have arrived yet.


    "Hail, I will call Miss Vera and ask!" Hazel volunteered. She left and entered the mansion to look for a quiet room. However, Vera isn''t answering the call. After attempting three times, Hazel gave up but she sent Vera a couple of messages.


    "Hey, Miss Vera! Hailee is looking for you. When would youe over?"


    Hazel patiently waited, but a half-hour had already passed, but no response or call back from Vera.


    "What are you doing here?"


    Hazel made an abrupt turn when she heard her boyfriend''s voice. She smiled and replied to James, "I am trying to call Miss Vera, but she isn''t answering or replying to my texts."


    "Hmm¡­" James pondered for a moment. He pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his pants then browsed through his contact lists. "Let me call someone."


    After the third ring, James''s call connected.


    "Hey, man? What''s up?"


    "Hey, Trev¡­ Have you seen Vera?"


    Before Trevor could answer James, someone spoke in the background, and James recognized this voice.


    "Are we going to the Davies Mansion? I''m starving! Hazel posted the cakes she baked, and James made sushi! Wait¡­ I should message Hazel to save some for us!"


    After that, the woman''s voice disappeared, and James heard a door close. On the other line, Trevor scratches his forehead.


    "Well, man. I have to take a shower now. See youter."


    "Okay, man." James hung up the call. He looked at Hazel, who was waiting for news. "Trevor ising over. Anyway, I will try to call my men to check on Vera."


    "Huh? Isn''t Mr. Trevor with Miss Vera?"


    James shook his head. "No. But don''t worry. I will not stop until we confirm where Vera is."


    James immediately contacted his people. After half an hour, he finally received the good news.


    "Boss, Miss Vera never left Sris Hotel. The staff confirmed that Miss Vera ordered breakfast two hours ago."


    "I see. Thank you. Tell the boys on standby. Watch Vera when she gets out of the hotel. Keep her safe."


    "Copy, boss!"


    "Alright." James hung up the call.


    "Did they find Miss Vera?"


    "Yes." James nodded his head. "She''s still at Sris Hotel, so we have nothing to worry about. My men will follow her around to ensure her safety."


    "Thank God. I thought someone abducted her."


    James saw the tears forming in the corner of Hazel''s eyes. "Come here."


    Hazel made a gradual strode toward James and hooked her arms around his waist. James rubbed her back tofort her.


    "You can stop worrying now, hm?" James pulled Hazel into his embrace. He kissed her forehead while coaxing her.


    James let Hazel stay in his arms until she withdrew from the embrace. He knew Hazel recalled the time Jake attempted to abduct her. That''s why she had the suspicion.


    "Thank you." Hazel buried her face into James'' shoulder. She thought that someone might kidnap Vera.


    She recounts the night Jake tried to abduct her because she rejected him many times to talk at the party. Gratefully, James followed her, and he saved her from Jake. Since that night, every time she feels down or mad at someone, she misses being wrapped inside James'' arms because it calms her down and makes her feel secure.


    "You are very wee, my love."


    Hazel''s cheeks turn scarlet red after James mutters those sweet words. She danced inside her chest after James used an endearment for her.


    James slightly parted from Hazel to look at her face. Hazel also looked up at him to search for something on his face, and she saw the sincerity in James'' eyes. When James lowered his head and kissed her, Hazel responded and put her arms around his neck to deepen the kiss.


    In the corridor, a middle-aged woman halted in her tracks, covering her mouth not to yell out of happiness. She slowly left that hall and trotted toward the garden, where the older people were lounging cozily while watching the little kids ying on the grass.


    "Sweetheart! Finally! Our son had the courage to court the girl he likes!"


    "Huh? I thought they''re dating already?"


    "Humph! Obviously, your son didn''t confess to that girl. The reason I keep calling Hazel my daughter-inw is to urge James."


    John shook his head, listening to his wife. He knew Manni was brewing something. That is why she never left Hazel alone. Now her dreams finallye true.


    Meanwhile, after the long kiss, Hazel pulled her head to gasp for air, but she remained to lock eyes with James.


    "Is something in your mind?" James asked Hazel when he saw she was hesitant about something.


    Hazel nodded after she contemted how to ask James with the question form in her head.


    "What is it?" Using his thumb, James caresses Hazel''s chin, encouraging her to feelfortable around him. He knew Hazel was a curious cat by nature, and she could not hide that from her eyes.


    "Umm¡­" Hazel inhaled, then let out her breath slowly. "It''s actually nothing. I''m just curious. Earlier, when you mentioned your men to look for Miss Vera. You sounded like a boss!"


    James chuckled and petted Hazel''s head. Hazel''s eyes are twinkling like he was the most impressive man in her eyes, and James felt delighted to think of that.


    ''Of course. I am a Mafia boss.''


    *


    Extra Scene:


    "Is Vera with you?" James did a quick type on his phone, sending someone a message.


    Not long, a reply arrived.


    "Yes."

 Chapter 457 - Suspect

    "Look at that? The men are too noisy because of Mikael, James, and his uncle Daichi."


    The wives often look in their husband''s direction because of theughter and yelling from the men.


    "Well, there is nothing to be surprised about. These men are rarely to be in one ce. Thanks to the Davies Corporation''s new CEO, things are possible." Riley chimed in.


    "I agree with sister Riley. Our husbands are busy with their businesses. I''m sure Hailee could rte to it already." Madison added to Riley''s statement.


    "Yeah. Since Vincent epts the position, he has to travel often around Australia, soon all around the world. I was okay at first, thinking that we could work together. However, we did not expect that I would conceive four babies on the first try. Honestly, it made me terrified as I don''t know what to do. How I could handle being a full-time mom and full-time working? Aside from Davies Corporation, I have my ownpanies I manage. My pregnancy really made me always exhausted. Gratefully, mom Hilda was here by my side, and looking out for me."


    "Gosh! I remember those days that Madam Hilda was always furious when gossip came out about Hailee and boss Vincent''s affair. Madam Hilda has always been infuriated because people never stop questioning the boss'' sexual orientation. Well, we never saw him dating or having a girlfriend but hanging out only with men. So, when people learn that boss Vincent dating a foreign woman two years after his marriage to Eva. The media has be crazy to release an article every single day." Hazel recounted.


    "When I read the article involving Vincent being married and his mistress is Hailee. We are too shocked to believe it. But when we learned who his nominal wife was, Iughed out of my ass, rolling on the floor." said Daisy. She and Hailee were ssmates from elementary until Senior High School and so, she knew Hailee would never bring herself into a lowly person such as mistress.


    Crystal seconded, "I did the same! I was like, oh my gosh! Bravo, Hailee! I can''t believe she got that far to get her revenge!"


    "No. I never thought of revenge or something after Eva broke mine and Bryan''s engagement." Hailee intercepts Crystal. She exins her side, that it was just all pure luck when she crossed paths with Eva in Greece and she overheard her. She then learned the truth that Eva has a big secret she hides from Bryan all these years.


    "Whatever, Hail. It blew our minds! People should know that Hailee Davies must never test her patience nor hit her bottom line! She had all the power to make your life miserable! I wasughing when Eva was arrested and beat up inside the prison," Julie echoed.


    Hailee shook her head, looking at her friends back and forth. She could not me them for thinking like that, as she never acted arrogantly or showed off her wealth and stepped on anyone to let them know they were inferior to her.


    "I never wished for Eva to have such a terrible death. All I desired was for Bryan and Vincent to get free from her lies. I never thought Liam was involved. That is why our lives be tangled. Moreover, it was never in my n to fall in love with Vincent. However, I was wrong."


    "In the end, you feel in love with."


    Hailee nodded and smile sweetly.


    "Jeez! Stop feeling bad about it, Hail. Like what you''ve said, how Eva falls into a terrible fate. But she is a pure gold digger and socialite. She doesn''t care about anyone, even her family. So it must be her retribution to be murdered. I believe she does all that, not because Liam Huo ordered her to separate you and your ex-fiance. Eva is a social climber. She only wants to milk money from the boss the reason she could not divorce him when she is in love with someone else. Then, why would she stay in a marriage with the person she doesn''t love in the first ce?" Hazel''s opinion was concurred by the girls.


    "She wants the privilege the boss could offer her."


    "Hazel is right, Hail. You need not feel guilty about Eva. She is the one who did wrong toward you." Gigi concurred and supported Hazel''s statement, sofort Hailee.


    "Thank you, girls. I am really blessed to have you all in my life. I don''t have any siblings, but I don''t feel sad because I have you as my sisters."


    "Hail, we are actually the blessed one here! We are just random teenagers in a university, but you befriended us, and until now, you didn''t forget about us!" Full of emotion when Nadia says this that was concurred by Liza.


    "Actually, I was the fortunate one, and I met you girls. You didn''t know me, but you choose to believe and trust me even after I be a mistress, though it''s fake. But it''s rare to find genuine friends in a foreignnd that you can trust so much."


    The girls had a group hug, and these were taken by Sheena. With Hailee''s permission, Sheena posted several photos on her Instagram and tagged everyone.


    The world feasted on the photos asizens recognized the famous tycoons.


    *


    In the middle of a merry conversation, the adults were disturbed when a child cried. The fathers suddenly rose from their chairs and ran toward the kids ying near the pool.


    "Violet?" Theo rushed to her daughter and kneeled on the ground. He asked in a sweet tone, "What happened, sweetheart?"


    However, the little girl continued crying. Instead of replying, Violet walked toward Allen and punched him.


    The fathers that gathered around were dumbfounded at what happened. Instantly, they have an idea Allen did something and made Violet cry.


    "I did nothing. Why did you hit me?" Allen frowned after he recovered from the shock. Even him, he didn''t expect that Violet would punch him. Although there is not much force; however, he was embarrassed as the adults saw this.


    "Allen, what is going on here?" Shun asked his eldest son.


    "Papa, I did nothing. I''m just reading here."


    "Allen?" Shun was calm, but his voice was full of authority.


    "I swear, Papa. I just wanted to help her, but then she started crying." Allen had difficulty exining his side.


    Shun believes that his son would not lie. However, he wants Allen to understand something. Shun nced at Theo and looked apologetically at Violet.


    "Sweetheart, could you tell Uncle Shun what happened?" Shun calmly asked the little girl.


    Violet is only three years old, but he witnessed that Theo''s children are brilliant. Violet is the top one in her ss, whereas Carlisle Hendrik is her ssmate.


    And speaking of his other son, Shun looks around to search for Carlisle, but that guy has nowhere to be found.


    "Violet, can you tell us what happened?" Coaxing his daughter, Theo repeated Shun''s question earlier.


    Violet wipes the tears in her eyes. She looked at Allen and said, "He put a worm in my cake."


    Everyone who listened was astounded by Violet''s exnation. It may be a prank by a child, but they wonder who did that to Violet. They look at Allen with conflicted emotion in their eyes.


    Allen, at eight years old, understood the adults, giving him a questioning stare.


    ''What a brat!'' Allen rolled his eyes and then scowled at Violet. He hated that Violet was using him just because he sat near her.


    Shun heaves a deep sigh and apologizes to Theo. "I''m sorry, Theo. I will investigate further who tries to scare Violet. It may be a childish y, but I won''t tolerate it."


    "It''s okay, Shun. Violet is just scared of worms. That''s only my concern; she might develop a phobia."


    "I apologize again."


    Theo nodded at Shun, then walked toward the other side of the pool where the girls were lounging. He brought his daughter to her mama and exined what had happened.


    After the father and daughter leave, Shun returns his attention to his son. He lifted his arm and messed up Allen''s hair.


    "Listen to me, son. Don''t think that I used you or doubted you. I want you to understand that I will normally question you first because you are the eldest. Look, son. Everyone here is your brothers and sisters. It was your responsibility to watch over them. When you are old enough. I will tell you everything you need to know for you to understand what I am saying."


    Shun wanted to exin to Allen that he was the first candidate to rece him in the seat, being the head of both the Mafia Association and the High Royal Society.


    "Allen, as my firstborn son in this lifetime, I want you to look after our family and friends. As you see around, when we all pass, the responsibility to maintain our good rtionship with everyone will be yours. That includes watching over Violet and your Aunt Hailee''s children and more cousins of yours in the future."


    Allen understands what his father is telling him, but he chooses not to speak up because even if he would decline, as the oldest, he had to take responsibility.


    "Okay, Papa. I will pay attention from now on."


    "I know you would be." Shun patted Allen on the shoulder.?"Alright. I need to look for your little brother. He and Violet are ssmates, so I''ve guessed right away that it was him who scares Violet. He must learn at school what would frighten her."


    This time, Allen smiled and felt relieved that his father was not angry at him. Allen actually adored his father. He looked up at him and thought he was his hero.


    "Papa, allow me to search for Hendrik. He must y with Seth."


    Since Violet and Seth were Hendrik''s ssmates, Allen had guessed that they were who scared Violet.


    "Okay. Go ahead, son."


    "Everything is alright?" asked Vincent.


    "Yes. We finally found the culprit. It must be my youngest son, Hendrik, and Violet''s twin brother Seth."


    "I see. Kids sure a handful."


    "Haha! You will experience the crazy journey soon, Vincent." Teased Shun.


    Vincent chuckled and concurred. "I have two sons and two daughters. I hope the boys will watch for their sisters and not pull a prank on them."


    "Well yeah. Although, it''s normal for the kids to be mischievous. We adults should exin to them it is not a good habit to do. Many situations put someone in danger."


    "You are right, Shun. They have to know it was wrong and not nice."


    *


    Next on:


    In the evening, more of Hailee''s friends and knights had arrived. However, news came in.


    "Boss, a call from P Country!"


    Vincent looked at Tim, who was in a panic. He asked, "What happened?"


    "Boss, one of our clientsins after his yacht''s crashed into someone''s yacht!"


    "Why are they calling us instead of the insurancepany?"


    "Boss, the owner of the yacht that was crashed by our client is Mr. Gideon Jackson, and¡­"


    "What is it, Tim?" Vincent suddenly had an awful premonition.


    "Mr. Jackson is¡­"


    Tim''s next words are like a bomb dropped to the ground.

 Chapter 458 - Accident

    In Vincent''s study, Shun is seated on a single couch, reading Vincent''s proposal. Thetter ced a mug of brewed coffee in front of him.


    Vincent took the sofa across from Shun and waited for his opinion.


    "I know I am going to step on several directors of Davies International. But I wanted the best for the corporation. The only interest that I have is to give morefort to my children."


    "And I will also benefit from it. Whatever sess Davies would achieve is also a great impact to Crow Corporation."


    "I know you would understand."


    "Of course. We are talking business here." Shun pursed his lips into a sly smile. He carried on, "Nichs was declined by your dad when he needed more trusted people in the association. When Frederick left, Nichs let him go by Lady Isabe''s enlightenment. Now we understand everything. Somehow, Nichs always trusts Lady Isabe. At present, your family yed an important part. You are now a big help to me."


    "I do hope I am of help when I was the one always asking for your assistance."


    Shun shook his head. "I am just giving you the resources you need. But your action shakes the world."


    "Is that how it looks? I just wanted to give Hailee and our children a peaceful life." Vincent exins to Shun.


    Shun smiled at Vincent. He wished he could reveal everything to Vincent, but it was not the right time yet.


    "The Documentary about you and Hailee would air soon. I believe Uncle Jacob took the opportunity to announce his early retirement and put you in the seat before the release date to stir controversy. Look now, you are on every front page of newspapers, and every social media tform releases too many stories about you. Every reporter is ecstatic to write an article about you."


    Vincent chuckled. Ever since the world learned that he is going to marry an heiress named Hailee Davies, his life has been even more controversial than he is already. This time, the entire world scrutinized him every single day.


    Until now, people used him only after his wife''s fortune. Davies Corporation is a trillion-dor asset, not yet included in the subsidiarypanies internationally.


    Who would not take the chance to marry Hailee Davies?


    However, he never after Hailee''s wealth. He just wanted to grow old with the woman he''s in love with.


    "The Documentary will help me clear my name," said Vincent after a brief pause.


    "Absolutely. The production had a careful decision when it was the perfect month to release the episode one by one."


    "It was a long series, right?"


    "Yup. One episode each week, and the perfect day would be Saturday."


    "Okay. I do not care if people continue using me. The only thing in my mind is Hailee''s health. Her pregnancy is getting difficult when she is approaching her due."


    "And because of that, it is dangerous for Hailee to hear or see any bad news."


    "Yes. We confiscated all the gadgets that she had. She is only allowed to use one during her virtual meetings with her staff."


    "That''s good. I heard you will go back to Dream City to prepare for Hailee''s delivery," asked Shun.


    Vincent nodded his head. "Doctor Hector is already preparing a room for Hailee to stay in the hospital until she gives birth and has herplete recovery after. I wentst time to choose the perfect room and redesign the adjoining rooms to fit four cradles."


    "It is best for Hailee to deliver in Dream City." Otherwise, that man might seed in killing those children. Shun added to his head; however, he has no way to voice that out to Vincent.


    "Yes. Also, it is safer for Hailee. We can fully control the media by not allowing them to enter Dream City."


    "I will send some of my men to help watch the gateways. It would be better if we added more monitoring cameras around the city. I will order Sandy to check on the security system and install thetest cameras Rudolf and Meisha develop."


    "Great! Thanks for all the help, Shun."


    "Don''t mention it. Like what I''ve said already, we''re family."


    Vincent smiled at Shun, but that disappeared when he looked at the monitoring screen on the table. He got up from the sofa and walked toward the door to open it.


    "John? Come in."


    John was surprised when the door suddenly opened. He was about to knock on the door, but Vincent seemed to predict that he was outside.


    "Vincent! I am just here to bid our goodbyes. Carmen has to catch up with her ne, so I have to drive her to the airport."


    "Ah. Is she can''t stay longer?" Vincent widened the door to let John enter his study.


    John steps inside the room and roams his eyes around. He already expected how grand the Davies Mansion was, but still, it left him speechless of how luxurious every corner it has.


    "I think nice is not enough to describe your study." John praises Vincent''s study room.


    "Ah, this? It was my sisters who actually decorated."


    "Hmm¡­ You were lucky to have such a family." Johnmented.


    "I am blessed indeed. Don''t forget that you are part of my extended family."


    John formed a faint smile on his lips, concealing theplicated emotion in his eyes.


    "How blissful I was," he said afterward, continuing walking around Vincent''s study.


    "Hey, John!" Shun called out to him. "Leaving already?"


    John stopped on his track to look over at the man speaking from the couch.


    "Ah, Shun¡­ Yes. I need to drive Carmen to the airport."


    "Alright." Shun smiled and nodded his head. He didn''t take more of John''s time, and he returned to reading the email on his phone.


    John, on the other hand, carries on wandering Vincent''s study until he stops at a long table in the right corner if you are facing South.


    "Empress of the Ocean." John read thebel on the table. He turned his head to Vincent and asked him. "Are you building a Giga yacht?"


    "Yeh. Hailee''s yacht is surely stunning. Instead of remodeling it into a kid-friendly boat. I decided to build a family yacht where kids can y all they want and have their own pool."


    "Why do I imagine a yacht with a sliding pool?"


    "Haha. You are correct, it has a cruise ship sense, but it is actually not. It will be my project after I build the castle I promised to Hailee."


    "Hmm¡­ I am seeing you are working your ass hard." John sounded teasing Vincent, whom he didn''t feel offended by, but concurred with his remark.


    "You are right, John. I need my position at Davies to fulfill all my promises to Hailee."


    "Hmm¡­ That was one hell of an inspiration. You made me envious. Now I want to settle down."


    "There is nothing wrong with sharing your life with someone," said Vincent like a master of love and marriage.


    "I concur with your quote, Vincent. I could see in you that what I need is someone I am happy to be with."


    "And love¡­" Vincent added.


    John fell silent for a moment before he reacted. He smiled at Vincent and extended his arm. "Thanks¡­ That was really inspiring. Then, I would not stay long. Carmen and I wanted to hang out with you all, but she had an important meeting with her business partners."


    "I''m sure Hailee understood that. She was thrilled today to see her friends."


    "I''m also d that she doesn''t hate me anymore."


    Both Vincent and Johnugh, then shake hands. John left, and Vincent sent them off. Vincent went back to the study and continued his private meeting with Shun.


    "Boss!" Suddenly, the door was pushed open drastically by Tim. He had long strides toward Vincent and Shun while his face was filled with worries.


    "What''s going on, Tim?"


    "Boss, a phone call from P Country. There is a serious incident on one of our yachts."


    "What happened?"


    "A client is suing after his yacht crashed into someone''s yacht!"


    Vincent raised a brow. "Why are they suing us? If an ident happens, are they supposed to contact the insurancepany?"


    "But boss, the matter is too serious. I already made an investigation. ording to our representative, our client pointed out the malfunction in the system. Said they lost control of the yacht. The reason they crashed into someone."


    "What happened to the other yacht?"


    "It was rammed badly, boss."


    "Sounds so bad, Vincent." Shun chimed in. He was only listening, but Shun could see the panic in Tim''s face.


    "Yes. It looks like the collision is severe."


    "Not only that boss¡­ The owner of the yacht that was crashed by our client is Mr. Gideon Jackson, and¡­"


    "Come again?"


    "It was Mr. John''s father. And the part of the yacht that was hit was the suites and¡­"


    "Tim, stop beating the bush."


    Tim heaved a sigh and prepared his heart.


    "Boss, the report says both father and son died in the collision."


    "What? Are you talking about Mr. Gideon and John''s twin brother?" Vincent blurted out. He rose from the sofa and walked to his table. He opens hisputer and searches for the news regarding the Jackson family.


    Vincent watched and read all the news about the incident. And ording to the initial investigation. He was pointed out as responsible because the yacht was his very own design and hispany built it.


    "Boss, what do you want me to do?" asked Tim, waiting patiently for whatever his boss ordered.


    "Did John hear it already?" Vincent asked Tim, but he did not wait for his reply as he dialed John''s contact already.. "John is not picking up my call."

 Chapter 459 - Stay Innocent

    Vincent tried to contact John, but he failed to talk to him. Instead, John''s assistant got in touch with him and exined that his boss had to fly to C Country to take his father and brother''s body to honor a funeral.


    That same night, Vincent sent Tim and Kristian to help investigate the matter. After everyone heard the sad news, they were careful not to mention anything to Hailee until it solved the case. Or at least, they had rification of what exactly happened.


    While the investigation was in progress, John went back to Northern Australia and held the funeral in the Jackson vi.


    In white coffins, ced the father and son, Gideon Jackson and Jay Jackson. Said, both burned in the incident, so the viewing is only avable to the immediate family and closest friends. And most of the time, the coffins were closed.


    *


    Davies Mansion


    At Jacob''s study, Shun, Vincent, and Frederick have locked themselves in the room to discuss the matter.


    They do not worry if the media used Vincent of the father and son''s death. Instead, their concern is Hailee.


    Despite Hailee improving her health in the passing weeks, they did everything to avoid repeating what happened thest time, which almost caused her a miscarriage.


    "Hailee has heard nothing about the news yet. So, it might be the best time to move her to Dream City," Jacob proposed.


    "Now, there is no holding back but making our move against the Dark Shadow Organization," Shun chimed in.


    "But before we achieve anything, we have to capture Samuel Miller." Vincent''s remark.


    "Vincent is right." Jacob concurred. He added, "Since Liam says nothing about the organization. Maybe we can do something about Samuel Miller."


    "However, as what happened with the Jackson family at the moment, we could not ask John to cooperate with us this time around," said Fred.


    "You are right, dad. It must be hard for John to lose the only family he had. So, I want to take care of the investigation myself. I want to visit C Country to cooperate with the detectives and clear my name."


    Vincent was determined to solve this matter as soon as possible, so he proposed this idea. However, his dad disagrees.


    "No, son. You are not leaving Australia." Fred advised Vincent, "Our enemies are doing everything for them to have all the opportunity to assassinate you. Visiting C Country would not be a wise move but a trap for you. Let me handle this matter. You and Hailee should fly to Dream City and stay there until this matter is over."


    "Dad, I don''t want to hide like this." Vincent opposed.


    If he hides, what impact would it cause to his position as CEO of Davies Corporation? He proves his capability in handling from managing thepany to solving problems.


    "I will apany Hailee to Dream City. Then I will tell her the truth when we get there. I can''t bear lying and hiding from her." he added.


    "In that case, I will order Tom to prepare the jet. I will also talk to Manni and Doctor Dave to arrange Hailee''s transfer," said Jacob.


    "And the girls are safer in Dream City." In the situation they are in, no one could sit idly. Shun offered a hand, "I will talk to Cassandra, Madison, and Riley to help Aunt Hilda watch Hailee."


    "That would be wonderful. Hailee would be happy to spend more time with them," said Vincent. It made him feel a little relieved to know that Hailee would not be alone. "I might also ask the girls to stay another month. Carl can continue giving them online sses."


    "That would be best." Both Jacob and Fred agreed to Vincent''s n.


    The following day, Doctor Manni performs an ultrasound and draws blood from Hailee for some tests. When the results arrive, she tells Hailee that she can travel back to Dream City tonight.


    Doctor Manni exined to Hailee that she might have difficulties traveling if they wait for her due month, so it''s better to be early now.


    Everything was so sudden, but Hailee questioned nothing. Even though everyone tried to act casual, Hailee already had the suspicion that something was going on. But she did not make a fuss that Vincent lied to her.


    Instead, she understood him. Since Vincent was officially the new CEO, she did her best not to add to his worries and chose to trust him.


    "I would love to go back to Dream City, Aunt Manni! I am actually excited." She said gleefully. "I want to see the progress of the tower Vincent was building."


    That night, Hailee''s private jet took off from Sydney Airport.


    Hilda, Doctor Manni is happy to move back to La Fraire Courtyard with the girls: Cassandra, Madison, Riley, Nikki, Gigi, Kelly, Vera, Janise, Jennifer, Hazel, Nadia, and Liza.


    Sheena apanied their dad Fred to C Country, while Deana went back to P Country to take care of the issues in thepany.


    Hailee travels her eyes to the beautiful morning skyline. She stood near the floor-ceiling window and waited for the sun to rise that morning.


    "Are you not going to get a nap?" asked Vincent while approaching Hailee. He wrapped his arms around his wife''s waist, stroking her belly while nting tiny kisses on her shoulder.


    "I am waiting for the sunrise. Just then, I will take some rest," she replied to Vincent. Hailee lifted her chin and reached for Vincent''s lips to taste them.


    "Alright. Let''s wait together then." Vincent brushed his lips against Hailee''s. They stayed standing there until the sun finally showed up.


    Hailee sighed with delight. The views from La Fraire Courtyard are breathtaking, the reason she built the hotel on this spot.


    "Hubby, I''m all ears if you have something to tell me."


    Vincent lowered his gaze to the woman inside his arms. He lifted his arm and caressed Hailee''s face as admiration exhibited in his eyes. Until now, they treated her like a fragile woman. However, Hailee always proves that they are all wrong to think she cares less about others'' emotions.


    "I love you, darling."


    Hailee smiled at Vincent. She knew that Vincent would use this endearment every time he was in his serious mood.


    "Let''s take a seat," Hailee suggested to Vincent.


    They took the nearest sofa and snuggled. After Hailee found herfortable position on the couch, she rested her head on Vincent''s shoulder.


    "Wifey, I''m sorry if I haven''t told you right away. But I n to tell you the truth once we arrive in the city. I''ll be honest now. Coming back to Dream City earlier than we''ve already nned is nothing to do with your pregnancy. Well, a small part, yes. But there is a bigger reason than that." Vincent began. "I need to leave soon and visit John."


    "Okay. Is this about Samuel Miller?"


    Vincent nodded his head as he continued. "Something happened to John''s father and twin brother. The incident was pointing at me, and so, dad is helping me to solve the matter."


    "Can you promise to me you will take care? I want you to make a careful decision." Hailee knew well what would happen if they took the wrong action. She lost a few brothers.


    "I promised," Vincent swears. "I will make a careful decision ande back in one piece."


    Thanks to his dad Fred, he was enlightened not to solve things personally. He actually made a careless n. Now he had utterly discerned that Samuel nned this for him to walk on his trap.


    However, Vincent will turn the table.


    When Hailee fell asleep on the sofa inside his arms, Vincent chatted to his dad-inw.


    "Things went well. It was Hailee who urged me to tell her what was going on."


    "I''m d, Vincent. My daughter really has changed. She is more optimistic."


    "You are right, dad. We are afraid for her to throw a tantrum after someone framed me again."


    "Hailee is actually more than we thought, Uncle Jacob." Shun messaged thetter privately after his conversation with Vincent and the two older men.


    "I guess I still babied your little sister, Shun."


    "It is necessary for us to keep Hailee as innocent as she can be."


    "Do we really need to do this, Shun?" asked Jacob.


    "Yes, uncle Jacob. If we let that man seed in his ns, we could not stop the Alliance from breaking off." One more time, Shun exined to his uncle why they had to suppress Hailee from growing up.


    "Hailee, who led the rebellion against the association. When that happens, all the families are also breaking off, Uncle. It will lead to disagreement and separate ways. And you know I could not hurt Hailee."


    Jacob heaved a long sigh from the bottom of his chest.


    "Okay. It was for the best. Thank you for your guidance, Shun. I hope you will never get tired of helping Hailee."


    "Of course, uncle. I am doing this for everyone, most especially for my family. My children must live a peaceful life. Vincent desires the same as me."


    "I also wished for my grandchildren to have a fulfilling life. Alright, see you in Northern Australia."


    Shun was already in Northern Australia to visit John. Vincent wille the next day, and together they will attend the funeral.


    "I must stop the great war."

 Chapter 460 - The One Owns His Heart

    <strong>Jackson Vi</strong>


    John was seated in the chair in the first row, in front of his father''s coffin. On the other side is his twin brother, Jay. It''s been three nights since he held the funeral of his family.


    He looked around and saw his friends lounging on the corner with Mikael and Rob, talking with low voices.


    It was ironic that after he made friends with great people who are willing to be his family even though they are not blood-rted, his real family died.


    John pursed his lips into a bitter smile after some thought that he does not need his father and brother in this life because of the new people around him. Shockingly, they actually disappear for real.


    He may have hated his father and brother, but he never wishes to part ways with them this way.


    "John¡­"


    A sweet voice reached John''s ears. He turned his head to look at the woman sitting next to him. Lowering his gaze to the tray she was holding, John smiled and asked,


    "Did you make that for me?"


    The woman, who is none other than Carmen, nodded her head. "You have eaten nothing this morning. Please, have some soup while it''s still warm."


    The night John receives the sad news, he is dropping her off at the airport. After she learned that something had happened to his father and brother, she postponed her flight and apanied John to take care of the bodies and helped him organize the funeral.


    John extended his arm and brushed Carmen''s smooth cheek. He leaned over and kissed her lips.


    "Thank you," John muttered tenderly, looking at Carmen with affection. He was grateful to have a very supportive girlfriend. Since the very first day, Carmen never leaves his side, and her presence truly gives him strength.


    Later that evening, more important people visit the funeral.


    "Mr. Jackson, you have guests."


    His assistant approached John. After exchanging meaningful stares, John nodded his head, and his assistant left.


    "John, ept our condolences." said the man. He gave John aforting pat on his back.


    "Uncle Jacob, thank you."


    "John, we''re sorry to hear the sad news." Full of sincerity, Vincent conveys his condolences. He and John hugged, then patted thetter''s back.


    "I''m sorry for your loss, John," Shun muttered after Vincent.


    John nodded his head and epted Shun''s hand. "Thank you foring, Shun."


    In the ballroom''s corner where the funeral took ce, John was standing near the French Window with Shun and Vincent talking sincerely.


    Everyone attending the funeral that night could not help feeling astonished that they see John actually had a good rtionship with him after the controversies had been thrown at Vincent.


    "Do you think the incident has nothing to do with John?"


    "What are you saying?"


    "Gideon''s favorite son is Jay. After Gideon purchased a yacht, the only son he sailed with was him, and John was not even aware that his father bought it."


    "Are you pointing at John orchestrating the death of his father and brother with Vincent''s help?" chimed by another businessman.


    The three of them had a dinner meeting, and the scenest night made them curious about Gideon''s sudden death. Jackson Group is a leadingpany in Northern Australia¡ªa particr interest is familiar to any conglomerate.


    "So, you suspect John is after his family''s fortune?"


    "Gideon shows he cares more than his other son. Maybe John felt his father was aiming to give thepany to his favorite son."


    "Well, that is possible." The other men concurred with him.


    "I heard Gideon sold his shares to someone and left nothing to John. Maybe he did that after his favorite son had no interest in managing thepany. So Gideon thought to leave a huge amount to that son."


    "And to get what is right for him, Johnmitted the crime."


    The three men were immersed in talking inside their private booth; they hadn''t noticed the man eavesdropping since the door was ajar.


    Samuel Miller left that restaurant with a triumphant smile on his lips. It made him thrilled to hear such gossip. If these words spread to the entire business world, his master would be pleased to see Vincent in such malicious controversy.


    After some thought, Samuel grinned viciously. He pulled out his phone from his coat pocket and dialed a particr contact that belonged to a reporter.


    "It''s me¡­ Again¡­ I want you to publish an article."


    *


    On the fourth day of the funeral, a malicious article was released, which instantly became a hot topic among the tycoons.


    The article used both John and Vincent of conspiring the death of Gideon and Jay Jackson. It mentioned in the report that Vincent had invested a massive amount in J Group before Gideon sold all his shares to someone that hid the identity of this person. The reason Vincent helps John is to benefit from the partnership.


    Photos were enclosed in the article about how Vincent and John had a great rtionship in secret.


    Since people are frighteningly genius when ites to investigating someone''s lives, they dug up Vincent''s posts on social media, including John and everyone around them, such as Carmen and Sheena.


    The other week, Carmen posted a photo of her and John with a caption, "Visiting wonderful friends," on her Instagram.


    They connected that photo to Sheena''s posts with the other girls, including Hailee, with the same clothes she has, which were posted on the same day. At the same time, Carmen posted it earlier than Sheena.


    "God! People were absolute geniuses in investigating other lives to have something to gossip about." Mikael stressed out while reading several articles regarding John and Vincent''s controversies.


    Vincent only nced at Mikael with a solemn expression on his face. He was chatting with Hailee, so he reacted nothing to Mikael''s endless remarks on the malicious articles.


    "Let them think whatever they want," said John, seated next to Vincent on the sofa.


    John is having a coffee with them at the pool area after the sun finally showed up today when it constantly rained in the past few days.


    "Before I forget, let me thank all of you for apanying me during my grieving days. I''m happy that despite the malicious gossip, all of you stayed with me," he said afterward.


    "Bro, don''t start being such a drama idiot." Mikael snapped at John. He then added, "Bros must stick together. Do not forget that."


    John smiled softly as his gaze looked at each man surrounding him. "You guys don''t know how that made me feel better."


    Later that evening, John seated once again in the front row. Beside him is Carmen, resting her head on his shoulder. Even though he persuades his girlfriend to get some rest, Carmen doesn''t want to leave his side.


    The night was solemn and tranquil. Carmen stared delightedly at her fingers intertwined with John. The two of them shared loving gazes with slight smiles on their lips, like they were the only people in that room and not grieving.


    "Jay!"


    Suddenly, a wail from the ballroom entrance, followed by a woman sitting in a wheelchair, rushed toward Jay''s coffin.


    "Jay! Why did you leave me!" the woman mourning. She attempted to stand on her feet, but there was no strength in her legs, and she fell on the floor.


    Before she reaches the ground, two muscr arms catch her frail body.


    Carmen left frozen in her seat after John suddenly got up and ran toward Ivy, Jay''s wife, and the same girl John was in love with.


    She could not bear to watch them hugging each other, so Carmen lowered her head, sping her hands tightly above herp. She bit her lower lip to suppress the emotion harboring in her chest.


    ''She''s back¡­ The one who owned his heart.''


    *


    La Fraire Courtyard, Dream City


    Cassandra is nursing her youngest daughter Arave while Ang Cassandra affectionately watches her little sister sucking their momma''s nipple for milk.


    "Mama, can I hold her after she is fed up?"


    There were sparks in Ang''s eyes when she made this request. Cassandra smiled at her daughter and nodded her head. After she nursed Ara, she slowly ced her inside Ang''s small arms. The big sister rocked her body so gently, not to wake up the now asleep Ara.


    Violet was staring at Ang, full of envy. She could no longer wait for her mama to give birth to the baby inside her womb, and she wanted to hold her as well.


    "Would you like to hold her, Violet?"


    With twinkle eyes, Violet nodded, but then she shook her head as fear suddenly surged her chest after she looked at the tiny baby.


    "Can I touch her?" As jealousy got her good, Violet made such a request. She is afraid to hurt the baby if she carries her, so maybe she could hold her tiny hands.


    Ang leaned a little for Violet to reach Arabe''s hand. She happily held them, and the little girl felt like she was sent to heaven after Ara gripped her hand.


    "She was too pretty!" Violet praises Ara.


    "She is as pretty as you!"


    Cassandra and Nikki shared a knowing nce, bemused at how their children interact with each other. Although Ang is older than Violet, it looks like they will be great friends, like sisters.


    "I could not wait for Hailee to give birth to her girls!" Nikki said gleefully with the thought.


    "But you were going to deliver first." Cassandra reminded her, which made Nikki giggle.


    "Yeah. You are actually right." Nikki nodded her head with a smile.


    "Mama?" Madison called out to Cassandra as she entered the room.


    "Yes, Madison?" Cassandra quickly answered and looked in the door''s direction.


    "Hailee wants to speak with you."


    "Oh, okay." Cassandra nced at Nikki and said, "I''ll check on Hailee."


    Nikki nodded as she watched Madison and Cassandra disappear at the door. She joined the children on the bed and took Arabe from Ang to put the baby in the cradle.


    At Hailee''s suite, Cassandra and Madison joined Hailee on the sofa, both seated on her sides.


    "Hail, you wanted to speak with us?"


    "Actually, I want to talk to Lady Isabe."


    Madison and Cassandra shared a nce. The former dialed Lady Isabe''s contact number, which immediately answered.


    "Madison? Does Hailee want to speak with me?"


    Madison smiled after she learned that Lady Isabe had already seen about this day.


    "Yes. I will hand the phone to Hailee."


    Hailee immediately took the phone and did not beat around the bush.


    "I heard you were in Italy."


    "Yes, I am Hailee. What can I do for you?" asked Lady Isabe even though she already knew why Hailee wanted to talk to her.


    "Can I speak with Liam?"

 Chapter 461 - Numb Her Heart

    "Hush, now, Ivy¡­ Stop crying now. You are not fully recovered yet." With a gentle voice, Johnforted his sister-inw. Ivy was clinging around him while she wailed loudly. He led her to a chair and helped her sit down.


    "John¡­ Jay is gone."


    Ivy was also on the yacht, but she only got minor injuries. She was in the other room when the collision happened. A crew helped her get out of the burning room after some explosion. And ording to the hospital, Ivy was two months pregnant.


    "It is not good for your health. Think about the condition of your baby. So you need to calm down."


    Upon hearing John, Ivy lifted her head and looked at John. She asked, "What am I going to do now, John?"


    "Don''t worry. Everything will be alright. I promised to take care of you and your child."


    Ivy welled up once again after she heard John''s promise. After she learned Jay had died, she did not stop begging her family to bring her to Australia to see Jay''s remains onest time.


    "John, I''m scared."


    John lifted both of his arms and dried the tears in Ivy''s eyes. His heart is wrenching with pain to see Ivy in a helpless state. He pulled her into an embrace and did not stopforting her with promises.


    Meanwhile, it was painful for Carmen to witness such scenes. However, she was still John''s girlfriend. As long as he needs her, she wants to stay by his side.


    Carmen loosened her clenched palms that formed into a ball. She straightens up her back and clears her throat, swallowing the lump blocking in her air passageway.


    "Miss Carmen, the water you''ve requested." A servant approached Carmen, holding a wooden tray with a clean ss and unopened bottled water.


    Carmen picked up the bottled water, twisted the cap, and poured the content on the crystal ss.


    "Give me the tray and take the empty bottle. I''ll bring the water myself." Carmen told the servant.


    "Okay, Miss." The servant smiled at Carmen. In the past few days that Carmen stood like the madam host of the house, they got to like her because of her gentle temperament. Every servant in the vi actually liked her and wished that their young boss would marry her someday. They believe Carmen is the perfect wife for John.


    Carmen approached John and Ivy with the tray in her hand. She coughed to get John''s attention. Carmen then said, "Ivy, have some water."


    John and Ivy separated after they heard a voice speak up in front of them. Ivy stared at Carmen as she didn''t know her.


    "Ivy, this is Carmen." John looks at Carmen with a meaningful stare when he introduces her to Ivy. He picked up the ss with a slight smile on his lips and muttered. "Thank you, Carmen."


    John handed the ss to Carmen, offering the water. He persuaded her to calm down and take a rest. "You''ve traveled a long way. I will order the servant to clean Jay''s bedroom for you to get some rest."


    Carmen had a pang in her heart listening to John coaxing another woman. She bit her lower lip to help conceal the emotion that clouded her eyes.


    "Let me take care of it, John! I''ll ask for some help to clean the room." She volunteered. Carmen knew she was crazy. But she had to do it so that she had an excuse to leave this room and breathe some air.


    John raised his head and met Carmen''s eyes. She smiled at John sweetly to show him that it was totally alright.


    "Thank you." John pursed his lips into a small smile. Carmen nodded at him, then left.


    Carmen was actually leaving the hall with hurried steps. She walked straight to Jay''s room and locked herself in the bathroom.


    Carmen cried in silence to relieve the leaden in her chest. After she calms down, she looks at her reflection in the mirror and smiles pitifully at herself. But then, she let the tears flow to her eyes, traveling down her cheeks once again.


    "You are crazy in love with him, so you have to bear it," Carmen muttered to herself.


    She reached for the faucet and opened it for the water to flow freely. She was in a trance for a moment, staring at the water after having some thought.


    Carmen shook her head and cleared up her mind. She bent her body and washed her face. After then, Carmen requested the servant, who quickly got on her feet to clean Jay''s room.


    The servant changes the curtain after they vacuum the entire room. Carmen changes the beddings herself and arranges the pillows on the headboard.


    "Miss Carmen, here are the flowers you requested."


    Carmen saw a blooming garden of roses in the back. She asked one servant to cut plenty of them, as she nned to put them in Jay''s room to put some life in her.


    "Can you bring me two flower vases?"


    "I will get them right away, Miss."


    "Thank you." Carmen smiled at the leaving servant.


    When the servant was gone at the door, the smile on her face disappeared. She hurls a long breath and pushes back the tears that threaten to escape her eyes.


    It pained her every time she remembered how gentle John was with Ivy. The soft gaze in his eyes belonged only to her until now. The thought that she could make John fall in love with her andpletely forget Ivy as she was married to his twin brother¡ªher hopes suddenly shattered after a tragedy urred.


    Ivy is now a widow, and John did his best tofort her.


    "Ouch."


    "Are you okay, Miss Carmen?" asked the servant who helped Carmen arrange the roses on the flower vase.


    "I''m fine." She lowered her gaze and remained to stare at her finger. "The thorn only pricked me."


    <i>''This pain is nothingpared to how my heart ached.''</i> Carmen mused inwardly.


    "Miss¡­ Are you not going to treat your wound?"


    ''I wish I could teach my heart to stop loving him so that my heartes to its end from wounding.''


    "Miss! The blood did not stop oozing from your fingers!"


    Carmen was snapped back to her senses after the servant stressed out. She just realized that her fingers were drenched in blood.


    "Oh. I will wash them in the bathroom." Carmen covered her wounded finger with her other hand and ran to the bathroom.


    Carmen let the water wash the blood away from her hand. A knock on the door, then a servant is peeking inside.


    "Miss Carmen, I have the medicine kit. Let me tend your wound."


    Carmen turned her head to the door. She nodded at the servant and replied to her, "Okay. Thank you."


    Carmen turned off the faucet and strode toward an ent chair inside that bathroom. The servant ced the medicine kit on top of the dresser and tended to Carmen''s wound.


    After the servant stered her wound with a bigger Band-Aid, Carmen continued arranging the roses, and this time, she was careful about cutting the thorns.


    They had just finished cleaning up the room, and Carmen sat down on a single couch when John and Ivy appeared at the door. Since Ivy twisted her ankle after running from the burning suite, John has to carry her around.


    Carmen watched John gently put down Ivy on the bed. Jealousy ate up her heart, but she would look like a bitch if she behaved childishly by asking John to let someone else carry Ivy next time.


    Carmen grabbed her dress as her palm clenched into fists. She constantly reminds herself that she has nothing to be jealous about. After all, it was Ivy who John was in love with until now.


    Ivy is John''s childhood friend. John does not even introduce her to Ivy as his girlfriend. What is her match against her then?


    Carmen turned around and headed to the door. She heard John telling Ivy to eat something before she slept.


    "You must not starve yourself now that a baby is growing in your womb."


    Carmen stops in her tracks.


    ''Ivy is pregnant?''


    She nced over her shoulder and looked at the two people who were intimate on the bed.


    ''Are you willing to be the father of her child, John?'' Carmen could not help muttering this inside her head.


    Carmen was about to resume walking when she heard John calling out her name.


    "Carmen, could you make Ivy a chicken soup? I heard from Vincent. It was what his mom cooked for Hailee."


    ''I''m not her mother, dammit!'' Carmen cursed inwardly. The reality was too painful. She could only throw a fret inside her mind because even though her heart was breaking, all she could show was the fake smile on her face.


    "Alright. Please, wait a little while. I have to boil the chicken first."


    Ivy looked at Carmen with an embarrassed look on her face. She smiled timidly and uttered, "I''m sorry to trouble you, Carmen."


    Carmen shook her head as she replied, "Not really! John is right to say that you need not starve yourself. You need nutritious food so I will make you chicken soup. Then, I will excuse myself."


    After saying this, Carmen rushed outside and made long strides toward the stairs. She isn''t sure how long she can bear the pain in her chest. She hoped that she could numb her heart soon¡­


    But first, she must not cry no matter what because she is insane to decide she would not give up.

 Chapter 462 - Change The Course

    After a couple of hours, Carmen finished cooking the chicken soup. She asked the servants to help her bring the soup to Jay''s bedroom with the other dishes she prepared for John.


    Even though her heart is breaking, every time she sees John being too sweet to another woman, she could not behave like a heartless person to hate Ivy and think ill of her.


    Ivy is grieving right now. She is in pain from her loss. She loves Jay very much, but how unfortunate a life she had. Her husband died at such a young age, and Jay had no chance of meeting his child.


    However, Ivy was too blessed to have John''s affection in Carmen''s eyes.


    She and John may be in a rtionship. But there is no certainty that John would stay by her side when his dream girl was a widow now¡ªit is his chance to pursue Ivy while she is mourning and in a helpless state.


    John is in love with Ivy. So she had no chance to win him over. But until John did not break up with her, she would stay by his side.


    "John? I''m sorry if I take too long to finish cooking." Carmen knocked on the door that was already wide open. She stepped inside and walked toward the bed.


    Carmen does not need to apologize. But her purpose is for John to spare a nce in her direction. John may lift his head, but he only cast a quick look at her as his attention fixed on Ivy.


    "Food is here. Even though you have no appetite, you need to force yourself to eat even just a little." John persuaded Ivy, and his voice was full of concern.


    Carmen ignored the pang in her heart, listening to John coaxing another woman. But when John picked up the bowl of soup and started feeding Ivy, that was herst straw.


    "If you need anything else, just let me know. I''ll go back to the hall to check if the guests needed something." Carmen did not wait for either John or Ivy to reply to her.


    She left the room without looking back. Her excuse of going to the ballroom hall is only her alibi so that she could no longer watch the scene that is painful for her to see.


    She wanted to convince herself that John''s kindness toward Ivy was only out of pity. She knew very well that she was only fooling herself to think of that; however, it was her way of calming herself from breaking down so suddenly in front of John.


    Carmen went to a guest room instead to hide from everyone. Her older brother is great at reading her emotions, so she doesn''t want Rob to see her in that state as she has no strength to exin anything.


    After half an hour, John exited Jay''s bedroom to let Ivy get some rest.


    <i>''I''m sorry. I hope you will forgive me in the future.''</i> Looking at Ivy, John mutters to himself as he heaves a deep sigh.? He then closed the door and headed back to the mourning hall.


    John realized that more guests had arrived to show their sympathy. He looked around to search for someone.


    "Where is Carmen?" When he didn''t see Carmen, he approached a servant and queried him.? The servant thought they were together, so he didn''t know what to answer.


    John left the hall and searched for another servant to query. An older maid happens to descend the stairs with a tray in her hand.


    "Do you know where Carmen is?"


    "Miss Dawson went to the guestroom to take some rest, sir."


    <i>''Guess room? We''ve been sharing my room for the past few days. Why did she go to the guest room?''? </i>


    John''s bedroom is in front of Jay''s room. Obviously, Carmen does not want to see John spending time inside Jay''s room where Ivy upied the bedroom.


    "John, ept our condolences."


    Initially, he wanted to speak with Carmen. However, the guests noticed his presence, and they now crowded him.


    <i>''Carmen...''? </i>


    *


    <strong>Dream City? </strong>


    "I want to speak with Liam," said Hailee.


    Lady Isabe had rendered speechless on the other line after hearing Hailee''s request. It was apparent how Hailee wanted to do something with her own hands.


    Although she had already expected this call, Isabe could still feel the goosebumps from this conversation. Because of this call, the war between Hailee and Shun will erupt.


    After a moment of contemting, Isabe replied to Hailee, "Dear, you know that we have to ask Shun''s permission first."


    "Why do we have to rely on Shun too much?"


    Isabe contracted her pupils. These are the exact words from Hailee during that time.


    And because of these words, she was challenged, and without second thoughts, she made the mistake of giving in and allowed Hailee to speak with Liam.


    "Hail, please understand that Liam''s case differs from most criminals that we keep in the Chateau. I could not just disregard the protocol."


    She could actually do that, but it caused so much turmoil between the High Royal and Mafia Association because of what she did in that lifetime.


    In that life, she tolerated Hailee to her request. Now that they had a chance to change the course of what happened back then, she must be cautious about what words woulde out of her mouth. Otherwise, it was the end of everything she had tried to build in the past hundreds of years.


    "Hail, Vincent is doing his best to protect you."


    "But he was the one in danger! Please, Aunt Isabe¡­"


    Isabe narrowed her gaze. She lifted her arm and kneaded her forehead. Every time Hailee would insist on something that she wanted, she would call her aunt¡ªfrom formal to a casual approach.


    "Hail, let your husband prove himself that he is worthy to stand by your side. If you don''t trust Vincent that he will win this battle, then allow Shun and your dad to take care of Liam and his men."


    Lady Isabe''s words struck Hailee''s heart. She believes and trusts Vincent, of course.


    However, she hated that Vincent was not by her side every single day because he had to run around pinning those men in the corner.


    She badly wanted to speak with Liam. She will try to help solve the matter regarding the organization Shun wanted to tear down all these years.


    However, Lady Isabe deliberately refused her. The hope she has to speak with that guy disappears.


    Aside from Shun, Lady Isabe had the full authority in the Alliance to contact a person locked up in the Chateau.


    She was tempted to order Sandy to hack the system in the Chateau. But she is aware that it is difficult to infiltrate the security software Shun installed to the entire system of that underground prison.


    Hailee sighs helplessly. She darkened her face as she clenched her palm into a fist with the thought.


    If only she had the power and had equal authority as Shun and Lady Isabe, she would not need their permission.


    Hailee regretted that she did not take her training seriously in the past. Shun wanted to train her to run the Alliance, but she did not show any interest.


    <i>''Maybe it is not toote yet¡­.''? </i>

 Chapter 463 - She Wants That Power

    <strong>La Prairie Courtyard, Dream City</strong>


    Hailee watched the full moon through the window of her hotel suite. Her conversation with Isabe did not go well. She refused and insisted on consulting Shun instead.


    Hailee picked up the bell and rang it. Not long to wait, Mrs. Brown entered the room and approached her.


    "Mrs. Shen?"


    "Mrs. Brown, please notify Madison and Cassandra that I am done talking with Lady Isabe."


    Mrs. Brown left to summoned the two women back to the suite. Hailee requested to speak to Isabe alone as she knew that Cassandra and Madison would tell Shun if they learned why she contacted Lady Isabe.


    "Hail, why do you want to talk to Isabe?" After she settled down on the sofa, Cassandra queried Hailee.


    Hailee looked at Cassandra with a timid smile on her lips. She replied to her, "I have a request, but she refuses me."


    "Can we hear it?" Madison persuaded Hailee.


    However, she could reveal none of her ns now, so she lied to them. "I just wanted Lady Isabe to read my future."


    Cassandra and Madison shared a knowing look. They both know what the future awaits them, and it was a mistake to ask what is on Hailee''s mind. Their curiosity got them good. Now they don''t know how to respond to Hailee.


    Cassandra took Hailee''s hand and said, "You don''t need to stress yourself too much. The best you can do now is to calm down."


    "Don''t worry, Hail. Papa will protect Vincent. Besides, your husband is aware that his life is in danger. However, he would not hide from his enemies."


    Hailee knew all of that. Vincent is determined to fight back. But she wanted to end everything as soon as possible.


    "Thank you, girls. I will try to rx my head to have a clear mind."


    "That''s right, Hail. You don''t need to think of other things, but only the four lives in your womb."


    Hailee nodded and smiled at Cassandra. These two women are right. However, she could not reveal what was running through her mind.


    Cassandra and Madison left to attend to their children. Being left alone, Hailee had more time to contemte and think of another way to gain control in the Alliance.


    A little over four years ago when Vincent saw her in Budapest. She did not know her dad was about to introduce her to the Elders and leaders of the Mafia that formed the association. She was actually summoned to attend a very important gathering of the Alliance.


    However, back then, she did not want to do anything with the High Royal and Mafia Association but distanced herself from that world.


    But now, she wants that power.


    If ever she needs to get involved in the Alliance''s activity, then maybe it is time for her to ept her role.


    *


    <strong>The Alliance Headquarters, ITALY</strong>


    Meanwhile, Lady Isabe has different beliefs in her mind. After they learn what the future awaits them, they have to suppress Hailee from gaining authority in the Alliance.


    She already gathered influential men as her knights. If she realizes her power, it is difficult for them to stop her.


    After some thought, Lady Isabe stood from her chair and walked to the door. She trailed the hallway toward the elevator and got inside. After she arrived at the underground floor, she walked another corridor.


    Upon seeing Isabe, the two guards bowed at her and stepped aside to let her pass. When she reached the door, one guard walked in front of a screen and pressed a few numbers to open the room.


    Lady Isabe steps inside, and the door closes automatically.


    "Athena¡­" Isabe calls out. Immediately, a hologram appeared.


    "Good morning, Lady Isabe." The primaryputer system greeted and queried her afterward. "What can I do for you?"


    "I want to visit Level 3..."


    "Then, please input your ess code."


    On theputer screen that appeared from the floor, Lady Isabe input her personal code that differs from Shun.


    "Confirmed. Please step on the white circle for a scan." Athena requested.


    Isabe followed and walked toward the lighting circle in the middle of the room. She heard a hovering sound from the ceiling. Then, a circle metal scanner came down and passed her whole body.


    "Clear. You may go now, Lady Isabe."


    "Thank you, Athena." Lady Isabe stepped out from the white circle and walked toward the elevator that opened after a clear scan.


    The elevator buttons lit Level 3, then went down. It took only a few seconds, and she arrived on the floor.


    The moment Isabe stepped out of the elevator, the royal guards bowed to her. From there, she was escorted to a particr room.


    "How''s he?" Looking at the monitoring screen, Lady Isabe asked the assigned guards. Her eyes were fixed on a particr screen.


    "The usual, Lady Isabe. He seemed to have had the same dreamsst night from the other nights." the head of the guards reported.


    "I see¡­" Lady Isabe nodded her head.


    In the passing months, she was trying to read Liam''s memories awakened by that man, and he lost his head and became utterly obsessed with Hailee. She and Shun believe it has to do something in his past life.


    However, that man did something for her to see nothing.


    "Let me in." She requested the guards to open the door of Liam''s prison.


    The five guards monitored every movement Liam made inside his prison looked in her direction. After a moment, the captain stood on his feet, then walked toward the door and entered the ess code.


    Lady Isabe followed him inside. Liam''s prison is a vast white room with modern interior designs that are twenty-four hours lit to monitor him even while sleeping.


    Lady Isabe sat down after the captain ced a chair in front of the floor-ceiling ss wall. She crosses her legs and leans back.


    "Still not changing your mind?" Isabe asked Liam.


    The guy did not reply. Instead, he acted as if he didn''t notice he had a visitor. Liam continued reading a book and ignored Lady Isabe.


    "Hailee called me just now."


    Liam, who was about to flip another page, his hand paused and remained hanging in the air.


    Lady Isabe pursed her lips into a cunning smile. She is correct in using this kind of method, and so she took this opportunity to persuade Liam.


    "She wanted to speak with you. However, as you dered, not to speak about anything. I declined her request."


    Could be heard a loud thud from the other side of the ss wall after Liam threw the book in his hand. Liam clenched his palm into a fist as he red at Lady Isabe with the intent of harming her if he could only get a hold of her.


    "How dare you, using her on me!" Liam shouted. Thest time she saw Hailee, she meant to kill him.


    "She wants to know personally who the members of the Dark Shadow Organization are ."


    "What did you say?" Creasing his forehead, Liam asked Isabe. The way his eyes narrowed his gaze, Isabe ultimately got his attention.


    "Hailee wanted to take care of your master with her own hands."


    Liam wheeled toward the ss wall and smashed it with his hands. "You cannot allow her to do that!"


    "She wanted to apprehend your master, and she will turn the world upside down to do that. But I would not let her do anything, yet... In her condition at the moment, it was such a risk to have forcedbor."


    "Forcebor? What do you mean? Hailee is pregnant?" Surprises are written on Liam''s face. It''s been so many months that he has had no news from the outside world. Now, Hailee is expecting a baby?


    "You heard right." Lady Isabe smiled as she went on. "She is expecting quadruplets. It was actually amazing. I never saw Hailee so happy in her life."


    But then, she wiped the smile from her face and was reced with a solemn facial expression.


    She went on, "However, your men tried every means to harm her and Jacob. Now, Vincent and Shun are doing everything to keep Hailee alive."


    There is an unusual glint in Isabe''s eyes. In that life, it was Hailee who spoke with Liam. Hailee begged Liam to confess who is his master was so that the assassination of Vincent would stop.


    Having said that, it only enrages Liam, and everything goes wrong.


    Now that she was the one who revealed these things to Liam, Isabe looks forward to great changes from here on. And in order to achieve that, she is telling a small lie.


    Anyway, what''s the difference? Hailee is truly in danger if she once again has signs of miscarriage.


    "What did you say?" Liam wanted Isabe to repeat her words.


    "Your master is doing every means to kill the babies inside Hailee''s womb. Do you know what would happen if Hailee had forcedbor now she is seven months pregnant? Her doctors say it will only put her in danger because her case is sensitive. Actually, her pregnancy was in critical condition because of your craziness. Also, you give Hailee anxiety. That''s why she is always stressed throughout her pregnancy. Now that your right hand continues bothering her¡­ Samuel Miller is only encouraging Hailee to end the organization by herself without Shun and Vincent''s awareness. Unless I''ll tell them what Hailee is nning to do."


    "Hailee should stay away from the Organization!" Liam shouted, banging the ss wall.


    Lady Isabe rose one brow. She smirked at Liam and got up, preparing to leave. Before she could take another step, Liam roared at her.


    "Get Shun''s ass here!"

 Chapter 464 - Good Times Has To Delayed!

    "He was your superior before. Now you arepletely disrespecting him after you betrayed the Alliance." Lady Isabe sneered at Liam.


    He countered, "He is such a liar! All he did was separate me from Hailee!"


    <i>''She doesn''t love you!''? </i>


    She wanted to give a piece of her mind, but it wasn''t the perfect time. It was great news that Liam was now willing to confess, and she should not make a mistake to enrage him; it might change his mind.


    "Shun will be hereafter Gideon Jackson''s interment." Isabe looks straight into Liam''s eyes.


    "What do you mean interment? Are you saying Chairman Jackson is dead? How did it happen?" It shocked him to hear another shocking news today.


    "Sorry. But I can''t tell you more information." Lady Isabe turned around and left.


    Liam wanted to throw a fuss, but he knew it would only be a waste of his energy.


    He stared at the nothingness after the lights turned off in the corridor of his prison. He could not tell if someone was still there and watched him closely.


    The only part of this prison that remained lighted was his room, which only had a small bed, one small table, and a chair made of stic carefully wrapped with a thinyer of foam.


    Then, a small closet, a sink, and an open toilet and shower.


    Even to take out a shit, he was being watched.


    Shun even removed his artificial leg to ensure he could not escape, so he had to sit in the wheelchair for his entire day.


    Liam raised his middle finger on the camera in the right side corner of his room. The five guards could only chuckle and shake their heads as they''ve already used to it.


    Shun actually amused Liam to think he could get out of this room. Unless someone from outside sessfully entered this secret prison facility.


    Outside¡­


    "Continue watching his movements."


    "Aye, Lady Isabe."


    Lady Isabe went back to her study. She sent Shun a message to inform him about Liam''s willingness to confess this time.


    *


    At Hailee''s yacht, somewhere on the Northern Australia coast¡­


    Shun currently had FaceTime with Cassandra on his iPad. A warm feeling surged in his heart when his beautiful wife appeared on the screen, and his children were in the background.


    He saw his eldest daughter Ang Cassandra is ying with Arave Lorraine while Carlisle Hendrik was curiously gazing at his baby sister.


    Shun smiled to see his children, even in this way. He was busy running around to take care of thepany overseas. Not only that, his presence is always needed in the Alliance.


    And speaking of it, his gaze shifted to his eldest son, Allen Carlisle. As usual, his firstborn in this lifetime was immersed in hisputer. It always made him wonder what Allen was studying. Sometimes, he is busy drawing something. When he asks Allen about it, he often says he will show it when itpletes.


    "What was our eldest son doing?"


    Cassandra nced at Allen. She returned her gaze to theputer screen and replied to her husband,


    "He was sketching something. After he visited Meadow Hotel, he was amazed by its modernity. This morning, James and Mark brought them to tour the hotel and y at the Nursery Center. The kids were thrilled. Hailee was really brilliant ining up with the idea of putting up a Nursery Center in her hotel. It was very convenient for the parents when they were on a business trip and worried about who could look after their children. They could bring even the little kids, and surely they''ll enjoy the Science Gallery. Your sons are having too much fun ying all day."


    "I''m d to hear that. I''m worried that Hendrik would be a handful for you now that we have Arave."


    "Indeed, that young guy is mischief. He and Seth are best friends. They both got along well with what kinds of pranks they plotted for their siblings and the other kids. I''m d Mark is looking closely at him."


    "Hmm¡­ Mark seemed to need a raise."


    "Haha. Of course! His and Lena''s wedding is by next year. You''ve witnessed how that guy pursued Jean''s younger sister."


    "And Kier gave him a lot of hardships not to win so easily."


    "You are correct, my love. That older brother is so overbearing¡­ Well, finally! After all odds, he can have Lena for himself." Cassandra could not hide the happiness in her eyes, thinking about how many hardships they''ve faced getting through all that. But when Cassandra remembered Hailee''s strange behavior today, worries exhibited on her face.


    "What''s wrong, love?" asked Shun.


    "Shun, I''m worried about Hailee. I wonder what she''s been thinkingtely. Earlier this evening, she requested to speak with Isabe. But she wanted to talk with her alone, so I don''t know what Hailee discussed with my sister."


    "Hmm¡­ How about our daughter? She could not see through that?"


    "No..." Cassandra shook her head. "Madison can see nothing, so she also got worried."


    "Okay. I''ll speak to Isabe and query why Hailee wishes to speak with her."


    "Alright. Only then will I have peace. Thank you..."


    "We are all worried, yes. But do not worry¡­ Things will get better soon." Shun assured his wife.


    "I believe you¡­." Cassandra muttered lovingly.


    Shun softened his gaze as he stared at hisputer screen. He wished to pull his wife into his arms, embrace her, and kiss those enticing lips.


    "Love¡­ erm¡­ You know¡­ It''s been a while."


    Cassandra stares at her husband, agape at his request. Then, she red at him for being shameless.


    Their children were nearby! Gratefully, she was using AirPods, so they didn''t hear their dad''s request.


    Anyway, Cassandra is only ying along with him. After a moment of surprise, she smiled sweetly at him.


    "Well, get your ass here soon¡­."


    Shun had a massive grin on his face after his conversation with his wife. However, it disappeared so quickly upon reading Isabe''s message.


    "Liam wished for your presence."


    <i>''Dammit! What bad timing is this?!''? </i>


    Dark clouds surrounded Shun. The moment Daichi entered his suite, the guy immediately felt a chill on his spine.


    <i>''What is happening here?''</i> Daichi peeks at Shun and sees his gloomy aura. "Hey, Shun! What happened?"


    Daichi ced a mug in front of his boss and poured the coffee he brewed. He went out to the kitchen and saw how thrilled Shun was talking to Cassie when he left.


    But now that hees back. It seems like a storm is brewing.


    "What did Missy tell you?" he inquired further. He was curious because Shun was never upset with Cassie, so it must be something else.


    "Tell Meisha that we need to leave for Italy the same day of the interment."


    "Oh, is it Liam?"


    Shun did not reply, but the grimness in his eyes told Daichi that it was the case. Daichi left the room without knowing the truth.


    On the other hand, Shun could not tell Daichi the reason for his grave expression.


    He had to bear for months until Cassandra gave birth to Arave and then waited for a little more after shebored. She finally agreed.


    Unfortunately, the good times have to be dyed!

 Chapter 465 Good Times Has to Delayed!

    <h4>Chapter 465 Good Times Has to Dyed!</h4>


    "He was your superior before. Now you arepletely disrespecting him after you betrayed the Alliance." Lady Isabe sneered at Liam.


    He countered, "He is such a liar! All he did was separate me from Hailee!"


    ''She doesn''t love you!''


    She wanted to give a piece of her mind, but it wasn''t the perfect time. It was great news that Liam was now willing to confess, and she should not make a mistake to enrage him; it might change his mind.


    "Shun will be hereafter Gideon Jackson''s interment." Isabe looks straight into Liam''s eyes.


    "What do you mean interment? Are you saying Chairman Jackson is dead? How did it happen?" It shocked him to hear another shocking news today.


    "Sorry. But I can''t tell you more information." Lady Isabe turned around and left.


    Liam wanted to throw a fuss, but he knew it would only be a waste of his energy.


    He stared at the nothingness after the lights turned off in the corridor of his prison. He could not tell if someone was still there and watched him closely.


    The only part of this prison that remained lighted was his room, which only had a small bed, one small table, and a chair made of stic carefully wrapped with a thinyer of foam.


    Then, a small closet, a sink, and an open toilet and shower.


    Even to take out a shit, he was being watched.


    Shun even removed his artificial leg to ensure he could not escape, so he had to sit in the wheelchair for his entire day.


    Liam raised his middle finger on the camera in the right side corner of his room. The five guards could only chuckle and shake their heads as they''ve already used to it.


    Shun actually amused Liam to think he could get out of this room. Unless someone from outside sessfully entered this secret prison facility.


    Outside¡­


    "Continue watching his movements."


    "Aye, Lady Isabe."


    Lady Isabe went back to her study. She sent Shun a message to inform him about Liam''s willingness to confess this time.


    *


    At Hailee''s yacht, somewhere on the Northern Australia coast¡­


    Shun currently had FaceTime with Cassandra on his iPad. A warm feeling surged in his heart when his beautiful wife appeared on the screen, and his children were in the background.


    He saw his eldest daughter Ang Cassandra is ying with Arave Lorraine while Carlisle Hendrik was curiously gazing at his baby sister.


    Shun smiled to see his children, even in this way. He was busy running around to take care of thepany overseas. Not only that, his presence is always needed in the Alliance.


    And speaking of it, his gaze shifted to his eldest son, Allen Carlisle. As usual, his firstborn in this lifetime was immersed in hisputer. It always made him wonder what Allen was studying. Sometimes, he is busy drawing something. When he asks Allen about it, he often says he will show it when itpletes.


    "What was our eldest son doing?"


    Cassandra nced at Allen. She returned her gaze to theputer screen and replied to her husband,


    "He was sketching something. After he visited Meadow Hotel, he was amazed by its modernity. This morning, James and Mark brought them to tour the hotel and y at the Nursery Center. The kids were thrilled. Hailee was really brilliant ining up with the idea of putting up a Nursery Center in her hotel. It was very convenient for the parents when they were on a business trip and worried about who could look after their children. They could bring even the little kids, and surely they''ll enjoy the Science Gallery. Your sons are having too much fun ying all day."


    "I''m d to hear that. I''m worried that Hendrik would be a handful for you now that we have Arave."


    "Indeed, that young guy is mischief. He and Seth are best friends. They both got along well with what kinds of pranks they plotted for their siblings and the other kids. I''m d Mark is looking closely at him."


    "Hmm¡­ Mark seemed to need a raise."


    "Haha. Of course! His and Lena''s wedding is by next year. You''ve witnessed how that guy pursued Jean''s younger sister."


    "And Kier gave him a lot of hardships not to win so easily."


    "You are correct, my love. That older brother is so overbearing¡­ Well, finally! After all odds, he can have Lena for himself." Cassandra could not hide the happiness in her eyes, thinking about how many hardships they''ve faced getting through all that. But when Cassandra remembered Hailee''s strange behavior today, worries exhibited on her face.


    "What''s wrong, love?" asked Shun.


    "Shun, I''m worried about Hailee. I wonder what she''s been thinkingtely. Earlier this evening, she requested to speak with Isabe. But she wanted to talk with her alone, so I don''t know what Hailee discussed with my sister."


    "Hmm¡­ How about our daughter? She could not see through that?"


    "No..." Cassandra shook her head. "Madison can see nothing, so she also got worried."


    "Okay. I''ll speak to Isabe and query why Hailee wishes to speak with her."


    "Alright. Only then will I have peace. Thank you..."


    "We are all worried, yes. But do not worry¡­ Things will get better soon." Shun assured his wife.


    "I believe you¡­." Cassandra muttered lovingly.


    Shun softened his gaze as he stared at hisputer screen. He wished to pull his wife into his arms, embrace her, and kiss those enticing lips.


    "Love¡­ erm¡­ You know¡­ It''s been a while."


    Cassandra stares at her husband, agape at his request. Then, she red at him for being shameless.


    Their children were nearby! Gratefully, she was using AirPods, so they didn''t hear their dad''s request.


    Anyway, Cassandra is only ying along with him. After a moment of surprise, she smiled sweetly at him.


    "Well, get your ass here soon¡­."


    Shun had a massive grin on his face after his conversation with his wife. However, it disappeared so quickly upon reading Isabe''s message.


    "Liam wished for your presence."


    ''Dammit! What bad timing is this?!''


    Dark clouds surrounded Shun. The moment Daichi entered his suite, the guy immediately felt a chill on his spine.


    ''What is happening here?'' Daichi peeks at Shun and sees his gloomy aura. "Hey, Shun! What happened?"


    Daichi ced a mug in front of his boss and poured the coffee he brewed. He went out to the kitchen and saw how thrilled Shun was talking to Cassie when he left.


    But now that hees back. It seems like a storm is brewing.


    "What did Missy tell you?" he inquired further. He was curious because Shun was never upset with Cassie, so it must be something else.


    "Tell Meisha that we need to leave for Italy the same day of the interment."


    "Oh, is it Liam?"


    Shun did not reply, but the grimness in his eyes told Daichi that it was the case. Daichi left the room without knowing the truth.


    On the other hand, Shun could not tell Daichi the reason for his grave expression.


    He had to bear for months until Cassandra gave birth to Arave and then waited for a little more after shebored. She finally agreed.


    Unfortunately, the good times have to be dyed!

 Chapter 466 Let’s Go Home

    <h4>Chapter 466 Let''s Go Home</h4>


    Interment Day


    At the church after the funeral mass, John had announced that he would only allow his rtives, closest friends,pany executives, and business partners to enter the cemetery. So, the media will block at the gate.


    To proceed with the program that day, John hosted the Memorial service of his father and twin brother at a privatend for the Jackson family mausoleum. With no troubles, the internment went smoothly with a solemn atmosphere.


    John stood near the two coffins with Ivy in his arms.


    Ivy has been crying every day, and it worries John. She was constantly losing consciousness, and the doctor warned her to rx. She was experiencing an emotional breakdown that would risk her pregnancy.


    John stroked Ivy''s back and did his best tofort her. Of course, she is the woman John was in love with.


    On the corner, wearing an elegant fitted ck dress and ck sunsses on her eyes, Carmen held tight to her purse to suppress the pain in her heart.


    Before she and John were in a rtionship, Carmen had epted that there was another woman in his heart. She could not avoid feeling jealous and heartbroken, but her sympathy was for Ivy, who was losing her love.


    "Ivy, you must calm down. Come and take a seat." Carmen still did her role as an understanding girlfriend. She took Ivy from John''s arms and guided her to a nearby chair.


    Carmen gestured to a servant to bring a water bottle, and she offered it to Ivy.


    Ivy''s mother, Mrs. Mills, also approached them to cheer for her daughter. Carmen left them to have a moment of privacy. She walked toward John, who was in a trance while staring at the two coffins.


    "Hey¡­ Do you need anything?" Carmen ces both of her hands on John''s shoulder. Her thumb caressed his cheek, and the other hand yed with his ear.


    John lifted his head and looked at the lovely woman in front of him. He shook his head and kissed her forehead.


    "I''m good¡­ Thank you," he replied.


    These passing few days during the wake, although she shared the same bedroom with John and slept next to her side, he did not miss showing his concern for Ivy; the reason she was brokenhearted.


    And now that John brushes her cheek, somehow, it washed the pain a little bit away. Instead, her heart danced.


    However, every time John was this intimate with her, the hope in her chest came alive that John would not dump her now that Ivy was a widow.


    "Mr. Jackson, it is time." The assistant approached John. John nodded his head. The assistant left to announce that it was time for the Rite of Committal.


    The priest stood in the middle of the two coffins and recited a few words, then blessed the entire mausoleum. When he was done, the priest invited the immediate family for thest viewing of the deceased.


    John walks toward Ivy and helps her stand on her feet while still using a walking stick. Ivy once again broke down. She shrugged John''s hand and hugged Jay''s coffin.


    "Jay! Why¡­ Why did you leave me? What am I going to do now? Our child will be born without a dad¡­." Ivy continued crying. Her parents rush to her side to coax her. Suddenly, Ivy lost consciousness. It was then that her family decided to bring it to the hospital.


    "John, we are sorry we cannot stay. Ivy needs a check."


    "I understand, Mr. Mills. Don''t worry. I know it was what Jay wanted. He will think more of his wife''s health."


    Ivy''s parents brought her to the nearest hospital while the interment proceeded. The media waiting at the cemetery gate wondered why the Mills family left first. To feed their curiosity, some reporters followed their car.


    The rest of the internment program went well. One by one, the guests that attended the funeral service bid their goodbyes.


    "John, whatever you need¡­ You know where to find us." Vincent told John.


    "Thank you, Vincent¡­." John shook hands with him. He shifted his gaze to the old man, who hugged him and patted his back. "Uncle Jacob, thank you foring."


    "Anytime if you need us," said Jacob. He let go of John for Shun to bid him goodbye.


    John watched his friends leave one by one until no one left but him, Carmen, his assistant, and the steward who had worked for the Jackson family for over thirty years already. That was even before Gideon got married.


    "Let''s go home," John announced afterward. He took Carmen''s hand and led her toward the car.


    After attending the funeral, Jacob, Vincent, Shun, and theirpany were picked up by helicopters and brought to Hailee''s superyacht. They were heading to West Australia; they would board the helicopters again to Dream City.


    In the room that stands as the study room, the men upied the couches. While having private talks, dinner was served.


    "Now that John buried his father and brother. Maybe he can proceed in gathering information regarding Samuel Miller." Shun brought up the subject while having the meal.


    "Ahem! I need to visit the headquarters. I''ll be leaving in a few days." Shun added. In the back of his mind, he was thinking of his wife, who was waiting for his arrival. ''There''s no way I would miss the opportunity!''


    "I want to see Liam. Can I?" Vincent queried Shun. He was eager to hear Liam''s confession, and he also looked forward to meeting Samuel Miller.


    "You don''t have to, Vincent. Let me deal with Liam, and you take care of Samuel Miller. After Liam reveals everything, I will let you know so that you can convince John to set up a meeting with Samuel."


    "Okay." He nodded in agreement.


    Vincent was more interested in visiting Liam as he was curious to know why he didn''t give up Hailee yet and give her a peaceful life. The way Pitt and James spoke about the past with Liam, it was obvious that Hailee deliberately rejected him, but the guy was persistent.


    ording to Shun, the master of the Dark Shadow Organization did something to Liam. That is one thing he was curious to hear. Maybe it will solve the puzzle in his head.


    But since Shun decided, Vincent chose to agree and stop asserting things.


    ''Now, it is time to settle a score with you, Samuel Miller.''


    *


    Sneak peek: (Spoiler for tomorrow)


    "Let''s break up¡­."

 Chapter 467 I Could Punish You More

    <h4>Chapter 467 I Could Punish You More</h4>


    Dream City, Australia


    "Papa!"


    Ang lunged in her father''s arms the moment she recognized the men who appeared in the hotel garden.


    To everyone''s surprise, the men arrived without announcing.


    Hailee had her morning workouts apanied by the girls when the men made their secret arrival.


    Instead of taking the helicopters, Vincent and the others boarded a smaller jet and quietlynded at Dream City Airport.


    "Papa!" Hendrik throws his toys on the ground and runs to his father.


    Shun scooped his youngest son and put him on his shoulders.


    "Have you been a good boy?" He asked Hendrik, and he heard him giggle as he replied to him.


    "I am, papa!"


    Shun chuckled. Like he didn''t know that this guy had a lot of silliness hidden in his body. "Alright. Let''s go to your mama and baby sister Arave."


    The father and son approached Cassandra lounging in a beach chair as she was giving her youngest daughter a sunbath. Shun put down his son and wrapped his wife in a tight embrace.


    "Good morning, my queen. How''s our little princess?"


    Cassandra looked up and smiled at her husband. She replied, "She is well behaved."


    "That''s wonderful."


    Their lips meet, then share a long passionate kiss. Sitting on a bench nearby, Allen rolled his eyes when his twin sister and little brother sniggered behind their parents.


    Anyway, there''s no surprise anymore as they were used to witnessing their parents being intimate like this in front of them.


    Meanwhile, Vincent, approaching Hailee on a lounge chair, saw all of Shun''s interaction with his family. Observing that, his heart wishes for the day toe fast and he coulde home, where his children are running toward him and meet him in the entranceway when he arrives.


    Dreaming of that, Vincent hurried his steps toward Hailee.


    "Hello, Wifey." Vincent immediately imed his wife''s lips before she could utter a word. He pulled her into a tight embrace, and after the kiss, he buried his face between her shoulder and neck, breathing a sigh of relief.


    In the past few days that he stayed in Northern Australia, they were always vignt as Samuel Miller might have attacked them when they lowered their guard.


    "I''m d you''re home." Hailee sees the tiredness in Vincent''s appearance. She could not help feeling sorry for him.


    Vincent is not only taking care of the corporation and its branch offices, but he is also busy helping Shun to apprehend the leader of the Dark Shadow Organization.


    Seeing Vincent losing weight wrenched Hailee''s heart with pain. Feeling like this, the more she desired to help solve the matter. Hailee reached Vincent''s chin and caressed the stubbles growing on his face.


    "Did you get some sleep?" she asked lovingly, tracing the jawline of her husband before she lifted her chin and bit Vincent''s ear.


    Instantly, his eyes flickered with excitement.


    In the passing month that he was busy and had less time than he''d spent with Hailee, he missed the days they were intimate like this.


    "I''m fine," Vincent replied, brushing his lips on her cheek, conveying how much he missed her.


    On the other hand, Hailee frowned. She didn''t believe what Vincent had said, as she knew very well that he did not get enough sleep now that he had more work to do.


    And as a wife, instead of scolding him, she has to do something so that her husband feels warm.


    "President Shen, you did great."


    "Thank you, Wifey. My hard work is for our wonderful family."


    "And you deserve praise from us!" Hailee took Vincent''s hands and ced them in her baby bump after the fetal movements.


    Vincent stared at her with joy. He bent his body and kissed Hailee''s belly, mumbling excitedly, "Hey, kids! How are you guys doing?"


    It is one of many things that he misses every time he could note home every day.


    "They were more active these passing days," said Hailee delightedly, stroking the side of her baby bump.


    "That''s great! I''m relieved to know they were doing well." Vincent got up and sat down next to Hailee. He snuggled her, nting kisses on her forehead. "You deserve all the praises, too. Thank you for conceiving my children."


    "But I have been badtely," she muttered while burying her head in Vincent''s chest to hide her guilt.


    "Hmm¡­ I''m all ears." his encouragement. Vincent knew his wife could hide nothing from him, which always brought delight to his chest. It only means that his wife trusts him so much.


    After a moment of debating within herself, Hailee confesses.


    "I phoned Lady Isabe to speak with Liam." Upon saying that, Hailee takes a peek at Vincent, searching for a trace of anger on his face. "Are you not going to scold me?"


    "Why would I?" Vincent pulled the corner of his mouth. His wife looks too charming, acting up after she could not hide the guilt in her eyes.


    "Really?" Hailee fluttered her eyes to act cute. She smiled sweetly when Vincent smiled. However, what Vincent whispered stunned her.


    "That''s good. I could punish you more. I''ll add that to my list and think of another way to punish you further."


    Hailee was in a trance as her mind started ying some near-future scenarios awaiting her.


    ''I forgot, he can be like a beast too!''


    She hadpletely forgotten that her husband was only collecting all the silliness she did in the passing months because Vincent would collect the payment after she gave birth.


    "Hubby, you''ll be gentle, right?" She teases him.


    Vincent gulped, listening to Hailee''s pleas as she added,


    "Don''t worry. I''m willing to give the interest first." Hailee winked at him.


    Vincent clenched his jaw as he understood what his wife was talking about. Helplessly, he uttered, "Don''t tease me, Mrs. Shen."


    Hailee broadened the smile on her lips after she sessfully coaxed her husband not to be angry at her. "We can start tonight."


    Vincent chuckled and poked her nose. "How I missed your silliness. But I''m d Lady Isabe declined you."


    Hailee dropped her jaw, and Vincent pushed her chin up to close her mouth.


    "You knew!" she yelled out.


    "More punishment as I learned your n from someone else."


    "Ugh! Shun!" They are best friends now, huh!?


    *


    A few days have passed, but the usation of John plotting his father''s death, which also caused the death of his twin brother, was still on hot news, especially it drags Vincent''s name into the incident.


    People are keener to see if Vincent can get away from the usation. He was just the new CEO of Davies Corporation, but he had already faced such a scandal.


    The media are more persistent in writing articles every day as Davies Corporation didn''t release any statement. Instead, the Shen Group answered the maliciousment to Vincent.


    "The investigation isplete. So a report will be published soon. Please wait for C Country to release a statement regarding the incident."


    The media shared every statement Shen Group posted on their official social media ount.


    Meanwhile, John also faces criticism and judgment not only from the media but also from the higher executives of J Group.


    Early that morning, John drove hurriedly to arrive at thepany as soon as possible. The Board of directors ns to rece him now that he has no backing. A few of them are clinging to Samuel Miller, whereas they are not aware that he and John had an agreement.


    Thanks to Vincent''s help, his assistant Kristian stayed in Northern Australia to keep an eye on the J Group. They foresaw already that the board would not sit idly but aim for the seat.


    John admits he lost focus because of Ivy''s condition. In recent days, Ivy has continued to break down, leading her to be ill constantly. The doctors advised her repeatedly to take care of her pregnancy; however, Ivy could still not ept what happened to Jay.


    *


    Northern City Hospital, Australia


    John was exhausted after a long day of salvaging his position. Even so, he still drove toward the hospital to visit Ivy that evening. When he arrived at the door of the private ward, he heard a loud tter from inside. He immediately took a peek inside, and the scene he saw worsened his headache.


    "I''m sorry. I will prepare another soup tomorrow."


    John heard Carmen apologizing. Judging the situation, Ivy refuses to eat and throws a tantrum instead.


    Carmen picked up the food containers on the floor and put them back in a bag.


    "Ivy, you should not do that. Carmen prepared them, especially for you." Mrs. Mills reprimanded her daughter in a soft tone. She doesn''t like what Ivy did, but she''s more worried about her daughter, and so she bears her behavior as her mood swings up.


    "I don''t want to eat! Why don''t you all understand? Just leave me alone instead!" Ivy was upset that everyone didn''t don''t listen to her. She had already told her parents to leave, but Carmen arrived.


    "I''m sorry, Mrs. Mills. I better leave now."


    Mrs. Mills looks at Carmen with an apologetic gaze. Carmen smiled at the older woman and headed to the door. It surprised her when she saw John outside.


    After the interment of his father and twin brother, John rarely goes home to the Jackson vi. She just learned that John is staying at the hospital every night to apany Ivy, as Mrs. Mills is also ill, and it isn''t advisable for her to stay up all night.


    Hoping to see John, Carmen brought dinner to Ivy. However, Ivy seemed upset to see her.


    "Hi." Carmen tried her best to show her sweetest smile at John.


    "You''re here. Let me drive you home."


    "Don''t you need to watch Ivy tonight?" Despite how jealous she was, Carmen did her best to sound casual.


    "I have something to talk to you about, and it is not appropriate to discuss here," said John.


    "Okay."


    Carmen nodded her head and followed John to the parking lot. He opened the door on the passenger seat, and Carmen quietly got into his car.


    Upon seated, she sped her hands tightly on herp as she already senses from John''s indifferent tone that something would happen tonight.

 Chapter 468 Goodbye

    <h4>Chapter 468 Goodbye</h4>


    At the Jackson Vi, Carmen sat opposite John.


    She lifted her head and looked at him. She asked, "Would you like to have dinner first?"


    "It''s not needed. I will go back to thepany afterward," John replied.


    Carmen smiled bitterly. John didn''t even look at her when he spoke. And she is not na?ve not to sense anything. She knew why John didn''t want to stay longer. He would go back to the hospital and console Ivy.


    "Alright, then. I would not take much of your time. Whatever you wanted to tell me, I am all ears." She calmly uttered, despite the throbbing in her heart. She was an adult. There''s no need to make a fuss. Carmen thought to herself.


    She only felt sad that it happened in such a short time, which she still wishes for a little more, even if it would hurt her so much.


    John, on the one hand, took a nce at Carmen. He watched her for a long time before finding the courage to open his mouth.


    "Carmen¡­" John''s voice is hesitant at first. "I''m sorry¡­."


    In the past few weeks that his family was in trouble, the Dawson''s helped him a lot to solve the matter without sweating. Then, in the wake of his father and twin brother, Carmen and Rob didn''t leave his side but extended their sympathy.


    However, he could not hurt Carmen furthermore. So he decided to end it early before things got worse between them.


    "There are so many things I need to take care of, and I don''t think I can continue this rtionship."


    Carmen did not speak but remained silent for the next seconds. John''s words are clear. Even so, her head deliberately refuses to sink in. Until the end, she wanted to believe it was just a beautiful nightmare that she got to have a romance with her long-time crush.


    "Alright. I understand you are breaking up with me." She said in a hurry not to give John a chance to speak again because she didn''t want to hear any further that would stab her heart deeper.


    Ivy is the woman upying his heart. It would be easier to ept if she heard less of his exnation. Besides, she already knows why they are breaking up.


    John heaves a deep sigh. He had something more to say, but he saw Carmen wanted to end this quickly as him. Pondering over, John felt ufortable somehow. Carmen is so good to him, but it is unfair to her.


    "Carmen¡­ I¡­ I didn''t mean to hurt you, but¡­."


    "It''s okay, John. I can''t force you to love me in return."


    She was being too defensive; Carmen knew that. But what would happen if she begged John? Would he even agree to let her be the third party of his unrequited love toward Ivy?


    Carmen doesn''t mind. But she loves John so much that she wants him to be happy. Because being in one-sided love will never bring a pleasant feeling but suffering.


    Somehow, in some part, it makes someone happy when the person you''ve been dreaming of for years finally turns his head in your direction.


    That was what she felt in the passing weeks she was with John. She would cherish her memories with him, even if they were just an illusion. It''s all because until now, everything seemed to be just a dream, and tomorrow she would finally wake up to reality.


    "I''ll head upstairs to get some rest. I will see if I can get an early flight tomorrow." Carmen could no longer bear the pain lingering in her heart. She hurried to leave the study and headed to John''s bedroom.


    She cried all night since John didn''te to his room but left right away after they talked.


    "Good morning, Miss Carmen. What breakfast would you like to¡­" the servant stopped when she saw the luggage shed pulling behind.


    "Where are you going, Miss?" another servant queried, and the others suddenly were in panic.


    Carmen smiled, and she announced, "It''s alright. You don''t need to prepare anything. I''m going home today."


    "But why Miss? Does Sir John know about it?"


    Carmen nodded and smiled at the three servants. "Yes, he knew about it." Because we just broke upst night. She added inwardly.


    "Miss Carmen, is this because ofst night?"


    Carmen was surprised by how the servants knew about it. They talked in the study, and she saw no one when she came out.


    "Miss, maybe you and Sir John can fix the misunderstanding," said another servant.


    "Please, don''t misunderstand, sir John, that he has to leave to look for Miss Ivy the entire night. She was still grieving that sir Jay is now gone."


    "What did you say? Ivy was missing?" Carmen asked the three servants. It really surprised her.


    "Yes, miss. We heard this morning that Miss Ivy escaped from the hospital to go to the cemetery."


    Carmen sighs with relief when she hears that. She thought they were referring to the breakupst night. Anyway, they will soon know the real status of her rtionship with their boss.


    "I''m d that Ivy was found right away." These girls are actually nice to her so that she will miss them. "Alright. I have a flight to catch. Thank you for treating me nicely during the time I stayed here."


    "Miss, can''t you lengthen your stay?" The servants tried to persuade her.


    "I wish I could, girls." There was sadness in her voice when she uttered this. She loves to stay; even if she lived here forever, she would. But she has no right to do that. And so, Carmen used her restaurant as an excuse. That''s why she had to leave soon.


    "If you girls visit T Country,e to my restaurant. You are free to dine in every day."


    "Miss Carmen!" The girls can no longer hold, not cry from the sudden parting.


    "You are so nice, Miss Carmen. Pleasee back soon!" For them, Carmen is the most suited Mistress in the house. They really like her warm temperament. Not only that, she is elegant and gorgeous, and her being wealthy is just a plus.


    After a little more goodbye, Carmen heads to the door.


    "Miss, let me help you with your bag." The butler approached Carmen.


    Early this morning, he received a call from his boss, notifying him to send Carmen off to the airport.


    Butler Mason took the bag and escorted Carmen to the waiting car.


    Before she got in the car, Carmen looked up and fixed her gaze on the vi''s second floor.


    From John''s bedroom, she has beautiful scenery of the city and the Northern coast, which became her habit of gazing out before going to bed and waking up in the morning.


    Of course, those time is John next to her in the bed.


    ''Goodbye¡­''

 Chapter 469 Be Patient

    <h4>Chapter 469 Be Patient</h4>


    OCEANIA AIRLINES


    During the flight, Carmen recalled everything that had happened in the past month.


    Everything starts in a fairytale. However, a tragedy entered the picture. She finally got a hold of her Prince Charming, whom she had an unrequited love for years.


    Then, how sad that she is not the princess in the story but the third party. In the end, True Love prevails.


    Setting aside the thought, if the servants did not see her leave. She would not learn that Ivy escaped from the hospitalst night, and John rushed over to search for her.


    God, that was very painful, even if she and John had already broken up. How much if she insisted on staying by his side, throwing herself at John till the end?


    Then, she is just a hindrance for John to win over Ivy''s heart once she moves on in the future and forgets her husband, Jay.


    Contemting, Carmen could not stop welling up throughout the flight. dly no one would notice her crying; otherwise, it would embarrass other passengers. Good thing that she booked the first-ss cabin.


    *


    T City International Airport


    Carmen is following the crowd, heading to the exit. She stops in her tracks upon recognizing the two gorgeous men waiting at her outside the airport.


    At that moment, she wanted to cry again. She only contacted her younger brother, but Rob was also picking her up. It moved her how thoughtful this big brother of hers was.


    "Sister Carmen!" Ricky is waving both of his arms to make sure she sees them.


    Ricky Dawson is the youngest among the three. He had just graduated from college and is under Rob''s supervision to manage their coffee business, which was sessful in importing.


    "Thank you for picking me up! Let''s go, guys!" Carmen concealed the sadness in her eyes, not for Ricky to see them. However, judging by how Rob was staring at her, he seemed to know already that she and John had broken up.


    "Where do you want to go from here?" Rob asked Carmen when they all settled in the car.


    "Any ce would do..." Carmen forced herself to show a cheerful smile and Ricky notice nothing at all.


    "Oh, are we not going straight home?" Ricky queried. He was seated in the front seat.


    "I think Carmen would prefer to go hiking," said Rob, looking in the rearview mirror while he was driving.


    Carmen smiled, delighted how her big brother knew her well. Having a few days of vacation after a heartbreak would really help. Besides, she could not face her parents for now and told them she and John had broken up.


    Still, she didn''t want John to leave a bad impression on her parents. It just happened she could not make him fall in love with her.


    "Thank you, Rob," said Carmen afterward.


    "It''s unfair! I didn''t pack anything! You guys should tell me ahead of time!"


    Along the journey, Rickyins nonstop. When they arrived at the Dawson lodge on Hillside Lake, Ricky found out that everything they needed to camp in the mountain was all ready.


    "What do you think of your brother?" Raising one eyebrow, Rob proudly says to Ricky.


    "You''re the best, Rob!"


    "Then go and cook dinner for us." Rob pushes his younger brother toward the kitchen. He purposely gave the task to him to have a private talk with Carmen sincerely.


    Rob came back to the living room with two mugs of hot chocte in his hands. However, he didn''t find Carmen. He went to the backyard, to the swings that had a breathtaking view of theke. This was Carmen''s favorite spot.


    "Here¡­" Rob handed the mug to Carmen. He then walked toward the other swing and sat on it.


    "Rob, thank you for taking me here."


    "No problem. I need to breathe too after dealing with some matter in our oilpany."


    Carmen turned her head and looked at Rob. "Is there a problem with thepany?"


    "It''s just a small matter. I handled it quickly." Rob formed his lips into a small smile, not for Carmen to worry.


    "That''s good then." Carmen nodded her head. She stared at her mug before she took a sip. The hot liquid instantly warmed her chest. After a while, she broke the silence. "You must have known already."


    "Yeah," Rob replied. "John told me himself."


    Carmen was surprised to hear this. She did not expect John to reach out to her brother, which is very rare for someone to do after breaking someone''s heart.


    "What did you say to him?" She wondered if Rob yelled at John on the phone and beat him once their paths crossed in the future. To be honest, Rob is an overprotective brother. The reason she did not have a rtionship with other men, and even if she had no unrequited love for John, it would still be impossible.


    Carmen heard Rob hurl a long breath, then release it violently. Rob looks tired and troubled. Now, the friendship between Rob and John was tainted, and she felt a little guilty about it.


    "I told him I might punch him soon."


    Carmen was silent. Rob and John were in the same circle as famous tycoons of the Oceania Continent. There are several asions that they would meet up. Not only that, but they also havemon friends like Vincent and Mikael.


    "You don''t need to punch him. I understand I am only blocking the way toward his happiness."


    Rob doesn''t like what Carmen has said. Any brother would be enraged that someone dumped his sister, who is beautiful and intelligent and a person who has a heart of gold. That person must be very blind.


    "You don''t need to hurry to have a rtionship again," said Rob after a long silence.


    Carmen took a peek to smile at her big brother. She knew it was Rob''s way of telling her that no man deserves her.


    "I know, brother. But let me cry a little more." Her honest request. "I will be fine one day."


    Because the truth is, she could not have another rtionship if it were not for John. So it will be hard for her to forget him right away.


    Days had passed¡­


    The three siblings had enjoyed their two days camping on the nearby mountain. Ricky is the one who enjoyed the trip so much as he loves photography. He took many beautiful pictures that his older siblings praised for how skilled he was.


    It was Ricky''s hobby. However, he has to choose to be a businessman to help the family. In Carmen''s case, Rob supported her decision to put up a restaurant rather than get involved in thepany. Because if Rob would choose what he likes, he wanted to stay in the Navy.


    "Vincent, it''s me, Rob. This is my new personal number. When do you n to end Samuel Miller? He keeps giving me a headache."


    Rob actually had a big problem in thepany, but Carmen''s feelings are most important to him. Even though he has to solve the matter in thepany as soon as possible, he chooses to cheer his sister by bringing her on a camping trip before anything else. Now that they are back from vacation.


    "I am preparing my flight to visit T Country. Don''t worry. I''ming to discuss it personally." Vincent assured Rob.


    The issue regarding the Dawson Oil Company is not a small matter. So Vincent will deal with it personally. Also, his visit to T Country would strengthen his alliance. Keeping the Dawson family on his side would greatly impact his international territories.


    "For now, we have to bear everything," Vincent added. "Our enemy is taking careful steps. We have to be patient, too."


    "Okay. I''ll wait until then. By the way, I have a perfect ce for you to stay. The princess actually loves the ce."


    Rob already figured out that Vincent''s visit was a secret. So, he needs to prepare the lodge for Vincent to stay where no one would know.


    *


    Davies Group, Dream City


    Office of the Chairman


    Vincent put down his phone after Rob ended his call. He was resting for a moment when it rang again.


    "Hello, John?"


    "Hey, are you going to attend the hearing?" asked John on the other line.


    "No. Dad Fred and Dad Jacob would be there. I am scheduled to visit T Country next week. Are you¡­" Vincent paused. He was about to ask John to join him. He had forgotten that John and Carmen had broken up already. "Well, never mind."


    On the other line, John senses that Vincent is about to ask him to join him in visiting the Dawson family, which is impossible since he broke up with Carmen.


    "Alright. That''s all, Vincent¡­ I''ll see your dad and Uncle Jacob. Have a safe trip then."


    "Same to you¡­ Thanks."


    John hung up the call and resumed his work. That evening, he received a call from Samuel Miller.


    "Any news?" asked the man on the other line.


    "I have. Uncle Jacob and Frederick Shen will attend the trial."


    "How about Vincent? Is he not going to attend the court hearing?"


    "No. He is flying to T Country."


    Samuel grinned. "Good."


    John heaves a long sigh after Samuel ends the call. He rubbed his temple, then leaned back on his chair.


    "A little more, and everything will end soon." He muttered to himself.

 Chapter 470 You Are My Everything

    <h4>Chapter 470 You Are My Everything</h4>


    La Prairie Courtyard


    Staying at the hotel is convenient for everyone when they have the entire building for themselves. Having the nannies around, her mom-inw, her doctors, and the girls, they would only crowd Hailee''s apartment every single day.


    Since Dream City is only halfplete, the hotel with vintage ssical theme decorations will be their residence for the time being until Hailee gives birth.


    The Meadow Hotel nearby is also open for the kids since it has a Nursery Center. Shun brought a few outstanding teachers to give the children some lessons not to get bored, including a few sports such as swimming and then learning Martial Arts.


    While La Prairie Courtyard has a sense of vintage atmosphere, Meadow Hotel has a futuristic theme. The hotel is built with advanced technology, such as AI, through voicemand. One can speak to the AI throughputers scattered around the hotel or be apanied by a robot for direction and robots, the ones who clean the entire floor.


    While Shun and Vincent worked hard to solve the matter concerning Samuel Miller, Cassandra will stay in the city for the children''s safety, including the Montfort family and the Shangs. They''ve decided that Nikki will give birth in the city.


    Theo Shang is lending all his family influences and resources to help apprehend more organization members that it causes his life into a pit of misery for many years. It is also his way of seeking more justice for all innocent victims, most especially the death of his father-inw.


    ~~~


    At the Presidential Suite.


    Vincent was in the study room, seated on the sofa, gazing at something on the center table. He looked up instantly, darting his gaze at the door, when he heard a knock.


    "Busy?"


    Standing at the doorway, Hailee looked enchanting in her dress. She was wearing a pleated-long gown with a deep V neckline.


    Gaping in a little while, it took a moment for Vincent to snap back at his senses.


    Who would not be in a daze uponying his eyes on his regal wife?


    Hailee had exquisite makeup on her face and painted her lips with mauve lipstick, the same color as her dress.


    "My virtual meeting is done. I''m just resting and looking at something." Vincent replied to his wife as he rushed to her side.


    He led Hailee to the sofa, and after she was seated, he fetched a rectangle ottoman stool and brought it over. Vincent was cautious in holding Hailee''s legs when he ced them on the stool.


    He asked afterward, "Do you need anything?"


    "Some water, please¡­."


    "Okay, I''ll be right back."


    Vincent left the study and headed to the kitchen. He took out a bottle of distilled water from the refrigerator and twisted the cap.


    Before returning to the study, he grabbed a table napkin from the box and wrapped the bottle with it to prevent the perspiration froming out. Vincent thought that it would drench Hailee''s hand.


    Seeing Vincente back, Hailee pursed her lips into a sweet smile. Her husband is getting better and better at pleasing her. He has be extremely attentive. It means he has not just a high IQ but also includes his EQ.


    "Thank you, hubby."


    Hailee took the bottle and drank the content in an instant. Being preggo causes her to be thirsty all the time.


    "What are you looking at, hubby?" She asked Vincent afterward. She saw a map on the table, but she could not figure out why her husband looked at it.


    After Vincent put away the empty bottle, he took a few sheets of the Kleenex and wiped Hailee''s mouth. He sat beside her, with whom she unconsciously rested her head on his shoulder.


    "I am studying the Oceania Continent."


    "Hmm?"


    Hailee looked puzzled, so Vincent exined.


    "I''m checking the territories we have our trusted ally with." Vincent pointed to an ind as he carried on. "The Crow Corporation and Shang Empire are thepanies reigning in Hawaii. Then, we have the Dawson family in T Country and Davidson in NP Country."


    Hailee just nodded her head the entire time Vincent was exining further. Vincent mentioned the names, mostly close friends of her dad, whose sons became her knights.


    "I will tell Pitt to notify the knights to make a move." She told Vincent.


    "Thank you, Wifey." Vincent looked at his wife with great admiration and respect. So many men were envious of him for marrying such a powerful woman. "You are really amazing."


    Vincent brushed his lips into Hailee''s... As the smooch deepens, it turns into a French kiss.


    "I''ll be traveling again. I''m going to miss you so bad." He said after the kiss.


    "Then hurry back so that I can continue paying the interest of my punishment." Hailee had this yful smile when she said this.


    Vincent instantly fell his gaze into Hailee''s mouth, making him swallow hard.


    "I''ll return the pleasure after you give birth." He whispered into Hailee''s ear, resisting not to strip his wife.


    "I can''t wait!" Hailee states with glee. She rested her palm on Vincent''s thigh while gazing at him, eyes filled with seduction.


    Behaving toward him this way, Vincent groans inwardly as the effect of his wife is great, and it is so hard to resist.


    "Can I have another shower before joining everyone in the dining hall?"


    "I can apany you if you like to." Hailee winked.


    Vincent rolled his eyes as he cursed inwardly. He rose and said, "No need, Wifey. It will only be quick!"


    Hailee giggled, watching her husband''s disappearing silhouette at the door.


    After half an hour, Vincent finished showering and was now wearing fresh clothes. It is time for dinner and tonight is a special celebration.


    "I would feel lonely again. So I''ve been thinking about what I can do not get bored. I finished writing the Christmas Cards. All it needs is to send them out soon." said Hailee while they trailed the hallway toward the elevator.


    "Great then! You are so fast."


    "Thanks to the girl''s help!"


    "I promised to help you. I felt bad that I didn''t fulfill it." He has been too busy since the turnover of the CEO position was earlier than they''d nned.


    "You should not. I would rather request you get some rest than help me when I know you are exhausted. Besides, you give me the best present! I''m happy the girls could continue their lessons while apanying me throughout my pregnancy."


    Vincent had arranged special lessons for the three girls toplete their course next year. It will be enough preparation to study further in Paris and takenguage courses.


    "I''m d that I could make you happy with these small things," said Vincent sincerely.


    "It is not a small thing! You made my happiness a big deal."


    They were now on the elevator, so Vincent had a chance to kiss her passionately until the lift door opened.


    "You are my everything, so all the things concerning you are a big deal to me."


    Hailee could not find a perfect word to react to Vincent''s sweet words, so she ced her lips on his.


    "I''m so in love with you," she murmured as she kissed Vincent. After another passionate kiss, they resumed walking toward the dining hall.


    "Hail, you are finally here! Gosh! I can''t wait to watch the first episode of the Documentary!" Hazel could not decide whether she would dance or jump out of the thrill she felt at the moment.


    "Then how about we take a seat?" James urges his girlfriend to pull her to their seats and push her shoulders to sit.


    "Okay!" Hazel giggled. Honestly, she was just a little nervous because she has many features in the show. Several recordings they made at the university and other ces of Metro City, so she was anxious.


    "Alright. Let''s have dinner first!" Hailee announced.


    Her gaze traveled throughout the dining hall, making her happy to see her executive knights. But then, her attention fell on the couple entering at the entrance.


    "Oh, gosh! Do I see correctly?" Hailee could not help but burst out upon seeing Vera holding hands with a particr guy.


    "I was also surprised, Hail!" Hazel bolted to Hailee''s side and began gossiping.


    "Come here! Stop paying attention to other couples! You have a boyfriend right here!" James pulled Hazel again toward their chairs and pinned her hands on the table.


    "Should I start to ponder if I made the right decision?" said Hazel, causing Hailee to giggle.


    Now, these two are showing their differences and issues between them. James acts like a mature man, while Hazel is witty. But seeing how Hazel''s eyes twinkle while looking at James, she is undoubtedly falling in love with him.


    The exclusive dinner party wasvish and merry. As the time hit eight o''clock, the gigantic screen on the stage turned on. Everyone held their breath as Hailee and Vincent''s Documentary began ying.

 Chapter 471 Documentary (Part One)

    <h4>Chapter 471 Documentary (Part One)</h4>


    Tonight, or today in the other part of the world, mostly everyone is paying attention to the premier of the Shen-Davies Documentary. Netizens are in front of their TV screen,puters, and cellphone to watch.


    The documentary opening is the logo of Dragon Empire Broadcasting Center, followed by a sh of old and recent photos.


    Then the screen filled with images from the wedding and highlighted the time Hailee and Vincent exchanged vows and put on the rings.


    "Hailee Davies¡­ I give you this ring to symbolize my love through eternity, my devotion with my soul, and bind our hearts in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."


    "Vincent Shen, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness through eternity. With this ring, my soul binds as one with yours, and this ring is a symbol of my vows that I will stand by your side forever¡­ In the name of the father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."


    Netizens were ted upon seeing it because the wedding ceremony didn''t publish any video but pictures only. So then, everyone impatiently waited to have a glimpse of the special wedding of the millennium.


    After ying the introduction, the title of the documentary appeared.


    "a SHEN and DAVIES JOURNEY"


    Then, followed by Hailee and Vincent''s names and the questions:


    "Who is Hailee Hillson Davies?"


    "Who is Vincent Lopez Shen?"


    After that, a disy of photos and videos of little Hailee and Vincent until they were adults.


    "It surprised me that Vincent''s girlfriend is actually my boss'' gorgeous cousin!"


    "Everyone is curious to know who this man is marrying someone like Hailee Davies?"


    Jessa appeared on the screen saying these lines.


    "I''m thrilled that my brother is finally marrying the girl he has been looking for for many years! Almost five years on April..."


    Sheena is the next person who appears on the screen, following the photo of Hailee from years ago selling lemon juice and lemon pies in the street of Budapest.


    "I took this photo using my brother''s phone. He still has these photos until now."


    "The KINGDOM of HUNGARY"


    appeared on the screen next, followed by several photos of different ces, highlighting BUDAPEST''s capital city.


    After a few more images, Jessa and Sheena appeared again. This time, they were seated on a French couch with a background of Dream City.


    "Hello, everyone! My name is Jessa Lopez Schwartz¡­"


    "And I am Sheena Lopez Keller¡­"


    "We are very honored to be granted to document the millennium wedding!" Sheena and Jessa said at once.


    "At first, Sheena and I just nned to make exclusive documentation of Vincent and Hailee for the family to keep. Well, it would be just some recording of the merry event for the future generations to watch..."


    "Yeah. I am ecstatic that finally, my brother found the girl he dream girl." Sheena chimed in.


    "When I heard Vincent is settling down for real this time... As the eldest female cousin, I was thrilled for him because Vincent is a good man, and he deserves the best woman in this world. And then, the moment I learned the real identity of Vincent''s girlfriend, I was really shocked."


    "We all were shocked!" Sheena echoed.


    "Absolutely! Then my head suddenly flooded with more ideas about the fact that Vincent''s girlfriend is my boss''s cousin! So, I drafted a proposal and submitted it to my boss, then got it approved by the big boss!"


    Jessa is talking about Shun, who was also at the Dining Hall watching the first part of the documentary.


    Shun rescheduled his flight to Italy for this special asion and made a concrete n regarding the Dark Shadow Organization. Several of his loyal allies are in Dream City for a meeting.


    To carry on, the documentary continued by featuring Hailee''s family history.


    "My great-grandma on my mom''s side is a local girl from South Ind of P Country¡­ Yes, she actually knows mom Hilda''s grandma. They bothpete in a beauty pageant!"


    Hailee said in the interview. She carried on,


    "My great-grandma enrolled in N University, and she became the representative of the Agriculture Degree in her second year."


    After Hailee said that, a photo of the pageant shed on the screen.


    "During the pageant, there are many guests from different embassies, one of them is the Australian diplomats. My great grandfather, who apanied his uncle visiting Metro City, saw my great-grandma, and he fell in love in their first meeting."


    "Then my great grandfather stayed in the city to court my great-grandma. And she agreed to be his girlfriend and in a long-distance rtionshipter on¡­."


    Several old photos were disyed on the screen, showing the couple dating and then the love letters they mailed to each other.


    "Long-distance rtionships work!" Hazel eximed from her seat, and then she realized she spoke out loud the things that were in her head. She covered her face and hid at James, burying her face in his chest.


    Everyoneughed, amused at her witty behavior. Hailee smiled, looking at Hazel and James, while Doctor Manni was delighted with Hazel.


    However, someone was feeling gloomy in the corner. Jake was too jealous, seeing how intimate Hazel was with another man. He has been depressedtely because Hazel is firmly rejecting him. Whatever wooed he would do, Hazel is no longer looking in his direction, but her eyes are only sparks for someone else.


    "Condolences to you, Mr. Jake!" Tim, seated at the same table as Jake, patted him on the shoulder. "But you should cheer up! There are so many pretty secretaries, both from Davies Group and Davies Corporation, that are single! I will introduce you to Miss Brown! How about Helen? She is Mr. Geoffrey''s head secretary. She is pretty and smart!"


    Jake twitched his mouth. "You better shut up, Tim. Or your wife will murder you."


    Tim turned his head toward Nancy. Instantly, his head shrunk as Nancy threw him daggers. He admits his mistake.


    But he only does that for Jake to bite his bait! He admits his mistake.


    As the documentary continued ying, more drinks and desserts were served. Now it features in the documentary the marriage of Hailee''s great-grandma to a rich man in Aussie.


    Theybeled it a Cindere story.


    The documentary carried on and now showed a picture of four generations¡ªHailee with her mom Marley, her grandmother, and great-grandma.


    "Oh, my god! Hailee is really too cute!" Hazelmented.


    "Do you want to have a cute daughter of your own?" James leaned over and whispered to Hazel, widened her eyes, her cheeks flushing red.

 Chapter 472 Documentary (Part Two)

    <h4>Chapter 472 Documentary (Part Two)</h4>


    Hazel smacked James on the shoulder and said, "What are you saying? Slow down, mister!"


    James chuckled as he watched her cheeks blush. He stopped teasing Hazel after seeing his girlfriend feel embarrassed. He petted her head and then pulled Hazel close, letting her rest her head on his shoulder as they continued watching the documentary.


    Meanwhile, Tim sniggers, witnessing all of this drama. He was mocking Jake for being a jerk. He was too jealous that Hazel found a boyfriend who doted on her. Jake could only re at Tim. He could not rebuke the annoying guy as he''s truly an idiot.


    Realizing his stupidity, the only he could do was feel hopeless and regretful in his heart.


    Anyway, as the show carried on, it disys a brief story about Hailee''s ancestors from Davies'' side were no longer a secret to the world. In fact, their family was written in history as warlords from ancient times. They were great rulers of many kingdoms throughout Europe because of cross marriages.


    However, Hailee''s forefather, a Briton, elopes with ady of a noble family from France who is engaged to a Duke of Russia.


    The couple joined the expedition toward the South pole, where they found thend was now called Australia. Aboard a ship and anchored in a town called Broome, the couple makes friends with locals. Hailee''s forefather gathered a group of natives, enved people, and a few British Royal soldiers for an expedition from Broome to nearby viges, crossing several deserts andkes until they settled in Lake Carnegie.


    Hailee''s forefather used his knowledge to teach the native men to build houses out of bricks. He teaches them how to make them. As well as irrigation to their farm, better transportation, bridges, and a lot more.


    Then, his wife learned the nativenguage, and slowly she taught them to speak English and French.


    As years passed, exploring more parts of thend, Hailee''s forefathers started mining and owning a vastnd called Meadow Town, now called Dream City.


    Hailee''s forefathers also started several industries that brought a great economy to thend.


    The first part of the documentary mostly features Hailee''s family. Before it ended, they yed a teaser regarding the Shen family.


    In an interview, Vincent''s great-grandmother of a distant rtive spoke about the history of their n.


    "The Shen has a long history, and the government wanted to keep an official record about us, acknowledging our existence as descendants of once a great imperial family dynasty. The country is nning to honor all the remaining descendants of the dynasties. However, it is all up to the new Head of the n. I don''t know if my great-grandson Vincent will ept this recognition."


    "Elder Shen, I used to hear that Shen is not your real surname? Why does your ancestor have to change their surnames?"


    "Well, our family ruled C Nation for almost three hundred years. We defeated several kingdoms and set up many provinces with our Imperial Governors. However, the Wu n plotted to eliminate the entire family. With careful nning by my forefather, thete Emperor Xing, he sought the Xu kingdom''s help, for whom the Imperial crowned princess was married to the Xu crowned prince. Our ancestor, the young imperial prince, was saved and fled to continue the bloodline of the Imperial Xing family."


    With that remark, the first part of the episode ended. Those who watched the documentary were left awed by the information they had just heard.


    "Did I hear correctly?" Oneizen posted on her social media with the link to the first part episode of Shen and Davies''s Journey a Love Story Documentary.


    "Don''t tell me, CEO Vincent Shen is from the Imperial family?!"


    "Let me browse the history!"


    At that very moment, millions ofizens dug into the history of C Nation. They found out that the Xing Dynasty was the second to thest dynasty before the imperial throne ultimately ended after a massive rebellion.


    "Oh, gosh! Our queen is married to an emperor!"


    "CEO Vincent Shen is the living emperor!"


    "They were definitely a match made in heaven! Both are from noble families!"


    "The Royal families!"


    As the world was shocked, people from P Country, who was well known for the influence of the Lopez family, were only a bit surprised. They''ve witnessed the lifestyle of the Lopezes in the past hundred years. And now that it revealed Shen''s true bloodline, they were very proud of Vincent.


    "Wow! I could not believe that our man has more to reveal!" Lloyd eximed. There is also a viewing party at M Resort with Shen Group bosses and employees with Lopez and Shen''s friends and rtives.


    Fraine organized it with Zaijan and Rodney''s help since it also included their family history.


    "Have you heard of this?" sat at the table close to the stage; Rodney asked Zaijan.


    Zaijan pulled the corner of his mouth as he teased Rodney, "Are you talking to me now?"


    Rodney red at Zaijan. It was indeed a mistake that he spoke to him when, until now, he could not ept what Zayn did to Fraine.


    "Humph! I still hate you!"


    Zaijan heaves a helpless sigh. "Do you not figure out yet why I did it?"


    "I''m not interested!"


    Zaijan shook his head when Rodney still acted like a child. "You are too childish."


    "Stop talking to me!" Rodney bellowed. He stood on his feet and kept a distance from Zaijan.


    Zaijan was left speechless. Rodney''s childish behavior makes thingsplicated when it is supposed not.


    "When will this guy mature?" he mumbled.


    ~~~


    Back in Dream City, loud apuse filled the dining hall. The guests invited to the viewing party stood up and approached Vincent and Hailee''s table.


    "It was beautiful!"


    "Ah, boss Vincent is a real king!" Hazel shrieked.


    "Are you not listening? The Shen''s are from the imperial bloodline." Liza corrected Hazel, knocking her head.


    "Ah! I can''t wait for the next episode!" Nadia chimed in.


    "Me too! Sadly, we have to wait another week!" Hazel echoed.


    "It was pure torture! I want to watch the whole documentary!" said Liza, which was concurred by Hazel and Nadia.


    Meanwhile, the other girls surrounded Hailee and were bombarded with questions.


    "Hail, have you heard about this?" asked Kelly, curious.


    Hailee nodded and replied to Kelly, "Vincent told me. Also, Shun knew it already since he held all the information of all Royal families."


    "A crucial secret that the world needs to know." Cassandra chimed in with a mysterious smile that only Madison understood.


    "Indeed, Mama!" Madison concurred, sharing a knowing look.


    And listening to the otherdies, Hazel approached Hailee and whispered in her ear.


    "Hail, there is no doubt that Madam Hilda is an Empress Dowager! No wonder she acted like one ever since!"


    ~~~


    On the other side of the world¡­


    A bottle of champagne flew andnded on a giant TV screen hung on the wall, which caused the appliance to shatter.


    "I told you to erase that data!"


    The men in the corner shivered when their master screamed at them.


    "Master, our best hacker could not go through ATHENA. No one ever defeated Master Crow''s security system."


    "Just say that you are all useless! Simple job. No one can do it properly!"


    The men remained silent from the scold. They could not retort that it was impossible to break through to their software.


    Their master wished for the documentary data to steal and crashed it afterward so that they could not release it to the public. But they failed to do so.


    "Get out! All of you!"


    ''Shun Crow''s men sure are too loyal to him!''


    It infuriates him that he could not bribe anyone any longer. Fortunately, he managed to brainwash Liam, but he is no longer useful to him now.

 Chapter 473 Kill Someone

    <h4>Chapter 473 Kill Someone</h4>


    After his men disappeared from the line of his sight, the man that Samuel called Master picked up his phone on the table and dialed a particr contact.


    "So?" The moment the person on the other line answered his call, he could no longer hold his rage. "What is John doing now? Why has he done nothing yet!?"


    "Patience, Master. John knew what he was doing. He has not to rush action when the media keeps him under their radar. Soon, will be held a court hearing in C Nation. John had to attend and show the world that the death of his family had nothing to do with him. But of course, it would point the me toward the Shen family." Samuel calmly exined to his master.


    He added, "Is it a perfect coincidence? The Shen dered to the world that they were the mighty Imperial family of the Xing Dynasty. But the truth is, they were murderers. Don''t you think it was a blessing in disguise that we could not break the Crow Tech Security? Heaven is siding with us. We have to celebrate instead."


    The man, called Master, processed every word Samuel had said. He seemed to agree that Samuel had a point. Today, the world kneeled before Vincent Shen. But tomorrow, these same people will throw mud at him.


    With that thought, the man curled his mouth into a satisfying smirk.


    "Very well, then! I look forward to Vincent Shen going home as a corpse from his visit to T Country."


    "Consider the job done," Samuel promised.


    No more words from his master, but a tone indicating that he hung up already without bidding goodbye. Anyway, he was used to this already. He had nothing to be surprised about anymore. Even so, he still nced at his phone screen to make sure it disconnected. After he confirmed it, Samuel dialed John''s contact.


    "Where are you now?"


    "I''m about to board the ne." John''s response.


    "Alright. You know what to do," said Samuel.


    "I do, of course."


    "Good." Samuel did not wait for John to reply. He ended the call. Putting away his phone on the office table, he leans back and gazes at the city night skyline, contemting.


    His master has been impatient in the past months, and he doesn''t like it because it would impact his n. He always does his job slowly but smoothly.


    He works with it when he creeps into Liam''s system for years. After patiently following him around, he gained his trust. Now he holds everything that Liam has. His power, wealth, and influences were in his hands.


    In everything that he achieved, there is someone who benefited the most, and that is his master. But he was being pushed aroundtely, which brought displeasure in his heart.


    "Let''s end it soon," Samuel muttered before getting up from the chair and leaving the J Grouppany.


    Samuel ordered his assistant to drive to the airport. "Tell the men to get ready. I am going to T City."


    "Copy, boss."


    *


    Dream City, Australia


    Sitting on an ent chair, Hailee is watching the half-finished buildings in the eastern-south part of the city. That part of the city was bustling with so many activitiestely. She is holding a binocr to see the buildings clearly.


    Seen enough, Hailee positioned her line of sight at the Central East Sector where La Merveille Tower is located.


    Shen Group is doing a great job. Vincent instructed his engineers to do overtime work, but he was careful. Aside from paying them double overtime, he didn''t allow the workers to work straight the entire month. They have the freedom to sign up for two weeks of overtime. After that, they are forced to take a break for one week before working overtime again.


    Vincent doesn''t want his employees to abuse their health. Many of them have no families here in Australia who could take care of them. So Vincent made an exceptional policy for his team here in Dream City.


    Vincent was cautious about the wellness of his employees, something she really admired about him being a thoughtful boss, and with this, she wanted everyone to see that he was a great big boss. He will also be toward Davies Corporation.


    So now, other firms are following Vincent''s steps. They also aimed to finish the projects as soon as possible, as there was more work to do one after another.


    Hailee was thinking of hiring more construction firms, but at the moment, there are more important things she will take care of.


    Hailee put down the binocrs after she heard the creek sound of the door. She turned her head and saw Vincent carrying a tray with a ss of warm milk, fruits, and delicacies on a tter.


    "Done the meeting with Shun?"


    "Yup," Vincent answered while putting down the tray on the French coffee table. He picked up the ss and handed it to his wife.


    "Thank you." Hailee drank half of the milk. She ced the ss on the table to hug Vincent, who sat down on a stool next to her. "I wished I could go with you."


    "I also want you toe with me," said Vincent, cing a kiss on her forehead.


    "Hillside Lake has a magnificent view. The mountain trail is amazing! I always dream of visiting again. But after I put up mypanies and then the matter regarding Liam, I have to limit my adventure since then."


    "Hmm¡­ Then let us visit together in the future," Vincent suggested.


    "Yes, we will! I can''t wait." Hailee smiled with glee. "Come back soon, okay?"


    All of a sudden, Hailee welled up. Vincentbed her long hair. He lowered his head and kissed her passionately until both were out of breath.


    "Stop crying now¡­." Vincent did her best to coax her.


    "Hubby¡­ The watch that you gave me for my 24th birthday. I can no longer wear it. I''m gaining weighttely."


    Vincent was speechless. He thought Hailee cried because he was leaving.


    "Look, it''s hard to lock it." Hailee picked up the rose gold watch from its box and ced it on her wrist.


    "Alright. I will ask Kelly to design you a new strap, a convertible one."


    "Thank you, hubby!" Now Hailee smiled sweetly.


    Vincent chuckled after realizing that he had just experienced a two minutes mood swing from his wife.


    Anyway, the custom-made watch that Vincent gives Hailee is one of the best gifts she cherishes the mostpared to those million-dor presents she receives.


    The watch only cost around one hundred thousand euros, but she loves it so much because Vincent designed it.


    When she was his contracted mistress, she thought Vincent just wanted to show everyone the reason he was showering her with luxury, in which she didn''t need his money but himself.


    But ever since she learned the truth, Vincent has done everything because he was in love with her. It''s not because it stated in the contract that she would receive a handsome amount and gifts.


    "What were you thinking?" Vincent saw the yful smile appear on Hailee''s lips. She was silent for a little while, and he knew something was going on in her head.


    "Nothing. I just recalled something."


    "Okay¡­" He is curious to know, but he just guesses that it was something from the past, a beautiful one. "I''ll be back soon. Wait for me¡­."


    "I will¡­"


    "Know that you are the only woman I ever love¡­ Yesterday, today, tomorrow, and my next LIVES¡­."


    "That is future tense right there¡­." Hailee muttered coquettishly, pointing to thest word Vincent had said.


    "Yes. It is not only in my next life but also the next and the next life that I will have in this world."


    "Me too¡­ You are the only man I want to be with even in my next LIVES¡­." Hailee bit Vincent''s lower lip, brushing her lips with his before she kissed him lovingly.


    Remained sitting on the ent chair near the window, Hailee watched as her private jet and Shun''s took off the Dream City Airport runways.


    Vincent is heading to T Country while Shun is flying to Italy, and tomorrow is her dad Jacob and dad-inw Frederick leaving for C Nation.


    Hailee nced over her shoulder when the door opened, and James stepped in.


    "James, what is the situation in T City?"


    "Rob already arranged everything."


    "Great. How about the Franklin twins?"


    "They were in position. You have nothing to worry about from here on."


    "Tell everyone to keep a good job."


    "I will¡­" James replied to Hailee without leaving his gaze on her. He could not believe that he was talking to a different person at the moment. The spoiled princess who often came up with childish ideas is a pretty mature woman now.


    James feels a chill on his spine every time he realizes Hailee has changed too much.


    In the past, when she heard of catastrophic events, she would instantly order him to organize a team to send for charity work.


    Now, the order he got from her¡ªwas to kill someone.


    ''Is she even the same person who I used to know?''

 Chapter 474 Her Nightmare

    <h4>Chapter 474 Her Nightmare</h4>


    "James¡­" Hailee called out to him.


    James, who was in a trance, came back to his senses. He blinked his eyes and fell into his gaze at Hailee, who remained to look outside the window.


    "What is it, Empress?"


    Hailee raised one brow when James changed how he addressed her.


    "You deserved the title. Besides, you are no longer the little girl we swear to protect." James immediately exined himself.


    Hailee grows up entirely into a mature woman. She isn''t that pampered princess anymore, but someone willing to give a beating to anyone who touches her bottom line.


    "From now on, it will be our secret alias for you," suggested James. "I will notify everyone about it."


    "Alright!" Hailee agreed since it would help from any suspicion by the others.


    "What is your further instruction?" asked James. Hailee seemed to ponder a lottely, which made him worry.


    "I''m bored, James. I don''t want just to sit idly and watch everything unfold before my eyes, then suddenly it reaches the end, and I do nothing."


    "But you need to rest and settle your emotions," James advised. Being the person who works closely with the princess, his mom, Doctor Manni, reminds him of what he must consider for Hailee''s pregnancy.


    "It will only worsen, James. My mind would only remember and worry about Vincent. So¡­" Hailee lifted her head and met James'' gaze. She said, "I want you to set up a meeting in the morning. Inform the executives and the representatives of the firms to meet me by ten-thirty tomorrow."


    "Empress, you are prohibited from stressing yourself."


    "I am not. It will only be a light talk."


    James felt helpless that Hailee didn''t listen to him but gave in. Of course, he knew she was stubborn. "Alright. I will message Geoffrey to send out a notification to everyone."


    "Don''t worry, I am fine." Hailee smiled smugly.


    "Okay. If nothing else, I''ll head out now."


    "That''s all¡­ Thanks."


    James nodded, then bid good night. James took another nce before he shut the door gently.


    Later on, Hailee called her nanny to prepare the bed for her. She had a long night, and her body reached its limit for the day.


    ~~~


    That night, she had the same nightmare that she had before.


    No. She already had this dream five years ago. But after she visited Lady Isabe, she no longer had nightmares. However,tely, she has been dreaming of it again.


    "Stop¡­" "Save him¡­" Hailee mumbled in her sleep.


    "Your majesty! We have to leave!"


    "No! I won''t leave him!"


    "His majesty wants you to live!"


    "I won''t leave him behind! If he is going to die, I have to die too!"


    "Your Majesty¡­"


    "Lavender, please keep my son safe."


    "No! You have toe with us!"


    "Empress Xing Ming!"


    Hailee sat up, gasping for air. She grabbed the ss of water on a bedside table prepared for her every time she went to sleep.


    Emptying the content, Hailee felt relieved a little. The air condition in her bedroom was high, but she was sweating too much, having a nightmare. Hailee heaved a sigh to calm her nerves and leaned back to the pillows.


    Gradually, the beating of her heart settles down.


    "Empress Xing Ming?" she muttered to herself.


    "Xing means star, and Ming can be tranted into bright or brilliance."


    "The Star is Bright¡­ Could it be like a sun or a moon?"


    Hailee is raking her head for the little Chinese she learns from Vincent. She closed her eyes and recounted her dream.


    The scene that appeared in her dream started with lively music from wooden instruments inside a grand hall. Everyone in the banquet dresses dashingly.


    But, what got her attention most were the female guests. They are all wearing regal robes, jewelry on their bodies, and mboyant headdresses on their heads with genuine gemstones.


    And another thing that is interesting about her dream is the guests'' bows every time she passes them until she arrives in front of the man, seated on a small stage or something.


    It was kind of vague when she reached that part. So, the man appears blurry. She isn''t sure what he looks like.


    However, the merry banquet shifted to a bloody scene. There are dead bodies everywhere, fire and screaming.


    Then a beautiful girl appeared in her line of sight, carrying a child. If she is not mistaken, she called that young girl Lavender.


    "Who is she?" Somehow, the young girl looks so clear in her dream. "She was too beautiful."


    Hailee recalled the girl''s overall features.


    She was wearing warrior clothes, tying her jet ck hair up to her head into a ponytail. She had an attractive shape of lips and puffy eyes like Vincent. However, the shape of her jawline and her proud nose was like hers.


    "Wait¡­ She looks like¡­."


    Knock! Knock!


    Hailee''s deep thoughts were interrupted by the knock. Not long, Mrs. Brown entered the bedroom and hurried to her side.


    "Mrs. Shen, your vitals aren''t stable. Are you okay?" Mrs. Brown asked worriedly since the monitoring gadget had indicated an abnormal pulse from herdy boss.


    "I''m just having a dream, Mrs. Brown," Hailee replied and nced at the bracelet on her wrist.


    Shun gifted her this bracelet to monitor her vitals whenever she sleeps alone when Vincent is away on a business trip. It would tell her nannies if she was in such emotions. That is why she has been working to suppress her feelings and not over-stress herself by worrying a lot.


    "Would you like me to serve your breakfast now, Mrs. Shen?"


    "Yes, please, Mrs. Brown. I will have my bath after."


    Mrs. Brown slightly bowed her head before she left.


    Hailee reached for the Tablet on the bedside table. The gadget is connected to everything in this suite. She presses something on the screen, and the giant curtain suddenly opens.


    Now she felt a lot better seeing the beautiful scenery from her window.


    Hailee picked up the phone receiver and dialed the telephone number of James''s hotel suite. Her cellphone, MacBook, iPad, and anotherptop were confiscated so she could contact no one outside or watch any news.


    "Yes, Empress?"


    Hailee was stunned. James, addressing her this way, gives a chill on her back. Hailee closes her eyes, then a scene in her dream shes through her head. The young man behind Lavender looked like James, and even his voice sounded the same.


    ''What was his name?'' She heard Lavender call him out. Also, there are other young men around them. Ah! Her mind is too messed up. She must stop thinking about her nightmares.


    Putting aside all the unimportant matters, Hailee informed James. "Please tell everyone that our meeting was rescheduled for lunch. I''m not feeling well this morning, so I want to move a little."


    "Alright. I''ll call Geoffrey to inform the construction firm representatives."


    "Thanks." Hailee was about to hang up the call, but she remembered to ask James about something. "How''s Vincent''s flight? Did he arrive safely?"


    "Yes, he is, Empress. As of right now, they are heading to the Hillside Lake."


    "Good. That''s all¡­" she then hung up and put down the phone.


    Hailee closes her eyes once again and contemtes. Her thoughts drifted to Italy. She wondered if Shun had found out something already. Also, tomorrow is the court hearing. The world will know that Vincent has nothing to do with the collision.


    "You were so confident, Samuel Miller¡­." Hailee mumbled under her breath.


    Until now, she doesn''t understand why these people want to harm her family even after Liam is locked up. So she wanted to know what her family had done wrong.


    "Who are you?" Hailee was thinking about Liam and Samuel''s master.


    Hailee strokes her belly upon having these thoughts as there are slight fetal movements in her belly.


    ording to Shun, Samuel Miller is working for the leader of the Dark Shadow Organization. Now, Shun and Vincent will do everything to locate them and end this war. After they apprehend the leader, she will finally have the answers to all of her questions.


    "Hang on, my little loves¡­ I''m sorry if Mom was on a roller coaster ride of emotions in a while. We have to capture these bad people, so dad Vincent will be with us forever."

 Chapter 475 Declaring War

    <h4>Chapter 475 Dering War</h4>


    Having a bigger belly thanst week cause Hailee struggled to get out of bed. She picked up Vincent''s white shirt he wore yesterday and draped it around her body like a robe to inhale his scent¡ªher way not to miss her husband so much.


    Hailee walked toward the lounge chair facing the window. She sat down and leaned back; her eyes wandered throughout the city. Her gaze narrowed at the gloomy sky asplicated feelings lingered in her chest, messing up her head.


    She contemtes¡­


    As of now, she is the richest woman in the world. She was lying on top of gold bars, diamonds, and other precious gemstones. She also has trillions in her Swiss ount that won''t harm her easily, even if several of their subsidiarypanies went close.


    Aside from that, she had the royal family''s influence throughout the world when she needed their backing. However, despite everything in her hands, her life is not perfect. Something that others always think she has no trouble with, ignoring the fact that her enemies would be of the same power as they have.


    It was impossible to achieve no matter how she wanted a low-key profile. And so, if she could not have a simple life, then at least she tried to live peacefully.


    But why?


    Why don''t they stop targeting her?


    Now they are causing trouble for Vincent''spany and her inws. It looks like they won''t stop dering war against her.


    ''Then I will give it to them!'' Hailee sneered in her heart as anger filled her chest. ''I have all the power and money to bring down every person involved in that organization. I won''t stop until I do not find their master. I will¡­''


    Hailee felt terrified with all the thoughts in her head. The faces of her grannies appeared in her mind. She reached her forehead and massaged both of her temples.


    The olderdies in her family raised her to be a well-mannered youngdy. What was running in her head was the opposite of her upbringing.


    They always told her to be a kindhearted person, reminding her that there is no superiority and inferiority but equality.


    If others do not think the same way, then it does not mean she would follow their manners orpete. There is no wrong with protecting one''s dignity, but one must handle oneself very well.


    Her olderdies are refined women. Not only that, they werepassionate to others.


    However¡­.


    ''I want to know why they want to kill everyone dear to me, even the innocent children inside my womb.'' She mused.


    ''Grannies, I''m sorry if I have to go against your counsel. Please forgive me if I have to ignore all of your teachings.''


    Hailee was praying when a faint knock caught her ears. Then the door was pushed open.


    "Hailee?" Hilda took long strides toward her daughter-inw. "Mrs. Brown told me you are not feeling well."


    Hailee looked up and smiled at her mom-inw, whose face was filled with concern.


    "Good morning, mom." Hailee greeted Hilda. She knew immediately that Mrs. Brown, who reported to her mom-inw regarding her vital recordingsst night. It would indicate and save on the gadget that her pulse had been abnormal the entire night.


    "Do you want me to apany you tonight?" Hilda sighed with relief to see Hailee in a better mood. However, she knew it would be the same in the following nights, so she queried.


    Hailee was delighted to have such a mom-inw. She smiled and nodded as she said, "I would love to, mom. Thank you."


    When Mrs. Brown brought over the meals, Hilda had breakfast with Hailee. She poured her a ss of warm milk and served her a te of fruits.


    Mrs. Brown summoned two nannies to prepare Hailee''s bath. After breakfast, she soaked in the warm tub for fifteen minutes. She inhaled the pleasant fragrance of the flowers mixed into her bath, improving her mood a little more.


    The two nannies scrub her body after a certain period. When she was done with the bath, they helped her stand on her feet and were very attentive to assisting her in getting out of the tub.


    One nanny draped a bathrobe on her shoulders and tied the belt carefully. They also help her dry her hair and get dressed.


    Hailee is wearing a white maternity gown. She applied light makeup and let her hair rest on her back. Mrs. Brown and a few nannies escorted her toward the twentieth floor.


    "Empress!" James quickly jumped to his feet when they noticed her entering the room.


    Andre also got up and rushed to her side. "Are you sure to continue the lunch meeting?"


    His face was full of worry when he asked her this. Hailee chuckled and felt blissful about how the people surrounding her were very concerned. It is why she works hard to show them she is brave.


    "I am alright. I missed having a good meal and a pleasant talk with the team."


    Andre understood. He smiled and patted Hailee''s head. ''She really is apletely mature woman now.''


    "Let''s take a seat," he suggested afterward.


    "Okay, thanks."


    Andre helped Hailee take a seat on the lounge chair. Then, Mrs. Brown ced a nket from her baby bump down to her feet.


    "Just call us if you need anything, Mrs. Shen."


    "Alright. Thank you, Mrs. Brown." Hailee thanked the olderdy with a warm smile on her face.


    Mrs. Brown walked toward the door and closed it slowly. Now that they were left alone, the smile on Hailee''s lips disappeared instantly, and she asked the two men seated on the couch from both sides of her lounge.


    "Did the assassins talk already?"


    Andre and James look at each other, surprised when she suddenly bes serious. Hailee wore a solemn expression that gave them cold on their backs.


    "None of the assassins saw their Master''s face yet, but Samuel Miller. The only information we got from them was that man hiding inside Lamandi Pce. We confirmed it''s real as Samuel Miller kept traveling back and forth between V Country and T Country in the passing months. Just recently, he visited Lamandi Pce."


    "I see¡­" Hailee ced her left elbow on the armrest and rested her head on her palm. As she went on, there was a firmness in her tone. "It only means they were using Liam until they could suck him dry with the power and resources he had in his hands."


    Andre and James shared a knowing look once again. The inexplicable aura emanating from Hailee''s body was apparent as if the woman speaking was a different person.


    "Undoubtedly, it was the fact, Empress," James concurred, throwing a knowing look at Andre.


    "King Lamandi is on his deathbed. It was the information my men had gathered outside Lamandi Pce." Andre told Hailee.


    Hearing this, she responded.


    "That man obviously put everyone inside his palm. When the king dies, the throne will be empty. Then, it''s perfect for him to ce a puppet on the seat to appear on the surface, but it was him who would manipte every person in V Country Parliament. Like what he did to Liam, he is able to make that guy follow him."


    Hailee is correct. Andre and James couldn''t agree more. Shun also believes that Liam only became a puppet of that man.


    "What can we do to prevent that? Liam is locked up, and he cannot earn his freedom with his crime. There is no other direct descendant but Liam." James wondered. ''Unless a distant rtive sat on the throne.''


    Hailee also had already thought about this matter. "Andre, James¡­ We need to save King Lamandi."


    "What!?" James eximed, shocked by Hailee''s request, which likely sounded an order. "Empress, saving King Lamandi means we are dering war against V Country!"

 Chapter 476 Her Knights

    <h4>Chapter 476 Her Knights</h4>


    Hailee remained silent for a moment. It was just a while ago that she pondered and weighed things.


    With her wealth and influence, there won''t be difficulties having her way for her knights to enter the Lamandi Pce. However, it will be a risky mission as it needs to keep it a secret from Shun. And so, getting out alive is a slim chance without his permission and assistance as she could not send all her Crusader Knights not to get attention.


    That''s right. Her knights were divided into different groups. Although they were all equal to her, they had important roles.


    Her Crusader Knights are like Bruce Ledesma from P Country and the Franklin Twins of V Country. Most of them live a low profile in society. They could stand as her bodyguards or take missions and work in the shadows.


    As for her Executive Knights, they are the ones who are working closely with her in one ce and under the Davies Group.


    It doesn''t matter if they are the Crusader Knights like James White or Chester Liang or her Marquis Knight like Geoffrey because of his family status. Pitt has noble blood in him as his family is distant rtives of the royal family during Joseon Dynasty.


    The Marquis Knights are CEOs of apany or heirs from affluent families.


    The knights that belong to that group are Hansen Park of Korea, Maynard Chan of S Country, Brett Morris in the US, Mikael Davidson of G Country, and Keith Cole of P Country.


    Recently, Rob Dawson of T Country officially became her knight, and he fell to the group of the Marquises. In the meantime, she''s still contemting whether John is fit to be her Marquis knight.


    She only mentions a few of them, but her Marquis Knights are scattered around the world. Their influences help expand her own territories outside the Alliance.


    Andst is her Royal Knights. Obviously, they were those from the royal bloodline.


    Yes, her cousins, George Robertson of British Monarch, Alexander Martini of Fen Kingdom. The other Royal Knights were Mitchell Romanoff of Russia.


    With these men, she could do anything. However, there will be one person who will always block her way: Shun.


    Hailee mused that if Shun didn''t exist, or he was not her beloved cousin, she wouldn''t mind doing¡­


    "Empress?"


    Hailee was pulled out from her train of thoughts. She turned her head toward James and looked at him with perplexity.


    "I''m sorry. Come again?"


    "We are telling you we can''t just openly do our way in V Country. Remember that Liam is no longer your knight," said James.


    Upon bringing up Liam, Hailee felt a pang in her heart. He is her first knight. She actually had the idea of calling her friends knights because of him.


    During their first meeting, Liam told her he would be her knight and swore to protect her with his life. But suddenly, things change. What happened to Liam had a massive impact on her until now.


    "James is correct, Hail." Andre echoed. He knew better how territories must mind their own business. "We can''t get involved in someone''s affair inside their territory. It will look like we are dering war against the V Country Monarchy."


    Besides, V Country is a particr case, and Shun just waits patiently before he does the beating to these Mafia members from that nation.


    "Could it be wrong to wish for a fulfilling life with Vincent?"


    To make that happen, she needs to remove all that prevents them from having a peaceful life. And the solution to their problems is to disappear the people that caused them all these troubles.


    People envied her and wished to have the life that she had. What they didn''t know was her life wasn''t perfect. So anything that came to her mind at the moment was out of her desire to live happily with Vincent and their children.


    Both Andre and James were speechless. They found her remark hard to counter.


    "Empress, we understand you are worried about King Lamandi. Suppose we raid Lamandi Pce out of the blue. It will be assumed as an international threat. Worse is, we will use as an act of terrorism like what Liam did in Metro City and Las Vegas." James reminded her, "We must not forget thew Shun implemented in the Association."


    "But they are crossing the line as well! They feel so confident walking freely in Australia!"


    "That''s right, Hail. To not vite the order of the association, they cleverly nned out everything by crawling their way into the shadows. That man used Liam to strengthen his allies in many parts of the world."


    "Okay, I understand." She wanted to insist further, but she must calm down. Anyway, Andre and James were right. She must avoid rushing things that would risk her health and children. "We have enough people around Samuel Miller, right? In no time, we know that man''s identity."


    "Yes, Hail. We have our best men doing their best to catch a glimpse of this man''s face."


    "Alright." Hailee ended the subject. Not long after she dropped the discussion, her executive knights arrived.


    "Empress!" They greeted her, then took the empty sofas across her and chatted merrily.


    Watching her in silence, both Andre and James felt ufortable. The stubborn woman they did their best to enlighten is now acting like the same spoiled, innocent princess they used to know. She now behaves differently from the girl they just argued with a while back.


    Hailee is beaming while listening to her executive knights sharing funny stories with her. Undeniably, she misses theirpany; however, many of them will have their own lives soon, and she is happy that a few of them have already found a girlfriend.


    "Hey, folks!" Doctor Hector Payne.


    Hailee grinned at seeing the bully doctor. She heard from her obstetrician, Doctor Dave, that his daughter Serena is now dating Hector. Serena is the physician who cared for her when she almost had a miscarriage, but she doesn''t want to see any men like doctor Dave. Now, Serena is practicing her profession in Dream City Hospital.


    "Hi, princess¡­ I mean, Empress." Greeted Geoffrey, who was walking behind Hector. He nodded at Andre and James as he approached them.


    "Hey, Geoff! Thank you for helping Vera finish nning the Davies Cosmetic branch here in Dream City."


    "My pleasure, Empress."


    Hailee smiles gratefully. Looking at her knights, she was blissful to have them.


    These men did not just be her knights because she grew up with them or got close to her, but a primary reason for everything.


    They were the descendants of her forefathers, loyal servants, and workers who helped mine and began any kinds of industries in Australia.


    She specifically chose her other knights from the other part of the world for the same reason. In the passing years that she traveled, Hailee is actually tracking down her forefathers'' servants and workers'' offspring who went back to their mothend or found a newnd to make a little fortune.


    After finding them, she would not just share her fortune and power. But together, they will make another history, contributing to what their forefathers had created.


    Dream City is not just her capricious ambition to achieve something but a fulfillment of promises.


    She wanted to write a new history with the same blood of great men who contributed significantly to thisnd ever since a long time ago.


    That is why their slogan is "Let''s Make History".


    *


    [Author: I do a Poll in Chapter 490. I will do my best for you to reach that part soon! I need your wonderful ideas! The further future story of this novel is in your hands! Let''s do some exciting things together!]

 Chapter 477 The Man in Her Dream (One)

    <h4>Chapter 477 The Man in Her Dream (One)</h4>


    Hailee had a broad smile, gazing at the door when all the representatives from construction firms she hired to build her city entered the room. They greeted her politely and expressed their gratitude for inviting them today.


    During the meal, Hailee earnestly listened when they carried out brief reports. She was satisfied with the progress of her city so far. All the construction firms were highlypetent and performed their job more seriously than they worked out in the past.


    Thanks to her beloved husband, giving his precious break from his hectic schedules, candidlymunicating with the firms and doing regr virtual conferences, discussing relevant issues concerning Dream City.


    Also, Vincent reminded the board thatpleting the city in the shortest time should be the top priority.


    The Davies Corporation will benefit the most because it would mean more production of goods manufactured by them. The corporation will provide everything the city needs when it opens to the world.


    Jacob and the Board of Directors gave full support after Hailee proposed setting up a new city because of this exact reason.


    The following day, Hailee has woken up by the same nightmare, and the usual, that man''s face is blurred.


    "Who is he?" Hailee asked herself.


    *


    Madison entered Hailee''s bedroom. Hailee asked for herpany, and she had a bad premonition about it.


    "Hail?" She strode toward the bed and sat down close to her. She noticed Hailee was in a trance, so she shook her shoulder as she asked, "Hey. Do you want to talk to me?"


    Hailee snapped herself back to the present. She fixed her eyes on Madison, looking expectantly at her as she nodded her head. She asked, "Can you help me, please?"


    Madison met Hailee''s eyes, then wandered her gaze, searching for something on her face. She wants to figure out what is in Hailee''s mind.


    "If it is beyond my capability, I am d to help you. So? What is it?" She felt a little ufortable after she guessed the possibility, and Hailee summoned her. She settled the beating of her heart and smiled at Hailee.


    Hailee lowered her gaze on her hands, sping together above her baby bump. She tightened her grip as she spoke.


    "Do you remember when Dad and I visited Maind City five years ago?"


    "Of course! It was your twentieth birthday. We were there and¡­." Madison halted as she recalled that day. "Why did you bring it up, Hail?"


    "Aunt Isabe did something to me. Right? Madison, I had the same nightmare when I turned eighteen years old. Why does ite back? Also, it is less clear this time."


    Madison pressed her lips together as she pondered. ''Lady Isabe is getting weaker. Could it be the reason?''


    "Which part hasn''t shown clearly?"


    "Um... When I reached the tform where a man squatted in the middle. I don''t know who he is."


    Madison took a long moment of silence as she recalled what had happened five years ago. She was there when Hailee donated a significant amount to the facility for the patients with rare illnesses who could not afford the treatment.


    "Did my daughter get lost on her way to the toilet room?" said Jacob worriedly. It was time for them to leave the facility and head to the airport, but Hailee needed to use the toilet.


    "Let me look for Hailee!" Madison volunteered. She trailed to the end of the hallway where the toilet was located, but she didn''t find Hailee inside. "Did you see Miss Davies?"


    Madison asked the security staff assigned to that area.


    "I noticed her climbing the stairs toward the fifth floor."


    "I see. Thank you." Madison thanked and smiled at the security personnel. She followed the opposite hallway toward the stairs, hoping that Hailee would take the same route on her way back.


    "Madison!"


    She is right. Hailee would take the same hallway. "Hey! Did you get lost in your way?"


    Hailee shook her head. She replied, "No. I came to see the view outside from a higher ce. I noticed how beautiful it was. And guess what!?"


    Madison noticed the blush on Hailee''s cheek. She also had a broad smile on her lips and sparks in her eyes.


    "Are you in love?" Madison teased Hailee as she appeared like one at the moment.


    "Did you remember what I told you this morning?"


    Madison nodded at Hailee. They indeed had a serious talk before they came to the facility.


    "Is it about your nightmarest night?"


    "Yes! And I found him!"


    "Who?" Madison curled her forehead. But she noticed how Hailee''s ears turned red.


    ''It seems like the princess finally found someone she likes romantically. Perhaps, love?''


    Thinking about it, Madison got excited to have another love story she could write into the memories she would remember, even in her next life and the next ones.


    "Madison, the man in my dream. I think it was the man in Room 0051."


    "Room 0051? Do you mean the Physical Therapy Unit Area?" asked Madison. She wondered who among the patients Hailee was talking about.


    "Yes! I was talking with the parents of the two younger patients there. Then I saw this man doing some therapy in the hall."


    She recalled how he struggled to take another step, but he was determined to walk independently with no help from the machine, so he moved forward. She actually has this urge to run toward him and be his crutches to walk.


    "Hail, are you telling me that the man in Room 0051 is possibly the same man in your dream?"


    Hailee bit her lower lip, then smiled shyly. "I thought Liam was the man in my dream, but I felt nothing for him, so I dismissed the thought."


    "Then that man is absolutely the ONE!" Madison concluded.


    "Come on! I will introduce myself!" Hailee grabs Madison''s hand, which thetter panic.


    ''No!''


    Madison gasped. She didn''t wear any gloves at the moment, as there were no other people around. But Hailee forgot not to hold her hand after she felt like on top of the moon.


    The facility staff became concerned when two women fell on the floor. It''s good that they pass by in that corridor and witness them losing consciousness.


    "It was Miss Davies and Mrs. Montfort!"


    "Go, and call for Doctor Derek!"


    The staff rushed to their side, attended to the two women, checked their vital signs, and guessed what had happened to them, and they lost consciousness.


    But there is what made them wonder¡­


    "Why is Miss Davies kept holding Mrs. Montfort''s hand?"


    Instead of losing one hold after she loses consciousness, the two remain sping hands.


    Meanwhile, at the Exclusive Lounge Area¡­


    "Sir!" Captain Jones rushed inside the room.


    Abruptly, Jacob got up from the sofa and met his bodyguard halfway. "What happened, Captain Jones?"


    "The princess¡­ She passed out."


    "What?"


    It cannot paint the worry that appeared on Jacob''s face. He went after Captain Jones to where Hailee lost consciousness, followed by Shun, Derek Williams, and Levi Montfort.


    "Don''t touch them!"


    It was Shun who shouted when one nurse was about to separate Madison''s hands from Hailee.


    "Let them be as they are!" Levi echoed. He quickly kneeled on the floor and observed his wife. He pulled his handkerchief and wiped the blood gushing out from his wife''s nose.


    Levi looked up and cast a meaningful look at Shun and Derek.


    "Let us bring them to the tower," Derek suggested after examining Hailee. He found no contusion or bleeding from her nose.


    "What happened to my daughter, Derek? Why did she lose consciousness?" Jacob asked his nephew, with concern for his daughter''s condition.


    "Don''t worry, Uncle Jacob. I will thoroughly examine both Hailee and Madison."


    Jacob made a request. "Please, help my daughter."


    Derek nodded his head before casting a knowing look at Shun and Levi. Understanding the situation, the two men carried Madison and Hailee; both were careful not to separate their hands.


    Jacob attempts to follow them into the elevator, but Derek stops him.


    "Uncle Jacob, Hailee will be fine. I''ll make sure of that."


    "I''m just worried that Hailee might get injured when she falls to the floor."


    "I will perform a special test to determine what caused Madison and Hailee to lose consciousness, including any bruises."


    "Alright." Jacob nodded his head and let Derek do his job as a doctor.


    "Let''s go back to the lounge, Mr. Davies." Politely, Daichi invited Jacob, leading him to another elevator.

 Chapter 478 The Man in Her Dream (Two)

    <h4>Chapter 478 The Man in Her Dream (Two)</h4>


    At the facility''s top floor...


    Levi and Shun ce Hailee and Madison on the table. It instantly lit with a blue light when it made contact with bodies.


    "Marive..." Derek, following behind, summons the facility''s centralputer system.


    Through voice recognition, the centralputer system or CCS responded immediately.


    "Good evening, Doctor Williams. What shall I do for you?" A hologram that looked like Cassandra appeared and greeted Derek.


    "I want you to run aplete scan and test the patients... Name, Hailee Davies and Madison Montfort." Derek effortlessly typed the names on his tablet that immediately appeared on theputer''s system. "Give me their vitals and nervous system status."


    While Derek casts hismands, a machine appears from the ceiling, scanning Madison and Hailee''s bodies.


    "Hailee Davies shows no abnormality in her vitals. She had no concussion or bruises. The patient is in a state of deep sleep."


    "Deep sleep? Like simply sleeping?" asked Levi, with a tone full of curiosity and confusion. He felt conflicted hearing that.


    Marive replied, "Yes. The patient is just simply sleeping."


    They do not know how to exin to their uncle Jacob if Hailee got an injury after she fell on the floor, and so, after Marive confirms, the three men sigh with relief.


    "Thank you, Marive," said Derek.


    He walked toward aputer screen on the left side of the room and inserted his ID into a chip tform. It automatically logged into the central system of the tower.


    Derek studied the readings of Marive''splete scan into Madison''s nervous system.


    "Marive, infuse some fluids into Madison."


    "DEXTROSE IV is infused to the patient," Marive reported.


    Levi, standing near Madison, cannot wait for his wife to wake up.


    "I will follow my wife." he dered, lying down on the table next to Madison. "Marive, infuse me with some fluids."


    Levi requested before he held Madison''s hand. He closes his eyes and lets an unknown force pull his consciousness out.


    The machine infused not only an IV into Levi but also some medical equipment to monitor his vitals.


    After one hour, Madison and Levi woke up and gasped for air. Instantly, the machine offers them oxygen masks.


    Levi recovered his strength after the machine injected some medicine into him. He got off the table and helped his wife get down.


    Shun and Levi brought Madison to a private room where they could still watch Hailee in the medical room.


    After ensuring that there was no wrong with Hailee, Derekmanded Marive to bring out the sickbed. The floor opened, and a bed with a soft mattress emerged.


    Hailee was moved to the sickbed by Marive, operating the machines in the room. Derek joined them in the private room after his final check on Hailee.


    Shun handed Derek a cup of coffee after he sat across from him.


    "What did you discover, Madison?" asked Shun after a long silence.


    "Papa, I saw Hailee got married and pregnant. However..."


    Madison lifted her gaze and met Shun''s eyes. She nced at Derek before sharing what happened when she and Levi traveled time.


    "Papa, what is your n now?" Madison asked Shun after she and Levi reported everything they''d discovered that would happen in the near future.


    Shun didn''t answer but contemted. He got up from the couch and walked toward the window, watching Hailee lovingly.


    "Have you investigated why Hailee became the Dark Shaman''s target?" He asked. There is no other being that can cause trouble in someone''s life if he sees a threat to his n.


    "We tried to find it out, brother Shun," replied Levi. "But we got only a little information about the war. The near future is such chaos! You can no longer trust everyone! People are dividing the alliances to survive!"


    Madison added,


    "It''s true, Papa. It divided the Alliance between you and Hailee for two reasons. Others choose you because of your standing as the Leader of the Mafia Association. However, Hailee was able to gather many supporters siding with her because of her wealth and the influence of Davies Corporation after she married Vincent."


    "Vincent?" Shun and Derek said at once. The two men shared a meaningful look.


    "He''s here, right? The man in Room 0051?"


    Derek looked at Shun and said, "There is no adult patient we have in the Therapy Care Unit but Nichs''s friend Frederick Shen''s son."


    "Vincent Shen?" Shun muttered in a low voice.


    "At the beginning of Nichs''s rule, he asks Frederick Shen and his entire n to help him reform the Mafia Association."


    "Frederick left the underground world after the incident that almost took his life." Shun finished Derek''s statement.


    Even though they are no longer part of the mafia, they were still High Royal Family members. So the Shen family is still under his radar.


    "Mama approved he retire from the association. Could it be the reason is she already envisions the union of the Davies and Shen family?" Derek concluded, and Shun concurred.


    "Surely, she is. However, to maintain the bnce and flow in this world, we must least intervene in what will happen in the future. Maybe it was why Isabe didn''t inform us of what she had seen already."


    "I guess we should phone Lady Isabe," Madison suggested. The woman can enlighten her to all the puzzlement invading her system and answer their questions.


    The near future is not just a joke to take for granted or ignore.


    "Madison is right. We better consult her on this." Derek agreed. He thenmanded the centralputer system. "Marive, contact ATHENA and connect a video call with my mother."


    "Right away, Doctor Williams." The hologram appeared in the private lounge room. She brought out the TV screen hidden behind the wall and turned it on. "Video call is in progress... You are now connected."


    On the TV screen, Lady Isabe came into view.


    "Derek? Shun?" Lady Isabe traveled her gaze to the four people in the room. Her eyes then fixed on the couple.


    "Hello, Mama. Madison and Levi had just traveled in the near future, and we found out something... Have you predicted Hailee''s future already?"


    "My vision mostly showed someone''s important role in the future. However, I could not have a clear vision as it can change, or we intentionally change it throughout the process."


    "That''s it!" Madison suddenly figures out something. "Levi and I traveled to two timelines. Although the result is no different, there are changes, yes."


    "It was true." Levi concurred with his wife''s statement.


    "The first timeline we traveled is in two years from now. It is where Hailee and Vincent are nning to get married, but Vincent dies. Hailee was pregnant with two sons, and with their help, Hailee conquered the throne in the Alliance."


    "Hailee''s sons?"


    "Because you died, brother Shun," Levi added.


    Shun contracted his pupils and tried to digest everything he had heard now. He curled his lips into a vicious smile and sneered inside his heart¡­


    ''Heh. Is this his new method to kill me?''

 Chapter 479 The Man in Her Dream (Three)

    <h4>Chapter 479 The Man in Her Dream (Three)</h4>


    "What else happened in that timeline?" Shun asked the couple.


    Madison and Levi shared everything they found out that was about to happen in the near future.


    "Papa, Hailee got angry at you because you knew Vincent would die, but you did not save him. She also hates us because we didn''t tell her about it. Instead, she learns the mystery in this world from someone else."


    "The Dark Shaman, is it?" Shun guessed. "That man certainly never took a vacation and spared us all to live a peaceful one lifetime once in a while."


    Shun felt helpless, as he had to make careful decisions once again. Decisions that either make him the hero or the viin.


    He reached his forehead and kneaded his temples. He mused, ''That man is starting a new game, huh? And this time, his pawn is Hailee''s fate.''


    Shun leaned forward, cing his elbows on the couch''s armrest, then rested his chin on top of his folding hands.


    "The both of you are saying¡­ The Alliance got separated after Hailee took revenge for Vincent''s death, and then I stopped Hailee from making reckless decisions. This leads Hailee to think of me as the enemy because she thinks I am afraid to be killed by her sons."


    Shun paused and pondered. After he digested the information, he went on.


    "Soter on, Hailee defeated me with the help of her sons, as they could harm me. Not knowing my nephews could hurt that man as well. Now, this is interesting."


    A cunning smile yed on Shun''s lips as he added, "That man is able to get close to Hailee. However, we don''t know which life and body he possessed this time to live like a normal person among us. Whatever appearance he has, it is always easy for him to invite someone to work for him and be his puppet."


    "That always has been his doing, Shun." Derek echoed.


    "What are your thoughts now, Papa?" Madison started to feel restless as they concluded.


    "We have to watch Hailee closely. We have to distinguish that man among us to take everything under control. Since he chose Hailee''s life to y with as he saw it as a great tool to get back at me and kill me in this lifetime, we have to work in silence."


    "So we won''t tell Uncle Jacob?" asked Levi.


    "We won''t, but we will give Hailee some choice. At least, whatever she will do in the end after she learns the truth, she has enough knowledge of both the High Royal Family and the Mafia Association. We have to remember not to intervene too much, only the necessary things."


    "Such us?" Levi asked Shun curiously.


    "I can''t figure out everything yet. So we must be ready ande prepared for whatever oues after we make a few changes," Shun replied with firmness in his words. "Now, I want to know everything that happened in the second timeline. What are the changes after we intervene in Hailee''s life?"


    "I need more time to investigate further. I need to travel time again, Papa," replied Madison.


    "Hmm¡­" Shun contemted. He stood on his feet and walked toward the ss window, looking at Hailee, feeling sorry. "I think it is best if we conceal a few of Hailee''s memories."


    Upon saying that, Shun turned around and nced at Isabe. However, Madison protested.


    "What do you mean, Papa? Will Hailee forget her feelings for Vincent? You can''t do this to her!"


    "It will only, for the time being, Madison. We have to prepare for the future that awaits us. Don''t worry. I will make it up to them in the future." Shun calmed Madison, the daughter he had from his first life three hundred years ago.


    "Papa¡­" Madison is determined to disagree. It pained her to think of Hailee forgetting her first love. However, she could not deny that, at some point, Shun was right. They must prepare for the tragedy in their lives that was about toe their way, and that was very soon.


    "Calm down, sweetheart. We should focus on how we could change the future. We are not only saving brother Shun''s life, but Hailee''s as well. I am sure more lives are at stake, so we need to seed." Levi saw the anxiety exhibited in her eyes, so heforted her.


    Madison looked at her husband with a loving gaze as she nodded her head. "Alright, I understand."


    Levi was satisfied with his wife''s reply. He kissed her on the hair, and then his attention moved to Hailee.


    "Brother Shun, even after we did a minor change and intervened in Hailee''s life, in the second timeline, she still hates you because you do everything to stop her from gaining power. Hailee med herself for not protecting Vincent that she vented her anger on you and the association. She bes frustrated not to hold a power like yours, which leads her into obsession."


    Shun processed Levi''s words, weighing what was best to do.


    "Whether I stay alive or die soon¡­ Then Hailee must learn how to run the Alliance."


    "You were saying, Shun?" asked Derek, perplexed by what Shun was thinking now. He reminded him, "You knew that Uncle Jacob disagreed with Hailee to get involved in the association. In High Royal Society, yes. But being a mafia?"


    "I will enlighten Uncle Jacob for him to understand my intention."


    "So, will we defy Fate once again?" said Levi excitedly.


    "We are not defying fate but dying its work." Lady Isabe chimed in. "Besides, if two people are destined to meet and be together in this lifetime, they will find each other no matter what we do to break them apart. Except..."


    "Except for that shaman who can y us all." Madison finished Isabe''s words.


    "We have no choice but to intervene one more time, yes," Shun said meaningfully. "It''s not just for me, for Hailee and Vincent, but for the next generation to make choices for themselves."


    "I love when we fight against fate!" Levi eximed.


    He is delighted with a new adventure he and Madison will explore soon. Because every time they travel time, whatever danger they will face and a risk to their health, it''s all worth it at the end of the journey.


    "Levi, we are not fighting against fate, but the person is manipting it." Derek reminded him, and it burst out of his happy thoughts.


    He twitched his mouth as he eximed, "Of course, brother Derek! We won''t let this man do whatever he likes! I would not allow him to use me as a piece in his chess game!"


    "Keep that enthusiasm. Once again, we will have long days and nights," said Derek with a smirk.


    "I''m back!"


    A beautiful woman with the appearance of a teenager entered the room with a sweet smile on her delicate face. Shun rushed toward her side and embraced her tight, kissing her passionately.


    "Wee home, love," said Shun lovingly. He ims his wife''s lips and kisses her feverishly. "I missed you so much. It took you so long this time. How is it?"


    Shun waited for Cassandra''s reply. He watched as his wife pursed her lips and curled into a silly smile.


    ''She seemed looking for punishment. She''s been naughtytely.'' he thought.


    *


    [Author here! shback is a total of seven chapters. And as a recap of the previous chapter. Hailee asks Madison about something, but Madison cannot reveal the truth. Even so, I will show you the answer to Hailee''s question. It will be more questions if I will directly show this man without more exnation why he is after Hailee and the kids. Thanks, loves!]

 Chapter 480 The Man in Her Dream (Four)

    <h4>Chapter 480 The Man in Her Dream (Four)</h4>


    "I missed you so much too, love. I''m d to be home again," Cassandra expressed tenderly, staring back sweetly at her husband.


    She tiptoed and kissed Shun one more time before she greeted the other people in that room, including Isabe. "Hello, sister."


    "Wee back, Mama!" Madison greeted cheerily. She got up from the sofa and approached Cassandra for a hug.


    "Thank you, Madison. I''m happy to see you."


    The two girls hugged. Madison parted from Cassandra and noticed she was more lively than thest time she traveled, and so she queried her after they seated on an empty couch side by side. "Did something happen back then?" she asked.


    "Not much¡­" Cassandra replied. However, she was beaming while ncing at her husband and winked at him. "I felt so lonely, so I did some silly things in that timeline."


    Shun raised a brow upon hearing it. He guessed, "Have you made fun of me back then?"


    They saw Cassandra stifle her giggles. She then admitted gleefully. "Yup!"


    Cassandra moved and sat down on her husband''sp as she confessed.


    "This time, I provoked you full of bravery. I disobeyed your rules. First, I went biking in the forest, broke my limb, and was in a wheelchair for a month. But then, after Ipletely healed, I escaped from your men and went surfing. It almost drowned me. After that, I failed all my tests, the worst I did. The teachers called you to visit the Principal''s office, so you left your conference and flew to the ind. Then the principal scolded you for not being a responsible Guardian of mine."


    Everyone in that room dropped their jaws to the floor. Then Cassandra continued with a grin.


    "You were so angry that you wanted to strangle me back to the Young Vi. So the next day, you have no choice but to take me with you to Maind City and watch me yourself."


    Shun let out a crispugh after his wife''s story. That sounded exactly like him. He would definitely do something and punish this girl for behaving stubbornly. And to keep her in his sight twenty-four-seven.


    "Please don''t do that in our present life." Shun pleaded as cold sweat started forming on his forehead.


    "Then, I am not allowed to surf?" Cassandra pouted like a kitten as sadness exhibited in her eyes, begging. When her husband didn''t reply, she fluttered her eyshes and stared at him with expectant looks in her eyes.


    Shun shook his head and chuckled. ''She really knows how to make my knees go weak.''


    "You can, of course. As long as I am there," he replied, and it broadened Cassandra''s smile.


    "I honestly did those things out of my boredom, waiting patiently when I could go back to our real timeline," she giggled.


    "Anyway, it gives me a lot of opportunities to read books as much as I want. I chose the history book this time, and I discovered I became a famous woman from the Joseon Dynasty,beled as the first noblewoman who was fluent in speaking French. So I assume I will switch bodies with Hwa-Young one of these days. Then soon, I will disappear out of the blue once again."


    Sadness shed in her eyes; Cassandra instantly concealed them and smiled. "Before that happens, let me make up with you."


    Cassandra lowered her head and covered Shun''s lips with a passionate kiss.


    Witnessing how her parents from her past life showed affection for each other, Madison could not hide the happiness in her eyes; she could not stop querying.


    "Are you guys going back to Hiryuu Ind?"


    "Well, I owe your Papa a honeymoon on our first wedding anniversary," Cassandra replied, looking at Shun meaningfully, whose eyes twinkled with excitement.


    "I look forward to it." He felt delighted, looking forward to a great time with his naughty wife on the ind.


    But the smile on his lips disappeared as he remembered that they had a new fight they must prepare for.


    With a solemn face, Shun told Cassandra. "But first, we have to solve Hailee''s case before anything else."


    "Huh? What''s the matter? What happened to Hailee?" Cassandra is puzzled, her eyes fixed on her husband''s serious facial expression.


    "Madison foresaw something in Hailee''s future. It was a significant matter to me." Shun briefly exined.


    "Oh. What kind of problem will she have to face in the future?" Cassandra asked curiously. Her gaze did not leave Shun.


    She mused inwardly, ''Hailee was pampered all her life. So what is her case?''


    "That man will use Hailee to kill me." Shun does not need to point out who this man he is talking about. Cassandra already understands who he is referring to.


    It shocked Cassandra, listening to her husband talk casually about his death. She asked with a bit of panic in her voice, "Hailee? How would it happen?"


    Once more, Madison and Levi shared what they found out in the future.


    "Why would that man pick out Hailee? Is he offended by Hailee''s past or in the future?" Cassandra queried afterward, holding Shun''s hand tightly.


    "Mama, give me your hand. I will show you the nightmare Hailee shared with me."


    Cassandra leaves Shun''sp. She strode toward Madison and sat next to her. Thetter held Cassandra''s hand, and both closed their eyes.


    After seeing fragments of Hailee''s dream, Cassandra queried, "Are these Hailee''s memories from her past life?"


    "I guess so, Mama. Hailee saw this man here in the facility and the way she behaved. It looks like she fell in love at first sight. The man in her dream is a patient in the Physical Therapy Care Unit named Vincent Shen. She was excited to introduce herself, but then she grabbed my hand, and we both lost consciousness afterward as I hadn''t worn my gloves."


    "Vincent Shen? Who is he?" Cassandra cast the question to Shun.


    "When you are in that timeline, have you crossed to the history of the Xing Dynasty?"


    "The Xing Dynasty? I guess so..." Cassandra fell into deep thoughts, raking her memories.


    "Then read this, Mama." Madison handed Cassandra the tablet. "This is the detailed history of the Xing Dynasty in our records. Can you spot the difference, or are there any changes, Mama?"


    Cassandra took the gadget from Madison''s hand and began reading the article. After several minutes¡­


    "Hmm¡­ I guessed there were only minor details that changed. Let me see..."


    "The Crowned Prince Xing Shen has a brother-in-arms named Zhang Jian.


    The Zhang family is a close ally of the Imperial family Xing.


    Jian grew up together with the crowned prince.


    They started to join the war at thirteen, and Zhang Jian became a general at sixteen, fighting side by side with the crowned prince."


    "When the crowned prince was neen, Emperor Xing Long died. So then, he was reced by Prince Xing Shen.


    The new emperor was presented with countless concubines. However, he touched none of them but married General Zhang Jian''s only sister, Zhang Ming."


    "Empress Xing Ming is good at archery.


    She was trained when she was little to protect herself.


    But then, Zhang Ming spent most of her time hunting wild boars in the woods and giving the meat to the poor vigers.


    That''s the history I remembered written from that timeline."


    "Now let me see here¡­" Cassandra tried to point out if there were any changes in the history.


    "None of the Imperial family survived, but it says here, General Zhang Jian died protecting his nephew, the one-year-old Crown Prince Xing Ling, the only survivor of the Xing Imperial family. This one that changes in our timeline!"


    "Are we responsible for these changes?" asked Levi.


    Everyone looked in Levi''s direction, then shifted to Isabe, waiting for her confirmation.


    "Well, maybe we did. There will be a Red Blood Moon in 2050. Maybe we''ve changed the history of the Xing Dynasty."


    "So, how is Hailee rted to the Xing family?" asked Cassandra, creasing her forehead as she was still confused.


    "Maybe it''s Vincent Shen. His ancestor is the crowned prince''s survivor." It was Shun who answered his wife''s query. He added, "We will investigate further, both the future and the past."


    "There is no supposed survivor of the Xing family," Cassandra muttered. She announced, "Okay, I will shift with Hwa-Young to gather news about the Imperial family Xing."


    "Love¡­" Both sadness and concern sh in Shun''s eyes. He is worried that Cassandra might be caught in the war.


    "Don''t worry, love. Our sons were there to protect me. They were now generals, and the Joseon king treated them like his very own sons. Now I understand why my name is written in the history of the other timeline. It was the time the French wanted to invade Asia. I possibly yed as a spokesperson, as I am fluent in French and stopped the Gulf War between Korea and France."


    "Alright. Please be careful, okay?"


    "I promised. I will be fine..." Cassandra assured Shun. "This is when I should be very grateful to my Korean and Chinese ancestors. I can speak bothnguages, then French and English."


    "It''s to our advantage, yes." Shun concurred. "We have to prepare, and to intervene in Hailee''s life is necessary; let''s do that."


    "What is your n? Are you going to tell Hailee and Uncle Jacob?"


    Shun shook his head. "It would be best if Hailee forgot about her dream¡­."


    "Then she will forget Vincent!?" Cassandra cut Shun''s sentence.


    "It was just for the time being, love. We need to figure out why that man is targeting Hailee. And while we work on that, we need to make a few changes."


    Cassandra looked at Madison, who nodded, supporting her father''s statement. She stood up from the sofa and watched Hailee from the ss window. Her heart ached, thinking Hailee had to forget the man in her dream.


    ''But it''s for the best.''


    "Alright. Now that we know where we should begin. Madison, notify Riley and Daichi to pick up Isabe and bring her here." Shun ordered before he got up from the couch. "I will talk to Uncle Jacob. Derek, I need your help with something."


    "Sure. Let''s go."

 Chapter 481 The Man in Her Dream (Five)

    <h4>Chapter 481 The Man in Her Dream (Five)</h4>


    "So, are you going to tell Uncle Jacob about Vincent?" Derek asked Shun when they arrived at his office.


    Shun replied, "I guess we shouldn''t disclose about him. But I will suggest to Uncle Jacob that Hailee should learn how Alliance works."


    "Alright. So what do you want me to do?"


    After Shun exined a few things to him, Derek ordered his assistant to call for Jacob.


    It didn''t take long, and Jacob arrived. Derek is seated on the sofa inside his office while the other two men upy the single couches, facing each other.


    Jacob had been worried about his daughter, so he was restless sitting on the couch. He was impatient to hear Derek''s diagnosis of why Hailee had lost consciousness.


    "Uncle Jacob, these are my findings after all tests I performed on Hailee." Derek ced a folder on the coffee table in front of his uncle. He went on, "She has an eating disorder. I suggest hiring a nutritionist and dietician to watch her diet."


    Jacob slightly nods his head, listening to Derek''s further exnation. He was not surprised to hear Derek''s report as Hailee craved to eat any kinds of dishes, especially those she found that had a fascinating appearance. She would dine in any restaurant she would hear of or find a new one and try their food to the point of hiring the chefs to prepare a special meal for her.


    He thought it was fine. But he overlooked the fact that it would cause harm to her bnced diet.


    "Alright. I will hire the best nutritionist and dietician, but I need the trusted people," Jacob gaped at Derek, giving him a knowing look that he needed his rmendation.


    "I will provide you the best medical staff I know from Australia, Uncle Jacob."


    "Thank you, Derek. Anything else I should keep in mind?" Jacob wondered why Shun was also present when Derek could talk to him alone, so he was skeptical. He looked at Shun and was about to ask the guy when he spoke.


    "Uncle Jacob, I need to talk to you about something."


    "What is it, Shun?" Jacob didn''t leave his gaze at his nephew. He saw his daughter holding hands with Madison. It is not just simply the two of them losing consciousness at the same time. He is aware of Madison''s ability, simr to Lady Isabe.


    "I understand you don''t want Hailee to get involved in the association. But don''t you think it is about the right time she will learn how things run around the Alliance?"


    Jacob took a moment of silence to digest Shun''s suggestion. After his wife died, he swore to let his daughter live a fulfilling life without involving her in the association. But it doesn''t mean he closes the possibility that Hailee might step in one day.


    However, his daughter must marry someone he could trust and can protect her and his future grandchildren.


    "Shun, I''ll be honest¡­ I don''t want my daughter to grow up and fall in love. I''m d that until now, she didn''t think of having a boyfriend. I''m happy that despite the boys having romantic feelings toward her, she is na?ve not to notice anything."


    ''Because her heart is reserved for someone, uncle.'' Shun didn''t hide the small smile that appeared on his lips.


    "Don''t worry, Uncle Jacob. Hailee wille to that at the perfect time. My intention for Hailee to introduce our world is to prepare her for whates in the near future."


    Jacob looked straight into Shun''s eyes. He asked, "Is Madison foreseeing something in my daughter''s future?"


    Shun nodded and replied, "That is why I want to train Hailee. But there is one thing, Uncle Jacob. Madison told me that Hailee is often bothered by a nightmare. Maybe it is also why she had abnormalities with sleep that caused her to have low blood. Would you agree if Isabe did something about it?"


    Hearing this, worry showed in Jacob''s eyes. He said, "Mrs. Brown actually notices that there are times Hailee looks pale in the morning. My daughter would only tell her it was just a nightmare, but if it harmed Hailee''s health. Then, please help her, Shun."


    "I will, uncle."


    Guilt struck Shun''s heart. However, it was best for Hailee to forget about it while he could not figure out what preparation they must do.


    "About your suggestion, Shun. Let me speak with my daughter. She ns to build a city in the Land of Promises that she inherited from our ancestors. Don''t you think it will distract her if she enters the association now?"


    Shun didn''t reply right away but pondered. After a minute of silence, Shun gave his answer. "It would be best that Hailee be upied most of the time, Uncle Jacob. Besides, Hailee''s team received intensive training under me in the passing years. It was your request to have loyal men around Hailee. With their experience, things would be easy for my cousin since her friends are Mafia bosses."


    Jacob felt little ease listening to Shun''s enlightenment. He trusts Shun that he is only concerned about Hailee''s safety, so he wants to train Hailee.


    However, the truth is that Shun wanted to watch Hailee closely and monitor her activities. At the same time, he wants to distinguish if one of Hailee''s friends would be that man''s puppet.


    So then, he would not let that mane close to his cousin. He is sure that man would do everything to win the game.


    "Is it too unfair that either Hailee or Uncle Jacob is unaware of your original ns?" Derek queried Shun after Jacob left the office.


    Meanwhile, Shun has not been moving even once in his seat but fell into deep thoughts while his gaze didn''t leave the chess pieces finely arranged to their positions on the chessboard ced in the middle of the coffee table.


    Now that his train of thoughts was interrupted, Shun released his chin from his hand and reached for the chessboard. He swept the chess pieces and cleared out the chessboard.


    Lazily, Shun picked up the pawn and scrutinized it closer. For a moment, he was clouded with such emotion.


    "That man started a new game. We have to figure out everything soon and start to y our own game."


    After saying that, Shun ced the pawn down on the chessboard, followed by the other chess pieces. Thest chess pieces he set up are the queens and kings.


    "I hope it is a smart move not to tell Uncle Jacob or Hailee about her destiny. I''m concerned that our lies are what would make Hailee hate us in the future, and the worse will happen."

 Chapter 482 The Man in Her Dream (Six)

    <h4>Chapter 482 The Man in Her Dream (Six)</h4>


    "It made me feel guilty," Shun replied. "However, if my death brings peace, I will dly ept it."


    Hearing Shun''s reply, Derek''s mouth twitched. "Are you seriously saying that without considering what your wife and children would feel?"


    Shun remained silent for a moment. After some thought, he replied to Derek, "It''s for everyone. If Hailee sessfully killed me in the future, then please tell her everything she needs to know."


    "You will add more trouble for me. I only want breakthrough Medicine and Technology. I especially want toplete the time machine I am building."


    "Then when you seed, and I wasn''t around anymore, all you need to do is send Madison exactly on the day I die." Shun curled his lips.


    "Stop kidding me, Shun. It is not just a simple matter to joke about." Derek berated his cousin. "If someone needs to die. We all know it wasn''t you."


    "Absolutely, you are right in there¡­ Anyway, at least I am prepared for it."


    "Papa!" Madison, who is listening outside, pushes the door open abruptly. "Why are you saying that, Papa? I would not let you and Hailee fight against each other!"


    Shun smiled at his daughter. Of course, he would not let their enemies seed. "Don''t worry, Madison. I certainly will not die without putting up a fight with that man first."


    "And I will not let you fight alone, Papa!" She will do everything to learn the enemy''s moves. She will help her father to unmask this man and outsmart him!


    *


    Two dayster, Hailee finally woke up. Lady Isabe arrived in Maind City evening the following day.


    "Princess¡­ I''m d you''re finally awake!"


    Hailee squinted her eyes to adjust the light in her ward. She looked around, then fixed her gaze on the person who rushed by her side when she made some movement. Jacob never left his eyes on her daughter as he waited for her to regain consciousness.


    "What happened, Dad? Did I pass out?" Hailee raked her head to recall what exactly happened to her.


    "Don''t you remember anything?" The concerns in Jacob''s eyes are visible. It worries him too much to the point of ming himself for not paying attention to his daughter''s health. He only thought he would give in to her capriciousness as long as it would make her happy.


    "I think so, dad."


    "Then you can''t recall your nightmare? Madison told me about it."


    Hailee shook her head and asked, "Do I have one?"


    Jacob sighs with relief. He was thankful that Lady Isabe got rid of them now, and he did not hide it from Hailee.


    "Then it was good that you can''t remember it anymore. Lady Isabe removed them now."


    "Oh¡­" Is it really necessary? Hailee mused, but she did not share her thoughts. Instead, she smiled at her dad. "So, Aunt Isabe is here, actually?"


    "Yes, she is. I heard she will go back to Budapest the day after tomorrow after spending time with Cassie."


    "Did she juste to get rid of my nightmares?" It truly surprised her that a nobledy like Lady Isabe would bother toe just for her.


    "Of course, she will. You are our precious princess. But remember to return a favor to her in the future if she seeks your help."


    Hailee was in a trance, confused. "How could I help her?"


    Lady Isabe is a respective noblewoman among royals. She may be distant from the social circle, but queens and kings somewhat bow to her. So how could she be of help to her?


    She has already established her reputation. She is one of the richest women in the world. Also, she is actually her idol. In fact, she is the figure she wants to follow.


    Lady Isabe rarely appears in public, and if she does, she is wearing a stylish hat to hide her face. She dresses elegantly, and her temperament illuminates sophistication.


    That is why she wanted to be a respectable noblewoman like Lady Isabe.


    "Princess? Are you alright?" Jacob noticed Hailee was in a daze and seemed in deep thoughts. So he was worried again, curious about what was on his daughter''s mind. "What''s wrong? Are you feeling pain anywhere?"


    Hailee pulled herself out of her deep thoughts and went back to her senses. She looked at her dad and smiled. "I''m fine, dad. I''m just happy that Lady Isabe came despite her busy schedule."


    She is also a businesswoman. She has her own organization of women, and in the future, she will also have one of her own. It was one of her dreams!


    "Dad!" Suddenly, Hailee remembered something. "I promise the kids that I will have a meal with them. I want to visit them."


    "Kids? Who are they?" After seeing his daughter hurried to get down from the sickbed, ask Jacob curiously. He reached for her hand when she staggered a little. "Are you okay with leaving the bed? We should wait for Derek to check on you one more time."


    Upon hearing her dad''s queries, Hailee examines herself. She nodded with a smile and agreed not to worry her dad.


    "Okay, dad. Please stop worrying too much. I''m actually feeling better now. It must be because I was unconscious for days, so my legs did not have strength." To put her dad at ease, she coaxed him. "I will ride in a wheelchair, so I don''t need to walk."


    "Alright. While we are waiting for Derek toe back from Maind City Hospital, I will order Kristian to request the dietician in this facility to prepare healthy meals for your little friends."


    Hailee walked toward her dad and hugged him. "Thank you, dad! You are the best!"


    Madison, who is only observing outside the door, walked into the ward. She stered a bright smile on Hailee as she strode closer to the bed.


    "Hey, Hail! I''m d you are awake now. We are worried about you."


    Hailee smiled at Madison and uttered gleefully. "I''m just fine. Dad exined to me why I passed out."


    Although she didn''t remember the nightmare, she recalls she talked to Madison about something.


    "Now, you have to be careful."


    "I know¡­" Hailee stopped talking when an idea popped up in her head. She looked at her dad and said, "Dad, can I not go home on my semester break?"


    "What is your n?"


    "I want to spend my school break in Paris," Hailee announced excitedly. She nced at Madison and winked at her. She need not mention that she will stay at the Montfort Chateau as Madison clearly understands her message. "I will learn how to make healthy meals! I want to earn my certificate as a Nutritionist!"


    At first, Jacob wanted to protest. But thinking that his daughter needed to learn what food is healthy for her, he agreed in the end.


    During lunch, Madison apanied Hailee to visit the patients at the fifth level of the facility. The kids she promised to have a meal with were delighted with all the gifts she prepared for them. Although toys filled the room they''d stayed in, they all loved the interaction gadgets Hailee requested her dad purchase.


    These kids are only a few of several patients who would benefit from her donations. They could not afford the treatment, but they were fortunate to be chosen and granted full support financially through the program.


    After hours of ying with them, Hailee walked out the hall, trailed the corridor, and stood near the giant floor-ceiling ss window.


    Hailee pulled out her phone and snapped several photos. She checked them first to see if she had taken perfect shots before she inserted the gadget in the back pocket of her jeans.


    She was leaving the corridor when her eyes caught another hall and saw a man doing a routine exercise with the help of the machine.


    Hailee was in a daze as if her head was trying to mull over to recall something.


    ''Where did she meet him before?''

 Chapter 483 The Man in Her Dream (Seven)

    <h4>Chapter 483 The Man in Her Dream (Seven)</h4>


    She stared at the man''s side profile feature. Although he seemed thin, it didn''t hide the fact that he was handsome and had unique features.


    Even though Pitt, who looked like K-idol and Chester, was like an Asian heartthrob actor. They could notpare to¡­


    ''Ah¡­ Why am I thinking this way?'' Hailee shook her head. It was the first time she hadpared someone to her friends.


    "There you are!"


    Hailee''s train of thoughts cut off when Madison arrived. She turned around and smiled at the girl.


    "What are you doing here?" Madison sounded interrogating her. She looked around and scanned the area. Then her lips curled into a teasing smile. "Have you¡­"


    Madison nced at the man inside the other hall.


    "No¡­ no! I was just taking pictures¡­ I mean, the pictures of the scenery outside!"


    Madison stifles herughter when Hailee''s cheeks blush pink and her ears turn red. She actually said nothing, but Hailee acted like she was caught red-handed.


    Of course, Madison watched her closely. So she knew Hailee was telling the truth.


    However¡­


    ''You may cover the eyes, but not the heart to forget.''


    Madison quoted in her heart. Hailee forgot Vincent now, but her heart would always recognize him and have felt this strange beating that would warm her chest.


    "Do you know that guy?" Madison tilted her head, her lips pointing at the man inside as she asked Hailee in a teasing tone.


    Hailee vigorously shook her head and exined, "No. It''s the first time I''ve seen him¡­ Look! We need to go now! I want to see Lady Isabe and thank her. Also, I want to eat the carrot cake Cassandra baked for me!"


    *


    At present, Madison snapped herself back to her senses. She met Hailee''s eyes, who were waiting for her response expectantly. Her gaze is profound, enveloping a mystery that they were hiding something.


    After that incident, Spring arrived swiftly, and fate slowly unfolded. Still, Hailee and Vincent cross paths in Budapest, Hungary.


    "Tworge cups of lemonade and a box of lemon pie."


    Hailee looked up. The smile that was already nted on her lips broadened. "Hey, guys! You''re here early too!"


    "Well, Madison and I took the opportunity for us to spend our honeymoon before the gathering." It was Levi who replied to Hailee.


    "Great!" Hailee quickly prepared the tworge cups of lemonade and gave them to the couple.


    Levi ced an envelope on the counter, and Hailee checked the content inside. Her eyes widened and choked with happiness.


    "Thank you, guys." She thanked the couple and wanted to hug them, but more customers waited in line.


    Levi handed her a check with a considerable amount. It''s enough to cover the operation of the older woman''s grandson, who owns the stall she works at.


    Madison and Levi hang out near the fountain and watch Hailee continue selling lemonades and lemon pies.


    "Look at that guy. He looked prepared toe back here. However, he seems too timid to even open up his mouth."


    Madison looked at her husband and smirked. She uttered, "If you witness me sshing men with lemonade. What would you do?"


    "Well¡­ I won''t be scared off or get pissed, but I will remain brave in front of you."


    Madison raised a brow and said, "Well¡­ Lord Levi Montfort was just too shameless, and some men weren''t."


    "Hey! Like you didn''t fall in love with my shamelessness!" Levi teases his wife.


    Madison extended her arm, reached for her husband''s waist, and pinched him. "You do have a thick face."


    Leviughed out loud. But then, he noticed Vincent was talking over his phone andter on, made a hurried step away, leaving the stall. They believe he did not really speak much to Hailee.


    "What happened?"


    "There must be something with that call," Levi guessed. "I''ll send someone to investigate it."


    After one hour, Levi received the report.


    "Well, it''s Shen''s family matter."


    Madison heaved a sigh filled with sadness because all they could do was just watch on the sideline as it is TIME KEEPER''s role in this world.


    "Well, maybe it was the will of fate that these two would not unite yet."


    Levi looked at Madison with sympathy. Even he is sad to witness a tragic love story. So, he tried tofort his wife.


    "Well, if this is the ''change of course'' we waited for, then I look forward to a better future waiting for us all, especially with Hailee and Vincent''s fate."


    "Yeah." Madison concurred. "It would be an answered prayer of mine. Hailee doesn''t deserve to suffer, nor does Papa."


    It always pained them to witness the sad part of a love story. And if they do not intervene, this love story will be a tragedy.


    Not only that, it''s the entire world will suffer when conflicts arise between the Alliance.


    A year had passed, and Madison made quick strides toward Shun''s office. After three knocks, she entered the office.


    "Papa, I received a report from our Eyes¡­ Vincent is back in Budapest, and he is looking for Hailee."


    Shun stopped reading the document in his hand. He raised his head and looked at Madison, but he remained silent for a long time.


    "Papa, it must be rted to Vincent''s forced marriage." As Shun did not speak yet, she exined further.


    Shun''s eyes glint upon hearing it. He asked Madison, "Have you run aplete investigation?"


    Madison nodded.


    "Vincent doesn''t like that woman. I presumed Vincent was looking for Hailee to marry her instead. What are we going to do, Papa? Are we still preventing Vincent from meeting Hailee again?" Sadness shed in her eyes as she asked this question.


    "We have to, Madison. Is it next month when Vincent dies, right?"


    "Yes, Papa. April 26, 2023, when Vincent died. It was also the day of Vincent and Hailee''s wedding. And Hailee ns to tell Vincent that she is pregnant with twins."


    In that timeline, Hailee keeps it a secret until thest minute, as she wants to give Vincent a big surprise at the reception. However, it is supposed to be a merry celebration. It only turned into a tragedy.


    The wedding bes a funeral.


    "Alright. Cassandra and I are preparing to visit Cape Town to celebrate her birthday. I think it''s better to do our tour early. We will bring Hailee along with us and tour the entire continent."


    "But, Papa? How about Vincent''s marriage to that woman?" Madison stressed out as frustration lingered in her chest.


    Shun and Levi looked at each other. Madison seemed about to cry.


    "How about if we crash the wedding?" Levi grinned. Inwardly, he praised himself for his idea. "Isn''t it exciting?"


    Although Levi suggested this, he has the main reason. Madison is pregnant with a twin. It worries him that it will harm his child when his wife is constantly in such emotion. She was too sensitive now with her mood swings.


    While Shun shook his head, Madison instantly regained a good mood after hearing her husband''s idea. She was about to praise him when Shun answered.


    "Why do we crash a wedding when we can just do some paperwork?"


    "Are you saying that we will fake it?" Levi was dumbfounded at first, but he admitted it was more brilliant than he came up with. "Alright! Leave it to me!"


    Levi followed Vincent''s movement around Europe while Madison joined Shun, Cassandra, and Hailee in Africa. Cassandra was eager to meet her friends, and Hailee could not contain her happiness that she had finally visited thend.


    Hailee established her own business in the following years, with Madison''s guidance ying a big part.


    Until¡­


    "Papa, our men from P Country, reported that they spotted Hailee in Metro City!"


    Shun, who was about to sign an important contract, paused and raised his head. He put back his pen on the stand and stood up from his swivel chair.


    "Have you done a thorough investigation?"


    Shun strode toward the crescent sofa and gestured to Madison to take the couch across from him.


    "Yes, I did. It turns out Hailee keeps it a secret to the rest of her knights, even to Uncle Jacob."


    "Why does she have to hide this n for everyone?" Shun queried with curiosity. Hailee had just called off her wedding a few months ago." She knew she was in danger."


    "One of our members in the association, Senator Vasquez, confided that Hailee wanted to meet Vincent Shen while she is looking for Eva Lan''s husband."


    Shun furrowed his brow. "Why would she do that? She doesn''t romantically love Bryan, right?"


    Madison replied, "ording to the Vasquez family. Hailee wanted to expose Eva to her husband."


    "Is this her revenge?"


    "I am uncertain, papa. After we intervened, so many things had happened."


    Shun fell into deep thoughts as he pondered what best to do now. He got up from the crescent sofa and strode toward the floor-ceiling window of his office. The scenery from the seventy-two floor of this hotel is spectacr. He always finds it fascinating as he has the perfect view of the central city.


    "What are we going to do this time?" She asked curiously when Shun remained silent for a long time.


    "Let her be¡­."


    Shun made a casual reply that it made Madison drenched her face with the tears welling up from her eyes.


    "Thank you, Papa!" She was genuinely delighted that they were no longer preventing Hailee from reuniting with Vincent.


    After all, they were actual lovers in the very beginning.


    "By the way, Papa. Eva has disappeared from New York. Vincent''swyer was outside. He wants to know what he is going to do now. Any orders?"


    Although Vincent and Eva''s marriage is originally fake, however, they still have to make it look real on the surface. They will act like the divorce will go with the procedure.


    "Tell him to continue handling the matters and report to Vincent. I will notify Matt if Eva is still working with Liam. He seeds in stopping Hailee and Bryan''s wedding, which favored us."


    Shun turned around and gazed at Madison.


    "It was about time for Vincent to prove that he was worthy to stand by Hailee''s side. Besides, we owed them big. It''s time to make it up with them. Also, that man would not make bold moves until he realized his true enemy."


    "It''s Vincent?" Madison figured out this.


    "It''s Vincent''s fight in the first ce...." Shun resonated.


    That man would note out because Hailee and Vincent weren''t together.


    "From here on, we will no longer stop them from being together. Enough for ying hide and seek. But end this game soon."

 Chapter 484 Feel Guilty

    <h4>Chapter 484 Feel Guilty</h4>


    "Madison? What''s wrong?"


    Hailee noticed Madison had already been in a trance for a long time. Considering that Madison is a few years older than her, she constantly seeks her advice and trusts anything she tells her.


    DV Gem would not stand if it weren''t for Madison''s help. She and Kelly were rookies in running a business, and Madison guided them, so she always respected her opinion and suggestions.


    Madison, who was in a trance, snapped herself back to her senses. She smiled and said, "It''s nothing, Hail. I''m just thinking about Papa, hoping Liam would confess and help us out."


    "But it is not what I asked you about."


    Haileeined, and Madison noticed the irritation in her voice. She looked at her apologetically.


    "Sorry about that... I''m just worried about Papa and everyone. I am praying everything will be over soon," Madison expressed with sadness exhibited in her eyes.


    She is already in a dilemma, as Hailee will celebrate her twenty-fifth birthday soon. It''s been five years since they kept the truth from her, and it is heavy to bear inside the chest.


    She is grateful that she has this kind of ability; she has to continue lying to the surrounding people and watch in silence as it is her role.


    Vincent, who was supposed to die three years ago, dly, they were able to stop that and change his and Hailee''s fate. However, their battle hasn''t ended yet.


    And now, Hailee was bothered by her nightmare again. Madison is tempted to tell Hailee the truth, but it mightpromise their ns.


    "Madison, I want to know the truth. Am I rted to the past? Is my dream actually the memories of my past life?"


    Madison struggled to remain calm and conceal the guilt in her eyes.


    "Many of us have a past life of another identity. Itpletely remains when we are born again, but buried deep down in our memories, the reason we have vivid dreams of ourselves living in different times or episodes that are very familiar. We believe it hasn''t happened yet since we were born."


    Madison exined, then she went on, "Sometimes, these memories are wiped out like we are not bothered with strange dreams but only felt like our first time living in this world."


    Listening to Madison''s exnation, Hailee was clouded by curiosity and confusion. "I need to be enlightened."


    She wants to understand everything so that she can help Vincent in every way. Hailee would not allow him to fight without her.


    Madison rxed and smiled. "I will speak to Papa and ask his permission. May I can''t guarantee Papa Shun will let me disclose everything to you? But you have nothing to worry about. At the right time, you will learn what you need to know. Soon, after you give birth and can fly to Italy, Lady Isabe and I will both visit your dream and understand its message."


    Because honestly, until now, she didn''tpletely understand why that man wanted to bring trouble to the Xing family when they were living peacefully after the assassination.


    "Hail, we are all concerned about your pregnancy, so please be patient. Always remember that we are here for you and Vincent. We will protect these precious babies inside your womb¡­."


    Madison reached Hailee''s baby bump and stroked it. She was wearing fashionable gloves, so she was confident in touching Hailee. However,


    "Madison!" Hailee shouted hysterically after Madison fainted. "Mrs. Brown! James!"


    It didn''t take long; the door in the study was paused open by James, rushing to her side.


    "Empress! What happened?"


    "I don''t know. We were talking, and then Madison suddenly lost consciousness." Hailee is also confused.


    When Madison caressed her baby bump, she only stared at her belly. Then suddenly, Madison fell to the floor, unconscious.


    "Mrs. Brown, please call Hector to check Madison!"


    Hailee requested the older woman. Mrs. Brown immediately sprang out of the room, carrying out the order. Before she could reach the door, Hailee called out to her again.


    "I think Doctor Dave or Doctor Manni''s assistance is also needed," Hailee remembered Madison was pregnant and thought maybe it was why she fainted. "James, please carry Madison to the bed."


    James quickly moved and picked up Madison from the floor. Thankfully, to the high-quality carpetid down around Hailee''s queen''s bed, Madison didn''t have a concussion.


    James carefully ced Madison on the bed. Then he pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his pants and dialed Levi''s mobile number. They were just two floors away, and he could not wait for the elevator to go up.


    Soon, Levi arrived, panting and sweat forming on his forehead after running down the stairs downstairs. Actually, he came first than Doctor Dave, who was staying on the floor below to attend to Hailee right away.


    Doctor Dave examined Madison, but he saw nothing wrong except that her heartbeat was fast.


    "Is she diagnosed with heart problems?" Doctor Dave asks Levi. He is not an expert on the vascr system, but he has enough knowledge. So it troubled him that the patient had an abnormal heart rate.


    "There are times she would be in this state, Doctor Dave." Levi could not reveal that his wife is currently time traveling. He badly wanted to follow Madison, but it would be a lengthy exnation to Doctor Dave, James, Mrs. Brown, and most especially Hailee if he suddenly lost consciousness.


    "Levi, I think it was my fault." She admitted. Hailee felt guilty that she summoned Madison''s presence to bug her about her dream. Lately, she has been stubborn. She kept troubling Madison and everyone with her capriciousness.


    Levi looked at Hailee. Her eyes were moist like she was on the verge of crying as she med herself. He smiled and said, "Don''t me yourself, Hail. Madison''s pregnancy symptoms have begun. So it would bemon for her to faint."


    Even though Leviforted her, Hailee still felt the guilt in her heart. "I''m really sorry to stress, Madison."


    Levi walked toward Hailee. He patted her back and appeased her further to calm down as well. Her pregnancy was the sensitive than Madison''s.


    "What happened?"


    At the door, Doctor Hector queries as he makes buried steps toward the bed. Following behind him is Doctor Serena Dave.


    "Dad, have you checked if it is rted to her pregnancy?" Doctor Serena asked her father while they watched Doctor Hector run an examination at Madison.


    "There is nothing wrong with her except her heart rate. It is not my expertise."


    "Alright. I understand, dad."


    Everyone waited for Doctor Hector''s initial findings.


    "I suggest bringing Madison to the hospital so that I can give her a general check-up and performpleteboratory tests. The paramedic vehicle is waiting below."


    The Dream City Paramedic Team came to the suite and put Madison on the stretcher. Even if Madison had only fainted and had no injuries, they followed the procedure.


    With Doctor Serena''s help at the hospital, Hector infuses an IV on Madison and monitors her heart rate with the machine.


    On the phone, Derek is instructing Hector on what to do, assuming that Derek was Madison''s personal doctor, and so he was sharing how to treat her.


    Anyway, it is unnecessary for such drama when Hector knows what is happening. He practiced Medicine under Derek''s supervision, so he knew the secrets. When Levi gave him a knowing look, he nodded his head and left the room with Stephanie.


    "Hey, can you cover me with my patients today?" asked Serena.


    Serena nodded and smiled. "Of course. I''ll go ahead then."


    After Serena nted a kiss on Hector''s cheek, she bolted toward the elevator. Hector went back to the ward.


    "She''s gone."


    With that, Leviy down beside his wife and held her hand. After Levi loses consciousness, Hector infuses him with an IV like Madison.


    *


    ALLIANCE HQ, Italy


    Shun is seated across from Derek inside Lady Isabe''s office while she is at her chair behind the office table. Shun discusses their preparation for Liam''s confession with Derek when his phone rings, and the caller ID is Madison.


    Shun quickly swipes the green button and greets her.


    "How are you, Madison?"


    "Hello, Papa¡­ I''m fine."


    Shun noticed her weak voice. He felt terrible because Madison was pregnant now, so that it would be difficult for her to time travel.


    "I''m d. What happened, by the way?"


    They wondered why Madison traveled time so suddenly when she did not directly touch anyone.


    "I am not sure as well, Papa. I am wearing gloves, and I am just stroking Hailee''s baby bump. However, it brought me toward Hailee''s dream. The one Lady Isabe sealed off."


    Lady Isabe raised her head and looked at Shun''s phone on the center table, listening to the conversation. She thought maybe it happened as her immortality was wearing off.


    Meanwhile, Derek nced at his mother. He said, "Could it be that you weaken because your ability passed to Madison?"


    Lady Isabe remained silent.


    Madison could travel time on her own ord, but it would only take her to a random timeline. But if she touches someone or holds her hand, she will visit her future.


    However, today''s case is odd for Madison. Only Lady Isabe can foresee someone just by looking at the person. In the passing years, Madison could travel time to their desired date with the help of the first time machine Derek invented.


    But recently, Derek has beenpleting a time machine that would bring any object to a specific time. Actually, he aims to transport bodies, not just one or two, but a group of people.


    The first time machine he invented will connect to Madison''s brain and manually set a date for her to travel time.


    Thinking of this, Derek had recalled something. He looked at Shun and queried the guy.


    "Have you sessfully interrogated your son?"


    Shun shook his head.


    On the other line, Madison would like to suggest that she will look into Allen''s past or future life. She attempted to do this before, but it shocked her when Allen deliberately refused her and called her by her name from her first life.


    "Please don''t, Carlene."


    Allen was only three years old, and they were sure they didn''t mention her past life to him. So there''s no way he would know that.


    "I often talk to Allen about it. But he is firm not to tell me anything," Shun remembered his conversation with his son before leaving Dream City.


    He found Allen looking outside at the floor-ceiling window in the corridor. He need not guess that his son was in deep thoughts while hugging his portableputer tight.


    "Son? What are you doing here early in the morning?"


    He believes Allen is supposed to be still in bed. He is just eight years old, but he always wakes up early, like an adult who needs to go to the office and work hard.


    "Papa¡­" Allen looked up and met his father''s gaze. "You are leaving again?"


    Shun could feel his heart pricked by a knife as Allen''s eyes filled with sorrow when he asked this question. When Allen was just a year old, he thought his son was just fond of crayons and coloring. But when he is two, his drawing bes vivid. And when he was five years old, he drew a time machineyout that would bring a limitless object to another timeline, including bodies.


    "I wille back as soon as possible," he promised.


    "Then, can you give this to Uncle Derek?"


    Shun epted the gadget Allen handed to him. He scanned the files on it. Then his eyes widened in shock.


    "Allen, which future are you from?"

 Chapter 485 Allen and Howard

    <h4>Chapter 485 Allen and Howard</h4>


    Shun snapped himself back to the present.


    Once again, his son Allen has denied he remembered anything. But he simply exined that everything was only in his dream.


    With that, he could not force his son to tell him the truth if it actually caused pain in the heart. Letting out a sigh, Shun shakes his head.


    "Allen is not ready to tell me anything. I guess the future must harrow for him."


    "Could it be that it was the timeline where you died?" asked Derek. He suspected it after his nephew showed brilliant talent at a young age. But then, he seemed not happy.


    "Possibly. It crossed my mind too." Shun concurred with Derek''s guess.


    He often caught Allen looking so sad while staring at the sky. It quickly disappears and is reced with sparks every time he calls out and spends time.


    In that timeline, he must have less time to bond with his children when he is dealing with Hailee after that "man" sessfully brainwashes her through Liam.


    Shun reached for his forehead and kneaded his head. He has to make careful decisions and perfect his n. One mistake, and everything goes wrong.


    "Anyway, what did you find out, Madison?" Shun asked his daughter afterward. They can''t worry about another matter until they don''t find that man.


    "Papa, I discovered something. One of Hailee and Vincent''s sons is the reincarnation of Uncle Edward."


    Hearing that, Derek instantly turned his head toward Lady Isabe. He smiled at his mother and said, "Then Dad is joining us too soon, huh?"


    Although Edward Montfort cannot be together with Isabe at present, he will always be the reincarnation of Doctor Howard Williams, her lover, three hundred years ago.


    It would also never change the fact that Derek was the reincarnation of their son back then. That is why Derek was happy for his mother. He may reincarnate and be born to another parent. He is always looking back at his past and cherishing them.


    "Mama¡­ Finally, you and dad will reunite in his next life."


    Lady Isabe let her lips form a soft smile as her eyes twinkled with thrill, gazing at Derek. She rarely loses herposure, but she sometimes lets happiness linger in her heart as a reward for herself once in a blue moon.


    She has lived a lonely life for over three hundred years already because of her curse. That is why nothing she dreams of now but her death. After her body regained its mortality, she could finally die.


    Then she can be born again and reunite with her lover.


    However¡­


    "Finally, I understand everything," Derek spoke to Shun, interrupting Lady Isabe''s train of thoughts. "I have been racking my brain for almost five years now. I am trying to figure it out, but I can''t think of any reason I would betray you in the future and choose Hailee''s side."


    Shun curled his thin lips. "It was because Hailee bore the reincarnation of your mother''s lover. You have a reason then¡­."


    "Yeah. I want them to reunite. I always wished for them to be together, but it was impossible." Derek''s eyes exhibit sadness when he recalls the curse his parents have to get through. "If dad dies in this life even before he is born, it will cut the chain of fate. Then, mama has to wait another three hundred years or more so."


    Edward has to be reincarnated more than once before the curse breaks, whereas Lady Isabe has to witness her lover die repeatedly.


    Derek could feel the pain of seeing your beloved die many times just thinking about that. Not only that, the possibility of someone interrupting this chain of fate like what was happening now.


    That man wants Hailee''s babies to die, but something is still not right. Derek thought to himself.


    "That man should be happy that mama''s immortality would end. He was angry that mama didn''t follow him as his puppet but became the leader of the association that stopped him from ruling this world. So there must be another reason behind everything that is happening to Hailee and Vincent."


    "Indeed. There is a profound reason Hailee and Vincent''s lives got entangled with ours," said Lady Isabe.


    "Madison, have you discovered more?" Listening to everyone''s opinion, Shun ached to know more.


    "Levi and I did¡­." Madison detailed what happened to the past they traveled to.


    "Holy Shot! I have to hurry and finish the new time machine before the kids grow up!" Derek eximed happily.


    "Hailee''s dreams are true events in the past¡­." Lady Isabe muttered. She looked at Shun and added, "Allen probably failed to change the past, and he died."


    "I strongly believe that he is from another timeline, and he was reborn in ours."


    "All the possibilities are present in our world." Lady Isabe supported Shun''s conclusion. "What Madison told us now is Hailee''s exact dream five years ago. The children would travel to the past for a particr reason. Whatever it is, we have to protect them now. It doesn''t matter whether Howard is reincarnating or they are just simply Hailee''s children. I am prepared if my fate is to continue serving my retribution."


    Derek looked at his mother with an aching heart. But on the bright side, there is no one as august as his mother.


    "If that is the case, then please watch over our children. Guide them and teach them everything they have to learn about this world after we pass."


    Isabe nodded her head and smiled. She truly longed to get her mortality back and die one day. But when she thinks of the future and the worth, she bes in this world. The pain, sadness, and loneliness wash away.


    At the least, she is helpful after being a person who''s a heart filled with hatred.


    "Papa¡­ Do you agree if I tell Hailee everything now? Maybe it is the perfect time for her to know the truth."


    After a long moment that Madison remained silent on the other line and just listening to them, she finally shared what bothered hertely.


    "How would you tell her? Hailee is in a delicate condition." Shun reminded Madison. He pondered if he would permit her to do that this time around.


    "Don''t worry, Papa! I would not directly reveal it to Hailee. Her 25th birthday is approaching. I''m thinking of giving her a book as a present."


    "Are you telling us that¡­"


    "I have wanted to finish that book. But I am still uncertain how to reach the climax. Now that I have more information about both the past and the future, Hailee would have more idea of why she had an enemy. Hailee and Vincent''s past and the distant future significantly impact our present life. In this way, Hailee is prepared to ept the future."


    "Madison has been writing thousands of books hidden in the Montfort Chateau underground library. Records of love stories and tragic events, ordinary couples or people like us who have special cases," said Levi.


    "Well, Mama did the same strategy about you and Cassie," Derek smirked.


    Shun frowned upon remembering that. The book did not allow him to read his life story in another timeline. Everyone could read it except him.


    So, making a change course in his life, he has to work hard and figure out everything himself. Bear to time constantly travels to win against his fate.


    ''Poor Vincent¡­ Good luck to you.'' But of course, he would help him. "Alright. Go ahead, Madison."


    "Thank you, Papa! I will hang up now!"


    Madison was ted after she received the permission. She requested Levi get herptop to finish the story and make a hard copy.


    Madison pulled an all-nighter. The following day, Butler Pete flew to Italy carrying the sh Drive containing the six volumes of the story he had to deliver to Lady Isabe personally.


    Butler Pete has been working with the Montfort ever since he was a kid. He who raised Edward Montfort and took care of Levi is the sessor of the Montfort lordship. Of course, he is aware of all the secrets.


    "Lady Isabe¡­"


    Butler Pete ced the attach¨¦ case on the coffee table. It was chained to his hand, so he unlocked it with a special key. After that, he input the security code on the attach¨¦ case and took out the sh drive.


    Lady Isabe went to her cottage inside the forbidden woods and went down to her underground library, where millions of books were written by her. She read the six volumes overnight.


    After she added her point of view, the volume became eight. She immediately printed over one thousand pages, binding them into books.


    "It''s done." Lady Isabe smiled, looking at the eight books in different colors.


    The book cover designs are based on Hailee''s favorite flowers, and the books are in different colors.


    Lady Isabe went back to the Chateau and handed a big attach¨¦ case to Butler Pete containing eight volumes of books.


    "The future is in your hands, Butler Pete."


    Butler Pete bowed at Lady Isabe, bidding her farewell. He immediately left Italy and returned to Dream City with the eight books.


    "I''m back, Lady Madison¡­."


    Looking at hard-bound copies of the book, an inexplicable feeling filled her chest, and Madison shed tears.


    "They are beautiful!"


    Hailee surely would love them! She thought delightedly.

 Chapter 486 Give Everything to Their Children, Even the Entire World

    <h4>Chapter 486 Give Everything to Their Children, Even the Entire World</h4>


    It was the third day that Vincent was away. Hailee had a lonely breakfast in the study. While she had her milk and fruits, she reminisced about the times she and Vincent discussed the progress in Dream City.


    Vincent is ying both the CEO of Davies Corporation and Davies International. Now he is also acting as Chairman of Davies Group on her behalf, and regrly, her husband would report the situation of the city construction to her.


    With everything she had, nothing could move and fill her heart with warmth but a reminiscence of the days she and Vincent had shared.


    Although they renovate the guest room as a study, they keep the bed for Hailee to take a nap. And when she was about to doze off after the reporting, Vincent would apany her to the bed before he resumed his work, having countless video conferences with their subsidiarypanies worldwide.


    "Empress?" James knocked on the door twice before he stepped inside. The door was already open, so he saw the sadness written on her face. "What''s the matter? Have you had a nightmarest night again?"


    Hailee looked up and smiled at James. She shook her head and replied, "No. I''m just badly missing Vincent."


    James twitched his mouth. If Hailee acted like this when she was a teenager, he already beat up Vincent without reason because they swore that whoever caused her sadness would be going to beat up until that person bes a pulp. That actually happened to Bryan.


    To think about it now, he had just realized that Hailee actually didn''t show she had a crush on someone in the past.


    "Empress, tell me. Who was your crush in the past?"


    Hailee blinked her eyes, stunned when James asked her a childish question out of the blue. She lowered her gaze and contemted.


    After some thought, she answered James, "It''s Vincent."


    James had rendered speechless. This girl never had a boyfriend except for Vincent. But it''s impossible to have no other crush before her husband.


    "Empress, I''m asking you before you meet Vincent."


    Hailee looked at James with wonder if he was serious about asking her now that she was married. She pouted as she said,


    "I love all of you, and my love is equal. So I don''t think I should have a crush on any of you. Is that not enough?"


    James regretted he had asked Hailee childishly. He nced over his shoulder, checking out the door and ensuring that no one heard that.


    ''Vincent should not know about this conversation.'' James coughed, clearing out his throat, and then he smiled nervously.


    "Ahem! Empress, please forget that we had this conversation."


    Hailee curled her lips. She already guessed what was on James'' mind, and he should be aware of how Vincent is a jealous man.


    "My husband knew already that my knights had a special ce in my heart. However, he hasn''t fully epted that."


    James was speechless. He would be delighted to know that Hailee loved them if it were in the past. But now that she is married and has a girlfriend, he values his life even more.


    "Alright. What happened to the court hearing, James?" Hailee didn''t wait for James to say more and changed the topic.


    James patiently dealt with her tantrums in passing months, so she didn''t want to make his life even harder.


    cing a folder on the table, James began exining the Juries'' decision after Vincent''swyers submitted pieces of evidence to defend himself.


    "It shows that Vincent''spany has no negligence on his part. In fact, Mr. Zhou didn''t renew his insurance under Vincent''spany. Mr. Zhou also failed to pay his crew, which the Khan Agency provided."


    "Hazel''s family business?"


    "Yes, my inw''s business."


    Hailee grinned at what James said.


    "Are your rtionships elerated that fast?"


    "Well, not to mention how naggy mom was. It is the same as my cousin-inw and father-inw."


    "That must be Lloyd?"


    James nodded. He then recalled what Hazel''s father told him the other day.


    "Hazel is the only princess of the family. Although we want her to get married soon. We understand that she has many dreams and wants to build her career. So I hope you will not do it before the wedding."


    James heaved a helpless sigh. Of course, he would not do something when Hazel is not ready to carry a lifetime responsibility. Besides, he wants her to enjoy her youth.


    "Well, back to our topic. The Khan Agency will file awsuit against Mr. Zhou for not paying his seamen crew. After presenting more evidence on the Shen Group''s side, Mr. Zhou finally admitted his crime as he felt nowhere to run." James exined further.


    "It turns out that Z Group is about to dere bankruptcy because Mr. Zhou has enormous debts. So he fails to renew his insurance under Vincent''spany. It means he could not use a timely maintenance service. So he could not falsely use Vincent nor me him. Instead, what happened was an attempted suicide. Unfortunately, he didn''t die."


    "So he will serve several years in jail, and he has to pay a billion dors for Gideon Jackson and his son Jay''s death," James added.


    "Hemits suicide by colliding with another yacht?" Hailee raises a brow and thinks either it was a desperate action or he is just crazy.


    "That was his n or¡­." James trailed his words before continuing. "Actually, Liam invested in hispany, and Samuel Miller is probably behind the suicide drama to create trouble for Vincent."


    Hailee scoffs. She isn''t surprised anymore when she hears about Liam and hiswyer Samuel Miller.


    "There is one thing, Empress. Mr. Zhou got a loan from Shang Holdings as well. So he was buried with debts. The coteral of that loan is the factory under Z Group."


    "So it means?"


    "Mr. Jeremy Shang held both the factory and Z Group. Samuel Miller attempted to win over thepany, but the board voted in favor of selling thepany to the Shangs."


    "Oh, so the Z Group now belongs to the Shangs," Hailee mumbled, then she thought to herself, C Nation is Shang''s territory. Liam''s men, like Samuel Miller, cannot do anything with their own ways under Shang''s watch. Instead, he is making an enemy against the Shang Brothers.


    Hailee was happy thinking about Nikki having Theo, who now is one of the most sessful businessmen in the world.


    Their husbands are business partners and work harder every day. Well, their family is growing.


    Like she and Vincent had four babies on their first try. They were excited parents and would do anything for them to have a bright future. They are ready to give everything to their children, even the entire world.


    "How about the employees in Z Group, James?"


    "All employees will stay, and the workers will continue working in the factory."


    Hailee was d to hear that. "That''s good. It would be a pity for them if they lost their jobs. Their families would be the ones to suffer most."


    "Well, thanks to their new boss." James had a meaningful smile that Hailee failed to notice. When there was no reaction from her, James grumbled. "Are you not interested in knowing who it was?"

 Chapter 487 Only Belongs To You

    <h4>Chapter 487 Only Belongs To You</h4>


    Just then, Hailee settled her gaze on James.


    She pouted. "I already expect you to spill the name. So I am just waiting."


    James chuckled, shaking his head. He sat straight on the couch and proceeded with his report.


    "Alright. A famous chairman bought Z Group in a partnership with his son-inw, who owned apany there. He said it was a birthday present for his daughter celebrating her 25th birthday thising December. Thanks to his son-inw''s connection, they could pull a trick against Samuel Miller. Well, Samuel Miller is inferior in connection to C Nation. And there''s more¡­."


    Hailee scrutinized James as the guy looked so excited with his reports. She could only follow half of his exnation as James was exhrated, so Hailee was encouraged to listen keenly.


    "The news of a mysterious man whom a major investor of S Group was revealed as the mysterious major shareholder suggested for Z Group to merge for S Group. He also thinks that his wife should be the one to name thepany."


    "By the way, the letter S in S Group in C Nation stands for Shen. That''s right! Thepany belongs to Vincent''s rtive living in C Nation. But two years ago, Vincent invested in it to save thepany from sinking. He then bes the major shareholder."


    Listening further, Hailee is obvious that James is talking about her dad and husband.


    No wonder Vincent is working hard more than his time can upy his works. He has already had to take care of the Davies Corporation, aside from his ownpanies. Now he has a newpany to take care of.


    Having that thought, Hailee''s chest filled with warmth.


    She was too proud of her husband''s amazingness. However, her heart also ached that Vincent was working his ass off a million times to prove to the world he deserves to stand by her side.


    Vincent is doing everything for her.


    James panicked, seeing the tears fall down Hailee''s cheeks. "Empress?"


    Hailee shook her head to stop James from getting off the sofa. She motion not to worry about her being emotional all of a sudden. "I''m just happy and proud of my husband. Isn''t he amazing? Of course, I am grateful to dad too."


    "Well, you must truly be delighted. Thepany will be yours and Vincent''s first marital property."


    Hailee stifles her cry, listening to James. Everything she actually owned also belonged to Vincent, as he was thinking the same too. Vincent already told her before that all he has is hers, too.


    But thinking about having apany named under her and Vincent brought a satisfying feeling to her heart.


    Hailee dried the tears in her eyes and wiped her face with the Kleenex. After she calmed down a little, she told James.


    "I was envious that other people knew about this first. Is it supposed to be a surprise?"


    Why does shein? She''s only frustrated not to be on Vincent''s side throughout his fight. She wanted to share the workload Vincent had. And so she wished days would approach so fast, and she would give birth to the quadruplets.


    James stared at Hailee for a while. He smiled and said, "Are Kristian, Pitt, and I other people to you?"


    "Of course not. The three of you are like my older brothers."


    Hailee looked at James earnestly. One of the reasons she cannot have a crush on them or wish that one of them is her boyfriend is because boyfriends are usually meant to break up, and couples separate ways, which she doesn''t want to happen and affect the friendship.


    Although many couples still be good friends after breaking up, she could not imagine herself being in an intimate rtionship with any of these men. That includes Liam.


    Look at her and Bryan. Things are different now from the way they were before.


    "Well, you better talk to your husband, Empress."


    Hailee''s train of thoughts cut off. She watched James waving the phone in his hand, and she noticed the timer on the phone screen.


    It has been timing for a long time. So, she thinks the call was connected already when James made his report, and Vincent was just listening to the other line.


    Then Vincent heard her saying about the boys? Hailee red at James. ''Aren''t this guy afraid of his death?''


    Hailee took the phone from James and greeted her husband with glee.


    "Congrattions, Mr. Shen!"


    "Thank you, Mrs. Shen."


    "You are actually listening, huh? But why aren''t you speaking?"


    Hailee heard Vincent''s sexyugh on the other line, making her heart flutter with delight. Until now, her husband can quickly cause sweet tingles in her chest.


    "I want to listen to your voice while dealing with some documents, that''s why," he replied.


    "Then, you heard me confessing those?"


    She pouted, and Vincent could imagine her face. He chuckled.


    "You are mine and the mother of my children, so I have nothing to worry about. Soon, I will be the most outstanding man and deserves to stand by your side."


    Hailee was too touched by Vincent''s sweet words. She uttered lovingly,


    "It has always been you and no one else. This ce right here only belongs to you."


    The couple immerses themselves in their love promises as if they did not havepany. In front of Hailee, James twitched his mouth while Pitt, seated next to Vincent, raised an eyebrow.


    The men both feel cringe in their hearts after listening to the couple''s romantic quotes. Now they have to bear the ants surrounding them!


    Casually, both men exited the room to let the couple continue their lovey-dovey moments. Besides, they don''t want to hear more cheesy, corny lines!


    Now that James had left the study, Hailee switched the call to FaceTime.


    "Are you working on the matter regarding Z Group?"


    "Yup, Wifey. Dad and I will finish the merging as soon as possible, so I am preparing to leave T Country and fly toward C Nation."


    "Oh. Please, be careful." She could not remove the worry in her heart when Samuel Miller was around and could not lock him up when there were no solid shreds of evidence that hemitted crimes and was a member of the notorious organization.


    ''So what did I do wrong, and they won''t stop troubling my life?'' This is the question she asked herself for a thousand times already in the passing weeks.


    She doesn''t fully understand, and so she wants answers.


    "No worries, Wifey. We are inside Dawson''s territory. Samuel would not dare to make the same mistake in the past." said Vincent confidently.


    Samuel knew that his scheme of framing the J Group in their branch office in T Country had only gone in vain when the Dawson held a higher position in the government.


    "How are you this morning? Mom told me you had a nightmare the other night. I am so worried about you, Wifey." Vincent deliberately changed the topic, as he knew it would only upset Hailee to discuss the battle they are facing at present.


    "I am fine, don''t worry, hubby. I was not bothered by it anymore since Mom apanied me at night."


    "I''m d to hear that," said Vincent, sighing with relief. "I missed you so much."


    "I missed you too. Pleasee back home soon. In one piece, okay?"


    "I will¡­" he promised.


    "I''m happy your name finally cleared, proving you are innocent of Mr. Zhou''s usation. What happened instead is you bought hispany!"


    The proudness in her voice was obvious. So it made Vincent happy. "I want you to decide what would be thepany''s new name to prepare for the runch."


    "Should I be the one to name it?" She would love to name thepany, but C Nation has a broad tradition, and they prefer a name that is significant to them.


    "Of course. After all, I invested in thispany initially as my gift for you."


    "James mentioned you invested in S Group two years ago. So it means?"


    "I could feel in my heart that I will meet you again one day."


    Everything he did was for his future family.


    A family where he already dreamed that Hailee would be the mother of her children.


    Vincent didn''t hear a response from Hailee but saw her sobbing.


    "Mrs. Shen... You are the only one who deserves this title."


    "How should I live without you?" Hailee continued crying.


    At that very moment, which every second of his life, Vince yearned to embrace his wife, wipe the tears in her eyes, and kiss her lips.


    So with all of his heart, he uttered,


    "Without you, my life wouldn''t be the same. I love you very much, Mrs. Shen."


    Hailee responded,


    "I love you through eternity, Mr. Shen."

 Chapter 488 Past Life Memories Belong to Someone Else

    <h4>Chapter 488 Past Life Memories Belong to Someone Else</h4>


    ALLIANCE HQ, Italy


    Inside a white room, Liam is seated in a lounge chair. Lady Isabe took a seat in front of him and gazed with intent, which he could not avert his eyes and look away.


    "Are you ready, Liam?" Lady Isabe asked him.


    "I am¡­" Looking into thedy''s mystical eyes, Liam nodded his head and watched her stand up and walk around him. cing her right hand on his shoulder, Liam closed his eyes after thedy whispered a chant in his right ear.


    Lady Isabe returned to her chair and took off her red gloves, preparing herself to dive inside Liam''s inner mind. After ensuring that he was in his deep slumber, she held his hands and closed her eyes.


    In the room''s corner, Shun and Derek are waiting patiently. asionally, Derek nced at the monitoring screen that would show Liam''s vitals and record how deep his dream was.


    The two men had anticipation in their hearts as both desired to end this game soon. It had been five years since they patiently waited for the perfect time toe, so they must not dy any longer.


    After half an hour, Lady Isabe returned to the present time, but Liam remained sleeping.


    Derek saved all the data he had gathered and joined his mother and Shun in the private lounge to discuss what she saw in Liam''s memories.


    Inside the lounge room, Lady Isabe sipped on her teacup. The unique aroma of the tea soothes her nostrils that brings tranquility to her tense nerves.


    Her strength isn''t what it used to be. She almost lost her way out because that man ced a special seal on which she had difficulty opening the door.


    "What did you find, Mama?" Derek could no longer wait for his mother to begin.


    Isabe raised her gaze and smiled at Derek. She understood his impatience. They worked hard to solve Hailee''s problem: they could not take a vacation and have all the fun they wanted.


    Those elders thought that the highest seats had the most beautiful view. Little did the elders know that only a small group of people were giving everything they had to maintain the order of this world.


    Aside from Shun, Levi, Nichs, and her son Derek, Madison, Cassandra, and she is throwing their lives and happiness away to stop that man from destroying this world. Fortunately, some good shamans guided them.


    "Have they arrived safely?" Lady Isabe asked Shun instead of replying to Derek. She just wanted to tease her son. Take a breath and calm down.


    "Mama¡­" He groaned, but he could not actuallyin, so he dismissed the thought.


    Shun calmly picked up his cup of coffee and stared at the hot, ck liquid. "Their ne had justnded. They are on their way."


    "That''s good. We can perform the reversal ceremonyter, at midnight."


    "Reversal Ceremony? Is it a ritual to¡­" Derek fell into deep thoughts.


    "I already have my suspicions, and I am correct," Isabe exined. "That man awakens a past life memory inside Liam''s mind. However, these memories don''t belong to Liam, but someone else."


    "Then, the owner is?" Derek held his breath as he mused. ''What a phenomenal event once more.''


    Isabe looked at Shun and Derek back and forth before she went on. She revealed,


    "They are past life memories that belong to Vincent."


    Shun and Derek look at each other withplex feelings. It made them understand why Liam was crazily chasing Hailee even at the end of the world.


    "That''s why I need the shaman''s help to correct it and show Liam the way back. I can''t do this myself." Lady Isabe added.


    "Your immortality is wearing out, Mama."


    Lady Isabe nodded. She ced her teacup and then picked up the tablet on the coffee table. Browsing the gadget, she opens a folder in her files. After she found what she was looking for, she began reading the content.


    "As the new ruler, Emperor Xing Shen established many newws. Before bing the new Emperor, crowned prince Xing Shen was a great warrior who fought hundreds of battles. Traveling across thend, the crowned prince saw how many imperial governors and ministers abused their power. This made the crowned prince form a loyal Army of Fifteen. Led by General Zhang Jiang, they investigate many states, even small cities, and the ugly truth and inhuman act displeases the crowned prince."


    "So then, after he inherited the throne, he wrote many decrees to punish all the corrupt ministers and governors. Aprehensive reformation was implemented throughout thend. The new emperor executes a thousand criminals. These acts actually prosper the trading industry in the neighboring countries and form a good rtionship."


    Lady Isabe went on, "However, those officials who are suppressed in abusing their power by collecting too much tax and stealing farms to multiply the source of their wealth, they supported the criminals who want to avenge their brothers whom the emperor executed."


    "And the family who opposed the new decree the most is the Wu Kingdom. It was the Wu prince who led the assassination of the Imperial family. General Zhang Jiang not only carried the decree throughout thend. He also investigated and gathered information from all families that opposed the emperor. That''s why General Zhang has be a famous figure in history. His sword killed thousands of criminals, including all noble families who oppressed the emperor''s people."


    "However, the goodness of both Emperor Xing Shen and General Zhang Jiang is not enough¡­."


    "Well, even how much the emperor has a heart of gold¡­." Shun intercepts Isabe''s story. "There are people who would never be satisfied."


    "And we are talking about Vincent here, right?" Derek rified.


    "Yes. Emperor Xing Shen was known as a good emperor for executing criminals in the ancient records. However, he is a thorn in their path for criminals and corrupt officials and hinders their ambition of more power." Isabe continued. "Also, we should not forget the great Lady Zhang Ming."


    "Even in her past life, Hailee has been a person who has a heart of gold," Shunmented.


    "She is¡­" Isabe concurred. Then, she said, "When the Emperor chose General Jiang''s sister to be his queen, the people were delighted because Lady Ming was a warm person. But it didn''t make the ministers happy because the Emperor abandoned his concubines and only set his eyes on Lady Ming to carry his children. In fact, isn''t the story familiar to our present time?"


    Shun and Derek agreed. Vincent is also deliberate to be arranged with someone else, but he only wants to marry Hailee.


    "There are events in the past that are repeating at present," is Lady Isabe''s subtle phrase.


    "Shun! Derek!"


    All of a sudden, someone pushes the door open abruptly without knocking.


    Daichi barged in, and it surprised the three people who had a serious discussion; now, their faces were written with wonder when the guy had an anxious expression on his face.


    "What happened, Daichi?" asked Shun, worried if something had happened to the shamans. Shun wondered if that man learned that Liam had confessed, and he made a move.


    "Shun, they need Derek in Australia! Hailee is in critical condition after she had forcedbor!"


    The three of them were shocked.


    "Hailee had forcedbor? Why does she have to?" Lady Isabe had a pang in her heart thinking about the babies'' condition. On the one hand, she had a bad premonition. ''What did she do?''


    Meanwhile, Derek sprang from the couch and rushed to the door. He could no longer wait for Daichi''s further report as he needed to leave Italy as soon as possible.


    Left behind, Shun contacted Madison, and he heard her sobs while exining. After he hung up the call, Daichi continued with his reports.


    "Ben and Matt are on their way to T Country. Pitt got a second-degree burn and is in aa..."


    "What!? How about Vincent?"


    Shun stared at Daichi with intent, and it scared him out of his wits which caused him to stutter while answering his boss'' queries.


    "They¡­ they didn''t find his body yet¡­."

 Chapter 489 Maybe a Coincidence

    <h4>Chapter 489 Maybe a Coincidence</h4>


    At Dream City several hours ago...


    The entire day, Hailee was cheerful after talking to Vincent. She invited the girls for tea, as she had something to discuss.


    As the girls noticed her better mood, she could not hide telling them about the birthday gift she received from her dad and dearest husband.


    "Hail, the boss dotes on you so much!" Hazel eximed excitedly.


    Among the three teenagers, Nadia, Liza, and Hazel, thetter was not shy about expressing her opinion in front of Hailee''s cousins and friends, known as notable women in the High Society.


    Hailee nced at Hazel and smiled. She stated,


    "And because we have many blessings to count, I want to share the joy with everyone! So I have a n!"


    The girls listened to Haileeying out her ns, and they were all delighted to help her out.


    "So, as Christmas is approaching, I want an early decoration of the La Prairie Courtyard and Meadow Hotel. Including the Dream City hospital, apartments, and the Davies Group building. I will assign Tina, Nancy, and Tiffany for the decoration. Tiff, you already know what theme I usually like, but I love pink and gold, especially this year."


    "I understood." Tiffany nodded; she inquired. "Can we add white color?"


    "Yes! That would be fine! Can it be done sooner? I want to light it when Vincentes back. I wanted to surprise him."


    It can sense the excitement in Hailee''s voice and appear in her eyes. She doesn''t just look in love, but it is typical of her to act like a child who wants to live in a "World of Fairytales".


    And that broad smile on Hailee''s face reminded Tiffany not to disappoint her boss.


    "We will do our best, Hail. I could not promise you toplete the decoration too soon since we must order hundreds of thousands of decorations to cover everything. We can make a miracle unless we have hundreds of helpers." Tiffany exined to her excited boss.


    "Well, I have my nes to fetch the people we need. What do you guys think, girls?" Hailee swept her gazes to the women in front of her.


    With that, Tiffany saw no problem anymore. Since she became the Department Head of the Davies Corp Interior Design Team, the Christmas decorations and organizing a party fell on her hand.


    Six months before Christmas, she had already prepared a presentation to approve the new theme for the year. So then, she could order all the decorations ahead of time.


    And before Thanksgiving Day, all Davies establishments in entire Australia, such as the malls and hotels under Davies Corp., had put up the Christmas decorations.


    It is all thanks to Hailee''s great grandmother, who had a rich family culture and was epted by the Davies inws and was happy to adapt to this beautiful tradition.


    "Alright then, as we can have the workforce we need, we can finish decorating in a short time. Now, all we should do is make a new batch of orders to meet all the Christmas ornaments we need. The factory is ready to deliver my initial orders for the Davies Corporation building, Sris Hotel, and Davies Square zas. I will contact the factory to deliver them here in Dream City instead. Then we can first decorate your suite and the entire top floor. How about that, Hail?"


    "That was brilliant, Tiff! I want a pink Christmas tree inside my suite!"


    The smile on Hailee''s face never disappears. Her eyes had be like those dazzling lights in the Christmas tree twinkling with joy as she could not stop nning further.


    "Please, decorate the hotel lobby next. I''m sure the kids would love to hang out around the Christmas tree, so fill them with lots of gifts. Then the dining hall¡­ Oh, the hospital and Davies Group!"


    Nancy and Tina listened keenly and listed down all Hailee''s requests.


    Tiffany is doing the same as well. As they spoke, her head was already flooded with ideas. "Note, Hail. My team will fly first thing tomorrow for a thorough n."


    "Great! And by the way¡­ I want to hire a carnival for my birthday! I want more rides to put up for the kids! And also for adults to enjoy!"


    Tiffany shared a knowing look with the other women. They could notment but shrugged their shoulders and rode with the flow.


    The new momma is enjoying the best of her life, and they were happy to join her in fun.


    As growing up with Hailee, Tiffany knew her capriciousness. However, Hailee is not doing this only for her own entertainment, but the people who enjoy it most are her family and friends she would invite along.


    This time, it''s not just to feed her caprice but also to treat her workers.


    Besides, it doesn''t matter if Hailee would throw hundreds of million dors. She has the wealth she earned from her ownpanies.


    "Alright, Hail. I will hire the best carnival group in Australia. Or do you want to invite some international performers? How about Magicians?"


    "Carnival? Magicians?" The three teenagers suddenly shrieked from their seats. "Hail, can we invite those who win from Got Talent?"


    "Of course! That was a perfect suggestion!"


    The three girls didn''t hide their excitement, and they jumped jovially.


    Kelly and Vera could only shake their heads as it reminded them of their college days. As their hearts were still full of innocence, they were like this.


    Recounting these memories made them realize they didn''t have dates back then, as they preferred to stay single. Besides, they do notck men to hang out with.


    Hailee''s knights are always around, and no other boys can approach them.


    Kelly lowered her head and hid the smile that shed on her face. Now she wondered if Alex, who chased the guy away, had asked her for a date. Alex revealed to her he had a crush on her back then.


    Meanwhile, Vera has a different story. She has liked Geoffrey ever since she was in elementary. She was ten when she first met Geoffrey. And since then, her heart has always been reserved for him.


    While Vera and Kelly were lost in their thoughts, Hailee and Tiffany continued discussing the n.


    "Okay. I will contact a few international magicians to perform on your birthday." Tiffany winked at Hailee; then, she lowered her gaze to take that note as well. "Anything else?"


    "Umm¡­ I have more ideas. But right now, please focus on decorating Dream City. I want to put up a giant Christmas tree in the middle of Dream City! I want the carnival set up there. And of course¡­."


    Hailee paused and looked at the three teenagers listening eagerly in the corner.


    "You girls want to run a cafe?"


    "Really? Can we put up a coffee shop and sell some pastries?" Nadia and Liza were ted to imagine earning some cash.


    But the profit won''t go to their pockets. Instead, they will donate the money to the foundations that prepare Christmas presents for the unfortunate children in poorermunities in Metro City.


    Last Christmas, Hailee organized a Christmas party held in their neighborhood. She invited several foundations in Metro City, and she prepared a lot of presents for the kids aside from donating learning materials such asputers, books, and art supplies.


    They wonder where Hailee got that much money as in so much! Even though a rumor had already spread that Hailee was CEO Vincent Shen''s girlfriend, she told them someone from Australia gave it. They were grateful for her kind heart.


    Now, the mystery has an answer. It all came from Hailee''s very own pocket. In fact, she could donate a billion, and that''s her foundation for helping young girls worldwide.


    "Hail, thank you for letting us earn some money!" said the girls.


    "Small thing, girls. We have a huge pastry kitchen in the Meadow Hotel that is only used during my wedding. You girls can use the kitchen."


    "Really? Ah, thank you, Hail!" The three girls squealed, then went to the corner and made ns for their cafe.


    "Since they were billionaire heiresses and billionaire wives, we should charge them triple the price," Hazel suggested to Liza and Nadia, which shocked the two girls.


    "You''re out of your mind!" Nadia berated. "Why would we charge them overpriced when we can ce a box and ask for a donation?"


    "That''s right! The triple price you suggested is just a cent to their donation." Liza echoed. "Imagine they are giving us a thousand-dor bill!"


    The three girls talk in lower voices but still can be heard.


    The older women rendered their silence as they shared a look at each other. Afterward, theyughed as the three teenagers never failed to amuse them.


    Now they nned to scheme them.


    Hailee could not stop herself fromughing that it hurt her stomach. She lovingly strokes her belly and talks to her children.


    She looked up and called Nancy.


    "I want you to gather the housewives and ask them if anyone is interested in putting up a store during the carnival show. It will be more fun if various foods are on the street."


    "Note, Mrs. Shen!"


    Hailee had a sweet smile on her face and sparks in her eyes when she said this. Madison knew this girl was still not over with her cravings.


    "Hail, you just wanted to eat a variety of food."


    Hailee did not deny it but exined. "I have a thousand workers here. I''m sure they would love to have new dishes once in a while!"


    "As much as you do." Gigi teases her.


    Hailee had a sweet smile, as she could deny nothing. Of course, it was her initial n!


    "It''s my birthday. Can''t you guys let me treat myself special?" she beams while her eyshes flutter cutely.


    Cassandra and Madison could only shrug their shoulders. After some thought, Cassandra volunteered.


    "Alright. Nancy would be busy helping Tiffany decorate, so leave the homemakers to me. I will set up a meeting with them and discuss your ns."


    Hailee''s face brightened, and her eyes twinkled with joy. "Thank you, Cassie! You''re the best!"


    Cassie nodded. It''s been a while since she did charity work. So she loves to help in any way.


    The girls continue drinking tea while having a lively conversation.


    "I have something on my mind!" All of a sudden, Hailee burst out. "I will invite all Davies employees here in Dream City and throw a New Year''s party! It will include their families so that the children will enjoy the carnival. We will have a magical firework disy!"


    "It''s a great idea, Hail. The kids would love it."


    "Agreed!"


    Honestly, none of them can stop Hailee from spending her money. Her businesses are doing well aside from the Davies Corporation shares her dad transferred to her name. She has so much money to burn.


    Knock! Knock!


    The tea room door was pushed open, and James peeked from outside.


    "Hey, Empress! Have a minute? Vincent is on the other line." James waved the phone in his hand.


    "Sure!" Hailee slowly got up from her seat. Then she walked to the corner to have a private moment with her husband.


    Meanwhile, Cassandra noticed when Madison''s face went pale. Suddenly, she became anxious.


    "What''s wrong, Madison?"


    Madison calmed down, not for the other girls to notice the anxiety she felt at the moment.


    "Mama, I just felt a chill down my spine after hearing James called Hailee Empress."


    "Why?" Although Hailee was an empress in her past life, Madison acted weird.


    "After someone killed Papa Shun. Hailee became the Head of the High Royal, and a private organization attacked the underground world with a leader called Empress."


    "Madison, can it be just coincidence?" She had a bad premonition, but Cassandra was confident that they had made enough changes.


    "I hope it was just a mere coincidence, Mama."


    Madison and Cassandra look in Hailee''s direction, who had a lively conversation with her husband.

 Chapter 490 The Devil Inside

    <h4>Chapter 490 The Devil Inside</h4>


    "Hey!" Hailee took gradual merry steps toward the window as she talked to Vincent.


    "Hello, darling. I just wanted to hear your voice before we left Hillside Lake. We are soon to set out."


    "Okay. I am waiting for you toe home as soon as you can. I have a surprise for you!"


    "What is it? You''re up to with something again, huh? But I can''t wait to see it."


    From the other line, Hailee giggled, and it warmed his heart.


    "I missed you so much already. I want to kiss you now and hold you tight," said Vincent.


    "I missed you too. I can''t sleep without you beside me." Hailee purred like a kitten.


    Vincent''s heart fluttered, listening to his wife''s flirty sweet voice. His head is always filled with her charming face.


    And it made him anxious each day after he learned she had nightmares every time he was away. He was even more worried about her than before.


    "I can''t have a proper sleep thinking if you are resting well."


    "Hmm¡­ Don''t worry. Mom Hilda is taking care of me. She ensures I am well fed andfortable. Besides, your children are also well behavedtely."


    "Oh." Vincent chuckled at hearing that. "Are they ying football only asionally now?"


    Haileeughed at Vincent''s remarks. It was really crazy when the children kicked here and there inside her womb.


    Their dad would alwaysment if they were ying football. It looks like he''ll teach the boys this sport.


    When she was being Vincent''s fake mistress, Hazel told her he was actually a good football athlete. However, his mom wanted him to focus on his academic lessons and fewer outdoor activities than necessary.


    "Please take care and have a safe flight, hubby. Come back soon."


    "I will finish the necessary work fast to be with you and the children. I want to join you in your next ultrasound."


    "We''ll wait for you, daddy!" said Hailee with glee.


    "I love you, Mrs. Shen. You are the best thing that ever happened to me."


    "Vincent¡­"


    Before Hailee could reply, she heard a loud explosion, followed by gunfire.


    "Vincent? What is happening?"


    "Hello?"


    "Answer me!?"


    When the sound of the explosion was too close to the person on the other line, Hailee became hysterical. Vincent is not answering; instead, the call was cut off.


    "Vincent!?"


    All the girls in the room were startled when Hailee started screaming on the phone. They rushed toward her with worried faces.


    "Hailee, what happened?" Madison is the first one to join her side, followed by Cassandra.


    Hailee''s eyes flooded with tears. She opened her mouth, but no word woulde out.


    "Why are you crying? What happened to Vincent?" Cassandra queried as she reached for Hailee''s hand and took the phone.


    "I¡­ I heard an explosion, then gunfire! Vincent stopped talking to me! He¡­ He¡­ Aahhh!"


    Hailee cried at the top of her lungs when a piercing pain struck her belly. She pressed her baby bump with her fingers as the pain was unbearable. It felt like a part of her body was splitting up.


    "Aahh!" Hailee cried again. Her body wobbled. She is panting violently, chasing air to fill her lungs.


    "She''s bleeding!" Someone screamed.


    Hailee is wearing a white maternityce maxi dress, and the fabric suddenly is stained with red color.


    "Hail, calm down!" Madison held Hailee tight and supported her to not fall to the floor. With Cassandra''s help, they helped her sit down while shouting, "Please, someone call for the doctors!"


    The other girls panicked. They didn''t know what to do. Gratefully, Kelly is the first one to snap herself out of her daze. She ran to the door and called for James.


    "James! Called Hector! No! Your mom and Doctor Dave should summon fast!"


    James, busy typing on hisptop, sprang to his feet, and the gadget dropped on the floor, which he cared less.


    "What happened?" James hurried to pick up the extra phone from the coffee table and browse the gadget''s apps.


    "Hailee is bleeding!" Kelly cried, tugging the guy''s shirt.


    James was startled. He anxiously tapped the emergency button that would notify Hailee''s knights all over the world instead of dialing Hector''s contact.


    "Shit!" Now his phone was bombarded with queries.


    "Hurry, James!"


    Kelly pulls James''s sleeves when Alex, Andre, and Tom appear in the corridor, catching their breaths from running the stairs. They were just one floor away. Using the elevator was thest choice that came to their minds.


    "What happened, James? Why did you send out the emergency alert notification?" Andre queries as he gets closer to James and Kelly.


    Tom didn''t wait for James to answer and rushed inside. He is worried not only for Hailee but also for Gigi, who is in her second trimester. He could hear the girls'' crying, and their voices were in a hysterical state.


    In the meantime, Alex hurried to Kelly''s side when his fiancee didn''t stop wiping the tears on her face. Alex helped Kelly dry her cheeks and queried, "What happened, love?"


    "Hailee¡­ She''s bleeding!"


    Upon hearing it, Andre dashes into the tearoom. Hailee was attended by Cassandra, Madison, and Jennifer, while Vera, Gigi, Janise, Tiffany, and the other girls were on the phone.


    "Hailee! Breath¡­ Come on, breath! Stay with us!" Cassandra teaches Hailee how to breathe correctly when she seems to lose consciousness from the pain she is experiencing at the moment.


    "Cassie¡­" blurred with tears in her eyes, Hailee looked at Cassandra. She grabbed her wrist and asked in a weak, trembling voice, "Tell me¡­ Vincent isn''t dead yet¡­ Right? Please, tell me¡­ He cannot die!"


    Cassandra and Madison looked at each other. The two women both have panic in their hearts. The incident where they did everything to prevent it is still happening.


    ''Does five years only go down the drain? Did we fail to change the course of Hailee''s fate and this world?'' Madison thought helplessly. ''No!''


    She shook her head, bit her lip, and pulled herself together. She must not lose herposure in front of Hailee, who waspletely panicked. Burying deep down in her heart, the dread feeling lingering in her chest, Madison smiled andforted Hailee.


    "Don''t think about that, Hail. I''m sure Vincent would not let death win but fight over it even toward hell! Let us have faith, Hail."


    Although she kept reminding herself to calm down, still, Madison could not stop the tears from escaping her eyes as she continued to pray silently.


    She gave up so many things. Including her life, just to prevent everything from happening. It would cause great chaos in this world.


    ''Not today! Vincent must live!''


    They cannot let the devil inside Hailee wake up!


    ***


    On their way to the hospital, James had a hard time calming everyone, and he could not stop himself from being furious while replying to everyone''s query about their encrypted Group Chat.


    His carelessness in identally tapping the special emergency button on his phone causes so much chaos to Hailee''s knights living in every part of the world.


    "Should I send my Royal Army?"


    "Tell me if you need my assistance. I will pull the string to get the help of my nation''s Naval infantry, taking a base in the west Asia archipgo."


    James is stressing out over the phone. He wanted to dig a pit.


    "Stop, you guys! We are not going to war!"

 Chapter 491 What if?

    <h4>Chapter 491 What if?</h4>


    Only a few times before, cars filled the hospital parking lot. At that time, Hailee was hospitalized after she was attacked by someone and found out that she was pregnant and showing signs of a miscarriage.


    It may be an ordinary sight of sports cars speeding up around the city. But this time, thirty of them parked disorderly in front of the hospital and crowded the ce.


    Because of the emergency alert message, James identally tapped on his phone. All the knights in Dream City drove toward the hotel. After the Air Paramedics took Hailee, they all followed to the hospital.


    It''s been two hours since Hailee was pushed to the Delivery Room, but they have no news of her and the babies.


    At the lounge area...


    The girls could not stop crying for fear of seeing Hailee bleeding and screaming with pain as she hadbored.


    "Is Hailee and the babies okay?"


    Hazel has been asking this question every minute. The men can''t do anything but endure the girls'' wailing, understanding that they were only worried for Hailee and the four babies in her womb.


    "Let''s pray for their safety and good health."


    Meanwhile¡­


    Cassandra and Madison are pacing back and forth outside the Delivery Room. The two women feel forever as every second that has passed.


    The future showed them that Hailee had lived. However, these passing five years have already changed the course. It made them wonder as they could not help feeling anxious with the question ying in their heads¡­


    What if the babies die as well?


    What will happen to Hailee?


    What if the situation bes reversed?


    Instead of Vincent¡­ What if Hailee is???


    There is no such thing happening in the near future, so they didn''t know what to conclude at this very moment.


    It''s not only Vincent who has the possibility of dying today; Hailee and the babies are also in grave danger.


    "I should time travel once more. I need to know what changes soon." Madison decided. She could not wait any longer, as anticipation was tormenting her inside.


    "Rx, sweetheart. A new life is forming in your womb. Please think of your body. So please, calm down." Levi did her best tofort his wife since Madison didn''t stop sobbing but getting more distress.


    "Come here, Madison." Cassandra invited Madison to sit down and patted the space next to her. She hugged Madison tight, and the girl hugged her in return.


    "Madison, just take it slowly. We must remember not to abuse our ability and change everything the way we want. May we have good intentions? However, there are innocent and ordinary people fighting to survive every day; they might be caught up in between, and the effect is opposite to what we expected."


    Madison realized she had acted impulsively so suddenly, which may be because of her pregnancy. Her mood swing is acting up frequently, which leads her to lose focus and keep herselfposed.


    "Thank you for your enlightenment, Mama."


    She was embarrassed. She is a few years older than Cassandra, but she acts more mature like the older one here. It seemed like frequently traveling timepletely changed her into a wise woman.


    Among them, she suffers most from being trapped through timelines. Cassandra epts her fate and lives to the truth in what she sees.


    "I didn''t mean you guys to worry about me, too." Madison apologizes.


    She must take good care of both her physical and mental health. After all, even if she had a unique ability. She was still a human being and was blessed with the capability of conceiving a new life.


    ~


    James, standing on the other side of the corridor, and monitoring the activity on the Group Chat, clenched his free hand into a ball of a fist.


    He was under pressure about what to do from here on when the family was standing at death''s door.


    Vincent is missing, and the empress and the babies are in grave condition.


    What would he do if things were worse than they had prepared for?


    "James, what is the lead in searching for Vincent?" Andre, who was also waiting in the Delivery Room corridor, could not stay still. He was tempted to rush inside and stand by Hailee''s side, cheering her to live for the sake of her children.


    Before James could reply, Hector appeared at the door.


    "Hailee is losing too much blood! She needs two more bags. James asks Geoffrey and Leo to get clearance and donate some of their blood."


    "Right away!" James dashed out of the corridor and ran toward the lounge area, where everyone was waiting anxiously.


    "Geoffrey! Leo! Hailee needs more blood! You have to get a test done."


    "Alright." Geoffrey and Leo said at once.


    Learning this, Vera got up from the sofa and volunteered. "I have the same blood type as Hailee. I want to donate too!"


    Geoffrey looked at Vera with a tender gaze. He lifted his arm and rubbed her back whileforting her.


    "It''s okay. Leo and I are not the only same blood type as Hailee. We can all give our blood as much as she needs."


    It was the actuality.


    They were not just knights or Hailee''s business partners or bystander knights.


    As one of the most precious royal heiresses in this world, they were by her side to serve this purpose.


    It was a duty they were honored to carry out and pass to their descendants.


    ~~~


    A moment a while back¡­


    Zen City, C Nation


    Jacob and Frederick had dinner with the Shen n when his phone chimed with the emergency alert message tone.


    "What''s the matter, Jacob?" asked Frederick when Jacob dropped the winess in his hand.


    "Hailee is¡­." Jacob''s hand trembled at the thought of her daughter in critical condition. No one will activate the emergency alert message if nothing happens in Dream City.


    "Sir!" Kristian, who also received the EAM, approached Jacob with a troubled expression on his face.


    "Kristian! Did you find out what happened?" Jacob queried his former assistant.


    "It''s only a brief talk with James, sir. Instead of dialing Hector''s contact, he identally activated the emergency alert message."


    "Hector? Did something happen to my daughter?" Jacob rose from the dining chair and dialed a particr contact.


    While waiting for the person to pick up his call, Kristian continues his reports.


    "Sir, the princess bled, so they bring her to the hospital."


    "What? Is she having a miscarriage at this time? She''s in her third trimester!"


    "I will inquire with the others, sir."


    "Please do so." Jacob ordered Kristian.


    Frederick, who was listening nervously in his seat, was startled when his phone rang suddenly.


    "Hello? Tim!?"


    "Si¡­ sir¡­ We¡­ we¡­ were attacked¡­."


    Frederick was in great panic, listening to Tim''s weak voice. He sounded like he was chasing his breath, giving him the idea that Tim was severely injured.


    "Tim! Hang on! Where is my son? What happened to him?"


    "I¡­ Ugh¡­ I''m so¡ªsorry, sir. I¡­ I do not know. U-huh¡­"


    "Timothy!" Frederick heard Tim coughing hard on the other line.


    "The gu¨Cgunshots sound¡­ It''s getting farther, sir."


    Frederick analyzes Tim''s report. If the gunshots are drawing farther, then the attacker is chasing someone.


    ''Could it be?'' He is sure about it because his son has been the assassination target by that organization. ''God, please¡­ Keep my son safe!''


    "Alright, Tim. Stop talking now and preserve your energy. Maybe some people from the assassins are still in the area. You have to hide."


    "No, sir. I will check what was¡­ U¨Chuh¡­" Tim coughs once again before he continues. "The si¨Csituation outside, sir."


    "Are your wounds severe, Tim?" Fred queried.


    "Not that severe, sir¡­ It''s just¡­ U¡ªhuh! It was just the smoke from the burning lodge from the kitchen and ve¡ªvehicle outside, sir."


    "Okay, Tim. Call us if you find out something. Please be careful, Tim."


    "Yes, sir."


    The call hung up, and Frederick dropped his body to his chair. He was shuddering from an unsettling feeling.


    "Frederick, if Vincent was attacked at the lodge. Could Hailee possibly learn what happened?"


    Frederick looked up at Jacob. He nodded and replied, "It must be something like that."


    Jacob bathes with cold sweat all of a sudden. When ites to Vincent, his daughter is too sensitive. Her emotions quickly be unstable.


    ''Be strong, my princess. Dad will be there soon!''


    *


    [Author: Please check out the Poll in the Author''s Note! Thanks!]

 Chapter 492 Good People

    <h4>Chapter 492 Good People</h4>


    Metro City, P Country


    Bruce was in the Visual Room having a briefing about a new mission when suddenly his phone didn''t stop vibrating.


    He pulled out his phone from the back pocket of his jeans and sneakily checked the message.


    The entire room was surprised when he sprang from his chair, rushed in the front, and whispered something to their Chief.


    His fellow agents had a confused look on their faces when he was excused, and their chief resumed talking in front while ying the video on the screen as if nothing had happened.


    In the corridor...


    Bruce was tense, thinking the empress was in danger and he was not on her side.


    "Senior Keith?"


    "Bruce, go to the Shen Mansion. Kristian Keller and Tony Li are on their way as well. Well, meet the Lopezes for an important meeting."


    "Copy, senior." Bruce ran toward his truck after the call.


    It took him one hour to arrive at the Shen mansion when there was a heavy traffic jam on his way out from the central city.


    The butler leads him toward Vincent''s study, and upon entering the room, a gloomy atmosphere meets him.


    Inside are the Lopezes discussing something intriguing. Bruce approached Keith and queried the man.


    "What happened, senior Keith?"


    "Something had happened in T Country."


    "Then? Boss Vincent is in danger?" Bruce could already guess what had happened.


    Keith nodded and watched the cousins arguing.


    The Lopezes and Shen are having a debate, so Bruce stands in the corner and listens.


    "We must send the Scout Rangers!" Rodney eximed. Everyone in that room felt conflicted.


    "Calm down, Rodney. It''s not something we should decide impulsively against an international affair."


    "I don''t care! Who do they think they are? Vincent was just too soft before! It''s time for him to use all his resources!" Rodney insisted.


    Zaijan sighs. Rodney keeps behaving like a child.


    "We are keeping a good rtionship with other territories. We cannot just send a troop and roam their forests."


    Scout Rangers are trained to survive in the mountains and dangerous dense forests without relying on advanced weapons and gadgets but skills.


    Keith, who was only listening, could no longer remain silent. "Could it be true that the Lopezes are financing the agency?"


    Everyone in that room was looking at Zaijan withplicated eyes.


    As the second decision-maker, when the Lopez n was put in such a situation, his task was to take action.


    Zaijan coughed and heaved a deep sigh before he would exin.


    "It is true. But there is a profound reason for that. When the rebellion was inactive, they brought back the special regiment in the army to fight the rebels hiding in the mountains. However, during that time, the country had an economic crisis. The government does not have enough funds for them. And then, our family lost too much because of the gueri, creating trouble with our farms. We donated some of ournds, funded the training, and provided them with weapons. Although we slowly stepped out and let the government take them overpletely under the P Country Army. There is an old agreement between the Founders. Indeed, our family helped found this regiment. They will lend help if we need it."


    "And so they have no reason to refuse us!" Rodney chimed in.


    Remained silent in the corner, Bruce recalled something. He asked, "Is it that boss Vincent passed the Scout Ranger training?"


    Zaijan nodded his head and replied, "Yeah. That is why I keep repeating myself to tell Rodney to calm down. Vincent has enough knowledge for jungle survival. Actually, if Vincent was interested in running for the Presidency, we already had a n to recruit more Scout Rangers and strengthen the regiment. Now it all makes sense because he is actually a descendant of an Imperial family."


    Rodney frowned and red at Zayn. "Noisy. Like Vincent is happy when he is called a prince. Moreover, being the President of P Country."


    ''Who''s noisy and nosy here?'' Zayn can''t endure it anymore.


    It no longer makes sense to continue the childish dispute created by Rodney. Irritated, Zaijan got up from the couch. He dragged Rodney out of the study and brought him to an empty room.


    "Let''s talk in private!"


    Everyone in that room remained silent, watching the two men''s disappearing silhouette in the door.


    "What is wrong with Rodney?" someone from the Shen n queried Rick Lopez.


    "Actually, I am not in the position to speak about their private affairs."


    "Oh. Does it involve a woman?"


    "Sort of¡­" It was Tyler who replied.


    ~


    Standing by the French window, Bruce was approached by Keith.


    "The Lopezes wanted to help from the search and save Vincent if he was held captive."


    "If they will let boss Vincent live. How about if not?"


    Keith didn''t reply to Bruce. The guy actually has a point.


    "Senior, let me join the Search and Rescue Team. The empress must be waiting."


    Keith sighs helplessly. The knights also wanted to join, but they were only waiting for the order of the person in charge to lead them when the empress was in critical condition and could notmand.


    "I heard she has undergone a cesarean delivery to save her and the babies. So, they were also in great danger."


    "That''s why I want to help search for boss Vincent. The empress will be happy to see her husband again."


    Bruce''s tone is full of determination. He does not believe that his boss would die just like that.


    "I joined the training years ago and passed. But I did not stay long because I am more interested in bing a secret agent and investigating corrupt officials." He added.


    "Pitt is severely injured, and Timothy Cheng is also hospitalized." Keith looked at Bruce with intent. He continued, "I think we don''t need to wait for them to decide whether to send the Scout Ranger."


    "Alright. I should have gone home and packed up."


    Bruce left immediately. In the entrance, he bumps into Crissa, Madam Hilda''s assistant.


    "Crissa?"


    "Bruce, you''re here as well. Are you leaving already?"


    "Yes. I have to pack up and fly to T Country."


    Surprise shed in Crissa''s eyes. "Are you going too?"


    "What do you mean? Are you going to the T Country as well?"


    "Yes. Madam Hilda is constantly breaking down after she learns what happened to Young Master Vincent, and then Young Madam Hailee is in critical condition. Even the babies¡­."


    Crissa can no longer continue as emotion overwhelms her.


    "Boss Vincent is a good man. Even Young Madam Hailee is such a kind person. Why do they have to experience all of this? Such tragedy¡­"


    Bruce agreed.


    Crissa can no longer hold her tears, recalling the happy couple in love with each other.


    Seeing the girl cry all of a sudden, Bruce doesn''t know what to say to console Crissa. His feet were nailed to the floor to do anything. His sisters are such drama queens. So he only teases them further instead of apologizing.


    However, the situation is not something to joke around so that it will lighten the mood.


    Bruce sighed, then stretched his arm to reach Crissa''s back. He patted her back too gently. Crissa was embarrassed after she realized what was going on.


    "Alright." Crissa''s cheeks flush pink. She shrunk her neck to hide her face. "I won''t keep you further. I also have to go inside and inquire who else will go."


    Crissa had long strides to flee from Bruce''s curious gaze on her face. However, she took a left corridor when she reached the grand stairway.


    "Isn''t the study in the right-wing?" Bruce muttered to himself. "She did not even thank me forforting her. Tsk."


    Bruce shook his head, shrugging his shoulders.


    Isn''t she supposed to say, "Then, can we go together?"


    Bruce didn''t stop mumbling even after he reached his truck.


    *


    Sneak peek:


    "Wee back, Liam."


    "Master¡­ No, you''re not Shun Williams."


    The guy curled the corner of his mouth. "It doesn''t matter who I am at the moment. Have you remembered everything now?"


    Liam nodded his head. All of his memories are taking on the right ces. Including those times that he¡­


    "My sister! What happened to her?" Liam had enormous eyes while he questioned the man. He recalled all the horrible things he did!


    "Do you want to take revenge on the man who killed you four hundred years ago? The same man killed your precious sister, Empress Ming, and her most loved Emperor Xing, your beloved brother-in-arms?"


    "Think¡­ He is also the same man who messes up with your memories."

 Chapter 493 It is for the Best

    <h4>Chapter 493 It is for the Best</h4>


    Grace ind, Greece


    Zion Dawson straightened up his back at the door when a Maserati pulled over on the porch. He descended the stairs and met the young man who exited the car.


    "It''s good to see you, George."


    "Zion, thank you for having us."


    "It''s a pleasure to serve you, your excellency."


    "Please, cut the formalities."


    "You are right." Zion agreed.


    Prince George Robertson ascended the stairs, following behind Zion. It was not the first time he was here. In fact, Zion''s chateau is the European Knight''s meeting ce for an important discussion rting to the princess.


    "Who was here, Zion?" asked George.


    "Only central, western and southern Europe were here. The north and the east are in Russia to n out their contribution to this mission. Mikhael hosted the meeting."


    "Good. It''s better this way."


    "Brent and Mark are also preparing if the Empress needed them."


    Brent Morris is the US Head of Knights, while Mark Baker is the Head of Canadian Knights.


    "Alright. The more prepared we are, the better." George stated. "The Middle East Alliance is also on standby to send help."


    Zion and George halted at the door. Zion''s assistant, Lemuel, opened the door and closed it gently after the two men entered the room.


    "Prince George¡­"


    Every man in that room stood on their feet and greeted the Prince.


    "Carry on, everyone. Let us begin the discussion immediately." George gestured his hand for everyone to take a seat. He was also seated in the chair Zion offered to him.


    Seated in the main chair, George swept his gaze to the men in front of him. Everyone is waiting for him to speak up and open the discussion on how they could help the Empress.


    "Although I am the Head of the European Knights, still the order will note from me. Since there is no order sent out, we have to stay as low as possible. Regarding the emergency alert message, James has only mistakenly alerted us all. Even so, it''s true that our Empress was truly in critical condition after her force delivery."


    "What? Then the princes and princesses are?"


    "Hailee''s children were incubated and received thorough medication to survive." He may speak with a firm tone, but George only concealed his emotions. Thinking about the four innocent children wrenched his heart.


    "They were born premature, and so they needed extensive care. Please don''t let anyone know that Hailee has given birth already. The situation is chaotic because Vincent is still missing," George carried on.


    "Do they need help or anything? Although Hector is our best doctor. If they need medical help, we will provide everything we have." Someone spoke from Central Europe.


    "I understand everyone is ready to aid the princess. Our Royal Physicians are also willing to help if their expertise is needed. But the person who is a prodigy among the best doctors we know is Doctor Derek."


    "That''s right! Master Shun would not just sit around."


    "Indeed. Doctor Williams is the man we need to save the Empress and her babies."


    "I have no news of the Master''s n. Have any of you heard anything from the headquarters?"


    "Master Shun works in silence. We all know that." Zion Dawson reminded them. "But those fu**ing bastards have my cousin Rob, and Carmen is¡­."


    George patted Zion''s back, conveying his sympathy.


    "Zion is right." George concurred. "Master''s Sun may have no words spread out throughout the Alliance. Because he wanted to be cautious, not for our enemy to know his n."


    "How about Andre? There are no words from him."


    "He is inmand now, right? Since Pitt is also severely injured."


    George fell silent and did not respond to the fact that he could not reveal what was in Andre''s mind.


    *


    ALLIANCE HQ, Italy


    "Vincent and the others are preparing to leave the lodge for the airport." Daichi carried on his report.


    "Pitt was checking the aircraft when a mini-missile fired the craft. Then, the explosion was followed by gunshots. The lodge was rained with bullets. In the initial report, Vincent is escaping with the other knights by theke. There is a pursuit, but the boat they boarded also explodes."


    "How about Rob?" asked Shun.


    "They captive Rob as a shield. So they would not kill him but use him as a protection against the T Country Military. Samuel Miller knew he was going to face the Dawson family. The Prime Minister will chase his men until the world''s end to save his grandson. However, Samuel Miller''s men warn to kill Rob if someone will follow and try to apprehend them."


    Shun narrowed his gaze as he listened to Daichi''s report.


    Even though they have all the forces and team to chase them, they cannot do anything if the condition is Rob''s life. Even if Rob conveyed his message to drop a bomb on their current area, they could not just ignore that.


    It is easy for him to find their location through ATHENA.


    But with the threat, they have to stand by. Besides, Dn and Rudolf haven''t found Vincent yet. They were using his newly upgraded satellites. Unless?


    ''Could it be that Vincent is truly dead?'' Shun clenched his jaw. ''Then it is just a matter of time that Hailee and I will be in a great war.''


    Her¡ªfor transgressing the Law of the Alliance. She ignored the rules he implemented between territories.


    ''It looks like¡­ After I confirmed that Vincent is dead¡­ Maybe¡­ Maybe it is best if I¡­.''


    Shun shook his head.


    How dare he think this way?


    Hailee is innocent. Why would he think of killing her while she was in aa?


    Someone from the back of his head is telling him.


    ''It is for the best. Don''t you think?''


    But¡­


    He loves Hailee so much. She didn''t do any wrong for him to think this way.


    However,


    Shun was stuck in the middle.


    It is for the better. Yes.


    However, he could not do that.


    He could not allow himself to do such a thing that his children would hate him one day when someone revealed the truth.


    ''Allen! Could it be what happened in the future he came from?'' Shun grabbed his head.


    Did hee to that decision just to avoid the conflict between him and Hailee?


    Is it better to¡­?


    ''What if?''


    Can the future be changed entirely if he does that?


    ~~~


    Lamandi Pce, V Country


    A man wearing a custom-made ck suit was satisfied reading the reports Samuel emailed him.


    "Now let us see¡­."


    The man who Samuel Miller called "Master" stood in the middle of the room.


    Then, light surrounded him, and a luminous crystal ball appeared before him, and the soul inside changed its color.


    "Ah¡­ You are in great confusion at the moment. I can''t wait to see what you will do next, Carlisle Williams. How entertaining! It is way more exciting than what I expect from you!"


    Creepyughter echoed in the hallway, and the pce guards shivered from horror listening to the man''sughter inside that room.

 Chapter 494 The Emperor Had Died

    <h4>Chapter 494 The Emperor Had Died</h4>


    ALLIANCE HQ, Italy


    ''No wonder Derek would be against me and choose Hailee''s side,'' thought Shun. ''I came up with something stupid, such as deciding to let Hailee sleep forever so that they could avoid the war in the future. However, from the look at how the future keeps changing. The kids learned what I did and nned out to assassinate me.''


    Besides, it made him wonder what Derek''s reaction was if he brought up this matter.


    He could already picture Derek''s enraged because of his crazy idea, mainly if it included the babies.


    ''We have no other choice but to keep the family alive.''


    "Are you okay, Shun?"


    Daichi noticed his boss was in a trance. He asked him for something, but Shun didn''t respond to him.


    "Pardon? Can you repeat your question, Daichi?"


    "I''m reporting that¡­ Miss Carmen was also in critical condition. She was in the kitchen when Samuel Miller''s men attacked the lodge house. Those men were only after Vincent and did not check the entire house. Fortunately, Timothy Cheng was still in good condition to walk around, and he found Miss Carmen, and the air paramedics arrived before it was toote to save her life."


    Shun clenched his fist. Hailee and Carmen have been friends since they were teenagers. As Dave Davies had an excellent business partnership with the Dawsons, Jacob often traveled with Hailee to y with Carmen in the T Country.


    Simr to Hailee, Carmen is innocent of everything that is happening now. She was only caught in between by his fight against that man.


    Now¡­


    What would happen after Hailee learned about Carmen? Hailee would be definitely enraged that her friend got involved in the conflict and was severely injured.


    Pitt is also on his deathbed.


    Shun kneaded the bridge of his nose and let out a helpless sigh.


    "Alright. Tell Matt to keep us updated. We need to find Vincent as soon as possible while patiently waiting for Liam to regain consciousness. He isn''t waking up, so the shamans and Isabe will perform the Reversal Ritual, which is a great opportunity. Once Liam wakes up and gives us that man''s information, I will shut down all of his businesses and freeze his ess to his wealth."


    "That is the best move we have." Daichi concurred. "Once he can no longer have his resources, he will be stuck in V Country and limit his operation."


    "Interpol is just waiting in the corner. They only need his name and face to do their job. However¡­"


    Daichi waited for Shun to continue. However, he only remained silent for a longer time. Shun must make a hard decision, and he could not share it with him.


    They had been friends for a long time now. So he knew that there were things he should not meddle with and let Shun handle them within himself.


    Such as fighting the demon inside.


    So many things happened in the past and taught Shun what is right and wrong. In fact, he is a reluctant boss. He didn''t want to ept the seat.


    However, for the woman he loved all of his life, he endured everything and worked his ass more than anyone did.


    "I haven''t had time to travel in a while," Shun mumbled out of the blue, and it startled Daichi.


    He wondered. "Don''t you think it is because you are Carlisle now?"


    Shun pondered for a moment. He agreed with Daichi. "Maybe it was the case. It''s just that¡­ It was he who received direct immortality like Isabe. So maybe that''s why I couldn''t use his ability as long as I wanted."


    "If you could? We will have no difficulty identifying this man. Right?"


    "Yes. Klein could sense him fast. It''s been a while since he started sleeping. So that man is taking this opportunity to disturb our peaceful life." Shun muttered with a grim expression on his face. He has to admit that Klein is needed like this¡­


    "Well, I have high hopes from you and everyone that things will be over soon. Then, you can spend more time with Missy and the kids," said Daichi,forting Shun.


    Daichi is right. He couldn''t agree more. He had less time for his children, which he didn''t want them to grow, and their memories of him could only count on their fingers.


    So he decided. "Let''s go home soon and join the kids watching the performances in the carnival Hailee hired for us all."


    "Boss, Hailee doesn''t deserve to suffer. Nothing she cares about but makes the surrounding people around her be happy," said Daichi.


    Every time Daichi remembers Hailee in aa and the four premature babies fighting to live, it definitely breaks his heart.


    "It is absolutely heartbreaking for everyone. Would you allow the media to learn about it?"


    Shun shook his head and replied to Daichi''s query. "The Dawson family ensures that no news will leak out. We should do that as well. Contact Sandy and tell him to block any news regarding the incident. Shut down those websites if necessary."


    "Copy. I will check further reports as well."


    "Alright. Thank you."


    Daichi smiled and saluted at Shun before he left to do his task and continue monitoring the search and rescue of Vincent.


    Left alone, Shun dialed his wife''s contact. He was standing near the window watching the forbidden woods where Isabe and the shamans performed the Reversal Ritual.


    Gazing out at the dark clouds above the forbidden woods brought an eerie feeling to his chest.


    Shun ced his hand on the window, staring at his eyes reflected in the ss and talking to himself.


    "Klein¡­ Do you want me to wake you up?"


    He thought since the shaman was here.


    "I need to do something," Shun speaks to himself.


    ~~~


    The following day¡­


    Samuelfortably lounged on a French couch holding a crystal goblet, sipping wine. It was noon, and he was in a good mood until his phone rang and a particr name shed on his phone screen.


    "Yes, Master?"


    "There isn''t a broadcast that Vincent is dead. Why did you do nothing about it?"


    Samuel''s response. "Well, there is no confirmation that he is dead. And obviously, Shun Crow would not let the media report the incident. Also, it''s easy for us to run around if no reporters are digging a story."


    "Where is the fun in that? It would be an exciting drama if the world knew the Emperor had died. Right?"


    "Alright. I''ll prepare the article." After saying that, Samuel heard a tone showing his master had hung up.


    ''F*ck!'' Samuel sneered in his heart.


    However, he could only fret in silence. Because if it was him. He doesn''t want the public to know so that he could work in silence before revealing great news to the world.


    Unfortunately, he could not assert to his master that it was not a good idea. After he loses the case in C Nation, his master is displeased with him.


    After one hour, Samuel worked on the article to publish, but it always disappeared, even the websites he bought.


    "Sir, no matter how we try to publish an article, it is always gone."


    "Sir, one of our websites was hacked!"


    "I can no longer open our social media ounts!"


    "They found our IP Address, and there were people outside! They are going to arrest us! Ah! Don''t shoot! I surrender!"


    Samuel gritted his teeth, listening to these recordings. He clenched his palm into a ball of fist and desired to punch someone''s face at that moment but on the sofa.


    "Sh*t!"


    He knew already that this would happen, but it still annoys him. There is no way Shun Crow would sit around.


    Anyway, his anger is not because he failed but because he is frustrated and has to follow his master''s capriciousness. That man actually has no care for the result. It only interests him to see the fun ying before his eyes.


    "Even so, I have to do something." He must please his master.


    Samuel emailed the article to random reporters across the globe.

 Chapter 495 The Root of Everything?

    <h4>Chapter 495 The Root of Everything?</h4>


    That evening, shocking news spread like wildfire on several social media tforms and was broadcast on Primetime news.


    The world could not believe Vincent''s death since there was no announcement or a press release from Shen and Davies''s side.


    Many doubted the news source was reliable, so they demanded proof.


    And with the news exploding like a nuclear bomb, a hundred reporters head to P Country and Australia to investigate and get any scope they could publish. After learning that Jacob Davies and Frederick Shen were still in C Nation, some reporters went to Zen City.


    Reporters crowded the Z Group building entrance, hoping to interview the two fathers and confirm the news, cared less that they had been waiting the entire day and had no words from them.


    Meanwhile, at the Office of the President, Jacob mmed his hand on the center table, reading all the articles he could find on the inte. Across from him is Frederick, who shared his sentiment.


    Fred is watching thetest news regarding his son missing after being ambushed.


    Many specte about the incident, but no one can give reliable information if he is alive or has died already because they said nothing about it.


    The two fathers wanted to go home to Dream City and meet their grandchildren in poor condition. However, it will only give the media an idea that the news is credible. They avoid doing so but be cautious in their movements as the world is watching them.


    "Samuel Miller would not negotiate. We could not bargain Rob''s life over Vincent. I''m sorry, Fred. But we will do everything we can."


    "I understand. If we act on our own, the T Country will not sit idly. Prime Minister Dawson would allow nothing to happen to his grandson."


    "You are correct, Fred. Now two giant rocks are pressing us. Shun''s men are ready to rescue both Rob and search for Vincent, but the condition is not something we must overlook." said Jacob.


    Fred nodded and said, "Honestly, I am more worried about our daughter. After she finds out she gave birth to the babies prematurely, I am certain that it will break her heart."


    Listening to Fred, Jacob''s face turned gloom; he could not stop himself shed tears thinking about his beloved daughter and precious grandchildren born prematurely.


    "My daughter had a heart made of gold. Why does she have to go through something like this? Two people that only love, respect, and support each other." At that moment, Jacob could not conceal his despair.


    "I learned that those two never had a fight or misunderstanding. But why does fate want to separate and hurt them this much? I believe they don''t deserve to be miserable and face such trials like this."


    Fred, who is only listening to Jacob''s mumbling, could not agree more with his viewpoint.


    His son Vincent had loved no one but only one girl. He didn''t break anyone''s heart or treat someone like a rug.


    But why?


    Why does life want to rub his only love?


    Why does life want to trample him down to his feet?


    "Those two want nothing but to live peacefully with their children," Fred said unhappily.


    Fred also shared his feelings about everything that was happening. It made him vulnerable as his heart and soul were like cutting into small pieces, thinking his grandchildren barely lived.


    "I have faith in heaven that Vincent is still alive. Everything would not just end here." Jacob stated with meaning in his words.


    "I also have faith and belief in my son''s survival instincts. He knew how to fight, and he also was trained how to survive in such circumstances," said Fred.


    Jacob praised, "Good thing that even he did not continue to train under Shun. He took private training for self-defense."


    "Yes. The elders have these family rules. It is for the next Head of the n since we are descendants of the Xing Imperial family. We must continue the bloodline even if we live a low-key profile."


    "Fred, don''t you think it is smart to reveal the secret that your family had kept for four hundred years already?"


    Fred fell silent and pondered Jacob''s question. If the purpose of ending the direct line of the Imperial descendants, he is not convinced that the matter is still between the Xing and Wu Kingdom. He believes it''s no longer worth taking revenge on.


    The conflict between thete emperor and his enemies happened ages ago. So it must be something, and it never makes sense to him, thought Fred.


    "Honestly, Jacob¡­ Still, I could not fully grasp the profound reason why the dark shadow organization is after your daughter. It may be because of your enemies in your territories? Now they also wanted my son. Do you think everything had made sense? Suppose they were your enemies before; maybe the matter is simple. However, I''m confused why they are so worked up in troubling our family. Could there be another reason?"


    "You are right." Jacob agreed with Fred''s conclusion. "If it is a small matter. Why would they waste so much time and money?"


    Everything only made little sense. He may have had enemies in the past, but things be quiet after he put up a peace treaty with other mafia lords in his territories.


    "I guess I have to seek Shun''s knowledge or Lady Isabe''s enlightenment. Maybe she foresees something of the future, and she could help us solve our dilemmas if we figure out the root of everything that happens to our children."


    "I agreed with you. We should reach out to her." On the other hand, Fred could not help not wonder. "Can it be rted to our ancestors?"


    Although he is less superstitious, his ancestors lived with one in ancient times, and there are so many collections of evidence that his family kept through generations.


    "Ancestors'' sins that pass down even to the tenth generation?" Jacob mumbled.


    He would not believe it if the world hid no such secrets. But unexinable things are actually urring in every corner of the world. Even so, Jacob still believes that his daughter was only tested by her destiny.


    "I don''t care what it is. But all I wanted is for my daughter to wake up, Vincent toe back alive, and the kids to get well to meet their wonderful parents."


    "I concurred. And while we are waiting for the great news, we have to do something with the malicious reports." Fred suggested, and Jacob agreed with his ideas.


    "We have to proceed as scheduled to hold the press conference. Let usunch S.D. Incorporated."


    S.D. stands as Shen and Davies being onepany.


    Before the unfortunate events, the couple named thepany this way as the first gift for their children, hoping it would prosper and share the blessing to many people by providing more jobs in the future.


    The couple had nothing in their minds but to create a better world for everyone.


    However,


    The two fathers do not understand why life does not want their children to fulfill their beautiful dream when it is not for themselves, but the entire world benefits from it.


    ~~~


    Launching Day of S. D. Incorporated


    At Zen City, the press conference was held in a grand hotel owned by Davies'' subsidiarypany in the country.


    Although only fifty reporters from around the globe were invited to attend the press conference, the entrance was crowded with media to witness the live streaming they would see outside the hotel.


    Theunch will also have live streaming that could watch globally.


    "Sheena?"


    At the Presidential suite, Fred knocked on the bedroom door. He peeped inside to check if his daughter had done her makeup.


    "Hey, dad! Is everything okay in the event hall?"


    "Yes. Jacob made sure everything would go smoothly tonight. Are you ready?"


    Sheena nodded and smiled at her dad. She got up from the ent chair and hugged her dad.


    "Everything will be fine, dad. I believe my brother wille back to us in one piece."


    "I have faith as well. Good luck, sweetheart."


    "Thank you, dad."


    Although she is the youngest, they think Sheena fits as the family''s spokesperson. Tonight, Sheena would host theunch and answer the questions thrown at them.


    "Ma''am? Sir? We only have ten minutes before we start." The hotel manager came in to remind them.


    "Alright. We''ll go now!" After Sheena replied to the manager, she looked at her dad and said, "Shall we go, dad?"


    "Let''s go, sweetheart."


    Sheena took her dad''s hand and walked out of the room.


    ''This is for you, brother. Pleasee back soon. Sister Hailee and the babies are waiting for you.'' Sheena prayed as she climbed the stairs of the stage.

 Chapter 496 S. D. Incorporated Launch Party (One)

    <h4>Chapter 496 S. D. Incorporated Launch Party (One)</h4>


    Imperial Hotel, Zen City


    Jacob weed the guests at the event hall entrance and had a quick chat with them before he greeted the others.


    On the red carpet, Jacob spotted the CEO of the Shang Empire, Jeremy Shang.


    "Wee, President Shang." he greeted.


    "Good evening, Mr. Davies."


    The two men shook hands; Jacob noticed the older couple posing for the cameras. It was rare for the business reporters to see this couple attending such gatherings together in the passing years.


    "I''m d your father made it," said Jacob, ncing at the couple entering the venue.


    "Indeed. Lately, Dad is more likely to spend time with his grandkids than attending social events."


    Upon Jeremy phrasing that, a pang in Jacob''s heart has awakened.


    For some reason, he retired early to enjoy his life with his grandkids. But now, his grandchildren were lying in the incubator with medical machines connected to their tiny bodies. Jacob wanted to break down in tears.


    However, today is not the time to show his vulnerable side. His grandchildren needed him, so he must stay strong for them and his precious daughter.


    Jacob snapped himself and straightened his back as he smiled at Jeremy. "Please, excuse me, President Shang. Let me greet your parents."


    "Of course, Mr. Davies."


    "Kristian will escort you to your table."


    "Thank you." Jeremy Shang nodded his head and then followed Kristian.


    "This way, President Shang."


    Kristian brought Jeremy and his beautiful wife toward the table near the stage as a major investor in thepany.


    Jacob had an enormous smile at the door as he waited for the Shang older couple to get near him.


    "Harry Shang and Nina Li¡­ It''s nice to see you both well."


    "Congrattions, Jacob." Harry extends his hand to shake hands with Jacob.


    "Thank you. Congrattions to us indeed!"


    Jacob and Harry continue chatting while Nina excuses herself to greet some people she is close to in the business world.


    The invited reporters and guests in that gathering had an impression of these two tycoons. Though both are retired now, they were once remarkable leaders in their territories. And ever since Vincent Shen got married to Hailee Davies, they learned that Theo Shang has an excellent rtionship with Vincent Shen.


    Watching these two powerful men together with Vincent''s father disys an obvious fact that Jacob is so fond of his son-inw amidst the criticism that he is only after the Davies trillion dors wealth.


    Instead, Jacob entrusted the Davies Corporation to him. It was something envied by those billionaires who wanted to woo the Davies heiress. Now Vincent even received help to establish argepany in C Nation.


    After half an hour, the event finally began. At the stage, Kristian delivered an important announcement.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, good evening. We will officially begin tonight''s gathering. Kindly please take a seat at your given table. A quick reminder of tonight''s event is as follows. First, we will present the new name of the Z Group. Second is the opening of the floor, where we will choose ten questions rted to thepany. Before I give the stage to our host for tonight''sunch party, let me introduce our on-call service crew on standby on the sides. They will serve you drinks and food. So please, set back and enjoy. Now, may I present to you, Director Sheena Shen Keller!"


    Climbing the stage with elegant strides, Sheena wore a red velvet gown that made her look stunning and regal. Below the stage is Fred, pping his hands, looking at his daughter with proudness in his eyes.


    As time passed, Sheena looked a lot more like her mother in her prime age. May those eyes show warmth and pureness that opposite to Hilda, the powerful auraing from Sheena is definitely from her mom.


    Hilda always gives a strong temperament that turns the room into a terror state. However, Hilda does not deserve her title as Great Madam Shen if she could not shake the enemy and leave them trembling on the ground.


    Despite all misunderstandings and disputes with the three women in his family, he is proud of his children''s sesstely.


    In the past few months, their family has been constantly struck with issues and problems ever since Vincent was involved with the sole heiress of Davies'' empire, Hailee Davies.


    Gratefully, his girls stood bravely and fought the issues thrown at them effortlessly with smiles on their faces like tonight.


    Sheena walked toward the ss stand, ced in the middle of the stage that is exquisitely decorated with pink peonies, dahlia, and orchids; they are some of Hailee''s favorite flowers.


    "Hello, everyone. Thank you foring to tonight''sunching party. On behalf of the Z Group, S Group, and Davies International, I am honored to wee you to witness the cooperation of threepanies as one, and it first happens here in your city!"


    "Zen City is such a prosperous capital. As we all know, it is the Shang Empire''s home."


    As Sheena mentioned the famous family, she nced at the Shang table and nodded.


    "Recently, my brother faced such issues, used by President Zhuo after the incident he was involved in that ended the Jackson father and son''s lives. But we proved my brother''s innocence. Instead, he saved the Z Group from filing bankruptcy. With the help of his father-inw, Mr. Jacob Davies, my brother bought Z Group as a birthday gift to the woman that is very dear to his heart, and ours too."


    Sheena almost choked at that part upon remembering how Hailee was still in aa. However, she needed to stay strong and disguise the sorrow she felt deep down in her chest.


    The entire world is watching her tonight. One evident emotion shed on her face; the critics, who are experts in reading someone''s facial expressions, would quickly pinpoint that she was going through something, and that would give them the idea that the rumors were true.


    Sheena quickly pulled herself together and smiled, traveling her gaze throughout the hall. She carried on¡­


    "Being the major shareholder of S Group base here in Zen City, my brother saw this as an opportunity to expand his business. He proposed to the board of S Group to merge the twopanies, and the board members agreed. My brother, being trained at a young age to manage ourpany, has only envisioned sess, and he saw a great potential that Z Group would bring prosperity to S Group."


    "And now! Ladies and gentlemen¡­ On behalf of my brother Vincent Shen and sister-inw Hailee Davies, I present to you¡­ S. D. Incorporated!"


    Sheena lifted her left arm and gestured toward the giant screen behind her, turning sideways. As she spoke about the Z Group''s history, images appeared on the screen, and then the logo of S. D. Incorporated as the finale.


    "From here on, Z Group will be known as S. D. Incorporated stand as Shen and Daviespany. May my brother- and sister-inw weren''t here for this joyous event. However, they have a message for everyone."


    A video recording then yed in the next ten minutes, where both Hailee and Vincent spoke alternately on the screen via FaceTime.


    The video recordings were taken at a separate location, giving them an idea that the couple was not together. But the entire video showed how they were affectionate with each other.


    After ying the video, Sheena continued her speech and proceeded to the next part of the event.


    Those present inside the event hall and the ones outside were perplexed and disappointed. In their minds, they started to believe that the news about Vincent''s death was just propaganda to garner attention for thepany as they were preparing tounch a new project that will introduce two months from now, and that was by January of the year 2027.


    "Is this a joke? Am I justing here for nothing?"


    Outside the hotel, one reporter expressed his disappointment.


    "So what''s with the news my boss has received? Someone emailed him that Vincent Shen died after a group of assassins attacked him and his bodyguards."


    "Ourpany received one too!"


    "Same here. It looks like we are all just tricked?"


    "I don''t know. It seemed reliable news to me."


    "Why do we fall into that shit? Look! We are the first to know about this type of scheme. Hundreds of us gathered only to witness apanyunching!"


    The reporters outsideined and regretteding.


    "Good evening, everyone! I hope you were all doing well tonight. I know everyone was hungry and exhausted... Mr. Jacob Davies and Mr. Frederick Shen wanted to thank everyone for joining us tonight. To show their appreciation of your presence. Please, enjoy these little treats they prepared for everyone."


    The man who spoke at the hotel''s entrance gestured his hand toward the two giant trucks parked nearby.


    "Please, make two lines in each truck for a smooth distribution of the food packs."


    The reporters were delighted to hear this. They followed willingly and started falling in line. After they got their share, they checked out the pack to find a food box with a sumptuous meal, a bottle of mineral water, and a can of beer.


    "Thank you!"


    The reporters appreciate the two fathers'' gestures. As they enjoyed their meal, theunching party inside the hotel continued.


    "As it mentioned a while back, we will only ept ten questions."


    In the next half hour, Sheena answered the questions. Although the reporters were disappointed that they could not throw the question, they prepared for tonight''s event. They had to be respectful and let the party finish peacefully.


    "Thank you, everyone. Before we proceed to the next part of the event, dinner¡­." Sheena made it sound like a joke, causing everyone to smile and chuckle. "I will answer one more question."


    Sheena looked around and picked someone on the left side of the event hall.


    "Yes, please?"


    The guest reporter, wearing a ck suit, stood up and walked toward the microphone ced on the side below the stage.


    "Good evening, Director Keller. My name is Dion from London Entertainment. Without beating around the bush, could you tell us the truth regarding the news spreading that your brother, President Vincent Shen, had died in an assassination?"

 Chapter 497 The World Within My Grasp

    <h4>Chapter 497 The World Within My Grasp</h4>


    With the question given, whispers arose in the hall; both the guests and reporters dden that someone finally brought it up.


    If given the same opportunity, they will take this chance to ask the same question, which was why they were all gathered tonight.


    Sheena swept her gaze to the entire hall, then fixed her eyes on the table where her dad and Jacob were seated.


    Fred nodded at his daughter, cheering her up to answer it.


    "Thank you, Mr. Dion." Sheena smiled and thanked the reporter, who was the person they assigned the task to fire this question.


    The event tonight is an opportunity to break down the news. Since someone wants to mess up their lives, they will give them a dose of their own medicine.


    "In the past few days, the world was in chaos after news erupted that my dear brother had died after being assassinated. Reporters around the globe harassed our family, friends, and even our employees and business partners because someone emailed them to confirm the news they received from an unknown sender."


    "How credible is the source of this information? It is a big question even for us. Among everyone who knows the truth?"


    "I would not deny that the news isn''t real. However, it isn''t telling the entire truth."


    "In the past months that my brother lived with his girlfriend, his life has been threatened. P Country heard the news that my brother encountered an ident, and after a thorough investigation, a group of people orchestrated the ident. Including these people is my brother''s nominal wife''s family, which we recently found out that the marriage was fake."


    "What? Is that true?" Whispers once again arose in the event hall and outside the hotel; reporters were excited to note this revtion.


    "This is unbelievable!"


    "It was true! Have you forgotten the documentary? They often highlighted that the couple first met in Budapest one year before Mr. Shen married a girl named Eva Lan."


    "Then is marriage just an act?"


    "That''s right! Aren''t wealthy peoplemon to this kind of setup? They would look for someone to act as their wife or lover, then get divorced after a few years."


    "Well, it''s not surprising at all."


    Meanwhile, as this revtion struck the world, Sheena continued to deliver her speech.


    "After that, my brother''s life continued to be threatened. And yes, recently, my brother encountered a group of men that ambushed his convoy."


    Suddenly, the event hall filled with gasps and muffled noises from the guests. Even the reporters, bystanders outside the hotel, and everyizen who watched the live streaming were shocked to see the images and videos yed on the big screen.


    "My brother is on his way to the airport when it happens. Fortunately, my brother had escaped, and his bodyguards defeated their attackers. As you can see on the screen, cars are on fire, and bullet shells are left on the scene."


    "In the past few days, the Special Task Force has finished investigating and collecting several evidence pieces. After they find out what weapons they used and locate where they bought these bullets, it will be just a matter of time before naming who is the mastermind of my brother''s assassination."


    "But Liam Huo is already gone to jail."


    "Who did you suspect this time?"


    "What is the profound reason someone wanted your brother dead?"


    "Could it be because he married an heiress like Princess Hailee Davies?"


    The order and silence inside the event hall be chaotic when the guest reporters raise their questions at once.


    Standing on the stage''s corner, Kristian hurried to the microphone a few feet from him and persuaded the reporters, who began throwing questions.


    "Please, settle down, everyone, and let Director Keller continue."


    While Kristian is announcing this, security personnel wearing dark blue suits rush inside the hall to settle down the reporters makingmotions.


    "Please, get back to your seat, sir. We are permitted to drag out any guests who would cause an interruption in the event."


    Upon seeing these bulky men, the reporters shudder from fear. They were giant men. With those muscles, they could easily crush them.


    The reporters finally settle down, and so Sheena continues.


    "Alright. Is everyone calm now? Can I carry on now?"


    "Yes, please!" Replied by other reporters who only observed silently.


    "Now, where were we?"


    "The recent assassination of Mr. Shen. Please enlighten us."


    It was Dion Simons who answered Sheena. Thetter smiled at him gratefully for doing his job well.


    "As I mentioned a while back. My brother escaped from his assassins; however, he could not disclose where he was hiding to ensure safety. My brother will appear before us after the investigation of his assassination isplete."


    "Now, everyone¡­ Allow me to thank you once again for joining us tonight!"


    Sheena spoke a little more, and this time, she acknowledged even guests present from the business world.


    Meanwhile, on the other side of the world¡­


    "Heh." Samuel curled the corner of his mouth after he watched the live streaming. He picked up his phone and dialed his master''s contact. "Master¡­"


    "I watched the live streaming. Very well! As I expected from Shun Crow, or I may say..." The joyful voice, reced by a crispugh, echoed in Samuel Miller''s ear.


    His master had crazilyughed once again as he was delighted with the drama ying before his eyes.


    "... I didn''t make a mistake in choosing the twin Carlisle and Klein Williams. They are outstanding actors in my y! Excellent, Samuel!"


    At the end of the call, Samuel twitched his mouth. Sometimes, he could still not figure out how his master''s brain worked. Is he crazy or a genius?


    ''Perhaps a crazy genius.''


    "Samuel, I want you to find Vincent Shen, dead or alive. It doesn''t matter!"


    Samuel shook his head and sighed inwardly, not letting his matter hear it. "Okay. I will contact my men to search for Vincent fast."


    "I want it soon!"


    Samuel pursed his lips and sneered in his heart. Once again, it frustrates him, but he has no say andins.


    "I''m on it. Please give me a couple of days, master. John will fly to T Country after the party in Zen City. Vincent will be in your hands soon."


    "Good! You will be rewarded soon!"


    After that, the call hung up. Samuel dropped his phone on the table and leaned back.


    "I don''t need any reward but to watch how Vincent''s body is rotten," he mumbled.


    However, the man Samuel called master has another n in his mind.


    "Vincent Shen, the world will be within my grasp. Soon, your body, identity, and love of your woman will be mine."


    The room was filled with crispughs and could be heard in the hallway, causing the pce guards to shudder with terror again.

 Chapter 498 The Man You Can’t Live Without

    <h4>Chapter 498 The Man You Can''t Live Without</h4>


    The pce guards bear the dread of overwhelming their hearts, and even their souls felt like it was sucked from their body while the man keptughing maniacally from his bedroom.


    They want to leave this ce. But the people who attempted to run away were all now cold bodies. Then, a pce official tried tomunicate with the international police and reported what was happening inside Lamandi Pce.


    That person was cut into pieces, and they don''t want to share the same fate as them, so they bear the terror that lingers in their chests and turns blind and deaf.


    Standing by the window, the man holding a goblet sipped on the wine. The corner of his lips curled every time he would recall how they created a plot twist to the original y he had been writing all these years.


    All he wanted was to end Shun''s life. Perfect timing, good news came.


    His empress was reincarnated in this lifetime. However, she will still meet that man and fall in love with him again.


    Fortunately, one of their children can harm Shun Crow.


    He has been attempting to kill Vincent to get his body in the past years.


    However, Madison saw the future and changed them again and again. It happens so many times, and they sessfully save Vincent''s life from his grasp, the death.


    So then, he has no choice but to keep changing his ns to get near Hailee Davies, leading him to prepare a thousand different plots to do his ruse. However, that girl.


    "Madison... Madison...."


    She was an obstacle to his ns, so he wanted to get his hands on her first. Unfortunately, she was surrounded by the best agents in the Alliance.


    Of course, she was the precious gem of the Alliance. Obviously, her father, Carlisle Williams, known as Shun Crow, in this life, will protect his daughter by all means.


    Thinking about this, he could sense the foul taste of the blood on his mouth.


    That girl was born through a soul-binding ritual and received heaven''s blessings.


    Madison was granted a fantastic ability. If only he could make her serve him, the world is already bowing before him!


    However, it''s not simple to brainwash her. She could fight well, and that fucking husband was also a nuisance.


    That brat prince from the Montfort family is getting on his nerves. His family''s influence is difficult to tackle; moreover, he never leaves his wife''s side as if the couple is glued together. And if asionally, they were separate; Shun Crow is with his daughter.


    And so he nned out very well how he could make their life miserable. Something about Shun Crow, Isabe, or Madison cannot stop him.


    Now it is just a matter of time. Although his initial n is to transmigrate into Vincent Shen''s body and live like him, then woo the princess and make her crazily in love with him.


    After that, he will bring her to the altar so that he will gain control of the business world through the Davies Corporation and Davies International. With that, Shun Crow can do nothing but meet his end.


    He is confident that the elders in the Alliance would be divided, and the royals will take Hailee Davies'' side because of her standing as the richest woman in the world.


    Inheriting trillions? Owning hundreds of businesses globally?


    Who would dare to defy her husband? And that was him!


    That is why his men have to find Vincent, whether dead or alive.


    "Soon¡­ we will reunite, my Empress¡­."


    .One more time, a creepugh echoed in the hallway that almost wet the pce guards'' pants.


    ~~~


    Meanwhile¡­.


    Hot¡­


    I felt hot¡­


    Where am I?


    It felt strange.


    My body felt like I was on fire.


    No¡­


    It is not the typical me.


    With this burning sensation, my body sumbed to hunger.


    The hand that caressed my bare body brought a carnal passion to my whole being.


    "Uhn¡­" I could hear myself moaning with pleasure.


    What is going on here? I don''t understand.


    Even though my body is burning with passion, somehow, it feels like I have to remember something significant at this moment.


    I opened my eyes and squinted to see my surroundings clearly.


    The ce seemed familiar. The scent of the room is familiar. And the warm body moving above me is also familiar.


    "Vincent¡­"


    I gasp for air and breathe, suppressing the scream that is about to let out from my throat.


    But it felt so incredible!


    It''s been a while since I felt this good after getting pregnant. The hungry man on top of me moved roughly as he worked harder inside me with such a passion.


    "Yes! There¡­ Uhh¡­" I could hear myself screaming without restraint in the next minute.


    I''m supposed to warn this man to take it slowly and gently as we might harm the babies. However, my head can''t think straight or remember everything.


    But one thing I noticed. My stomach is t. The baby bump has disappeared?


    "Is this a dream?" I mumbled between my moans.


    I want to open my eyes one more time. However, at this moment, I want nothing but to savor the pleasure my husband is giving me.


    He is taking me to ces I could only think of and feel every time we have wild nights making love.


    With my question, I felt the man was putting on more speed. I felt him pressing his body into me and his hot breaths fanning my face.


    Then something erupted inside me after he bit my ear and whispered, "I can make your dreame true."


    That hoarse voice.


    That sexy growl near my ear set off the already burning fire of desire engulfing me.


    I threw my legs around his waist and buried my heels in his bottom, matching his eagerness and meeting his trust.


    Ah¡­ This is so great!


    My husband is like a hungry wolf and is killing me with gratification. I know Vincent did his best to control his desire in the passing months.


    We did it many times during my pregnancy, but it was not as crazy before we learned I had multiple babies. And now, I could feel that he wants to ensure I am well fed when my body is begging for more.


    Yes, I want more¡­ and I don''t want this to end¡­.


    The room filled with my pleading and constant screams of contentment.


    I felt how my body shuddered from satiation.


    "I want you again, my love¡­." Vincent growled above me.


    ''My love?'' I was baffled.


    Vincent always calls me darling. He never used "my love" as an endearment to me.


    ''What is going on?''


    I was shocked for a moment. Then Vincent flipped my body, pushing my shoulders to the bed while adjusting his position behind me.


    It made me stop thinking straight after I felt his fullness inside me once again, and my body was screaming how I wanted him more.


    Vincent held my hips, then mmed his torso onto me in gradual motion.


    "Ahh¡­ Faster¡­"


    "Beg¡­"


    I bit my lip. Vincent and I had several ways of doing foreys and various positions, but he is not this rough.


    "I¡­." Vincent gripped my nape and pushed my head on the bed. I grabbed the sheets and tried to adjust my body and mind to Vincent''s sudden action while making love.


    It made me wonder if Vincent was acting like this because it''s been a while since we made love this intensely.


    However, the longer our bodies collide, a strange feeling surges through my chest.


    "Vincent¡­ Ugh¡­ You''re hurting me¡­." I tried to raise my head and nce at the man behind me.


    "What''s wrong, love?" Vincent leaned over and hooked his arm around my waist. He did not let me look at him but licked around my earlobe. "You are so beautiful, my Empress¡­."


    All of a sudden, I felt like I woke up inside my dream.


    ''This is not my husband!''


    I wanted to scream, but he pressed his mouth to mine and kissed me feverishly. I tried to break off from him as I was out of breath.


    Also, now that I feel like he isn''t my husband, I began feeling nauseous and disgusted.


    He looks like Vincent a lot¡­ However, this feeling is bizarre.


    "Let go of me!"


    I struggled underneath him.


    I want to be free from him.


    "Let me go!" I screamed.


    "Why?"


    He asked me with a helpless voice. For a moment, I was confused and anxious.


    Suddenly, my heart filled with confusion. I don''t recall why I''m here.


    I felt like I had to remember something.


    "Get off me! Don''t touch me!"


    Now that things seem not right. Nothing I wanted but to separate our bodies.


    "Are you not satisfied with me, love?"


    ''That! Vincent never calls me love!''


    "Who are you! You are not my husband." I sneered at him. "You are not Vincent!"


    I screamed this time and kept struggling to break off from him.


    "What are you saying? Don''t you miss me? We may separate a little longer. But I''m still the same. The man you can''t live without."


    For a reason, hisst sentence swayed her¡­


    ~


    "Doctor Williams, the patient!"


    The doctors that monitored Hailee 24/7 suddenly panicked after the monitoring screen didn''t stop making noises, showing her vitals were unstable.


    In the next room, where Derek is currently installing something, he rushed into the ICU and made a scan on Hailee.


    "No, you can''t do this¡­ Stay with me¡­." Derek could not help muttering while he was trying to save her. "Please, don''t give up¡­ Hailee! Stay with us!"


    Derek, who already handles all kinds of scenarios during a critical situation such as this, panics for the first time.


    He indeed was scared because he didn''t want the crisis to happen in the future. Either way, whichever in those timelines, they have to prevent it from happening.


    "Doctor Williams, the patient was trapped inside a nightmare," Athena reported after detecting the abnormalities in Hailee''s psyche.


    "Connect me to Madison!" Derekmands.


    After Athena connected the call, Derek requested on the other line.


    "Madison! Please, I needed you to dive into Hailee''s dream!"

 Chapter 499 Take My Hand

    <h4>Chapter 499 Take My Hand</h4>


    A few hourster...


    "Oh, Frederick! Finally, you are here!" Hilda ran toward her husband and cried. She looked at him between her blurry eyes from tears that had never ended pouring down her face since Hailee delivered the children. "Fred, where is our son?"


    Hilda was sobbing. Fred had to catch her when she almost stumbled on the floor. After she learned Vincent was assassinated and now missing, she didn''t stop wailing.


    "Calm down, Hilda."


    "How could I?" she snapped at her husband. "Our daughter-inw was in aa after she bled and then had forcedbor! She was saved from her recent seizure! How about next time? And our grandchildren? Oh, poor babies¡­." Hilda sobs.


    "I should be the one suffering instead of them. Say something, Fred¡­."


    Fred stared at his wife, who looked too helpless at the moment. Her delicate face suddenly sank, and her eyes swollen from crying.


    "I am also so worried about our son- and daughter-inw, especially our grandchildren¡­ It pained me every time I remembered their poor condition. We are doing all we can to save our son. Soon, he will reunite with his wife and children. The Prime Minister of T Country is trying his best to negotiate with those men who have his grandson."


    "How long? Can you not imagine those wild animals? How about snakes? What if our son got bitten? I think he is also injured. He will die of infection if he is not treated right away! We need to find him today. And those men! I will make them pay!"


    Fred let his wife fret. He was already familiar with her temperament for over thirty years of marriage with Hilda.


    "Say something, Fred! Huhuhu¡­"


    Fred kneaded his temple and sighed. "Hilda, like you, I also wanted to find our son sooner and capture those men. If only¡­. That is on my mind. My prayer is for our son toe back alive and meet his children. But we have to be patient. Master Shun Crow is doing everything to rescue our son. Dead or alive, they will bring our son back."


    "Don''t say our son will die! His wife and children are waiting for him! He has to live!" It was a wonder that Hilda''s tears never ended flowing from her eyes.


    "He will¡­" Fredforted his wife, wiping the tears from falling down her face. "That is why you have to pull yourself together. Do you think it will help Hailee if she sees you bawling like this?"


    Although his wife is not dressing up the way she always has been and has exquisite makeup on her face, she still looks mighty and extraordinary.


    "Our son would not just die without fighting to live. Aren''t you who nag him every day to do well? Instead of enjoying his summer vacation, our son visits a secluded area to train. It was you who wanted him to learn self-defense. After my father died in an ambush, I almost died as well. It gives you the idea that our son must know how to protect himself."


    "At this moment, I know Vincent remembered everything you nagged him," Fred added, and he sounded humoring.


    Listening to her husband, Hilda thought Fred was praising her.


    But then, at the end of his speech, Fred more likely jested at her.


    Hilda frowned and red at her husband. "Do you have to use the word nag if you feel likeplimenting me?"


    "Well, I know it is effective to stop you from crying. Listen, Hilda. Everyone is only waiting for the perfect opportunity to rescue our son. Jacob and Master Shun would not allow those assassins to get out of the forest."


    "I will try to stay strong, Fred. However, every time I look at our grandchildren¡­." Even though she said that, still, Hilda could not hold her tears. They were like rain pouring down from her eyes.


    "All right." Fred strokes Hilda''s back to calm her down. "Doctor Williams is here. I believe he could treat our daughter-inw and grandchildren. So, stop crying now."


    "I know, Fred. But still¡­ Earlier, when the doctors were in panic while saving Hailee, I thought¡­ Our son would no longer see his beloved wife. What will happen to our son if hees back to see his wife is gone?"


    "Please, stop. You were only breaking your heart with the things running in your head."


    "You are right, Fred. I better pray. Are youing?"


    "Of course. Let''s go. Let''s pray together after I meet our grandchildren."


    Fred and Hilda went to the Pediatric Ward and watched the four babies from the window. Fred wanted to touch and hold them. It pained him to see those medical machines connected to their tiny bodies. However, his grandchildren were inside the incubator and on treatment.


    "They were beautiful." Fred, who is rare to show his emotion to anyone, even in front of his family, shed tears. He felt sad and happy at the same time. ''God, please let their dade back alive.''


    ~~~


    Meanwhile, in the ICU.


    Jacob could feel his heart squeezed inside his chest seeing his daughter like this.


    "Oh, princess, my poor daughter. Dad is here now. Please, wake up¡­" Jacob did not stop his tears and broke down.


    He took Hailee''s right hand and kissed the back of the palm. He gazed at his daughter earnestly and did not stop talking with her.


    "Be strong, princess. We all love you and are waiting for you to wake up. I love you, my princess. Thank you for giving me four beautiful grandchildren. Do you know how brave they were? You heard correctly, princess. They were fighting to live and to meet their mom and dad."


    "So, please¡­ Come back to us, princess."


    ~~~


    Several hours ago¡­


    "Please, everyone, get out. Hector, you stay behind to assist me."


    "Doctor Williams? How about us? Why would we¡­?" Doctor Dave was confused why they were kicked out of the room when the patient was in terrible condition.


    "It''s all right. I will be assisted by thetest medical system I created with Doctor Payne''s help. Thank you, everyone. Don''t worry. I will still need you to monitor the princess the entire night." Derek did his best to make the other doctors understand their situation, and he could not reveal what other methods they would do to save Hailee.


    At the door, Madison and Levi catch air from running.


    "Uncle Derek, I''m here."


    "Great!"


    Madisonid down on the stretcher, and Hector was pushed toward and positioned next to Hailee''s bed. She held Hailee''s hand and closed her eyes.


    In the next moment, Madison found herself inside a bedroom. She is not familiar with this room. But to judge the interior design, it belongs to a man.


    Then she heard voices¡­


    "Let me go!" Hailee screamed.


    "Hailee! Take my hand!"


    "No!"

 Chapter 500 Take Over His Body

    <h4>Chapter 500 Take Over His Body</h4>


    Madison approached Hailee, but her body hit on something.


    She raised both her arms and mmed her palms to realize there was an invisible wall in between them, and Hailee would not hear her.


    "Hailee!"


    "Listen to my voice!"


    "Look this way!"


    Madison didn''t give up making noises as she kept mming her hands on the invisible wall. She took a few steps backward and ran toward it.


    It was still no use to her disappointment, but she didn''t give up. Not when she could see how Vincent forced Hailee to make love to him.


    Hailee looked terrified at Vincent, which made Madison wonder.


    "Hailee!"


    She doesn''t understand what is happening, but it tells her that Hailee needs to be saved from Vincent. Otherwise, something will go wrong, and she will lose Hailee.


    Madison ced both of her palms on the invisible wall and closed her eyes.


    She recalls all her training with the Shamans. They teach her how to use her energy to repel other shamans or sorcerers'' forces.


    However, with what Madison did, the man eventually noticed her presence.


    "It looks like we havepany, love." The corner of Vincent''s mouth curled up.


    "What are you talking about?"


    Hailee looked around, but she didn''t see anyone. Suddenly, a creep surged in her chest.


    "Please, let me go!" She begged over again.


    However, the man even pressed her onto the bed, and his weight fell on her body. dly, he stopped halfway because of the way he moved behind her; it felt like hell being tortured by him.


    Vincent has never been this rough. Also, this man is not using their endearment while speaking to her.


    "Why are you pretending to be Vincent? What do you want from me!?" she screamed.


    The man held Hailee by her chin and attempted to kiss her, but she struggled to avoid his mouth. With what she did, instead of getting angry, the man grinned, then whispered,


    "Do you want to hear what I want most?"


    Hailee shook her head. The man sounds creepy behind her ear, so she is not interested in whatever is in his mind. Rather than she would feel thrilled to hear his thoughts, it was the opposite.


    "It is you¡­. And everything that you have! Don''t you want to be the Empress of this world whose everyone bows to your feet?"


    Hailee was terrified by the way the man talked close to her ear. She believes Vincent would not say nonsense like this. Although Vincent would say, she was his empress. But the way this man spoke gave a chill to her spine.


    She and Vincent have been together for a year. Even though he is a jealous man, Vincent is gentle with her all this time. He may be snobbish to many people, but he is not rude to them.


    Unless that person is disrespectful toward her, Vincent always lets them taste his fierceness, which in those times, she was in an act as his mistress.


    "Vincent would not speak like this! You are sick, perhaps!"


    "Sick? I would die to give you the world, and you will call me that!"


    Hailee could see how the veins on his hands bulged from anger.


    "Get off me! Stop touching me! Ugh!"


    Hailee screamed. The man presses her body to the bed as he moves roughly behind her.


    "Stop! I don''t want this! Please, let me go¡­." Tears dripped from her eyes.


    Hailee gritted her teeth and gathered all the strength left her. She tried to face the man. From that position, she will attempt to be free from him.


    However, the more she struggled, the more the man would press his body into hers and thrust violently on her insides.


    ''No¡­ Vincent¡­''


    On the other side, Madison did her best to destroy the invisible wall that separates her from Hailee.


    She could not clearly understand what the man spoke to Hailee. She could hear muffled voices. But it only made her desperately want to be free from him.


    ''Hang on, Hail. A little more¡­ Don''t give up. Fight him!''


    "Help me!"


    Madison caught Hailee''s cry.


    "Whoever is there¡­ Please, help me!"


    Madison clenched her jaw. It looks like the man even strengthens the wall in between them.


    But there is no way she would give up.


    Little by little, the invisible wall cracked until itpletely shattered into pieces.


    "Hailee!"


    Atst, she could break the wall. She rushed toward the bed, but the man raised his hand, and things began flying toward her.


    Now that he got distracted, Hailee took it as an opportunity to pounce on him and run toward Madison.


    "Madison!" Hailee stretched her hand toward Madison, and she felt like she had fallen into nothingness.


    ~~~


    "Hah!" Madison woke up. She gasped for air to fill her chest. Slowly, with the help of her husband, she sat up from the stretcher.


    "Sweetheart, what happened?" Levi queried him, who never left his wife''s side, but attentively wiped the blood gushing out her nose. "Let me wipe your nose, sweetheart."


    "How''s Hailee?"


    "Her vitals are stable now."


    Madison sighs with relief.


    "Thank god¡­ Wait!" Madison suddenly got up from the chair and walked around the room.


    "What''s wrong, sweetheart?" Levi wondered why his wife was acting strangely. "Careful, sweetheart."


    Levi immediately caught Madison and supported her to stand.


    "He''s here!"


    At the same time, Levi and Derek asked, "Who?"


    "Who''s here, Lady Montfort?" Remain silent on the side, Doctor Hector asked curiously.


    "That man! He''s here in Dream City! I felt his presence! He even pretended to be Vincent!"


    "What?" the three men eximed at once.


    "How?" Hector, who does not entirely understand everything yet, is confused.


    "I think he''s the one who tried to trap Hailee inside her dream. But for a reason, Hailee senses he is not Vincent."


    "That man is here?" Levi muttered to himself. "How could he enter the city?" Suddenly, he bes vignt and looks around for nothing he sees but medical machines.


    "He could do that without being physically here, Levi." Derek reminded the guy.


    "I know that, Derek. He could not break in easily. I am trying to say that Lady Isabe and a few shamans put a seal in this ce. But now?"


    Just then, Derek understood Levi''s point.


    "That made sense, Levi. Probably, that seal weakens as Mama is also losing her ability." Derek thought that Dream City was the safest ce for Hailee and those involved with that man like Shun and Cassandra. "Athena, connect a video call with Mama and Shun."


    Not long, both Isabe and Shun appeared on the screen.


    "What is it, Derek?" asked Shun.


    "We just saved Hailee from a seizure. However, Athena detected that Hailee''s psyche was behaving abnormally. And so I asked Madison to help Hailee. Then¡­" Derek trailed hisst word and nced at Madison, a gesture that he was giving her the floor to exin further.


    "Papa¡­ I felt that man is inside Vincent''s body. I am uncertain if¡­."


    "Say that again, Madison?" Isabe asked, cutting Madison''s statement.


    "I''m not sure if he is truly Vincent or just an illusion. Or he is¡­?"


    "Or that was Vincent, but his soul is no longer inside his body." Isabe finishes Madison''s sentence.


    "That''s it!"


    Derek, who raked his head for an answer, finally found all the pieces of the puzzles that they were trying to solve.


    "That man¡­ He wants Vincent dead to take over his body!"

 Chapter 501 Destroy It

    <h4>Chapter 501 Destroy It</h4>


    "We did everything to be prepared. But it looks like we didn''t see iting¡­" said Shun.


    They have been trying to figure out "that man''s" primary objectives.


    They watched the future closely and changed a few things as necessary.


    Now a question in their heads.


    They may have been led into a trap by that man.


    Now that they have reached a usible conclusion. It made them realize that their preparation was not enough.


    They thought they''d outsmarted him by keeping changing the present time and getting a different result for the future.


    They keep preventing Hailee and Vincent from meeting and stopping the guy from dying.


    After many changes in the past few years, they seemed to seed. However, it feels like they are falling into a ck hole''s warp.


    "Could it be that his goal also changes because we keep pushing Hailee and Vincent''s fate to a different course?" Derek raised a question that made everyone enlightened.


    "Derek is correct." Shun concurred. He added, "We are not the only ones who''ve been working so hard all these years. Using Hailee against us is the best move for him to win."


    "We could only do a little against Hailee." Madison chimed in and shared her thoughts. "Hailee could gain a connection like you, Papa if she lived to her name as the daughter of Lord Jacob Davies. Only recently did Hailee reveal her real identity. She is now known to the world not just as the owner of DV Gem, Davies Cosmetics, and hotel chain, but as the owner of Dream City, an heiress of trillions. Hailee''s fame is iparable to us ever since she stopped living a low-key profile."


    "And the world is following everything in her life, even a very minor thing, but then it''s a big issue for theizens. Nowadays, people live on the inte like they almost worship gadgets. When you make a fake story, everyone is buying it immediately." said Levi.


    Recently, Shun and the Dawson family formed two teams to y in an ambush drama to make the world believe that Vincent was attacked in the middle of nowhere and not in the lodge. Then he escaped and was safe and only hiding until the investigation finished and located the mastermind after they apprehended the assassins.


    The drama was all over the news now.


    "Let us talk about the different TIMELINES that Madison and Levi traveled to." After listening for a while, Lady Isabe spoke and shared her viewpoint. "The first timeline shows that Shun killed Vincent on his wedding day. Now I want to believe that Vincent is actually HIM by then."


    "Mama can be right. Probably, that man reveals himself for Shun to confront him. It was his scheme for Hailee to see that Shun is the viin in the story."


    "I agree with that! Levi and I only witnessed something like that happen in the future, but we did not investigate further," said Madison with gloom.


    They only focus on Hailee, so they miss the bigger picture in front of them. Vincent''s death is not only to touch Hailee''s bottom line, but there is more to that.


    "That man wants to manipte Hailee with certain methods," said Shun. "Hailee and Uncle Jacob entrusted all theirpanies to Vincent. Even Uncle Jacob''s top bodyguards and Hailee''s knights follow Vincent''s order. Hailee is giving everything to him. Her heart, body, even her soul, and all her wealth. In fact, she will do everything for him. That is how she is madly in love with Vincent."


    He went on, "Then, in that timeline, after I found out that Vincent''s soul is no longer in his body, but that man is pretending to be him. I confronted him, and we fought as I wanted to protect Hailee, and she misunderstood me."


    "With Vincent''s death, Hailee would do everything to avenge me and strip me off with everything I have, which leads to killing me. Now I''m thinking about the other timelines. Possibly that man took over one of the babies'' bodies and pretended to be Hailee''s son, who he will avenge his fatherter in the story."


    "All the possibilities will happen, Shun," said Derek. "One of them is my father''s reincarnation. Since he could harm you, maybe that man took his body and pretended to be Vincent and Hailee''s son. In that way, he could easily manipte her. Even if he bes Vincent or Hailee''s son, it doesn''t matter to him as long as he could use her for his ns."


    "Since Hailee is in love with Vincent and cherishes her children, she would believe him." Levi phrase.


    "But I think Hailee would know the difference between the Vincent she knew and the Vincent who will pretend to be her husband." Madison exined, "When I was trying to save Hailee a while back. Even though it looked like Vincent, she was terrified of that man. But the problem would be when he brainwashed Hailee with his power not to see his true identity."


    "Then, if that''s the case, we must watch Hailee and the children 24/7. No one can be near them but only our most trusted doctors and nurses. It would be better if the entire floor were closed, but more agents will be on watch, and only immediate family members may visit Hailee."


    After Shun said this, he looked at Hector.


    "It is my honor, Master Shun." Doctor Hector Payne bowed like a humble knight. He is not only a good friend of Hailee and her loyal knight. But he also serves under Shun and practices medicine under Doctor Derek, so he knows enough about what is happening in this world without everyone''s awareness.


    "Alright. Since Liam is still not waking up, I had to wait for him before I could proceed with my ns."


    "Don''t worry, Papa. Levi and I will watch Hailee and ensure he can not get near Hailee again." Madison assures him.


    "I''ll be the one to watch the kids. I would not let him use dad for his ns." There is firmness in Derek''s voice when he says this. He is determined to stop him so that his mother bes a mortal once again and she can reunite with her lover in their next life. "I will use all my knowledge to keep the babies alive, Shun. They are my nephews and nieces, even though one of them is my father''s reincarnation."


    "Thank you, everyone. I am at ease having you there."


    "Don''t stress yourself too much, Papa. We will end this all together."


    "Madison is right, Shun." Derek raised a thumb, and Levi did as well.


    Shun nodded and smiled at his family. He is blessed, after all.


    After exchanging a few more words, Shun hung up and hosted a meeting with a few Elders in the Alliance he trusted most.


    ~~~


    Lamandi Pce


    "Ahhh!" a scream followed by things that seem broken.


    The man shouted after the crystal ball floating in the air shattered and disappeared into thin air.


    "Madisoooooon!"


    The man trembled with anger. After he calms down, heughs out loud.


    He was too close to trapping Hailee''s soul in his palm.


    But Madison appeared, and that girl was getting more powerful, like Isabe when he made her immortal three hundred years ago.


    "After all, she''s your niece, Isabe!"


    Again, the manughed creepily.


    "As expected, to my children. They are as great as me! Hahaha!"


    Outside, the pce guard on night shift is dozing off in his post, suddenly sobers up after hearing these creepyughs.


    ''When would this man die?'' He thought while shivering.


    However, he wouldn''t dare say it because it was only wishful thinking. That man has no death. He witnessed it in his very own eyes. Several pce guards attacked him, but nothing happened. Instead, this man''s wounds only healed on their own.


    Meanwhile, back in the pce chamber. The master dialed a particr contact.


    "What is John doing now?"


    "He is on the ne, heading to T Country, Master," Samuel replied from the other end of the call.


    "Great! I want to know about Shun''s next steps to rescue Vincent. I am sure Shun Crow is using his satellites to look for him. I want to be updated if they found his location. We will take him from them once they find Vincent dead or alive. I know Shun would not just sit around even after his threats."


    "Understood, Master. John told me his entire n. He will woo Miss Dawson''s family and get back together with her so that he can monitor the Prime Minister as well."


    "Great! He has been really useful all this time. So, what happened to that girl, by the way?"


    "I heard Miss Dawson got multiple injuries from the attack, and she needs rehab to walk again."


    "Hah! I got it! That''s a brilliant n!" The manughs delightedly.


    He could already picture. John went to such lengths toplete his work. Pretending that he still cares for that woman is a clever move indeed.


    Women quickly be a toy once they are madly in love with someone.


    "Good! It seems like he works hard for me to fascinate him. One day, he will be rewarded by meeting me in person."


    Besides, if he bes Vincent Shen, John will be the closest puppet standing by his side wherever he goes.


    Recently, John and Vincent had be good friends. Or is it just what Vincent believes in¡­


    "Hahaha! I like it more!" He was too full of himself.


    ''Shun Crow... Do you think you are the only one who had any backup ns? All I need is to make anyone around you fall into my hands.''


    ''Two birds, one stone. How exciting!''


    He shudders from the thrill.


    He could not wait to destroy Shun Crow and end his immortality and could no longer reincarnate again but vanish for eternity.


    And then, most of all. He will settle another score with Emperor Xing.


    Five hundred years ago, a great shaman built a sword. He destroyed it already, but the de fragments were rebuilt one hundred yearster and given to Emperor Xing.


    However, after he destroys and annihtes the Xing family four hundred years ago, the sword is nowhere to be found.


    Then, someone changes the timeline, and suddenly a survivor from the Xing family appears!


    So he believes that Vincent Shen keeps the sword and doesn''t know how to use it. That made him grateful somehow.


    The man curled his lips into a triumphant smile upon thinking of that.


    ''All of you are still a bunch of fools! Hah!''


    ''Anyway, I need that sword to fall into my hands and destroy it! So I must be Vincent Shen or be one of his sons to achieve this goal!''


    ~~~


    See you all in the Book Sequel! Thank you!

 Chapter 502 Marry Your Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 502 Marry Your Daughter</h4>


    Hillside Medical Clinic, T COUNTRY


    The woman on the bed groaned. Her eyshes flutter as she attempts to open her eyes; however, her eyelids are heavy. Not only that, she could feel pain in some parts of her body.


    "Carmen?"


    Carmen froze on the bed. Tears suddenly welled up in her eyes, even though she tried to suppress them.


    The voice that caught her ears was melodic. It was as if she was in a dream, back when she and John were still in a rtionship.


    Carmen pressed her legs to the bed to sit up; however, they didn''t move or feel them. She felt her body was heavy, and when she tried to use her strength, her body trembled.


    "How are you feeling?"


    "John? What are you doing here?" Carmen was stunned to see the man leaning on her. "I must be really dreaming."


    With a weak voice, Carmen scoffed and muttered this line. But then, she felt a warm palm holding her hand and then fingers gently caressing her face.


    ''This is not a dream? Am I really alive?''


    But then, the loud explosion, followed by fire, shes her memories.


    "Ahhhhh!" Carmen suddenly screams.


    "Carmen! What''s wrong? The doctor will be here soon!" John did his best to calm her down. He pressed the button again, but no one was approaching.


    John rushed outside the door and screamed. "Where is the doctor!?"


    "What happened?" Mrs. Dawson, who was resting in the other room, was startled and rushed outside when suddenly she heard John shouting in the corridor.


    "Carmen is awake, ma''am, but¡­." John could not finish his words when Mrs. Dawson entered the ward to see her daughter.


    "Oh, Carmen, my baby! What''s wrong? How do you feel?" Rhena Dawson wanted to hug her daughter; however, she was worried she might get hurt. Carmen''s body was still healing from receiving a first-degree burn.


    "Mom¡­." Carmen cried and grabbed her mom''s hand.


    "I''m here, honey¡­ Mom is here."


    "Which part hurts? Don''t worry. The doctor will be here soon!" After saying that, Rhena red at John.


    "I will fetch them myself, ma''am," said John and left. He didn''t wait any longer and volunteered. He went to the nurse''s station to see that there was only one nurse there. "Where is the other medical staff? The patient woke up and needs to be checked!"


    John could no longer keep his calm. Although the hospital was just a private clinic with a few private rooms, he could not stop himself from feeling disappointed.


    Bodyguards and police surrounded the private clinic, but they could not help Carmen.


    And the nurse who was terrified of him flinched and stammered. "They¡­ they¡­ they have to attend to the¡­ the other patient, sir."


    John creases his forehead. "All of them?"


    "Ye¡ªyes, sir. The male patient had a seizure, so they tried to save him."


    John stared at the nurse; then, he nced to the hallway that led to a male ward. Now that he paid attention to other noises, he could hear distinct voices.


    ''So Pitt is dying.'' he muttered to himself. John ensured to remain solemn and conceal the other emotion lingering in his chest.


    "Alright. But is it you still have to inform them? The other patients also need their help."


    "Yes, sir!" The nurse sprang to her feet and left with hurried steps.


    John could not wait. He went back to Carmen''s ward and saw if she had calmed down.


    Two days ago, he arrived in T Country. Although the Dawson family did not wee him; however, he had to show his sincerity over Carmen and gain their trust after breaking up with her.


    "What are you doing here? Who told you we are here?"


    "Good morning, Mr. Dawson." John greeted the older man politely. "I heard from James about what happened. I got worried about Carmen because of the reason I am here."


    John looked at Evan Dawson sincerely as he softened his gaze to look earnest.


    "Why are you concerned about my daughter? You broke up with her already, so you are not needed here. You can go back to your sister-inw. Are you more concerned about her than your girlfriend? Right?" Evan should not say this nonsense like he was the person whose heart was broken. But no one may hurt his princess, even if he was the man his daughter was in love with.


    Besides, he suspects John. It was confidential information that the hospital, Carmen, and Pitt were admitted. No other people knew but Master Crow and Jacob.


    They even orchestrate an ambush drama to lure the public and media''s attention.


    John did not argue with Carmen''s father but let him insult him. He lowered his head and exined himself.


    "Sir, I am only concerned with my sister-inw because she was pregnant when diagnosed with cancer. My brother is gone, and the child in her womb is my nephew. They are my responsibility now."


    Evan Dawson opens his mouth but is hesitant to say another word. He was prepared to beat him up, as he could not forgive this guy for hurting his daughter. Carmen never had a boyfriend, so he wanted to give John a piece of his mind.


    But listening to John exin his sister-inw''s condition, Evan could no longer act uncivil toward him.


    Seeing Evan''s facial expression change, John curled the corner of his mouth. But it was just a sh as he concealed it right away.


    "Sir, I broke up with your daughter because I was lost for a moment. After my dad and brother died, there were so many things I had to do. Sir, I want to give justice to their sudden death and make the culprit pay with his life. But then I heard about Carmen. I realize no one is important to me but your daughter."


    John paused talking when his voice trembled. He hurled a long breath and let them out so that you could sense how distressed he was at the moment.


    After adjusting his emotion, he raised his head and looked straight at Evan''s eyes.


    "Sir, I want to marry your daughter and love her for the rest of my life."

 Chapter 503 We Will Support You

    Chapter 503 We Will Support You¡¡¡¡"Do you expect me to believe you were sincere toward my daughter?" Evan asked John.


    John lowered his head and said,


    "I know you doubted my feelings for your daughter, sir. I am here to prove that my love is genuine."


    He paused and looked up to meet Evan''s eyes.


    "I begged you, sir. Let me see your daughter. Please, let me stay by her side and care for her."


    Evan raised a brow listening to John. However, he remained skeptical about whether to believe John''s words. As someone who has stayed beside Carmen growing up since she was born, he watched his daughter closely. Carmen is an intelligent girl. She excels in school and is excellent at everything. She always made her parents proud. And so, she is also his pride.


    That''s why after the breakup, he sent someone to investigate why John changed his mind.


    Several men from distinguished families are after his daughter''s hand, but he rejects them all because none of them capture Carmen''s attention.


    He cared for his daughter''s feelings, so he didn''t force Carmen or arrange her marriage.


    However, someone had the guts to break his daughter''s heart. He found out after the investigation that John''s sister-inw was his childhood friend. People thought they would end up together, but when his twin brother returned, that girl had a rtionship with him.


    From a man''s perspective. He is certain that John loves that girl, but it is only unrequited love. But now that she is a widow and a single mother, John can persuade that girl.


    He believes it was the reason John broke up with Carmen. Then, John said that the girl was diagnosed with a terminal illness.


    He didn''t want to let his mind go wild. But had that thought, John wanted to go back to his daughter because the other girl was dying.


    Would he allow that? As a father who loves his daughter dearly, he would not let Carmen be only a substitute and be blinded by her love for John.


    However, Carmen is three weeks pregnant now. It hurts him that his grandson grows up without a father. But he will ept his daughter being a single mother rather than allowing her to suffer from being with a man who loves someone else.


    Lost in thoughts, Evan was perplexed about whether to believe John. Probably, he''ll just let his daughter decide for herself.


    And whatever makes Carmen happy, he will support his daughter.


    "Alright. Since my daughter is still in aa, I will let you stay. But if my daughter doesn''t want to see you after she regains consciousness, I will drag you out of this country."


    Sadness exhibited in John''s eyes almost made Evan soften his heart to believe him. But he is a person who is not easily swayed except for his darlings. Even his wife is also against John being there. And so, he kept treating John sternly over the past two days.


    ~~~


    Present Time


    Doctor Ben Ryan pants as he chases some air to breathe. His forehead is covered with beads of sweat from saving Pitt''s life, which is in a terrible state.


    "I''m sorry, Mrs. Dawson if I took too long toe. Mr. Cha has a seizure." Doctor Ben quickly exined to the olderdy as he approached the sickbed. "How are you feeling, Miss Carmen?"


    Doctor Ben performs a basic check-up on Carmen. After then, he invited Rhena to speak with her privately.


    "Ma''am, we must transfer your daughter to a better hospital for a thorough test. In my initial examination, your daughter cannot feel her legs."


    "Oh my, god! Doctor, are you telling me that?" Rhena burst out crying, thinking her daughter could not walk.


    "Don''t worry, ma''am. Miss Carmen will get treated. We have several patients who are more severe cases than your daughter. However, the hospitals with advanced equipment to treat Miss Carmen are only in Maind City and Dream City. So I suggest Dream City as Australia is nearer than the M Nation. Besides, Miss Carmen will be safer there."


    "Please help my daughter, Doctor Ben! It pained me to see her like that."


    "We will, ma''am. Dream City has excellent doctors, and we could invite more experts to treat your daughter¡­ Mr. Cha also needs an immediate operation. I already requested Mr. Crow, and he already sent a paramedic aircraft. They will arrive tonight. We will transfer Mr. Cha and Miss Carmen to Dream City."


    "I understood, Doctor Ben. My daughter needs to recover soon. She is pregnant now. How could she take care of her child if¡­ if ...."


    "Doctor Williams is in the city. He could observe your daughter and treat her."


    "Thank God. I''m happy to hear that, Doctor Ben." Rhena was grateful that Carmen had great friends. She believes her daughter will recover soon with their help. "By the way, Doctor Ben. How serious is Mr. Cha''s condition?"


    "It''s terrible, ma''am. We might have lost him if he did not get an operation sooner. I need better medical equipment."


    "Oh, poor, child." Rhena likes Pitt. Since Carmen broke up with John, she had even had the idea of pairing her daughter with him. Now, both of them end up in the hospital.


    Rhena was in deep thoughts when someone spoke behind her.


    "Ma''am?"


    Rhena looked at him indifferently, and John had to ignore it when he had a purpose of staying by Carmen''s side. Otherwise, his n failed. So he has to bear how Carmen''s parents treated him badly.


    "Ma''am, I heard you are bringing Carmen to Dream City. Please let me apany you. I want to take care of your daughter."


    Rhena did not respond. John does not impress her, and she disagrees he was here. However, the final decision wille from Carmen.


    "My daughter would decide if she wants you to stay or wishes to see you."


    After saying that, Rhena walked past John and left in the corridor.


    "Honey?" At the ward, Rhena approached her daughter. Carmen had finally calmed down now after Doctor Ben gave her an injection.


    "Mom, did my baby?"


    "Don''t worry, honey. The baby is safe."


    "I''m d." She let the tears travel her cheeks. Carmen learned she was pregnant two days before the attack, so she was d she didn''t lose the precious life growing inside her.


    After Carmen stopped crying, she asked her mom. "Mom, why is he here? Did John already know that I am pregnant with his child?"


    Rhena shook her head and replied, "No, he hasn''t yet. Even before he came, the doctors and nurses had already been briefed that they should not disclose this information to the public. It''s not that we are ashamed or think of our reputation. We only wanted a peaceful life for you."


    "Thank you, mom. I''m not ready to tell him yet. I don''t want to think about anything yet for now."


    "Don''t worry, Carmen. Dad and I were here for you. Whatever decision you make, we will support you."


    "I love you, mom. I want to see dad."


    "He''s on his way. He needs to shake off the reporters that are following him around. They were persistent even after we released a press conference. By the way, they will transport you to Dream City tonight. Do you want John to apany us?"

 Chapter 504 Please, Dont Send Me Away

    Chapter 504 Please, Don''t Send Me Away¡¡¡¡"I don''t know, Ma," Carmen expressed with honesty.


    "You still love him, do you?" Rhena looked at her daughter earnestly.


    Carmen meets her mother''s loving gaze. She could not lie to her, so denying her true feelings for John was no use. "I always do, Ma."


    "Do you want to speak with him?"


    Carmen pondered for a moment. After careful thought, she nodded and said, "I can''t avoid him forever, nor can I hide my growing belly after a few months."


    "I''ll fetch him, then."


    "Thanks, Ma." She was grateful to have a family who would not abandon her but support her decision.


    Rhena came out of the ward. She saw John seated on a bench, sping both hands while his elbow rested on his knees. His neck sunk into his shoulders.


    The guy looks helpless, and Rhena fights the urge to feel pity and ept John. Not yet. He has to prove to himself first that he deserves her daughter.


    "John¡­"


    John was a bit startled. He quickly rose to his feet. "Ma''am?"


    Rhena looked at John with intent. Even though she would dig a pit, it cannot change that this man is the father of her grandkid.


    "I''m giving you thest chance to talk to my daughter. But I''m warning you, Mr. Jackson. I''m still not pleased with you."


    "I''m ready to ept your displeasure with me, Mrs. Dawson. I don''t mind if you can''t forgive me yet. But please allow me to prove how much I love your daughter. Give me a chance to persuade her."


    Rhena felt a chill listening to John''s pleas. She waves her hand to dismiss John.


    In Carmen''s ward, she looked away when John entered the door.


    "Hi. How are you feeling?"


    "I would not feel good if I stayed like this forever." Carmen sounded so bitter because of her condition. In fact, she has no confidence in seeing John.


    John clenched his palm into a ball inside his pocket. Carmen had a third-degree burn, and she needs surgery and rehab to walk again. She was suffering because Samuel nned to abduct Vincent, dead or alive. After the attack, Vincent went missing, and neither his men nor Master Shun Crow had a lead about where he was.


    ''I need to know where Vincent is.'' John told himself. He stepped closer to Carmen and held her hand. "Don''t worry, sweetheart. I''ll be your legs until you can walk again. I promise I will not shun you away this time."


    Listening to John''s words, Carmen didn''t know whether tough at how ridiculous it was or cry as her heart fluttered and would like to believe it.


    "You don''t need to be cheesy, John. Can''t you see? I look hideous now," said Carmen bitterly.


    "You are mistaken, sweetheart. You are always beautiful in my eyes."


    Carmen was speechless. Deep inside, she wanted to believe in John and give him a chance one more time. But whenever she remembered that another woman was upying his heart, it broke her again.


    How could shepete with Ivy now?


    Although Ivy is just the daughter of John''s family driver, she is gorgeous and has a beautiful body. She may have had no wealth, but Ivy graduated with flying colors. She is smart.


    The only advantage she had nowpared to Ivy was the child growing up in her womb. It is what she could be proud of. However, it still confused her whether to get back together with John only because they had a child.


    After she learned she was pregnant, Carmen asked herself a million times if she could bear knowing the truth that there was another woman in John''s heart.


    It seems like a lonely life.


    "John, you should have to go home and take care of Ivy instead of me. She was still grieving after Jay''s passing. I have my family to look for me, so I am fine."


    "She had her family too," said John, tightening his hold on Carmen''s hand. He softened his gaze and pleaded. "Please, take me back. Breaking up with you is the stupidest thing I ever did. After hearing what happened to you, I felt like my world crumbled, and suddenly I woke up from my idiocy. I almost lost you. Now, I would never leave your side. I love you, Carmen."


    Carmen was rendered with silence. She grabbed her hand and turned her head to the other side, averting her gaze from John.


    She almost gave in. "Let me think about it."


    "It''s alright. You don''t need to give me an answer. I can wait even if it''s forever. I have one request. Please don''t send me away. Let me take care of you."


    Carmen grabbed the sheet and clenched her palm. She hated how it warmed her heart, and she couldn''t stop saying, "Okay."


    "Thank you, Carmen!" Out of joy, John kissed Carmen''s forehead and startled her.


    "John, I just allow you to stay, but it doesn''t mean we have a rtionship."


    John scratched his temple as he smiled embarrassingly. "I''m sorry. I did not control myself. You don''t know how you made me happy."


    Carmen just shrugged a shoulder and paid little attention to John''s reasoning. "I''m tired. I wanted to sleep."


    "Go on. I''ll be here watching you."


    ~


    Later that night, Carmen and Pitt were transported to Dream City, apanied by Rhena and John.


    Evan Dawson stayed behind not to get a lot of attention when they were still dealing with Samuel Miller''s men, the Dark Organization. They are still holding Rob a hostage.


    "Hey, John!"


    "James¡­" John raised his knuckle and bumped into James. He also shook hands with the other knights. "How''s the search?"


    James shook his head. "Those men are not negotiating. So we could not take a reckless action."


    "I see. I wished I could help. But the Dawson family had wider influences than me when I am just an outsider." said John.


    James patted John''s back. "I heard you are wooing Carmen. Good luck!"


    "Yes, I am. Thanks." John sighed with relief to see James was supporting his goal. "By the way, how is the princess?"


    Sadness shes in James'' eyes. "The empress is still in aa after she had forcedbor. The babies are in incubation and fighting for their lives."


    "Can I see them?" John made a request. He looked at James with expectant eyes and sighed with relief when James nodded.


    "Let''s go." James led John toward the tenth floor.


    John had vignt eyes when he stepped out of the elevator. He saw how heavily guarded the entire floor was. He guessed it was Master Crow''s order.


    "Poor angels."


    John heard James uttering these two words that pulled him from his train of thoughts. From the window, John saw four incubators with four babies. On their bodies connected several medical types of equipment.


    After their visitation, James brought him to the fifth floor, where the restaurant was located.


    "Hey, James. I need to use the restroom first."


    "Alright. You know the way?" asked James.


    "Yes, I am."


    "Cool!"


    John watched James enter the restaurant. Once the guy is out of sight, he trailed down the hallway that will take him to the restroom.


    Inside, he checked every cubicle to see if another person was using the toilet. After ensuring he was alone, he entered one and sat on the toilet bowl.


    John pulled his phone out of his leather jacket pocket and typed on the screen.


    "The princess had already given birth, and they are in critical condition."


    "KILL THEM."


    Is the reply John received.

 Chapter 505 The Australian Royal Army

    Chapter 505 The Australian Royal Army¡¡¡¡"How could I do that?" John replied to the text message and exined. "The top floor is heavily guarded. I could only visit the babies because of James. The rest may not enter the top floor."


    "Then you have to figure it out."


    "That is actually impossible. Other than Jacob and Vincent''s parents, no one cane and go whenever they like but the Montfort couple, Andre and James."


    After his reply, it took a while before John received a response from Samuel.


    "Then work on it."


    John twitched his mouth, reading the message. ''Like that was too simple. I''m inside Hailee''s kingdom and surrounded by her knights.'' However, did he have another choice?


    "Fine." He repliedter on.


    Samuel parted his lips into a wide grin when John sent this text. His eyes gleamed with excitement.


    ''It''s time to eliminate John. There''s no one Master should trust but me, no one else!'' Samuel thought.


    John is gaining the master''s trust. Samuel feels threatened and would not allow John to get close to the master.


    His master clearly instructed him that the children must live. But he gives John a false order, which will be his downfall.


    When John seeds in killing the babies, his master will be outraged and eliminate him. By then, there is no one his master will trust but only him!


    Having thought of how clever he is to n against John, Samuelughs like crazy. One of these days, John will disappear from the face of the earth because he will think that the order he carried out is the master''s order.


    In truth, the master wants nothing to happen with the kids, as he will use them in his backup n if he fails to get Vincent.


    ~


    After John reported to Samuel how Hailee had forcedbor and the babies were in critical condition, he went to the restaurant for a meal.


    John joined James at their table. He nodded his head to the knights and greeted the ones at the nearby tables. Although they looked at him suspiciously and interacted poorly, he remained unfazed and dodged their intent gaze.


    He nced around casually and scanned the ce to gather some information. He noticed how Hailee''s knights were careful with their discussion, not for him to hear anything.


    "Don''t worry, John. Everyone is on guard because things are dreadful because of what happens to the empress. We cannot sit idly but watch each other''s backs until the empress regains consciousness and apprehend whomever our enemy."


    "I understand, of course. Hailee did not ept me as her knight, yet," said John painfully. He conceals the sadness shing in his eyes but smiles at James before he begins eating his meal.


    ~


    Later that day, Derek spoke with Jacob in the lounge area outside the ICU.


    "Uncle Jacob, I scheduled Hailee''s surgery tomorrow morning."


    "Is her condition stable now, Derek?" asked Jacob. He wants assurance. He is too worried about his daughter, which causes him not to close his eyes even for a wink.


    "Yes, Uncle Jacob. Don''t worry. The new machine I invented was 99% sessful when I performed a test. My operation with Pitt and Carmen was sessful. I can assure you, Uncle, Hailee''s CS marks will disappear, and her wound will heal in a short time."


    "I''m d to hear that. Thank you. Without you, what will happen to this world, Derek?"


    "I''m happy to be of help, Uncle. Besides, it''s all thanks to Shun for pouring enormous funds into my research."


    "Hah. You''re right. Shun is actually doing everything to help Hailee. I''m happy he is a good brother to my daughter."


    Derek smiled awkwardly as guilt struck his heart. Until now, Jacob nor Hailee was blind to everything that was happening, and they were only hiding the truth as to why Shun wanted to make up with them.


    "Family is always helping each other, Uncle," said Derek.


    "Indeed. Blood is thicker than water." Jacob''s phrase concurs with Derek''s quote. "So I entrusted my daughter to you, Derek. Please help her."


    "We will do everything even beyond our capability, Uncle Jacob."


    "Thank you, Derek."


    "Don''t mention it, Uncle." Derek didn''t stay long. He excuses himself and visits Hailee inside the ICU before he leaves back to his office. Leaving that ce, his steps are actually heavy. He is praying that things will be over soon and he will be free from his conscience.


    ~


    ALLIANCE HQ, Italy


    The following day, Shun visits Liam. The doctors ran diagnostic tests and saw no problem with him, but he stayed unconscious.


    "Shun!"


    Shun turned his head toward the man running toward him. "Daichi? What happened?"


    "Shun, our informant, sent a report. The Royal Army is preparing to deploy soon!"


    "What?" Shun was in great shock. ''This is not happening!''


    Shun pulled out his phone from his coat pocket and dialed Levi''s contact. "Where is Andre?"


    "What''s wrong?" Levi was in a daze after the call woke him up. He had no sleep for many days now, as he never removed his gaze from the ICU, watching Hailee 24/7.


    "Did Andre leave Dream City?"


    "Andre? I think he''s still here." Levi replied, yawning, as he was still sleepy.


    "Levi, Andre is about to deploy to the Royal Army! I want you to find out where they are headed!" said Shun.


    "Huh? The what?" Levi forced his head to work when he wasn''t entirely sober yet. After his brain fully functions, Levi jumps off the sofa and runs toward the elevator. "Oh, shot!"


    The Australian Royal Army is not just part of the Australian Defense Force, but they were the Davies Private Army!


    And because Jacob has no son, Andre, who he made as heir to acquire this important role and lead the army to protect the Davies family at all costs.


    Being an Air Force pilot is just a front to Andre''s real identity. He is one of the most low-key among Hailee''s knights not to gain so much attention.


    However, girls are exaggerated to any handsome Air Force men like the Maverick character of the TOP GUN movie. Why not? Andre also resembles Tom Cruise, and he is not inferior to how good-looking he is.


    As of now, no one could beat Andre as the best aviator, carrying the title of Number One in the world.


    But Andre is not just the best pilot. Being an Air Force Captain is just his rank on the surface. But the truth is, Andre is the Fleet Commander of the Australian Royal Army, a secret army hidden by the entire Australian Defense Force''s higher rank officials.


    The Defense Forces who can join the secret army are only the best among the best. Andre is often gone for a long time because of the special training he must give all the new members.


    Davies has not just been working on growing their wealth; they have also established a force that will protect them. Hailee''s ancestors built a secret army because of the frequent invasion by other explorers who also wanted to colonize thend.


    They needed to protect their interest, so they made an agreement with every leader of many states and established a concrete constitution.


    The Davies helped establish a better political system in Australia after the great war. Including appointing the first Prime Minister by a secret order by the Davies family.


    Davies had strengthened their standing in the Business World on the surface while they continued building an army by funding the Defense Force''s advanced weapons, and it developed throughout time. Davies is still backing up the research through the Royal Army.


    "Levi¡­"


    "Yes, Shun."


    "I want you to investigate who is Hailee''s first-inmand now."


    "First-in-Command? Isn''t Pitt who carries out her direct orders?"


    "Yes, he is. But ever since Pitt was assigned to protect Vincent, I know there are changes to the Knights'' rank."


    "Then? Could it be Andre?" Levi guessed.


    "No. It can''t be Andre. He must focus on leading the Royal Army. But the First-in-Command is the one who is always on Hailee''s side to carry out her orders. Including giving orders to the Royal Army Commander when a Davies was in great danger. Since Vincent married Hailee, he is crucial to the Davies family, so they must protect him."


    "The Australian Royal Army. Then? Who among the Knights bes Hailee''s First-in-Command? Is it Geoffrey? Since Bryan is out of the picture, he was to remove from being the First-in-Command. Ah! I know someone to query! I''ll call you backter, Shun." Levi hung up the call and entered the elevator.


    ~~~


    Dr. Hector Payne Clinic


    Hector was studying some medical reports when the door in his office pushed open abruptly. He was startled when the man who entered the room rushed to his table and became violent.


    "Master Montfort?"


    Levi, breathing heavily, mmed his hands on the table and asked Hector several questions.


    "Tell me, did Andre prepare tounch an attack? Where is he bringing the entire Royal Army fleet? Who is inmand of Hailee''s entire knights!?"

 Chapter 506 The First-in-Command

    Chapter 506 The First-in-Command¡¡¡¡Hector did not know how to answer. He knew it was the Emperor who needed this information. Levi Montfort is one of Master Crow''s trusted brothers in the Alliance.


    "I''m sorry, Master Montfort. I have no right to answer any of your questions."


    Levi tightened his jaw. He gazed at Hector with gloom. "Doctor Payne, we are talking about saving the world here. So please, tell me. I need to know who is giving out themand."


    Levi acted civilly, hoping Hector would reveal what the knights were nning.


    "I swear not to say anything to the empress," said Hector.


    "Dammit!" Levi cursed and mmed his hands on the desk.


    He steps back from the table but paces back and forth in front of Hector. Levi tried to figure out something, putting himself as one of Hailee''s knights. What would he do if he were under Hailee''smand? Whom will he choose to take charge?


    "James!" Levi blurted out all of a sudden. "It was James, wasn''t it? He is inmand now?"


    Hector''s mouth remained tightly closed. No matter what happens, he must seal his mouth. "Erm¡­ I''m sorry, Master Montfort."


    Levi saw how Hector lowered his gaze. He read his bodynguage, and he came up with an idea.


    "I better ask James." After he announced, Levi walked out of Hector''s clinic.


    Left behind, Hector grew anxious. He followed Levi and blocked his way.


    "Please, Master Montfort! It''s better this way! Let us handle some matters."


    "This way, what!? And what matters are you talking about? Among the knights, you knew what future awaited us if we didn''t stop that man!"


    "Erm¡­" Again, Hector could not reason out or exin to Levi. "I''m sorry, Master Montfort. But please¡­ Could you trust us?"


    "How can I if you are not helping us?" Levi snapped. He didn''t waste another second talking to Hector and walked toward the elevator.


    The knights often gathered in the restaurant, waiting for Hailee to wake up. Levi marched inside and looked for James. He found him in the corner, speaking on the phone.


    "James!"


    Levi''s loud voice echoed in the hall. Everyone lounging in the restaurant suddenly felt the tension emitting from Levi''s body. The knights quickly stood on their feet and blocked Levi''s path toward James.


    "What happened, Master Montfort?" asked Leo Grubber, Chief of Hailee''s Legal Team.


    Seeing that the knights be vignt toward him, Levi calms down. It would not help if he dug a pit. In that case, the one going down the hole in him.


    "I just wanted to ask James about important matters," Levi exins. The situation isn''t great. He was alone if he went against Hailee''s knights.


    "Please, let us all stay calm. It was aplete misunderstanding. But please, Master Montfort. I assure you that what you feared will not happen." Hector finally caught up and coaxed Levi.


    "What is going on, Hector?" asked James. He walked over and faced Levi. He queried politely. "What do you wish to discuss with me, Master Montfort?"


    Levi swept his gaze to every face of the knights that were present in the restaurant. If he were to be violent and use force to make James confess, he would not win. So he dismissed the thought and yielded inwardly.


    "Alright. I wanted to know who is First-in-Command. Is it you? Then why did you give out an order to deploy the fleet? Where are you headed to?" Levi did his best to throw these questions with all his calm.


    "Sweetheart? What''s going on?" At the door, Madison entered the restaurant and walked toward themotion. She halted next to her husband and interrogated him. "What''s wrong?"


    "Shun received a report that the Royal Army was deployed to the Indian Ocean. There is no certainty where they are headed. But this is not a good mood. We all know that it will create tension." Levi''s tone carried a hidden meaning to Madison. He is reminding his wife about the war that erupted after Vincent died.


    Madison, who learned this news, scared her off. She faced the knights and gave them a piece of her mind.


    "What are you guys doing? Do you know what would happen if you disyed this bold move to the world? I know you guys are worried about Hailee. But Papa Shun is doing everything to keep everything under control while Vincent is nowhere to be found. Please, pull out the fleet back to Queen Ind!" Madison ordered, which didn''t faze the knights.


    They respect Madison, but their loyalty always belonged to their empress.


    "We''re sorry, Lady Madison. But we cannot do that." James answered.


    "Is that so? You are in the position of First-in-Command. But have you imagined what conflict would create because of your decision, James?" Levi berated.


    When none of the knights speaks up, Madison removes her gloves and walks toward James, but Levi stops her.


    "Please, no. You are pregnant with our daughter. I won''t let you risk both of your lives."


    "But, sweetheart?" She is willing to risk everything for a better future for the world, not just for herself and her family, but the entire humanity.


    "Let me handle this," Levi whispered to his wife. Madison protests, but Levi shakes his head. "Sweetheart¡­"


    Madison finally calmed down. She wears her glove again and lets her husband deal with the situation. Now that he coaxed Madison, Levi turned around and faced the knights again.


    It was written on their faces when Madison took off her gloves. They knew she was pregnant, and so they avoided upsetting her. But what if Madison nned to attack one of them?


    They were all wondering when Levi spoke up again and pleaded.


    "Everyone, please tell us what you are nning? I will repeat my query. Who among you is in the First-in-Command? Are you, James?"


    "No. You have mistaken Master Montfort. I am only the Third-in-Command," James answered.


    "Then? It is you, Andre?"


    "I am the Fleet Commander. But I am not the Davies heir, but Hailee. Therefore, I cannot give out an order, but the First-in-Command whom Hailee assigned." Andre exined.


    "Then? Why did you deploy the Royal Army if you have no order from Hailee?" Levi queried. He was confused about why these men denied it. "Why don''t you tell me who this person is? Is it you, Geoffrey?"


    "None of us here is the First-in-Command," said Geoffrey.


    Levi and Madison were both astounded by this news. They wondered who could be the First-in-Command aside from these men whom Hailee trusted most.


    "Then who?"


    "It was me."


    Everyone in that restaurant turned their heads toward the door and gaped at the person who spoke all of a sudden.


    "Vincent!"

 Chapter 507 Madisons Doubts

    Chapter 507 Madison''s Doubts¡¡¡¡"It was me who gave out the order," said Vincent as he approached them.


    The executive knights present in the restaurant recognized the two men following behind him. They all cheered. "Ed! Zed!"


    "Yo!" Both Ed and Zed sh a smile. The Franklin twins are Hailee''s most trusted envoys for dangerous missions. "What''s up, bros!"


    "Hey!" The knights greeted them, hugging and throwing knuckles at each other.


    "How does it happen?" Levi queried Vincent when he halted near them. It surprised him to see Vincent today as a miracle had just happened.


    "It was a long story," Vincent replied. He added, "James will exin that at the perfect time."


    "I still could not believe it. Shun is trying to locate you with his satellites, but there is no trace of you!" Levi stated after looking at James. He was still conflicted about why James shared nothing andcked trust in them. If they plotted against that man, Shun was prepared to help.


    "The most important thing is Vincent alive," said Geoffrey. They have no knowledge that Vincent ismunicating with James. But Geoffrey had a positive point of view.


    Whatever the reason that James shared nothing with them in the past few days, he understands and sees it as an excellent strategy to lure the enemy. Not only that, the possibility is that one of them is a traitor who actually works for the enemy, and they are all well aware that a day wille; each one of them will receive crucial orders from Hailee. And they must carry out that order until theirst breath as Pitt did.


    However, Madison, on the other hand, had a slight doubt in her heart. She has been too cautious around her after what she witnessed inside Hailee''s dream. That''s why she is often thinking overlytely.


    Vincent suddenly appeared. He is unscratched and even looks like a new person. Should she believe he was still the original Vincent?


    "Sweetheart."


    Madison was pulled out from her deep thoughts when Levi patted her back gently. She blinked and fixed her gaze on her husband''s sexy jawline. She smiled, then shifted her attention to Vincent.


    "I''m happy that you are back in one piece, Vincent," Madison buried the doubts in her heart and spoke with glee.


    Vincent looked at Madison and replied, "I''m very fortunate. Ed and Zed quickly rescued me, and we escaped from Hillside Lake and then transported from V Country Sea toward the Indian Ocean via the Royal Submarine."


    "Wait¡­ Are you saying you were only hiding in the depths of the sea this whole time?"


    "Yes. It was part of Hailee''s n." Vincent affirmed.


    "The Empress?" The knights were stunned to hear this, as the rest knew nothing of Hailee''s n.


    "We are sorry that we didn''t share any of this. The Empress only wanted to avoid anypromises to the entire n." Zed Franklin chimed in. He then exined. "The Empress has been nning an ambush drama when the Dark Shadow Organization will attack Vincent again."


    "However, one of our eyes was caught and tortured. Someone has the capability of reading minds, even though my guy refuses to speak." The twin Ed Franklin added.


    "That must be the master. He is dangerous and should not be underestimated." Madison''s warnings.


    "I could confirm that Lady Montfort''s statement was true. I have evidence that mystery surrounded him," said Ed.


    "Ed''s lookout outside Lamandi Pce reported that the master uses all his resources to find me after the surprise attack. I ordered the fleet to sail toward the Indian Ocean as a diversion while the Sub was heading back to Australia. The world will set its eyes on the fleet and feel the tension to scare the V Country Parliament from here on. Soon, the fleet will sail for V Country after Andre joins them."


    "Hmm¡­ Then I should be on my way." After just keeping his mouth shut since day one and acting as if he was only a bystander, Andre spoke. Now, as the fleetmander, he must act and lead them.


    "Hailee is waiting for you." Andre patted Vincent''s back before he walked toward the door.


    In the passing weeks, he stands beside Hailee and Vincent to n out everything, giving his advice on the pro and cons they will face during the assassination drama. They must be prepared for everything, like what happened to Hailee and the babies; their lives were in danger after their momma got too emotional.


    Good, everything was in ce before the surprise attack by the assassins. They rode the flow until the perfect time, Vincent appeared, and Hailee woke up.


    "That was a relief, Vincent. I am losing my mind thinking about where you were after the attack."


    Vincent was astonished to see the sincerity in Levi''s eyes. He could genuinely see how everyone was concerned with his disappearance.


    "Thank you for taking care of Hailee and our children. James keeps me updated that you never leave her side and watch her 24 hours a day." He expressed his gratitude to Madison and Levi.


    "Don''t mention it. We are all family. No one helps each other but us all in any way we can," said Madison, with a hidden meaning in her tone. The guilt in her heart still lingered at the bottom of her chest. Every day, she prayed everything would be over soon and that the world would be at peace.


    "We all love Hailee. In everything that Hailee possesses in her life, none brought happiness but you, Vincent, so please stay alive. If something had happened to you, it would break Hailee. That is why we are d that you are safe." Levi expressed.


    "I barely live, yes. And I am supposed to stay hidden. But there are changes in the ns."


    As Vincent said this, his eyes shed a dangerous re, like he would kill someone soon.


    He carried on, "So, here I am. I had justnded on the rooftop and phoned James. But then I overheard amotion in the background, so I came here straight."


    "Then we should go to Hailee now," Madison urged. She used the word we instead of you, not to sound obvious that she wanted to keep an eye on him to ensure that he was not the Dark Shaman possessing Vincent''s body, as she felt an unexinable auraing from him.


    "Yes. I will leave the rest of the exnation to James. I want to see my wife and children now."


    "Let''s go then¡­." Madison grabbed Levi''s hand and walked ahead of Vincent. She gives Levi a meaningful look along the way, and he immediately understands.


    "It''s alright. You don''t need to be anxious and raise your guard around me."


    In the elevator, Vincent spoke all of a sudden. He could actually notice the couple kept exchanging meaningful gazes the entire time.

 Chapter 508 His Brother

    Chapter 508 His Brother¡¡¡¡"You have nothing to be afraid of me. I''ll be away again soon. Please watch my wife and children while I am dealing with the Chronomancer," Vincent added.


    "Chronomancer?" The couple spoke at once.


    Levi and Madison look at each other; they both have the same suspicion that Vincent has regained his past life memories.


    On the other hand, Madison had a slight fear that the Dark Shaman was only using Vincent''s memories. That is why he has all this knowledge.


    "Vincent, tell us. Do you remember your past life memories now?" Levi also had doubts in his heart, and it concerned him.


    Vincent replied, "Yes."


    Madison and Levi once again shared a nce. If Vincent remembered his past life memories, then if he was not the dark shaman or the Chronomancer, Emperor Xing is the person they were speaking to now!


    "If you don''t mind, could you tell us when exactly did you regain your past life memories?" Madison inquired further to remove the doubts in her heart.


    Levi echoed, "That''s right, Vincent. Can you enlighten us about this Chronomancer as well? We only know he is a dark shaman. And he could possess someone''s body and im it as his new identity."


    Vincent looked at the couple with a thin smile on his lips. He uttered, "I could sense that you have doubts about my appearance. I understand as I know very well what that man could do. So I assure you he did not possess me. I remembered five years ago when I got into an ident. Someone tried to take my soul. I just now remembered that it was him whom I saw back then. Probably he did something to erase my memory during that incident that he wanted to seal my soul and possess my body."


    "After that ident, you went to Maind City for treatment. Right?" Madison asked Vincent. "Do you remember Hailee visited the facility to donate arge amount?"


    Vincent nodded. "I seemed to remember that a billionaire heiress was in the facility to celebrate her birthday. But I paid less attention because I focused on recuperating my body, taking my rehabilitation therapy seriously, as I long to walk again."


    Silence passed for a brief moment. It was Levi who spoke, apologizing.


    "Regarding that year, Vincent. After Hailee saw you, something happened, and we discovered a significant event in the future that you and Hailee were rted to. We owe an exnation, and we must apologize to you and Hailee."


    "That''s right." Madison chimed. "Hailee had a crush on you the first time she saw you. However, we must meddle in between because the future will be chaotic. We prayed Hailee would understand what we''ve done, especially to her."


    "That man who is responsible for everything, right?" Vincent had already guessed.


    Levi nodded and replied, "Yes, Vincent."


    "Then you don''t have to apologize. I regard that you just did the right thing for a better future. I''m sure Hailee would understand this as well. To think back on the past few years'' events. What if that man sessfully possessed my body, pretended to be me, and approached Hailee? I could not imagine the life she would have with him. Hailee will definitely suffer, as he is a dangerous and cruel man."


    The couple couldn''t agree more. Vincent is correct in what he believes about that man. He is indeed ruthless.


    "Hailee loves you so much, Vincent. She will do everything for you, even if she has to sacrifice and suffer. That man is well aware of this. The other day, he attempted to take hold of Hailee''s soul. dly, Madison stopped him. It was why we kept watching Hailee and the babies twenty-four hours a day."


    Vincent darkened his face upon hearing Levi share what happened during the time of his absence. He sneered in his heart, ''I''m going to settle a score with him!''


    "It looks like he ns to hold captive Hailee''s soul," Vincent uttered under his breath. His gaze narrowed and an indifferent aura emitted from his body. "I will make him pay huge soon."


    "That man needs to be stopped," Levi sounded.


    "I will stop him," Vincent assured.


    Levi had just remembered that Vincent should not meet that man. "Vincent, maybe it is not best to confront him by yourself. Why don''t you allow us to handle him?"


    "It''s alright. I gathered significant information about him in my past life. I know how to fight him."


    "Then, we will put our faith in you." Seeing how determined he was, Levi and Madison did not protest.


    "By the way, allow me to express my gratitude once again. Thank you for taking care of my family. I would love to hear the detailed story of what you''ve discovered. I think it will help me deal with my brother and the man he called master, the Chronomancer."


    "Your brother?" The couple is both confused and shocked. They looked at each other and then shifted back to Vincent. Levi kept querying Vincent, as curiosity got him too good.


    "Aren''t Liam, who''s Hailee''s brother in the past life and not yours?" he asked.


    "Liam or General Jiang is only a brother-in-arm. But I truly think of him as a real brother as we grew up together and went to the battlefield, watching each other''s back. The brother I am talking about is Samuel Miller." Vincent replied calmly.


    This new information shocked the couple.


    "Samuel Miller?" Levi nced at Madison. Suddenly, a bell rang on top of his head. "Samuel is Prince Xing Ling? The frail prince who poisoned Emperor Xing Long?"


    "Yes. He is my dear older brother."


    Madison and Levi could not believe it. Now they connect all the dots of what probably had happened in the past.


    The three of them have now arrived outside Hailee''s VIP ward. Before Vincent went inside, he turned around and faced the couple.


    "After I see my children, I want to hear everything that has happened these passing years. I will also share everything that I know about our real enemy."


    "Sure, Vincent. We would love to tell you everything we know." Madison concurs. "We also love to hear about this Chronomancer."


    "We need to be prepared because he is powerful to defeat. By the way, you''ve probably heard the initial reports about the assassination. I was badly wounded, but dly, Ed and Zed rescued me immediately as they monitored our surroundings the entire time in the shadows. I was in aa for many days, so I think it was the time I regained my past life memories. I thought I was dying as those memories suddenly filled my head."


    He added, "The submarine hadplete medical tools, including medicines. The paramedic treated me on board with the help of the twins. They actually both graduated in medicine and have done several operations in the past, so I recovered fast."


    "I remembered now. Derek, who installed the Royal Sub sickbay with advanced medical tools and equipment and even stores with miraculous medicine," exined Levi.


    "It was really great. I''m grateful to Hailee''s knights for never abandoning me."


    "The knights knew how important you were to their empress. We all knew very well that you are Hailee''s happiness," Madison''s sincere remarks.


    "I''m d to hear that. Well, then¡­ I have to go in."


    Vincent held the handle of the ward door and pushed it open. He had longer steps to approach the room where Hailee was resting.


    After Doctor Derek performed the surgery on Hailee, she no longer had to stay in the ICU. James sent him a report that her wound from the CS had disappeared and wholly healed. However, Hailee has not yet regained consciousness for an unknown reason.


    "Wifey¡­" Vincent immediately sped Hailee''s hand and nted kisses on the back of her palm and then on her forehead. "I''m back. And as I promised you, I came home in one piece, my Empress."

 Chapter 509 My One and Only Emperor

    Chapter 509 My One and Only Emperor¡¡¡¡"Thank you for giving me such precious gifts, my darling. You did great."


    Vincent kept nting tiny kisses on Hailee''s forehead as he whispered in her ear.


    "I love you so much, my empress. You are always the bright moon in the night sky. I will always adore and love you till eternity."


    Vincent didn''t want to put down Hailee''s hand, but he also wanted to meet his children. He was anxious to hold them after James constantly sent him their photos. James reports their condition and progress daily, something he was grateful for. The guy''s dedication to his family. With that, James earned the title of being his children''s uncle.


    "Wifey, I''m leaving again, but I''ll be back soon. So, don''t worry. First, I will visit our children. I was too excited to meet and hold them. I know you do too. So, please wake up soon."


    Vincent covered Hailee''s lips with his. He wanted to prolong the kiss, so he nted light kisses all over Hailee''s face.


    Then, Vincent was surprised when Hailee returned his kiss. Vincent pulled his head and stared at the woman staring back at him.


    "You''re finally awake!" Vincent gathered Hailee in his arms and embraced her tight.


    "Wee back, hubby," Hailee whispered into Vincent''s ear. He choked after he heard Hailee''s sweet voice. He longs to hear from her again.


    "Thank you, Wifey¡­ You don''t know how worried I am. I can''t wait to wake up and tell you I am fine from the attack. How are you feeling now?"


    "I feel better," Hailee replied, tightening her firm hold around Vincent''s neck.


    "I''m so d to hear that, Wifey. I miss you so bad!"


    "I missed you too!" Hailee answered back.


    Lovingly, she stared at Vincent. Her fingers trailed the shape of his jawline, the bridge of his nose, and those kissable lips.


    That dream haunted her until now, but she knew that the person holding her was the real Vincent because her husband only treated her gently and spoke with her softly. Unlike that man, who was cruel and rough.


    Hailee darkened her face as she recalled her nightmare, in which Vincent could feel the resentment aura emitting from her body.


    "What''s wrong, Wifey?" he asked.


    "Nothing, hubby. I''m just trying to sort out all my thoughts and memories in the right ces. You know, the past life memories and this lifetime¡­."


    "I understand. When I woke up inside the Sub, I experienced the same too¡­ I even pant so heavily as I''m trying to breathe hard. There are times I was shouting like a madman."


    Vincent paused and let the memories fill his mind of the past life, shing back, particrly on the battlefield where thousands of bleeding bodies were scattered on the ground, dead. As he recounted them, Vincent hurled a long breath and let out.


    "I''m d that Zed and Ed were there. The twins would calm me down until I got used to all the memories sinking into my memoryne. I¡­" Vincent shook his head to bury those terrible memories.


    Hailee, who noticed the heaviness in his breath, ced a finger on his lips and shushed him.


    "It''s all right now. It was already in the past. So let yourself be free from everything and put it behind. God has given us another life, and I am sure you have been serving your fair share of retribution. So you have to stop letting the guilt linger in your chest. The one I remember now is Vincent Shen. The man who did his best to treat his employees right. Showed thempassion and equality¡ªnot the emperor who executed thousands of lives four hundred years ago."


    Vincent pressed his eyelids to suppress the tears that wanted to be free from his eyes. Hailee''s words are soothing andforting.


    It was the same gentle voice of that girl he met in the woods, living a carefree life. In the present, he was delighted to share past life memories with her.


    He was happy Hailee remembered as she was the only person who knew what the cruel emperor had to bear for the empire.


    Before bing the emperor, he encountered terror on the battlefield. He worked hard to control his emotion and fear to get through it.


    Life on the battlefield is dreadful and frightening. Later the years, he only got to feel tranquility every time the empress was by his side.


    Vincent rested his forehead against Hailee, eyes closed, and took pleasure in the sce he found around his wife.


    "Our fight is not over yet. We must settle the score and make him pay for what he''d done in our past life," Vincent muttered.


    Hailee cupped Vincent''s face and echoed, "We have an unfinished battle against him. How favored we are, and he came to us."


    "That''s right. If he only let us live a peaceful life in this lifetime and did not cross our path again, we will never regain our past life memories and remember that ...."


    Vincent was interrupted by Hailee to finish the rest of his words.


    "He needs an ATONEMENT."


    "And retribution¡­"


    The couple partly parted and looked affectionately at each other''s eyes. Determination surged in their hearts to defeat that man this time.


    "So, how could we defeat him?" asked Hailee afterward. "As I remembered, I shot an arrow straight into his heart, but it didn''t kill him."


    As Hailee says this, her past life memories pass in her eyes. She could clearly remember that day. She was wearing her empress robe. The wind was still, and she held a bow and arrow to help the emperor fight against that man.


    When they thought she got him in the heart, that man only grinned and wielded his spear and shed the emperor, leaving him with a deep and fatal wound.


    "I know a way," Vincent spoke, and Hailee was pulled out from recounting the past life memories.


    "How?" Hailee asked curiously. She was eager to know so that they were well ready this time.


    "Have you remembered the broken sword? A female cksmith, also a sorceress, revived the sword and presented it to us."


    "Are you talking about the Myth sword?" asked Hailee when a bell rang in her head. "If I am not mistaken, we entrusted the sword to those children¡­."


    Hailee paused as she figured out everything and remembered all the crucial happenings in their previous lives finally sorted out in one ce.


    "The sword contained enough power to kill him. We hid the sword along with our son. Now I fully understand why we did that instead of using it that time." Vincent paused and let a brief moment pass before he continued, saying, "The sword will find its way back to me."


    "In the future, you will use it against that man." Haileeprehended. "And that future is now."


    Hailee rubbed Vincent''s chin with her thumb where stubbles grow longer after a week that he did not shave.


    "When I was in aa. That man tried to seal off my soul," she told Vincent.


    Vincent narrowed his gaze. His eyes shed dangerously, listening to Hailee''s story. "Madison told me. She felt his presence here in Dream City. So it was what happened in your dream then."


    ''How dare he desire to make love with my wife!'' Vincent darkened his face as he thought about Hailee''s dream. He is not only infuriated by him, but his anger has even multiplied.


    Hailee cuddled Vincent when she sensed a dark aura emitted from his body. Even so, she found security in his arms.


    "I''m grateful that Madison was here. I don''t know what would happen to me if she didn''t save me from him. Is he trying to control me?" Hailee still wondered, although she had already guessed the answer.


    "We would not let him get near us again, especially to our children."


    "Hummed¡­" Hailee concurred. She buried her face between Vincent''s neck and cor.


    Hailee thought she would stop craving Vincent''s scent after she gave birth. But she had already delivered, yet Vincent''s scent remained alluring in her nostril, probably because his scent has a smell of security.


    "I love you, Vincent Shen. My one and only Emperor¡­."

 Chapter 510 You Gave Birth to My Children

    Chapter 510 You Gave Birth to My Children¡¡¡¡Waiting outside the VIP ward, Madison and Levi were surprised to see Hailee walk out the door with Vincent.


    "Hailee!" Madison rushed to her and hugged her tight. Seeing Hailee woke up made Madison feel at ease. She was too worried the entire time, praying hard every day for the future to change its course, and maybe it did, as Vincent and Hailee are now standing in front of them well and look happy.


    After the news came in that Vincent encountered the assassins, every second that had passed felt like forever to Madison. The anticipation she felt was gradually killing her inside. Now she could breathe out, relieved that they got through another storm.


    "God, I''m so happy that you''re awake," said Madison to Hailee; after a little while, they remained to hug.


    "Thank you for saving me from that man. I''m the happiest now that I''ve finally woken up to meet my children," Hailee replied. She rubbed Madison''s back when she felt how her body slightly trembled. It must be after a surge of emotion that overwhelms even her.


    Madison parted from Hailee and stared at her. The former smiled and replied, "Small thing. I''m d I can be of help. We are here for our family. I want you to remember that always."


    Madison''s words moved to Hailee. This time, she initiated the warm hug and muttered, "I''m blessed to have you all," said Hailee.


    Madison and Levi did not hold up the couple to meet their children. After Hailee and Vincent disappeared from their line of sight, Levi embraced his wife and kissed her lips feverishly.


    "Please, stop worrying now, okay?" With a gentle voice, Levi persuades his wife.


    Madison looked up and smiled at her husband. She hugged Levi again and buried her face in his firm chest.


    "I would not promise, but I''ll try to."


    Levi groaned and pouted after his wife only teased him.


    "Just focus all your time and energy on nourishing our daughter, please."


    Having said that, Levi touched his wife''s baby bump dotingly. He strokes Madison''s belly as he kisses her passionately. Then he whispered in Madison''s ear after the kiss, conveying his affection.


    "I love you both so much!"


    ~


    At the Newborn Intensive Care Unit¡­


    Hailee and Vincent stand by the window and look at their children. Thetter hugged his wife so tight that she continued crying. Hailee ced her hand on the ss window and shifted her gazes between the four incubators.


    "Our babies¡­" she sobs.


    "They were beautiful." Vincent''s eyes are on his children, but his lips keep nting kisses on his wife''s hair. "James told me they were fighting bravely."


    "They were absolutely incredible! Oh, Vincent! I want to hold them!"


    "Let us ask Hector." Vincent took a nce at the side.


    Hector, who was only observing the couple in silence to give the moment of this reunion, finally moved and approached them.


    "It''s all right. To hold them, you can disinfect your body to ensure the babies'' health."


    Hailee and Vincent went to the next room and had a shower together. Vincent could not take his eyes off his wife. There are only a few changes in her body, such as her breast increasing its size and a few stretched marks on her abdomen and buttocks. But overall, his wife is perfect in his eyes.


    Why could she not be? She conceived his children. She will always be that amazing woman in his life and the beloved woman in his heart.


    Hailee could feel Vincent''s burning stare scanning her body. Since she lost consciousness and remained in aa for over a week, she just saw her appearance today. Although the evidence that she had a C-section had disappeared after she underwent surgery using Derek''stest invention, a few traces of the marks remained on her body. And these are what made her insecure that Vincent saw it.


    Her hands cover her abdomen subconsciously, and a slight flush appears on her cheeks. She seemed shy because she always wanted to impress Vincent with her wless and smooth skin. She owned a skincare research center, but she had these blemishes.


    Eating up with insecurities because of her postpartum depression, which she didn''t know was what she felt at the moment, Hailee came up with a n to call her team to produce a product that would fade her stretch marks.


    Lost in deep thoughts, Vincent notices theplicated emotion surface on Hailee''s beautiful face. Somehow, he had guessed what was on his wife''s mind at the moment, how she tried to cover her abdomen.


    Vincent, who did his best to keep a distance from his wife because of the desire burning inside him, walked over in front and took Hailee''s hand. With his actions, Hailee was pulled out of deep thoughts. She gaped at her husband with a puzzled look in her eyes.


    "Silly, mom. You should not be ashamed and hide the evidence that you gave birth to my children," said Vincent, leaning over and kissing the tip of her nose and forehead.


    Suddenly, tears brimmed in Hailee''s eyes after Vincent called her mom. The effect of calling her mom after giving birth was heartwarming, especially when it came to her dear husband''s mouth.


    Vincent wipes the tears and caresses Hailee''s cheeks. He embraced her tight and covered her lips. The passion they both suppressed ignited as their bodies rubbed each other. Their hands found the right ces to satisfy the desires that had erupted a long time ago.


    However, they must control themselves now as it is not yet a perfect time. Hailee had just given birth, and Vincent witnessed how she suffered throughout her pregnancy. She needs aplete rest.


    ~


    In the lounge area, outside the room, where Hailee and Vincent had a shower to cleanse their bodies. Hilda paced back and forth, which caused Fred and Jacob to be in a daze, watching her undergoing some anxiety.


    Hilda quickly turned around the very moment she heard a creak of the door opening. She burst into tears, seeing her son- and daughter-inwes out and walks toward them.


    Hilda was confused for a second about whom she would hug first. Ultimately, she chose her son because she wanted to scold him.


    "What took you so long? Hailee had just given birth, and it''s not just normalbor! She had undergone the C-section delivery!"

 Chapter 511 They Were Beautiful

    Chapter 511 They Were Beautiful¡¡¡¡Vincent was astounded how his mom reprimanded him the moment they met after being thought dead from the attack. Instead of she will query how he was doing after the assassination, his mom is more worried that he made love to Hailee a week after she gave birth.


    "Ahem. Mom, I know my limitations." He convinced his mom, but Hilda kept ring at him.


    Vincent chuckled and shook his head. She is truly his mother. She knew what his thoughts were. Admiringly, he had extreme control over his lust for his gorgeous wife; otherwise, he would have devoured her already right there and then.


    "Mom, I know Hailee needs months of rest to recuperate her body."


    "You should be!" Hilda snorts, slightly blushing because of the topic she spoke to her son about. Instead of asking how he has been, she is more concerned with reminding her son that he must bear his mind to give Hailee the rest she needs.


    Vincent was amused at how his mom behaved this way, like she was his mother-inw, instead of acting as his birth mother. Anyhow, he was happy that she cared so much for Hailee. This thought actually eased him inside.


    "Mom, you are great. Thank you." Vincent praised his mom while he hugged her tight.


    Hilda could no longer stifle her emotion. She was too anxious and almost suffered a heart attack after the news came in that Vincent was missing after being attacked during his visit to T Country.


    "I''m so d you are alive, son. How dare you leave your beautiful wife so early? And your kids..." Hilda sobs.


    Vincent was even amazed by the question his mom threw at him. He understood his mom''s sentiment. She must recall her experience when his dad was assassinated and almost died when he was just an old young. However, although his mom avenged, she was ufortable afterward because it was not the life she wanted.


    Then now, the situation repeated, but he was in the position. Contemting, he could not imagine Hailee remarrying when he passed away. Above all, the thought his children would grow up without him crushed his heart.


    But all of these were caused by someone. That man is plotting his death for a significant reason that would put everyone in danger.


    After a heartfelt hug, Hilda parted from her son and strode to Hailee, who had just finished greeting her dad.


    "I''m so happy you were awake now." Hilda scanned Hailee''s face to see if she wasn''t pale. She sighed with relief when Hailee''s cheeks had colored pinkish.


    "I''m sorry for worrying you, mom." Hailee apologized.


    Hilda shook her head and said, "We could not predict what would happen to our life next. But one thing, I don''t want to see my son brokenhearted after returning, then you are gone."


    Hailee was touched. She would definitely feel the same when she woke up, and the news of Vincent being dead weed her.


    "Thank you, mom." There are no words she could wield to convey her gratitude and respect for her mother-inw but a tight warm hug.


    Meanwhile, Fred and Jacob crowded Vincent. After a quick interrogation, he and Hailee proceeded to the sanitization zone and wore appropriate medical outfits to approach their children.


    Vincent and Hailee break into tears upon meeting their children for the first time. They couldn''t control their emotion watching the babies inside the incubators and medical equipment connected to their bodies.


    "Oh, my poor loves..." Hailee sobs. Vincent rubbed her arms tofort her.


    "Hey, guys! Mom and dad, we''re sorry that we were just able to visit and meet you. I want you to know how Dad wished to be here and witness when Momma gave birth to all of you. Dad may be absent, but he promised you to be on your side always."


    ''After dad punished the man who wants to murder you.'' he added to his head. Upon muttering this, a killer re flickered in his eyes¡ªHailee, who noticed this, ced a hand on his shoulder and smiled full of passion.


    Vincent simmered down his resentment and dismissed the unnecessary thoughts ying in his head. He returned his attention to his daughters and held their tiny hands.


    "My princesses¡­ Dad wanted to hold you in my arms."


    Hailee watched Vincent kiss their daughter''s tiny feet. She caught such affection in his eyes that he conveyed to their princesses that it took him a long moment to let go of their hands and move to the boys.


    That sight gives Hailee the impression that Vincent would dote on his daughters, and at the same time, he would be strict and clingy to them.


    "They were beautiful like their momma!" Vincent praised Hailee when he walked over to her, standing in front of their son''s incubation.


    "And brave as their dad." Hailee did not forget to return thepliment. "I can''t wait to hold them so that they can listen to my heartbeat to let them know mom is here!"


    "I am dying to hold them too," Vincent uttered as he wiped the tears that drenched Hailee''s face. He looked at his sons; a smile appeared on his thin lips. They are undoubtedly brave. "Hello, boys¡­"


    The couple stayed for a little longer to spend more time with their children. Hailee was in a daze, watching her daughters. They were tiny but beautiful at the same time.


    All of a sudden, an idea came to her. ns for the near future popped up in her head. She thought about how she would dress them up and wear the same clothes every day. She must ask Janise to tailor a hundred mother-daughter outfits. She could not wait to design a tiara for them too!


    "Hubby, we need to decorate a yroom for our girls. Let''s fill the room with dolls and clothes. I will ask Kelly to design the jewelry for their dolls and¡­."


    "Hold up, Wifey." Vincent immediately interrupted Hailee with her ns. "Isn''t that toovish for young girls to y with real gemstones? What I mean is, will there be an appropriate time for them to own such luxury as toys?"


    Hailee realized it was indeed inappropriate. She and Vincent had promised to raise and teach their children how to live a simple life despite their wealth. Indeed, he was right that her ideas were too much when their daughters were not even a month old.


    Having such ideas, she would only teach her children the wrong course of their life. She must be a role model of how to live humbly and havepassion in their heart, like how her grandmothers raised her even if they wore expensive clothes.


    "I''m sorry, hubby. I was thrilled to y with our daughters. That''s why I''m thinking about what I could get for them. I want them to live the life that I have. I overlook that there will be more important things I should teach them first."


    "We will give everything to our children, but in perfect time," Vincent affirmed.


    "Thanks for reminding me." Hailee smacks a kiss on Vincent''s lips.


    "And please remind me if I forget in the future." Vincent knew he would dote on his children nonstop, so he needed those reminders.


    The new parents discuss ande up with wonderful ns and crucial decisions for their already big family.


    However, they have forgotten that grandparents are morevish than parents.


    ~


    Vincent helped Hailee pump her milk to feed the babies. Doctor Manni assisted them, and Hailee cried, watching her babies drink her milk. It was the first time she had witnessed and done this, so she was too emotional.


    The new parents had just finished feeding their children when someone knocked on the door.


    "Vincent?"


    At the ss window, John and Rob peeped inside. Vincent turned his head and looked at the two men.


    "I''ll be there in a sec¡­." Vincent waved his hand to gesture something. Then he looked at Hailee to convey a message. Hailee nodded her head to give Vincent a heads up. He said, "I''ll be right back."


    Vincent got out of the NICU. He approached John and Rob, lounging in the lobby.


    "Wee back, Vincent!" said John.


    Vincent threw his knuckle on John, and he did in return. Afterward, they hugged and patted each other''s back.


    "Thanks, John... For everything!"


    "Small thing, bro¡­ You know, brothers should help each other."


    John''s quote is full of meanings.

 Chapter 512 Grow Old With You

    Chapter 512 Grow Old With You¡¡¡¡"I''m very grateful for how much you''ve helped us. Without you, we are not progressing and reaching this far."


    John smiled. "Don''t mention it, Vincent. I''m the one who is grateful to you for helping me get rid of that man."


    "Don''t worry. It will be soon." Vincent assured John. Stretching his arm, he reached for John''s shoulder, giving him a light pat. After that, Vincent shifted his attention to Rob. "How''s it going?"


    Vincent is querying about the drama they plotted. After the Franklin twins saved him, their men and Rob''s loyal subordinate fought Samuel''s assassins. Once they won against Samuel''s men, they hid them underground. After that, they pretended to be the assassin to carry out the drama.


    To be believable, Rob joined them and yed the hostage. This ensures that Shun''s men and the T Country''s armed forces would not pursue them and capture his men.


    While Vincent is hiding to ensure his safety and the drama looks true, Rob ys the two roles well: the hostage and the hostage-taker leader.


    "I could not tell dad and grandpa yet because Samuel might have his men spying on us. The only one who knew about the drama is mom," replied Rob.


    "How about Carmen? Haven''t you told your sister yet?" Vincent queried.


    Rob did not reply to Vincent but looked at John and said, "I think someone should better exin himself."


    John understood Rob''s words. He must have had a long conversation with Carmen by now, so John excused himself.


    At the moment, Carmen was drinking her milk. She was startled by John''s sudden appearance at the door.


    Carmen hurried to pull a Kleenex from the box and wiped her mouth. She looked at John and asked, "Did you and my brother have met already?"


    John nodded his head as he approached Carmen. When he reached the bed, he noticed the food on the bed table. He frowned. "When did you like to eat chips dipping into vinegar?"


    When he and Carmen dated back then, Carmen told him she wasn''t fond of eating chips vored with salt and vinegar because of her acidity. But now, she even dipped the chips in mayonnaise. Not only that, she added apple cider.


    Being caught red-handed, Carmen did not reply. John didn''t know she was pregnant, yet she hadn''t decided whether to tell him about the child.


    "I¡­ I feel nauseated after I eat some stew cooked with tomatoes for dinner. So I asked mom to get me something sour."


    John believed both would trigger her acidity, so he is baffled.


    "Those are chips. You know it''s not healthy at all." Johnined. Then he questioned Carmen. "Did your doctor allow you to eat that? What are they doing? You are still recuperating from surgery!"


    As she heard John mention her doctor, Carmen panicked. She pleaded, "Please, don''t tell Doctor Serena. I promised this is thest time."


    After she says that, Carmen realizes she was supposed to act cold toward John. Now that she reminded herself, she regained herposure and scowled at John.


    "What are you doing here, by the way? Rob told me you have something to tell me. What is it about?"


    John noticed the coldness in Carmen''s tone. Carmen deliberately gave him the cold shoulder and put up a wall that misunderstood John.


    He thought Carmen''s sudden shift of attitude and showing him poor treatment was because of his objection that she eat those sour food, which he was only concerned about her fast recovery. Eating salty food would not help her at all.


    But Carmen could not tell John the real reason. In fact, she also doesn''t want to eat sour vored chips, but she has no power over "his" child growing inside her womb, the real culprit why she craves this kind of food.


    John, who didn''t know what was going on, yielded. He did not want to have misunderstandings with Carmen when he coaxed her to get back together.


    John lowered his head and apologized. "I''m sorry. I''m just worried about you."


    Carmen, who was too in love with John, cannot stay indifferent toward him. To end the issue, she urges him to talk.


    "What do you want to talk about?"


    John cast a meaningful look at her before he lowered his gaze. He heaved a long sigh and started afterward. "I owe you an apology."


    Carmen wondered why John was apologizing all of a sudden. She said coldly, "You''ve already apologized before we flew here."


    With a soft voice, he uttered, "Until now, I''m still upset with myself. What happened to you is my fault. I didn''t protect you enough. I''m sorry."


    "What are you talking about? We''ve broken up, so why do you have to protect me?" Carmen is confused. She tried to figure out what John had in mind.


    He broke up with her. So what is he bbering about? Also, why did his mind change in the first ce, and he is eager to get back together? Carmen mused while listening to John.


    "Carmen, I promised not to hurry you to ept me back. However, I don''t want to be separated from you anymore. If you agree, I want us to get married soon."


    Carmen had rendered speechless. She wondered if what she heard was correct. ''John is proposing to me? But he''s in love with Ivy, right?''


    Her heart filled with doubts, at the same time wishful thinking that what John had said was true because she could not convince herself yet to believe him.


    "How about Ivy? Aren''t you breaking up with me because you want to persuade her since she is a widow now?" Carmen did not look at John when she questioned him, so she didn''t see the confusion on his face.


    "Persuade Ivy? What do you mean by that?" John wondered.


    Carmen senses the confusion in his voice. She lifted her gaze and met John''s eyes, and she saw genuine surprise appear on his face. Now, Carmen is also confused. John acted like their breakup had nothing to do with Ivy.


    She was taken aback to express what she truly felt for a moment.


    Carmen held tight to her nket, searching for the strength to be straightforward to John. She bit her lip, asserting, "You like Ivy, right?"


    John fell silent. He pondered how to exin it clearly to Carmen. After a little while, he answered.


    "Ivy is my sister-inw. It would be normal to like her, as she''s part of my family."


    What John said didn''t help Carmen feel better. It only worsened the uneasiness she felt in her heart. On the other hand, did she mistake with her judgment that John''s kindness toward Ivy is just purely a brotherly affection? Carmen mused.


    "I¡­ You don''t need me anymore because you wanted to care for Ivy and the child in her womb. Am I wrong?" She swallowed hard and took some courage to speak up regarding their breakup.


    John stared at Carmen, noticing the slight blush in her cheeks. He processed what she said, and finally, he realized Carmen misunderstood everything.


    "Were you thinking I have a romantic feeling for my sister-inw?"


    When John finally figured out what was on her mind, Carmen lowered her head. Avoiding meeting his eyes, she nodded. Suppose she should be upset, but John''s action seemed telling differently. So what is it?


    Carmen flinched when John took her hand. She pulled it back, but John sped her palm with his two hands. John is staring at her with so much affection shown in his eyes.


    "Carmen, Ivy is happily married to my twin brother. Even if she were a widow, I only think of her as my sister-inw because the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with is you."


    Carmen stared at John. She searched for something on his face and what she found was sincerity in his confession. Absolutely, she was happy to hear his sweet words. However, there are still some doubts in her heart.


    Is John genuinely wanting to get back together with her, not because Ivy rejected him? Carmen had this suspicion in her mind. After some time, she came to her senses when John spoke again.


    "Carmen, I would be honest that I really liked Ivy. Before, I was jealous that she loved my brother over me when we were childhood sweethearts, and we grew up together and were too close to each other. However, it was all in the past now. The woman I want to grow old with is you."


    Carmen could no longer hold her tears. The act she put up with ispletely dissipated.


    "Are you telling the truth?" Carmen wanted to believe it. Her heart tried to ept it as well. Maybe John is genuine in his feelings for her and not just a substitute after Ivy refuses to love again.


    "Carmen, I really love you! I was in great despair when Samuel sent his men to attack the lodge, thinking maybe you were shot dead. It made me crazy. I want to fly to T Country as soon as possible and be by your side after learning that you were sent to the hospital. I don''t want to lose you again. So, if you say yes, I will marry you tomorrow before Vincent and I meet Samuel."


    "What did you say?"

 Chapter 513 Theyre Alive

    Chapter 513 They''re Alive¡¡¡¡"Vincent wanted to settle a score with Samuel," John replied. He added, "I will make him pay for what he has done to you. You would not have been caught in our fight if I had known of his n. I''m sorry, Carmen."


    John brought Carmen''s hand to his lips and ced a soft kiss. Carmen, who listens eagerly, senses the sincerity in his voice. Maybe John is genuinely in love with her, she thought.


    "John, I do not fullyprehend everything that''s going on now, but please be careful."


    With what Carmen said to him, John saw a glimmer of hope. Maybe it was the best opportunity, so he replied, "I will. When everything is over, please marry me."


    John let go of Carmen''s hand and reached for his back pocket. Carmen gasped when she realized what was in John''s hand.


    "I wanted to propose properly in front of your family and mine."


    Carmen scrutinizes John with confusion when he mentions "your family and mine," which makes her baffled at that part. She assumes John is referring to his friends. So Carmen pays less attention to that and listens to John''s proposal further. He continued,


    "But after I almost lost you, I cannot wait any longer. I won''t miss any chance anymore before I am toote. Carmen, will you marry me?"


    Carmen watched John get down on one knee and open the blue velvet box. She was ted to see the four-carat diamond ring illuminated by the ceiling lights of the ward. However, on the one hand, it puzzled her. Still, she could not decide whether to ept John''s proposal and live in Ivy''s shadow.


    "Are you sure about this? If you are confused about your feelings for Ivy and me. Maybe you will regret marrying meter and ask for a divorce, so you don''t need to go this far. We can start all over again by going out and spending time together. Maybe then, you can determine what you wanted or who you wanted to be with."


    Before she gets hurt again, it is better to protect her heart from another heartbreak from the same man because if that happens one more time, she doesn''t know if she can remain her sanity intact by then.


    John stared at Carmen when she remained silent and unmoved. He could perceive the reluctance and sadness in her eyes.


    "Carmen, I want to spend my whole life with you. I want to have my own family and have children with you. We will never get a divorce. I don''t want that to happen either. I would rather die than be separate from you."


    "I love you, Carmen. I am not confused about who I love. As I''ve mentioned already, Ivy is happy with Jay, and I am d about their marriage. And as for me, you are the woman I want to build a home with."


    Carmen panicked when the walls around her heart were gradually taken down listening to John''s confession. She still has doubts, but she is madly in love with John, and they are expecting a baby. Who does not dream of having aplete family?


    Kneeling on one foot, John waited for Carmen''s answer; however, she seemed troubled. John panicked that Carmen might turn down his proposal.


    "Carmen, I assure you that my love is genuine. There is no other woman that made my heart beat this way."


    ''How about Ivy?'' Carmen couldn''t help doubting John. "But John, I don''t want to be just a recement."


    "Why do you say that?" asked John, perplexed. ''Is she thinking I broke up with her because I like Ivy?'' He noticed that Carmen deliberately rejected him and even kept bringing Ivy up.


    "Carmen, there is no one else in my heart but you. No other woman, and so you are not a recement." John exined desperately. He would not stand until Carmen took him back and epted his marriage proposal.


    On the other hand, Carmen felt a heartache that John remained kneeling on one knee while handing her the dazzling engagement ring.


    "John, please stand up. I know your legs and knees are numbing now."


    "I would not get up until you say yes and marry me," John is persistent. He knew that he deserved to be punished in this way.


    Carmen reached for her forehead and scratched the part that itched. She grew worried about John, so she urged him to get up.


    "Please stand up, John. We can talk without you kneeling."


    "Carmen¡­" John hesitated to get up, but Carmen extended her hand and invited him to sit on the bed. He stood on his feet, strode toward the bed, and sat down on the side.


    "John, marriage is sacred to y around with. We can''t just marry today and then get divorced tomorrow."


    "But I have no n in divorcing you," John stood firm.


    "How about if I was the one who asked for it?"


    John fell silent. His gaze on Carmen is solemn, searching for something on her face that might answer his confusion. It hurts him that Carmen doubted his sincerity.


    "I will assure you that you won''t regret marrying me. I will love you for the rest of my life, Carmen."


    "But it was Ivy you originally loved. Am I right?" she asked John.


    Carmen keeps bringing up Ivy as she had a belief that thetter rejected John. That''s why he wants to rekindle with her. If that''s the case, she would instead raise the child alone rather than live as only the second choice. She loves John. However, she needs love and respect in return, not just for convenience.


    "John, I love you so much that it hurts my heart. But I don''t want to live in someone''s shadow."


    "Carmen, you would never live in someone''s shadow. Regarding Ivy, she had her own husband. Even if she truly is a widow, my love for you would not change. You are the one I want to marry."


    Carmen was confused. She processed every word John had said as if something was off. ''Am I missing something?''


    "Is that really true?" she asked.


    "It''s true. You are the one who I truly love."


    "I thought you broke up with me because you would persuade Ivy now that she is a widow."


    "No." John shook his head. He extended his arm, cupped Carmen''s face, and said, "I am not pursuing anyone, especially one who had a husband. I broke up with you because I want to protect you. However, still, you were harmed by Samuel. I will make sure he will pay for everything he owes me."


    "Samuel, is he who killed your father and twin brother?"


    John looked at Carmen for a moment, then sighed. "He is the one who plotted the ident. dly, I asked for Vincent''s help, and we turned the table without Samuel knowing it."


    "What do you mean by that?" asked Carmen.


    John perceived the eagerness in Carmen''s eyes. She seemed to pay more attention to him now; perhaps it was the best time to share everything with Carmen.


    "With the Shang brothers, Theo and Jeremy, they offered a deal to President Zhou. The offer was enticing for him to say no. Once he cooperates with us, it will be considered as all of his debts have been paid off. But of course, he needs to give up thepany. Then Vincent will shoulder all of his trouble. So President Zhou worked with him; at the same time, I am also Vincent''s aplice."


    Carmen was puzzled; she queried. "What do you mean?"


    ''If President Zhou cooperates with the Shangs and Vincent, then the Jackson family is?'' Carmen tried to digest all the information that John was feeding her brain.


    After some time, she analyzed the circumstances and then stitched everything that had happened. Carmen concludedter on.


    With wide eyes, she screams. "Your dad and Jay are alive!?"

 Chapter 514 Cold-Blooded Animal

    Chapter 514 Cold-Blooded Animal¡¡¡¡"Yes, they are," replied John, nodding his head. He added, "After President Zhou agreed, we orchestrated the ident drama."


    "The drama is about your dad and twin brother colliding into President Zhou''s yachts?" Carmen questioned.


    One more time, John nodded and replied, "President Zhou will crash into dad''s yacht. That was the drama we agreed on. So, I talked to dad and Jay about the n, and they agreed after I convinced dad to sever our cooperation with Samuel. I exined to dad and Jay that Samuel only uses Liam''s power and resources. It is not Liam who gave out orders to him, but the person who wants to push us to the corner is Samuel. So that he could use us in his ns against Vincent, who is taking over the Davies."


    John stopped talking for a moment to sit closer to Carmen. Once he was seatedfortably on the bed, he carried on while holding Carmen''s hand, in which thetter was immersed in listening to him, and she didn''t notice their hands intertwining.


    "Dad sold all of his shares to Samuel and would leave almost nothing to me. Then dad and Jay will travel the world while I struggle to keep my ce in thepany. Hence, Samuel will take that opportunity to show he cared for me and our guess was correct. Samuel offered me a deal in exchange for getting close to Vincent and earning his trust. So then, I can report to him whatever Vincent is nning. As things were finally in ce thus, we could execute our plot against Samuel. The incident drama urred in Zen City because it was the Shang''s territory. Thankfully, the Shang brothers have already made a deal with President Zhou; everything went smoothly. They can control as much as they desire."


    "Then where are your dad and Jay? Is Ivy aware of the ident drama? Does she know Jay is alive?" Carmen fired three questions in a row. During the wake, she remembered Ivy looking in despair at seeing her husband''s coffin. Not only that, Ivy even escaped from the hospital to visit the cemetery, as she still mourns Jay''s death.


    "Ivy didn''t know any of that, which caused her a serious injury," John answered. "Jay is also badly injured and in aa for a few days after the incident. But he soon received treatment at the William Medical Research facility. It was all thanks to Master Shun. Immediately, his men transported dad and Jay in secret. And to make everything believable, Master Shun produced clones of dad and Jay."


    "Clones?" Carmen was stupefied. No wonder the remains of John''s dad and twin brother look so much like theirs. It was just fake bodies.


    "Yes. Recently, Master Shun is investing in creating humanoids, and Doctor Derek Williams is experimenting with creating an actual body of an android."


    "Wow!" Carmen could not help interjecting between John''s narration. She imagines how cool it is. No wonder their corpse bodies look like a natural human bodies.


    Perceiving the marvel in her face, John smiled and petted Carmen''s head; after that, he carried on. "Dad and Jay were hiding in Maind City all this while. Jay had woken up a few days after we buried the fake corpse. Thus, I have to think of a believable excuse that Ivy and Jay will reunite. It is also the perfect time to execute our next move, thewsuit. Therefore, I broke up with you so that you are forced to leave my side and would not be suspicious."


    Carmen was flustered when John mentioned their breakup because she was guilty. She indeed suspected John would persuade Ivy. Now that he exined his reason for breaking up with her, her heart almost melted; especially the following words came out of John''s mouth.


    "Carmen, I also wanted to ensure your safety while I am away. I don''t trust Samuel, and my perception is right. He would not care to kill innocent people."


    Uttering this, resentment appeared in John''s eyes. Samuel thinks too highly of himself for bossing him around. He only bears to be Samuel''s puppet to discover his master''s n against Vincent and Hailee.


    Now that he wanted to go that far by ordering him to kill the babies, it''s time to execute the finale. He has to ry the message to Vincent through James about Samuel''s new order. Hence, Vincent can no longer stay hidden as he would not allow Samuel to do anything to please his master.


    "I will end Samuel''s life soon. So then, we are free."


    "John?" Fear surged in her chest. Carmen did not like what John had said. Even though Samuel deserved to be punished, she was too worried about John.


    What if something terrible happens to him during his meeting with Samuel? Now that she had learned the truth, she was no longer jealous of Ivy. Instead, she was relieved that Jay was alive.


    Thinking it over, Carmen slowly made a realization. She was only jealous of nothing. John broke up with her because he was genuinely concerned for her safety. Therefore, John truly loves her.


    "John¡­" Tears welled up in her eyes. Carmen could no longer suppress the feeling she had for John. All this while, she only acted coldly toward him because she was afraid to get hurt again. Now that she learns the truth, John deserves to know they''re expecting their firstborn.


    John presumes Carmen cried because he will confront Samuel, and she is concerned about him. This thought made John ted. This gives him the strength to fight Samuel toward hell.


    Carmen is aware of what that guy could do. He is a cold-blooded animal, as he has no kindness or sympathy for other beings, but he will ughter humans as he pleases. It was evident when his men stormed the Dawson vacation house and rained the cabin with bullets when Carmen was there, too.


    "Shush." John wipes Carmen''s tears with both of his thumbs. He soothed her, "Don''t worry. Everything will be over soon, and we can live peacefully."


    "Promise me you wille back alive," she sobs.

 Chapter 514.1 [Bonus chapter] Instantly Sisters

    <h2>[Bonus chapter] Instantly Sisters</h2>


    John was over the moon. Sparks finally appeared in his eyes. "I promise I will return soon after we deal with Samuel and his master."


    "You have to!" Carmen warned him, but it sounded sweet to the ears. "I would not forgive you if you don''t keep your promise to marry me when youe back." Carmen sniffs. She wipes her tears to glimpse at John.


    "I would not allow death to take me. I want to grow old with you, as I''ve said already. When Ie back, let''s get married." John promised. He reached for a Kleenex and helped dry Carmen''s wet eyes.


    Carmen cried even more with what he said, and her tears flowed endlessly through her eyes. John kissed her forehead and then took her left hand. He put the engagement ring on Carmen''s fourth finger. He was happy that Carmen did not pull her hand.


    He was looking at how exquisite the ring on Carmen''s finger was. John nted tiny kisses on the back of her palm. Carmen''s eyes continued welling up. She pulled John by the cor and kissed his lips. For what she had done, John could not contain the happiness in his chest.


    He is waiting for this moment. Now, the thorn in his heart pulled out that finally, Carmen epted his marriage proposal and no longer gave her the cold shoulder and doubts.


    When she was initially hesitant to ept him back, he was worried that Carmen would reject him. Thankfully, the purity of his love reached Carmen''s heart. Now that he had told her the truth and cleared out his name, he could finally share the good news with his family.


    John pulled himself from Carmen to look at her face. He muttered lovingly, "I love you, Carmen."


    "I love you too, John!" Carmen is no longer uncertain about her feelings.


    One more time, their lips meet. This time, the kiss was long and full of passion. After a while, John parted from Carmen and took out his phone.


    Carmen was confused if who he was calling. Soon, Ivy and Jay appeared on the screen and queried, "So? How is it going?"


    "She said yes!" John adjusted his phone, and Carmen came into view. Seeing her, Ivy smiled delightedly.


    "Hi, Carmen! Congrattions to both of you!"


    Carmen could not avoid feeling shy after being extremely jealous of Ivy, that she almost hated her because of the thought that she would snatch John. Thankfully, she silently epted that John was breaking up with her and did not throw a fuss. Gratefully, she kept her sanity intact and never confronted Ivy.


    Ivy is a warm person. She was the one who talked a lot throughout the video call, and it made Carmen feelfortable.


    "I already wanted to go home and see you guys!" said Ivy. The smile on her face didn''t disappear.


    Ivy is genuinely happy to see John settling down soon. They grew up together; hence, she knew how great a man John was. Having Carmen, no one is more deserving than her.


    Carmen, on the other hand, is no longer timid toward Ivy. Gleefully, she exchanges thoughts with hee. She also asked Ivy about her pregnancy. When she mentioned it, Carmen saw the joy in Ivy''s eyes.


    "Let''s go shopping with baby stuff and clothes when you guys are safe toe back home," Carmen suggested. Immediately, Ivy agreed.


    "That''s a great idea! Ah! I could not wait!" Ivy is actually getting bored when she has nowhere to go, but they have to hide inside the facility for the time being.


    The two women felt delighted to imagine it. Unconsciously, they actually feel the same way, thinking of each other as sisters. It was not a bad idea. Ivy has no siblings, so she treats John as her brother. Now that Carmen had arrived in their life, she instantly became her younger sister.


    As for Carmen, she was thrilled with the idea of Ivy bing her sister. Now she had someone she could talk to about things she could not open up with her two brothers.


    Carmen is genuinely gratified for how things turned out initially. Samuel was still a treat to all of them, but he could not stop the joy they had at the moment.


    "John, I have something to tell you."


    Carmen decides to share the good news. She peeks at the phone screen where Ivy and Jay curiously wait for whatever she is about to say.


    "I''m sorry if I didn''t tell you about it sooner. But my head has been muddledtely... I thought you broke up with me because you don''t love me but someone else. A few days before the attack, I found out that¡­."


    Carmen trailed herst words. She looked at John, then nced at Ivy and Jay. She coughs to clear her throat as tears threaten to flow from her eyes one more time. After having a long sigh, she continued.


    "I''m pregnant."


    John thought he heard wrong. But his surroundings seemed activated in slow motion as he reyed Carmen''sst sentence. If it weren''t for Ivy screaming, John would have remained in a daze.


    "Do you mean? I''m going to be a dad?" asked John repeatedly. He wanted Carmen to say it all over again so he would not believe everything was just a dream.


    "Yes! You are going to be a dad soon!"


    John pulled Carmen into his arms and wept with joy. "Oh, Carmen! Thank you!"


    Listening to John''s sobs, Carmen could no longer hold her tears. She threw her arms around John''s body and embraced him, burying her face in his neck. John was ted to learn the such good news.


    Meanwhile, Rhena and Rob watched John''s proposal to Carmen outside the door. John had already asked Rob to help him propose to Carmen and see tonight as the perfect moment.


    Thus, when Rob met Carmen earlier, he brought a giant pink stuffed toy with an operating camera inside. When John carries out his proposal, Rob will turn on the camera, and it will start filming.


    Then, Rhena heard everything that Carmen and John had talked about. Now that John clears his name, she no longer opposes Carmen from marrying him. Especially since John''s family was alive and everything that had happened was necessary to apprehend their enemies.


    "Mom, are you not going to praise your son? I helped n out the drama," Rob boastfully said to his mom. He expected a good word from her; however, he only received a sharp re and didn''t expect to be scolded.


    "I would onlypliment you after finding the perfect woman to marry." Rhena twitched her mouth as she snapped at her excellent son. Rob is older than Carmen but seems to have no interest in settling down soon. He doesn''t even have a girlfriend!


    Being berated, Rob chuckled and scratched his forehead. Now that John is done with his proposal and Carmen has revealed the truth of her pregnancy, he encourages his mom to enter the ward and congratte the couple.


    "Congrattions, sis! Hey, John! Congrats, bro!"


    "Thanks, bro."


    John and Rob threw knuckles at each other. Rhena, following her son, approached Carmen and gave her daughter a big and tight hug.


    "Congrats, honey."


    "Thank you, mom. I''m going to marry him," she told her mom.


    "Whatever makes you happy," Rhena approved withplete understanding. As long as John was faithful to her daughter, she would not object to the marriage but give her full support to whoever Carmen would marry.


    "Mom, I''m worried about dad and grandpa."


    "Don''t worry. I''m sure they will understand and ept John after a long heart-to-heart talk with them."


    "Did you hear what John told me?"


    Rhena nodded. Carmen breathed with a sigh of relief. At least she did not need to share everything she and John talked about with her mom.


    "Congrats, John. Wee to the family."


    "Thank you, Mrs. Dawson."


    The way John addressed Rhena earned ridicule from Rob.


    "You''ll address her mom soon!"


    ~


    A while ago, as Rob and Vincent discussed their next step, Hailee exited the Children''s ICU and walked toward the glimmering giant Christmas tree on the corner of the lounge.


    Hailee, who is only thinking of meeting her children, did not notice how it illuminated the entire floor with Christmas ornaments and lights.


    Not long, she felt Vincent''s two muscr arms wrapped around her waist. His scent was tooforting, and his warmth gave her security. Soon, his warm lips ce a kiss on her hair.


    Hailee subconsciously rested her head on Vincent''s shoulder. Together, they watch the white Christmas tree decorated with blue and pink ornaments.


    "So beautiful!" She muttered.


    "James told me that while you are in thea, everyone helps to hang the ornaments so that when you wake up, the entire hospital is covered with Christmas decorations."


    "I can''t believe the girls proceed with my ns. It was supposed to be my surprise for you, but in the end, I was the one who was utterly surprised."


    "Thank you," said Vincent, kissing her forehead. "I love it. When our children feel better, and we could carry them around, I''m certain they would be fascinated watching the bright Christmas lights."


    "Ah! I can''t wait to share our first Christmas with our family of six."


    "I feel the same, Wifey. It was the greatest gift I could ever receive in this life¡­." quoted Vincent.


    "Being blessed with family and wonderful friends¡­." Hailee added.


    While the two of them were immersed in counting their blessings, Madison, Levi, Derek, and Cassandra approached them.


    "Vincent, we want to talk to you about this Chronomancer you''ve mentioned. How could we defeat him?"

 Chapter 515: The Chronomancer (One)

    Chapter 515: The Chronomancer (One)Hailee and Vincent sat inside the private lounge across from Levi, Madison, and Cassandra. Derek took the single couch close to Vincent and Levi.


    Before Vincent began his narration, he and Hailee shared a loving look at each other. He told her, "I''ll start the story¡­."


    "Alright. I will continue after you¡­." Hailee concurred.


    Vincent nodded, then cleared his throat, ncing at the twoputers where Shun and Lady Isabe connected with a video call.


    "Let''s begin. Now, let''s go back four hundred years ago when Emperor Xing Shen and Empress Xing Ming lived."


    "During that time, I heard many tales about the DARK SHAMAN when I roamed thend during my state visit to different cities and provinces."


    "I went to the battlefield and fought in the borders with a reason. I want to investigate on my own. Words came to me about bizarre activities within the walls of the Wu Kingdom. I sent someone to gather information, and then I learned that the prince in the Wu Kingdom hadmitted many crimes, but few of the imperial officials seemed to turn a blind eye to it."


    Vincent paused to breathe out as memories poured into his head. After sorting them out, he carried on.


    "I think that was the sign that they were preparing to poison the emperor. Thus, when I inherited the crown and sat on the throne as the new emperor, I sent my trusted soldiers to apprehend the prince of Wu Kingdom."


    "As he resisted, a battle took ce. While my soldiers were under attack by him and fought back, they realized he had an immortal body as his wounds healed on their own. Not only that, he had the power to lift things. Swords and spears are flying toward them, the cause of my soldier''s death. And the only person who escaped and came home alive is General Jiang Zhang, my dear Empress''s brother."


    Vincent nced at Hailee and gave her aforting smile. He went on, "After that incident, I spent ample time searching to learn more about this man''s power. Then, one of my most trusted spies reported to me. He found a hidden vige in the mountains where the elders had already lived for over a hundred years. They were shamans who didn''t want to cross paths with the dark shaman, so they chose to live peacefully away from civilization. As people forget about them, that includes the possibility that they were holding some information about him. Soon I learned they called the dark shaman the Chronomancer. I don''t know why¡­."


    "It says the Chronomancer had already walked this world for a thousand years. He mastered many abilities that no ordinary human can acquire during a short lifespan. One of these abilities is the forbidden ritual of how to turn someone immortal. After he perfects the ritual, he turns himself into an immortal, and with this new power, he seeks more. Good thing that few are not afraid to fight him. They could seal half of his soul five hundred years ago."


    "Who are they?" asked Derek.


    "The people called them Sisters as they are truly siblings," replied Vincent.


    "Sisters? Then, they are also shamans?" Madison interjected and queried curiously. They thought they already knew all the stories from the past. It turns out there are so many mysteries that have yet to unfold. "Why didn''t we hear about them?"


    Listen to Madison; Hailee and Vincent looked at each other with confusion shown in their eyes.


    "You don''t know about the sisters?" Hailee returned a question instead. "The sisters are sorcerers. Aren''t any sorcerers you heard in the present?"


    Cassandra, who was keen on listening, looked at Isabe and spoke. "Did you hear anything from the shaman?"


    "No." Isabe shook her head. "The shaman never mentioned them to me. I suspect they know neither."


    "How is this possible?" Cassandra muttered hopelessly. "We are missing something, it seems."


    "Ah! This is frustrating!" Levi, who tried to digest the story Vincent shared with them, could still not figure out anything. "So, if Vincent and Hailee did not regain their memories from their past life, then we do not know what our enemy is capable of until now. Nor do we not know his real identity."


    "Levi is correct." Derek, who remained silent, finally spoke. "It seemed like we missed too much information about this man, whom even the shamans do not know about him."


    "Whereas the shamans are afraid of him because they are no match against him." Shun chimed in. "I think Cassandra and I should switch souls with Dae-Yun and Hwa-Young to investigate the past. While the shamans are here in Italy, they can send us straight to the Joseon Dynasty. Maybe the history of K Country had hidden writings about the C Nation''s mysterious past that were erased in our present time."


    Hearing this, Cassandra''s eyes lit up. "It was a perfect idea!"


    She immediately agreed. It was rare for her to time travel with Shun; thus, excitement rushed into her heart. Imagine having an adventure with her husband in the past, wearing the vibrant Hanbok. The clothes are exquisite, which is why she always wears one, even in the present.


    But, of course, she wanted to help gather more information about the dark shaman. It saddened her to part with her children, especially Arabe, who was a few months old. However, she could not let this man continue messing up their lives at present.


    After careful thought, Cassandra rephrased what Madison had queried a while ago. "Hailee, what are these sisters, to be exact?"


    "The sisters are the ones who could time travel and foresee the future," replied Hailee. "I tried to mull over my memories of why you don''t have any information about them. Maybe it reced history as you keep changing the course of someone''s life."


    "How about if our memories are from a different timeline?" Vincent interjected Hailee. After he regained his past life memories, something was amiss.


    Everyone fell silent and pondered what Hailee and Vincent had said. They agreed that their presumption made sense. Theoretically, their memories remained even after the reset life.


    Hailee and Vincent''s past life memories are from the other timeline. They should have some records if the history sequence has not changed. Thus, only can be exined by this conclusion.


    "That could be possible." Vincent''s belief supported Isabe. She went on, "We have four timelines, one of which is where no one survives from the Imperial Xing family. But look at them now. We even foresee a glimpse of the future that the children will visit in the past life."


    "Wait a minute¡­." Listening to Isabe, an idea suddenly popped up in Hailee''s head. She looked at Madison, Cassandra, and Lady Isabe. She then asked, "Could it be possible that the three of you are his daughters?"


    "What?" the three eximed at once, shocked and confused.


    "Daughter of whom?" Levi, Derek, and Shun asked simultaneously, as well. They were curious to know and confused with more bombs dropping at them.


    Hailee replied, "The dark shaman. The Sisters are his daughters, the ones who sealed him away."


    They were shocked to learn this piece of information. How is it possible? Three hundred years is not the first time they were born, but a very long time ago.


    "Are you telling us that creepy, perverted man, who is a thousand years old, is my father?"


    The one who was hysterical the most and reacted first was Madison. Digesting this new information, she could not stop herself from fuming with rage and protesting.


    That man put his hands on Hailee. How dare he touch her? Even if it was through a dream, as he has the capability to corrupt one''s mind, that is counted as assault.


    And why would she not be furious? He is a madman!


    "There must be a mistake! I would never ept that he was once my father! I would rather die than imagine it! Papa Shun is the only one I would recognize as once my parent from my past life!" Madison stressed out.


    (to be continued¡­.)

 Chapter 516: The Chronomancer (Two)

    Chapter 516: The Chronomancer (Two)"Sweetheart, please calm down." Leviforted his wife, stroking her back. Madison is pregnant, so her mood swings are quickly triggered by small things. Now that their issue was huge, his wife fumed in rage. "Think for our daughter."


    Madison let out a breath and tried to control her emotion. She closed her eyes and reminded herself to calm down. After a while, she apologizes to everyone for throwing a fuss.


    Cassandra stretched her arm and reached for Madison''s hand, tapping the back of her palm as she consoled her.


    "It''s alright, Madison. We shared your sentiment. We''re angry at him too. If Hailee is right that we are his children and we can seal him away, then isn''t that good news over the horrible truth?"


    Madison wanted to argue that, but Cassandra was correct. If they have that ability, they must do it as soon as possible.


    "Hail, can you tell us more about these sisters? Do you and Vincent know how we could seal him away?" she asked.


    Hailee nodded her head. Then she began¡­


    "I am the only daughter of the Zhang family, so everyone doted on me. My grandparents, brother, and rtives over-protected me to the point that it was suffocating. What I did was I often looked for a way to escape from their watch, then I would go to the woods, hunting. Or visit the neighboring town where the merchant came and sold stuff from foreignnds."


    "One day, while I was on the run, I met a group called themselves ''travelers.'' I often crossed paths with them and shared food a few times. As we gain trust from each other, we be friends, and they told me a story about a sorcerer¡­."


    "A very long time ago, a deity fell in love with a shaman. Their love gifted them three daughters. The elder daughter became the deity of the Red Blood Moon. However, many believe she would only bring chaos to the world; hence, the elder daughter never appears to the people."


    "Later, after a few years, the deity again gives birth to her second daughter, who represents the Blue Moon. With her arrival, the people saw hopepared to their beliefs in the red blood moon. They believe she brought miracles, and many lovers prayed for her to grant their wishes of evesting love. Last, the youngest daughter was born and is called the deity of the White Moon, the one we often see in the sky on normal days."


    "Among her daughters, the White Moon shone brightly because of her outgoing character. The people felt fortunate to have her around. Not only that, she convinced the people that her eldest sister, the deity of the red blood moon, was not scary. But they are all special."


    "As the sisters grew up, they soon learned they''d been gifted an ability to travel time and foresee things. Soon, their father learns about their unique ability. It was the power he dreamed of acquiring. Unfortunately, he could never learn it, no matter how he cultivated his abilities. Their father is too envious of this power. His heart was consumed by darkness after he learned his daughters possessed this ability through birth."


    "The shaman, whose heart ispletely consumed by darkness, wanders every part of the world to figure out how he could acquire this ability. However, he found nothing. With the thought that his daughters had defeated him, he grew to hate them. He left again and searched for something endlessly so that even his wife, the deity, didn''t understand him but noticed the darkness looming behind her husband. Until one day, he stumbled upon many secrets written in a book about different forbidden rituals. One can obtain any ability by performing a ritual of transferring someone''s power into him."


    "His ability to travel time is only stolen from his wife after consuming her power. The three sisters investigated, and they found out it was their father who killed their mother. When they confront him, they will notice that their father has be a madman who even desires to conquer the world. His daughters tried to stop him, but he was too powerful for them. The sisters flee and hide from their father."


    "One day, the youngest sister visited a hidden vige that holds many secrets from thousands of years ago, one of which is how to trap someone''s soul in a different dimension. After the youngest sister performs the ritual, she goes home to inform her sisters about it. But something to consider even after they learned how to perform the ritual. They have to wait for the right time." Hailee concluded. She observed their expression, and they all hadplicated feelings toward her story.


    After listening to Hailee for a long time, resentment filled Madison, Isabe, and Cassandra''s hearts.


    ''How could he kill his wife?'' thought Cassandra.


    ''If true we are his daughter, how could he kill our mother!?'' It was what was on Madison''s mind.


    The only calm among them is Isabe. As the oldest sister who walked in this world for over three hundred years without death, she perfected how to conceal her emotion.


    "Hailee, could you tell us about the right time the sisters had to wait before they sessfully sealed their father?" Isabe thought they must prepare as soon as possible. "Please, tell us, Hail."


    Hailee nodded and replied, "To trap him, they must perform the ritual when the nines align during the red blood moon. So it took them three hundred years of waiting for the red blood moon to appear."


    "Is that long? Then how old are they when they can seal their father away?" asked Levi.


    Vincent, who replied to that. "They were nearly four hundred years old."


    "If that man was sealed away five hundred years ago. Then, the sisters are likely to be eight hundred years old if they are alive today?" Madison asked.


    "Yes. But the sisters lost their power after the ritual, which is why they grew old and passed away. The sisters didn''t know actually that their father had managed to divide his soul into half and half, able to escape and hide for a long time."


    "Therefore, they only seal away half of his soul," Shun chimed in.


    "Yes, Shun. He will be too powerful once he locates the other half of his soul. So we have to stop him soon," Vincent chimed in.


    "I wonder where half of his soul has sealed away." Levi pondered.


    "Maybe they sealed the soul into a different dimension?" Derek has been suspicious; thus, he shared his thoughts. "Could it be that in one of these timelines?"


    Madison concurred. "To think of now, Uncle Derek is correct. Maybe we, the sisters, trapped his soul somewhere out there¡­."


    "So which timeline the half of his soul trapped in?"


    Each of them fell into deep thoughts.


    "Could it be in the life that does not exist anymore?"


    "Where the clock stops ticking¡­. Maybe I keep going back in that timeline because we sealed half of his soul inside that dimension?" Cassandra muttered, lost in her own thoughts.


    "You are right, love." Shun supported his wife''s conclusion. "I am not entirely certain. It will be possible."


    "Then, we must guard the life that no longer exists!" Levi suggested. He then looked at his wife and said, "Sweetheart, please, stay here and let me visit there alone to warn the younger self of me to look for you."


    "Is this work?" Madison is not used to time traveling alone or she will be left alone ever since she and Levi fall in love. Now they were inseparable; like glue, sticking together.


    "Don''t worry. I wille back right away." Levi promised.


    "Wait! We''ve forgotten the most important part." Bailey forgot something and so she reminded them. "The next red blood moon is in the year 2050. We have to wait till then."


    "No, shit!" Levi cursed, and Madison red at him. He quickly covered his mouth and apologized. "I''m sorry."


    Madison hated him for swearing, especially in front of their children, who were all boys.


    Vincent meets Levi''s eyes. "I know how to defeat him. But I am uncertain if we canpletely seed when we are not following the sequence. I think we could only harm him but we could not destroy his soul when the red blood moon is just twenty-four yearster."


    "How about we go to that year?" Levi suggested.


    "But we never travel that far, except for the past." Madison is disappointed that her ability has a limit.


    "Is it necessary that we wait for the red blood moon?" Levi queried.


    "It is necessary because the sisters'' power is at its peak during the Red Blood Moon. I remembered one quote from a long poem I had forgotten," Hailee answered Levi''s question. She then recited a quote.


    "The sky is painted with love. But why does it bring sadness to my heart?"


    ~


    After the long meeting, Hailee finally has alone time with Vincent. They had nned out everything, and it was only a matter of time before tomence them.


    For now, Cassandra will fly to Italy to join Shun to investigate the past, while Madison will look after the children while they were away.


    For the time being, they will keep the secret that Hailee has already woken up. She misses everyone, but she has to pretend she is still in aa as they must be careful. Not only for the media, but their enemy is still looming around them. Besides, they must deal with Samuel in silence before facing the dark shaman.


    "Hubby¡­"


    Hailee sat down on Vincent''sp and rested her head on his shoulder.


    "Why didn''t you tell them about the sword and the sorcerer who built it?"


    Hailee questioned him this; Vincent lifted his gaze and looked at her solemnly¡­


    (to be continued¡­)

 Chapter 517: Family Reunion

    Chapter 517: Family Reunion"I was concerned about the others. Thus, I didn''t mention it. The sword can hurt the dark shaman. So, it could hurt those who have immortality, like Shun, Lady Isabe, and Madison."


    Hailee was happy to listen to Vincent''s reasoning. It delighted her that her husband thought about the safety of everyone.


    Shun has countless enemies. When these people discover they have a way to kill him. They will undoubtedly turn the world upside down to obtain the sword from Vincent''s hands.


    "Thank you, hubby," said Hailee, hooking her arms around Vincent''s neck. "Now I understand why you didn''t share it earlier. It would be safer if only the two of us knew about the sword. We need to keep it a secret."


    "Hmm..." Vincent smiled and hummed. Looking at his wife with a loving gaze, he caressed both cheeks¡ªnow the color in them had wholly returned, and she was less pale than earlier.


    "Wifey, I love you."


    As he covered her lips with his, he reached for Hailee''s chin. After the long, passionate kiss, Vincent panted and whispered,


    "You were always beautiful before and now."


    Hailee''s appearance is different in this life than in the past. But that didn''t affect the beat in his chest. It still recognized the woman he was madly in love with, who owned his heart.


    As for Hailee, she sees nothing has changed about him. His facial profile was the same four hundred years ago as it is today. It looked like she was looking at his clone.


    "I was happy that heavens listened to my prayers," Hailee mumbled¡ªher eyes were searching for something on Vincent''s face while her fingers traced the bridge of his nose and the lines on his jaws. "Before myst breath escaped my throat, I prayed to the deity of the blue moon that when you live again, I wish you will find peace without the memories of the war."


    Vincent felt his eyes suddenly moisten. Cupping Hailee''s face, he brushed his lips over hers.


    "You aren''t the only one praying for the Blue Moon. Before I closed my eyes, I prayed that in your next life, you would live a fulfilling life like no one had ever lived. I begged the heavens to give youfort and luxury."


    "And I did! Dad indulged me so much!" Hailee stifled her tears from pouring down her cheeks, but they still found their way out.


    "Shush, now¡­" Vincent wipes her cheeks dry.


    "I thought we wouldn''t meet again..." Hailee sobbed.


    "It''s not too soon, but now we are together again," Vincentforted his wife.


    Hailee nodded and sniffed. She held Vincent tight as she poured her heart out.


    After Hailee calmed down, Vincent carried her back to her ward. She had just woken up, so she still needed the rest her body required.


    On the sick bed, Vincent joined Hailee. After finding afortable position, Hailee pressed her ear to Vincent''s chest and listened to the mellow beating of his heart.


    "Hubby, we unveiled the truth and found who the sisters are. Did you recognize the sorceress who rebuilt the sword?" she asked.


    "You didn''t remember her?" He queried Hailee.


    "No." Hailee shook her head. "Don''t you think we must look for her reincarnation? Maybe that man will destroy the sword again once he finds it. At least we are prepared when that dayes."


    "You are correct." Vincent concurred. "But do not worry Wifey. We don''t have to look for her. Although I am uncertain if she was reincarnated in this lifetime, her descendants are actually one of our great friends."


    What Vincent had said was surprising. "Is that really true?"


    Vincent nodded and replied. "Yes. Every time I think about it, I am amazed. All of us actually gathered here in Dream City."


    "Who? Please tell me!" Hailee begged his husband to spill it out fast. Then her eyes widened when Vincent whispered the name of the sorceress''s descendants. "I can''t believe it!"


    "Neither I¡­ It looks like fate has brought us all together in this lifetime."


    Hailee echoed, "Maybe heaven is siding with us to end this long battle."


    "You may correct Wifey. However, even if we manage to kill the body he possessed, we could notpletely kill his soul when it''s not the red blood moon yet."


    Hailee did not like the fact they could not do much about it. "What are we going to do now?"


    Vincent did not answer but fell into deep thought. Right now, they have the weapon to kill him, and the sisters can seal him, not escape. Yet, they must wait for the perfect time because it will not happen soon.


    "The only thing we could do is imprisoned him for over twenty years." He sighed.


    "It''s too long. Can we apprehend him till then?" She was worried they would fail one more time, like in the past.


    "We have no choice but to ensure sealing his soul for the time being and don''t let it escape."


    "How about the secret civilization?" Hailee suggested. "Maybe they could help us watch him."


    Vincent pondered for a moment. Hailee''s ideas aren''t bad at all but brilliant.


    "That may work," said Vincent. "We could constrain him inside the forest of the Amazon. Shun told me that most of the shamans reside in South America. Using their ability, they can fend off the dark shaman until it is time to exterminate his soul."


    Hailee looked up and searched for Vincent''s eyes. She muttered, "I''m praying we will seed this time."


    "I will speak to Shun and discuss it."


    "How about your brother?"


    Vincent frowned when Hailee brought up Samuel. "I will settle a score with him before I deal with his master."


    Hailee tightens her hold on Vincent''s neck. She buried her face into his cor and coaxed him. "Everything in the past is a misunderstanding."


    "But he volunteered to be his pawn." Vincent asserted with a bitter smile on his face. So Hailee did not retort.


    After some thought, she hurls a deep sigh and says, "Lovees in many forms. It was blind and stupid. Thus, others took advantage of the person."


    "Indeed, it was the sad part." He cannot agree more with that.


    But this is not a matter of the past anymore. Samuelmitted many crimes in their present life, and he must be punished this time.


    Vincent rubbed his forehead and let out a sad sigh. He shook off the thought and wore a bright smile. He told Hailee, "It''s time for a joyous family reunion. You''ll meet Liam soon as well."


    His most loyal general...

 Chapter 518: Get the Sword

    Chapter 518: Get the SwordMost girls didn''t know that Hailee had woken up from aa and Vincent had returned. The knights did not tell them to prevent any news from reaching Samuel, whose men prowled everywhere.


    The Primetime news and social media tforms were filled with information that Vincent was still hiding, and it was not safe for him toe out. Many specte that maybe Vincent is only hiding inside Dream City.


    In these passing days, reporters have been camping outside Dream City gates to interview anyone to get a piece of information.


    Even though the two families held a press conference, the world is still waiting for Hailee''s statement regarding her husband''s assassination. They understood that her pregnancy was sensitive; thus, they wondered what had happened to her.


    ~


    The Alliance HQ, Italy


    Lounging in his ward, Liam keenly watched the news on aputer. After reading numerous articles, he watched Hailee and Vincent''s documentary.


    In the video, Hailee looked stunning in her wedding gown as she walked down the aisle. It showed the times she looked at Vincent, and her eyes glowered with delight. It was apparent how much she was in love with him.


    ying the video all over again, Liam didn''t notice that it had already moistened his eyes as he muttered,"My little sister¡­."


    He felt a mixture of sadness and happiness. At the same time, resentment toward a particr person.


    "Would you like to see her?"


    Someone spoke at the door all of a sudden. Liam turned his head. He saw Klein Williams leaning on the door jamb.


    Three hundred years ago, Klein Williams was Carlisle''s twin brother, known in this lifetime as Shun Crow. After Klein acquires his immortality with the dark shaman''s help, he chose to be reborn two hundred years ago.


    During the Joseon Dynasty, he was known as Dae-Hyun Chen, the king''s general, in which he and Shun sometimes shifted souls to investigate important events rted to their past. So at the moment, Shun and Cassandra were time traveling in the Joseon era to gather some information.


    "Am I allowed to do that?" Liam queried.


    Klein walked toward the empty sofa and sat across from Liam. "Of course."


    After he replied to Liam, he ced a cell phone on the table and paused it toward him. But Liam asked why he had given him a phone.


    "Someone will ring you soon¡­."


    Not long, the phone yed its ringtone. The name on the screen struck Liam in the chest.


    ~~ Xing Shen ~~


    Four hundred years ago, Shen was the Emperor''s first name, and his surname was Xing.


    But after that day, he escaped with the Emperor''s son, and the prince''s surname changed to Shen.


    In fact, it was he who gave the crowned prince''s name as¡­


    ~~ Shen Ming Jian ~~


    "Pick it up. It''s for you." Klein urged Liam to pick up the call.


    Liam was hesitant to answer the phone. He and Vincent may have treated each other as brothers in the past. However, they be enemies in this life after that man maniptes him.


    How many times had he orchestrated Vincent''s death? It''s all because the dark shaman messes up his memories, which infuriates him. Now that he is free from that man, he can remember his previous life memories.


    All these years, that person did a terrible thing in his life. He never suspected that it was Robert Lee who did something to his family so that he would be an orphan. That man is only waiting for an opportunity to manipte him and be his puppet by using the wound in his heart.


    Hence, he tried to make Hailee and Vincent''s love story be a tragic one.


    Recounting his terrible actions, Liam cleared his head and braced himself. After gathering some courage, he answered the phone with a hoarse voice.


    "Hello?"


    "How are you, Liam?"


    Liam closed his eyes while listening to the voice on the other line. He uttered, "It has been a while, Vincent."


    He was careful not to stammer his words, especially when his memories were still messing up with him. There is a voice deep inside him that urges him to address Vincent as Your Majesty instead of simply calling his name.


    "Yeah. It has been a long time."


    "How''s Hailee? Shun told me she was in aa after the doctor performed a cesarean delivery." With his query, he heard Vincent sighing on the other line.


    "She was in aa for a week but is doing well now."


    "That''s a relief! How about the babies?" He was anxious to hear about them.


    "The babies are responding to the treatment. They are doing well."


    "I''m d to hear that." Liam breathed a sigh of relief. Then he contemted the matter, and he muttered with regret afterward. He said, "If something had happened, I can''t forgive myself."


    "Let bygones be bygones," said Vincent. In his mind, Liam is not at fault at all, but that man is. So they should not entirely me him. Thus, Vincent encouraged him to put everything behind him. "It''s all in the past now."


    Even though Vincent had said all of that to console him, Liam still felt terrible and regretful. So he made a promise.


    "Vincent, I will do everything to make it up to you and Hailee. Especially for the children."


    When Liam quoted that, Vincent pulled the corner of his mouth. He believes that the real Liam would really mean this. From there on, it was the perfect time to exin why he called him personally instead of rying a word Klein or Levi.


    "Liam, I have something for you to do." He then opened up.


    "What is it? I will do whatever it is."


    Vincent was d to sense the willingness in Liam''s voice. It was what he expected from him.


    "I''m d to hear your willingness," said Vincent. "Let me say this first. I''m sure that you already know what happened to me. Samuel attacked me recently. I know it was his master''smand¡­."


    "Robert Lee¡­" Liam cut Vincent halfway to reveal the dark shaman''s identity in this lifetime.


    Klein Williams, who is not from this lifetime, asked innocently. "Who is Robert Lee?"


    On the other line, Vincent hurriedly gestures to Levi to bring him some paper and a pen. Vincent wrote Robert Lee on the paper with the caption, "The dark shaman, Samuel''s master."


    "Holy shot! Robert Lee is the thirteenth billionaire in the world!" Levi shrieked. Before Shun went on travel time, he assigned Levi to take care of this once Liam woke up and revealed the name of his master.


    Now that Liam revealed the identity of their enemy, Levi immediately phoned several people, including Interpol, the Alliance, and International Law, to take immediate action against Robert Lee.


    Soon, Robert Lee''s assets and properties will freeze, and he can no longer use his wealth.


    "So, that man possessed Robert Lee''s body as his new identity?" asked Vincent.


    Liam replied, "Yes. Master Shun has a list of billionaires he ordered me to investigate. But before I gather more information and find out who among them is doing illegal activities, the dark shaman captures my soul. Since then, he could manipte me to do things, including betraying the Alliance."


    "Hmm¡­ But it was great that you are now back to us," said Vincent meaningfully.


    "Yeah. It indeed feels so great to remember everything."


    "That''s good. We need to defeat him soon."


    "He owes me big time. There is nothing I want to do but cut his head." Liam gritted his teeth as he spoke.


    "Then, there is something I want you to pick up something in P Country."


    "You wanted me to fly to Metro City?" he was confused, but Vincent must have important things he wanted him to deal with.


    "Yes. The world still believes I am hiding. So I can''t go anywhere yet. I asked Mr. Williams to arrange a ne and a group of bodyguards for you."


    "What do you want me to pick up from there?" Liam asked curiously.


    "I want you to get the sword."


    Liam clenched his free hand into a fist. Vincent need not exin what kind of sword he was talking about.


    No other sword in this world could harm that man, and he knew it very well because he was present when the sorceress rebuilt that sword.


    He also carried it when he escaped with the Imperial crowned prince four hundred years ago. He could still remember every detail of the sword.

 Chapter 519: Ancestors

    Chapter 519: Ancestors"Every man is his own ancestor, and every man his own heir. He devises his own future, and he inherits his own past." ¡ªH. F. HEDGE


    ~~~


    Metro City International Airport, P Country


    Liam let out a sigh of relief after he sensed the ne touching the ground. Thankfully, they had a safending, and the pilot brought them toward a hangar to keep his arrival a secret.


    Not long after, they came to a halt.


    "We''ve arrived." Escorting Liam, Daichi Isagawa informed him.


    Liam nodded at Daichi. But before he follows him to the door, he hurls a breath from the deepest part of his chest, then slowly lets them out.


    Liam made light steps on the ne''s staircase with thetest bionic prosthetic legs. Now that he stepped back into Metro City again, his chest filled withplex feelings. He should be.


    Thest time he came to P Country was to carry out his mission to kill Vincent and take Hailee with him. Although he carries out another task, which is to protect them, he is sure that Vincent''s family has forgotten nothing.


    "Wee to Metro City, Mr. Huo... Or shall I address you as Prince Liam?" The older man''s tone has no sense of ridicule but is actually calm. But his expression is profound to read.


    Staring at the older man, Liam felt embarrassed to listen to his warm wee. Instead of replying, Liam bowed 360 degrees to apologize sincerely.


    "I''m very sorry, sir. Please forgive me for all the trouble I have caused your family."


    The older man was stunned by what he''d done. After his quick recovery, he pulled Liam up, shook his head, and said, "Get up. You don''t need to be such a politico me."


    "But, sir¡­" Liam wanted to exin, but he was stopped immediately before he could utter another word.


    "It''s alright. My son has already exined it to me. Let bygones be bygones. If you wish to make amends and redeem yourself, then please... Don''t betray them anymore." The man was talking about Hailee and Vincent.


    Guilt appeared in Liam''s eyes. Even though he was told already, he bowed one more time while uttering this, "My life is not enough to pay for all my sins Imitted in this lifetime, sir. Therefore, I would like to pay for it now."


    "Hmm... I''m d to hear that." Finally, the older man smiled at Liam. He was satisfied with his behavior. If not for Vincent to convince him, he was still suspicious of the guy.


    Frederick patted Liam on the back and led him toward the waiting cars. "Come on."


    Liam is wearing a brown trench long coat, face mask, and a hat not to be recognized. Now that he was getting closer to the other men waiting near the cars, they were shocked and became vignt toward him.


    At first, they thought the person who came from the ne was Vincent. But it was strange that the man was walking differently.


    Now that he had approached them, they found out it was Liam. The guy undeniably has many simrities to Vincent, and even the profile of their face resembles a lot.


    "Uncle Fred, why is he here? Isn''t he supposed to be locked up?" It was Rodney who immediately threw a series of questions. He was in disbelief that Master Crow freed their enemy from the Mafia Association prison.


    "Rodney, you don''t need to be hostile to Liam." Frederick urged his nephew. However, knowing Rodney''s attitude, there''s no way he would stay silent.


    "Uncle Fred, when you arrived and informed us that someone was important, we had to pick up by midnight. Never in our wildest dreams that the significant person we are expecting is this criminal."


    Rodney''s words are full of insults because he doesn''t care about Liam. He still remembered how Liam''s cousin, Galvin Huo, abducted Fraine to use as a hostage, which was why he had a massive grudge toward Liam.


    Liam, who could not exin what truly happened, remained silent and let Rodney vent his anger. And seeing that his head hung low, someone spoke up from the other Lopez men, who also came to pick up Frederick and their mysterious guest at the airport.


    "Enough, Rodney. Uncle Fred exined we had to do this in silence and fast." Surprisingly calm among everyone, Carl persuaded the hot-headed guy. "We have to leave now before someone notices us."


    "Carl is correct, Rodney. Liam is here to disguise himself as Vincent. He will help us apprehend the mastermind who wants to assassinate your cousin. Liam is on our side now."


    They could see that Rodney''s heart was still full of doubts. He is not convinced that Liam has changed. On the other hand, Frederick is helpless, as he cannot share anything with his nephews about all the mysteries in this world hidden from humanity.


    So it is hard for him to enlighten them, especially Rodney.


    Before he flew back to P Country, Vincent told everything, including himself¡ªrecovering the memories from his previous life. With this shocking news, he learned Samuel was rted to them.


    Samuel''s first life was as a member of the Imperial Xing family. Exploring Frederick''s bloodline pointed out that Samuel is his ancestor.


    But Samuel is a criminal. So Frederick could not ept the long bloodline connection with him. How ironic that even in this lifetime, Samuel is siding with their enemy.


    However, every time he would recall that Vincent, his very own son in this lifetime, and Hailee, his daughter-inw, were the parents of his ancestor. Thus, Liam bes his ancestor from the mother''s side.


    The world is too small, and life is amazingly tricky for each of them. Now they are all gathered in the present lifetime. It must be destiny, written to their fate.


    In the present life, they are bound to end the long battle their ancestors have been fighting for hundreds of years.


    ''Then, it was the perfect time for the Finale.'' Fred thought inwardly.


    "Alright. Let''s better head home." He announced afterward, giving no room for Rodney to continue whining.


    Leading the way, Frederick opened the car door and gestured at Liam to enter the vehicle.


    "Thank you, sir." Liam expressed his gratitude politely. He stepped inside the van and made himselffortable.

 Chapter 520: Bad News

    Chapter 520: Bad NewsAs they arrive at midnight, the convoy has a quick trip back to the Shen Mansion. It only took them less than half an hour from the airport toward the exclusive estate.


    "Feel at home, Liam." When they arrived at the mansion, Frederick warmly invited him inside.


    Rodney took every opportunity to despise Liam, but other men immediately stopped and appeased him.


    "Rodney, take a rest now. I have important matters I want to discuss with Liam," said Frederick when his nephew attempted to follow him. He saw Rodney open his mouth, so he hurried to add, "... alone."


    Rodney wanted to insist oning, but his cousins had already dragged him to the bar lounge to have a few drinks. All he could do was throw a murderous re at Liam.


    As for the bodyguards arranged by Klein to apany Liam, they were allowed to follow Fred upstairs.


    Sheena and Deana''s family were in deep slumber. The mansion was utterly silent as Fred didn''t notify his daughters about his arrival.


    At Fred''s study on the second floor, he opened the lock in the room and invited Liam inside. Fred did not dy. He walked straight toward the secret door of the mansion''s safe room and gestured at Liam to follow him.


    Liam gasped in awe upon seeing what was inside. The safe room was full of antiques that belonged to the Shen ancestors.


    Having a glimpse of the particr sword inside a golden ss box, Liam made hurried steps to get closer to the artifact.


    "It''s been so long already¡­." Liam sighed. Suddenly, emotion clouded his eyes.


    "This sword¡­" Standing behind him, Fred narrated, "When the crowned Prince Xing Shen became the new Emperor. He gifted this sword to his Loyal General whom he regarded as a brother."


    Of course. Liam perfectly remembered the day the Prince was crowned as the new Emperor. On the same asion, the new Emperor proimed his Imperial Army Major General by presenting this sword made from the finest material on earth and the handle made of Imperial Jade.


    After four hundred years, he finally reunited with his very own sword.


    "I can''t believe it! How did the sword fall in your hands?" Feeling thrilled, Liam asked Fred.


    "ording to my ancestors'' records in their books. The survivor from thest battle you had against the General of the new Emperor, Wu Feng, brought your sword after they buried your body. Then, they sailed south to look for the Xu family, who fled with the Xing prince. After years of traveling nonstop, the survivors finally reunited with the Xu family. Then they handed over General Zhang Jiang''s sword to my ancestors. Since then, we kept it safe and passed it down to the oldest son, the next head of the family."


    "And you only have one son," Liam uttered.


    Looking at his sword, Liam fell into deep thoughts and dug into his previous life memories.


    ''Myst battle.''


    Hisst battle happened on the ind now known as Hong Kong. When Wu Feng''s armies found them, he gave out the order to the Xu family to flee with the Xing crowned Prince along with the Emperor''s sword.


    Unfortunately, he died in that battle while saving everyone. Now he learned that they buried his corpse on that ind.


    Liam remembered that before closing his eyes, he had an enormous weight on his heart if the Crowned Prince had safely arrived in P Country.


    Now, he was relieved that the Crowned Prince had lived and his descendants lived well.


    "Thank you so much, and you kept my sword. It''s been four hundred years."


    "Hmm¡­ It has be a family treasure. I am d to give it back to you," Fred smiled.


    "Again, thank you, sir." Liam bowed as he continued to express his gratitude.


    "Don''t mention it. In fact, it was Vincent who informed me to ensure you get your sword back."


    Liam blinked. Then, he mused, ''So, what Vincent meant for me to pick up is actually my sword. That man has never changed.''


    "Now, let me show you the other sword," said Fred, walking toward the mid-table covered with red silk cloth. After removing the cover, it revealed a golden box. "My ancestors built this box to keep the sword safe through time. And after Vincent found out about it, he built thetest digital lock. He told me the password was the day he married your sister."


    "Last July?" Liam marveled.


    Fred shook his head. "No. He meant his marriage in their past lives."


    Liam creased his forehead, wondering. "Isn''t Vincent just recently regaining his memories?"


    "Yes. But here''s what happened. When he inputted the password, he just chose a random date that came to his head. Now he realized it was actually an important date to his life and Hailee."


    Listening to Fred, Liam was astounded. These memories are only buried deep in Vincent''s memory bank, but his heart never forgets this important date.


    "Then, let me open it."


    Liam taps the screen and inputs the numbers ying in his head. Without a problem, the code was epted on the first try, and it unlocked the box.


    With great awe, Liam felt a warm feeling in his heart.


    ''The Emperor''s Sword!''


    ~


    Somewhere in the Indian Ocean¡­


    Sailing around V Country seas, Klein Williams stood on the flight deck and gazed at the skyline.


    "Master Williams?" Halted on his right side, Andre called out to the man.


    "Hummed¡­" Klein hummed but did not look in Andre''s direction. Despite that, he is all ears to listen to the report.


    "Liam is now leaving Metro City via a fighter jet. Soon, he will join us."


    "That''s good. Anything else?"


    "Don''t you feel freezing out here?"


    "Nah. I''m fine. My body is immortal, the same as my soul," Klein boasted.


    What to say? There''s none; thus, Andre rendered his silence.


    He just assumed that the guy was talking about how beautiful the night sky was. And because he remained quiet, Klein carried on.


    "If I will be reborn in this lifetime. I wonder if it would be great to be amander of a ship like this." After a brief silence, Klein had wondered this.


    They boarded an aircraft carrier, and it was the biggest one.


    "You were a navy yourself back in the 1700s. Right?" Andre had enough information about the history of Master Shun Crow, which is why he was thrilled. Now he was eager to learn more of their past story.


    Klein cast a nce at Andre. "That''s right. I am the ship captain back and forth. I sailed toward the Newfounnd that you now call Canada. I fought battles against the British Navy while Carlisle protected the French Prince onnd."


    "Hmm¡­ I could not imagine myself surviving in that era." Andre mumbled.


    "Heh. Do you want to time travel with me? I can ask Lady Isabe to let you taste the battle in the past."


    "No, thank you! I''m good." Andre declined immediately.


    Klein chucked. He pulled the corner of his mouth and continued reminiscing his distant memories.


    "My hardest battle in Newfounnd is not against the British, but my twin brother Carlisle. And then, the dark shaman sees through my heart''s dark desire. He offered to turn my soul into an immortal, so I could be reborn whenever I wished. I now live in Joseon Era and fight against the French Naval during the Korean Gulf War."


    Immersed in listening to Klein''s story, Andre contemted. He then said afterward, "That was during the 1800s."


    "Yes. But¡­ Ugh!" Klein suddenly groaned in pain.


    "Master Williams! What''s the matter?"


    "He¡­ He senses me." Klein stuttered, bearing the pain he felt all over his body after a potent force squeezed his soul.


    "What are you talking about?" Andre bent down and held Klein on the back, but his hand felt like it burned him. "Ouch! What is happening to you, Master Williams?"


    "It was him! I haven''tpletely freed myself from him because I don''t want to leave Hwa-Young¡­ If I choose to be free, my immortality will disappear¡­ Ahh!"


    Klein fell over on the deck, embracing himself while crying with pain. Andre was startled to see him being like that.


    "What do you want me to do, Master Williams?"


    "Just stay back! I will try to fight him. If he seeds in killing my soul, Shun and Cassandra will be trapped in the Joseon Era, and Hwa-Young will stay here¡­ Ahhh!"


    "Master Williams!" Andre, who never panicked quickly, was extremely anxious at the moment, watching Klein rolling on the deck in pain. "Maybe Levi can help you!"


    Andre called Levi, who hung up the call soon to contact Isabe while he rushed to his wife, who was eyeing the four babies. After listening to Andre over the phone, Madison looked for Hwa-Young.


    "Hwa-Young, please lend me your strength!"


    Hwa-Young is ying with Arabe when Madison waltzes into the room.


    "Alright!" Hwa-Young carefully ced the child and followed Madison into an empty room.


    Facing each other, Madison and Hwa-Young hold hands and close their eyes. Hwa-Young has a telepathic ability, and it may be that Cassandra didn''t have this ability in this lifetime, but her body has enough force for Hwa-Young to use it.


    Hwa-Young struggled to reach her husband''s location, but she and Madison never stopped and gave all their vitality to fight against their father, the dark shaman.


    ~


    Lamandi Pce, V Country


    Strange lights illuminate the pce''s top floor, followed by a loud shattering sound of crystals.


    "Madisoooon!" Master Robert Lee bellowed at the top of his lungs. After his terrifying scream, creepyughs resound. "As expected of my daughters! Hahaha, hah!"


    The pce guards shivered while listening to those terrifyingughs as something creepy crawled into their souls.


    ''This man is really crazy!'' Nothing they could do was cry inwardly.


    Inside the bedroom, Master Robert Lee had a wide grin on his face.


    "So, Cassandra learned to use her ability. Ah, my daughters! I can''t wait for us to reunite soon! When we encounter each other, I will kill you first, Madison, and then your sisters!" Master Robert Lee swears with a thrill lingering in his chest.


    Master Robert Lee was in the middle of his self-chit-chat when he felt his assistant''s presence, who was hesitant to knock on the door.


    "What is it?"


    He lifted his hand to open the door and invited his assistant.


    The assistant was in a panic, seeing the sharp re his master was throwing in his direction. He hadn''t begun reporting yet but felt he had died again.


    "Ma¡ªmaster Lee! There''s bad news!"


    Master Robert Lee narrowed his gaze, annoyed to look at his assistant squirming as he was like peeing on his pants.


    "Spill it out!"


    The assistant jolted after his master bellowed at him. ttering his teeth, he gathered his courage to ry the bad news.


    "Master Lee! I received a call. All of your assets and properties were frozen! The Central Bank would not allow us to make any transaction!"


    "What!!!?"

 Chapter 521: Hello, Brother? (One)

    Chapter 521: Hello, Brother? (One)Jackson Suites North Australia


    Samuel Miller was lounging leisurely, sipping on a wine ss in the suite John gave him, where he had peaceful meals and held meetings during his stay in Australia.


    "Director Miller, sir, I received reports from our men. It looks like the princess has moved. Our men spotted several of the International Knights had arrived in Northern Australia ...."


    The assistant was interrupted from giving his report when amotion could be heard from outside, followed by gunshots.


    Samuel Miller curled his lips as his gaze darted to the door, and someone stepped inside.


    "Heh. It''s not the princess¡­."


    "What?" The assistant turned around and panicked to see the person walking toward them. "Vincent Shen!?"


    "Hah! Wee, brother!" Samuel widened his smile.


    Tension suddenly esctes when Vincent takes off his trench coat and hat. The assistant and Samuel''s bodyguards be vignt and prepare for a bloody fight.


    However, Vincent also brought several men from Jacob''s army and Hailee''s knights.


    Vincent walked straight to the empty couch across from Samuel and sat down. Then he reached for the wine bottle and poured the red content into an empty, golden goblet on the table.


    "Hello, brother," Vincent greeted Samuel nonchntly while he swirled the wine in the goblet and lifted his hand before he drank the content in one gulp. "Taste on top of the world. You sure have talent in choosing the finest wine to serve the emperor."


    Samuel narrowed his gaze. He wished his sharp re could kill Vincent before he could open his mouth to return a poisonous remark. He beat him already, giving him no chance to speak.


    "However, I would pour wine on my own. It''s better to be cautious. Might you poison me like how you poison our father, Emperor Xing Long?"


    Samuel grinned and sneered in his heart. There''s no doubt that Vincent regained his past life memories.


    His calm poise, reced with arrogance and fierceness, is what Samuel sees, just like the brother he used to know back in their past life.


    Years back, they were both college students at Leroy Collins University in New Jersey. He tookw while Vincent took architecture.


    Even though he was just in the second year of his course, the teacher was already impressed by Vincent. It was because of his excellent designs even before taking the course.


    But Vincent Shen is such a proud man. He doesn''t even have a girlfriend nor get close to any woman. He is snubbed and only chooses who he will make friends with.


    While taking the Law course, he pays attention to every information about Vincent. Then, he plotted how to mess up his life.


    Thus, he came up with a brilliant n. He spreads a rumor about Vincent''s sexual orientation. However, he could care less about it. Instead, he heard Vincent tell his best friend Jake that it helps to prevent those girls from flirting with him.


    Madame Hilda Lopez Shen is the one who is displeased with the rumor. She was desperate for her son to find a girlfriend. Well, his n still became fruitful. She even arranged his son''s marriage, and it was perfect.


    The First Madame of the Lan family is close to Hilda. What''s more exciting, Eva''s boyfriend is Hailey''s closest friend, Bryan.


    He needed to press Ricky Lan to the corner and nt scenarios in his head, including a suggestion to milk money on Vincent Shen.


    He was delighted when his ns seeded. Vincent and Eva got married, and Liam pursued Hailee. And that''s even perfect.


    Three birds with one stone are how he describes it.


    Vincent, Liam, and Hailee are trapped in such a situation without them knowing.


    However, Vincent did not care about Eva after they got married. Instead, Bryan and Eva are still in a rtionship they called "No strings attached."


    At first, everything went smoothly. But his master is using Liam. He wanted Liam to win Hailee''s hand for marriage to control the Oceania Continent against Shun.


    And that pushed Hailee to marry Bryan, and then many things happened, and Vincent found Hailee again.


    It was terrible news to him that the Empress was also reincarnated in this lifetime, and their stars foretold they would cross paths again.


    Moreover, the Emperor''s Elite Warriors were also born in this life, honoring their vows to Heaven to guard the Empress with their lives.


    Andre Hillson, Bryan Anderson, Pitterson Cha, Hansen Park, James White, Geoffrey Wilson, Leonard Grubber, Hector Payne, and the long list of Hailee''s knights.


    Ever since the past life, their lives are already interconnected.


    But this would not happen if the sorceress did not get in the way. That sorceress must be the one who arranges their reincarnation into this lifetime.


    All of them can''t be born again in the same lifetime.


    Unfortunately, he did not find the reincarnation of the sorceress. He could feel her presence but could not distinguish who she was in this life.


    The sorceress is the daughter of the White Moon. However, Madison has no daughter, and Isabe''s descendants, Doctor Derek, have a daughter, but he does not feel the sorceress''s presence in Kendra.


    And if the sorceress reincarnates in Cassandra''s family, Ang and the newborn baby Arabe are just ordinary humans. They don''t possess any power.


    So, Samuel is puzzled¡­


    Who is the sorceress in this lifetime?


    "You should pay attention," Vincent reminded Samuel.


    Samuel, who was lost in thoughts, came back to the present. He constricted his eyes, observing Vincent''s every move.


    ''That was close!''


    He zoned out all of a sudden. He forgot he was in the middle of tension after Vincent''s arrival.


    "You never learn, big brother," mocked Vincent. He added, "You were still the same as before."


    Samuel gritted his teeth, listening to Vincent''s ridicule.


    Vincent was always looking down at him. He would only treat him as useless as if he were disabled. That''s why he loathed him all his life, including this one.


    "I would not let you keep humiliating me! Not in this life!" Samuel bellowed.


    Samuel stood abruptly from the sofa seated and reached for Vincent''s neck.

 Chapter 522: Hello, Brother? (Two)

    Chapter 522: Hello, Brother? (Two)While his left arm reached for Vincent''s neck, Samuel grabbed the wine bottle to smash Vincent with it.


    However, Vincent had a good reflex.


    Effortlessly, he moved to the side, not for Samuel to grab him. Instead, he caught his hand holding the bottle. He took this as an opportunity to grip Samuel on the arm and strike him using his palm.


    This style is primarily taught to the Imperial princes that are still passed down, even to the present.


    And because this martial art is from ancient times, the effect is different. Samuel flew ten meters away across the room and mmed into the wall.


    But he managed tond on his feet after being pushed hard.


    "Heh." Samuel lifted the corner of his mouth while he wiped the blood on his lips, ignoring the slight pain he felt on his spine. His eyes never left Vincent, who walked with light steps toward him and now did a pose, preparing for a duel against him. "So, it was still taught this martial art to our family."


    Vincent scoffed as he shot a dagger look at Samuel, muttering, "I don''t have a family who is a murderer."


    "But aren''t you?" Samuel mocked. "Are you washing your own hands?"


    Vincent grinned. "I believe I already delivered enough retribution. How about you? You''d continue to massacre innocent people in this life. That is why I will not show mercy this time."


    Listening to Vincent bbing, Samuelughed.


    "Hah! And when did you show mercy on me?" Then, Samuel stoppedughing but sneered, "Thest time I recalled, you sent me away. Then assassinate me on the road!"


    Vincent''s expression did not change. Instead, he countered him with sharp words. He said, "I regret I didn''t execute you with my own hands in front of the citizens when I had a chance."


    Samuel snorted as he retorted vincent. He said, "Didn''t you still do it? Although you execute the n secretly so that people would see you as apassionate brother and emperor. Tsk."


    "I did not¡ª" Vincent affirmed nonchntly. He took a long breath and added, "But the past is no longer important. I don''t see the need to exin myself to you¡ªwhy I sent you away."


    Samuel clenched his jaw. Vincent is always ying righteous.


    Clenching both of his hands into a ball, Samuel tightens his fists. He took a big step before he swung his body, threw a punch, and lifted his left foot to kick Vincent, but he fended himself with his left arm.


    Vincent did not disappoint him. He returned a punch, but Samuel dodged it by tilting his head to the side. Immediately, he countered Vincent''s punch with a kick. But Vincent leaned on his back to avoid his leg.


    Vincent took three steps until he was positioned behind Samuel. He flung his right leg to return a kick, and Samuel was knocked on the head.


    Samuelnded on the console table. The expensive decorations fell and scattered to the floor.


    While Samuel fought against Vincent, his men patiently waited for a perfect chance to attack the knights and Jacob''s men.


    Itching to join the fight, one slowly reached his gun onto the back of his hips, but before he could touch the cold firearm handle, someone shot at his palm, causing him to cry out loud.


    With the gunshot, both Samuel and Vincent stop moving and cast a nce at the person''s direction who fired the gun.


    Samuel sneered after he recognized the man who shot one of his men. He criticized, "Huh. So that''s it! You brought back a loyal dog."


    John, hiding behind the other men, immediately took out his gun when he noticed someone trying to pull a weapon sneakily.


    Now hearing Samuel''s remarks, John peered at the man he shot, tilted his head to the side, and cast a sidelong nce at Samuel.


    With a mocking smile, he corrected Samuel. "It''s a happy, loyal dog."


    Samuel smiled at John with disdain. He actually ns to set him up so that his master gets rid of him. However, it turned out that he was the one set up by John instead.


    "I would have made sure to kill Carmen." Samuelughed, arousing John''s calmness in the situation. He knew very well that John loathed him because of what he did to Carmen.


    As someone paying attention to John, he keeps him on his watch.


    After John broke up with Carmen, he stopped getting involved with Ivy, making him suspicious. Thus, he keeps testing him. And John sure is cautious not to get caught, and his action could convince him to believe he is on their side.


    But he was actually associated with Vincent all this time.


    Samuel sneered in his heart. He was determined to remove John from the picture. After he deals with Vincent, he''ll kill him next.


    With this thought, Samuel mustered more strength to fight Vincent with the same vitality.


    In the following minutes, he and Vincent throw punches and kick each other. But in the end, Vincent does not show mercy as he promised earlier.


    After Samuelnded on the furniture, the corner of Vincent''s eyes caught a silhouette of a spear hanging on the wall as decoration.


    Samuel fell to the floor. The truth prevails that his strength is not a match for Vincent. His face was swollen, and he could taste blood in his mouth. He looked up and saw that Vincent did not waver, and he had no n to stop.


    Thus, he tried to gather his strength to get up. But Vincent kicked him in the stomach.


    Vincent is not satisfied. He reached for the spear and thrust the de into his knee, causing him to cry in pain. He could feel that the de had cut off his joints.


    "Vincent Shen!" Samuel''s eyes burned with rage. But Vincent did not flinch when he twisted the spear that remained buried in his knee.


    After Vincent rotated the de in the spear, Samuel felt his knee separate from his leg, breaking his bones. "Ahhhh!"


    Samuel screamed as the pain was unbearable, like cutting him into pieces. It was apparent that Vincent was torturing him.


    Meanwhile, John and all the men in that room swallowed hard from watching Vincent beating up Samuel¡ªeven his men were helpless to see him beaten.


    Each of them lowered their gaze to the floor when Vincent pulled out the spear and thrust the de on Samuel''s other knee.

 Chapter 523: Hello, Brother? (Three)

    Chapter 523: Hello, Brother? (Three)Samuel gritted his teeth to suppress the pain splitting every flesh in his leg. The ufortable feeling crept toward his entire body giving him a shiver in his bones.


    He tried to reach for the spear to snatch it from Vincent. However, Vincent stepped on his hand mercilessly.


    "Don''t you dare?" Vincent hissed at Samuel. His eyes exhibit no pity at all but coldness in them.


    "That''s an easy way to earn his death."


    Every person in that room turned their head to look at the gorgeous woman at the door.


    Listening to the loud clunk of her high heels on the floor, Vincent softens his gaze at the woman walking toward him. His eyes never leave her, while his entire consciousness focuses on Samuel.


    Samuel attempts to take this chance to free himself, but Vincent does not give him the opportunity. Instead, like what he did to Samuel''s right leg, he rotated the de, cutting the joints in his left knee.


    Samuel screamed, but Vincent seemed deaf.


    "Why did youe?" he asked in a gentle tone as if he had no one he tortured at the moment.


    The woman, none other than Hailee, pulled a dining chair and positioned it in front of Samuel. She sat down on the chair with grace, crossed her legs, then ced her two hands on herp¡ªa portrayal of a noblewoman.


    Samuel constricted his eyes. He was on the verge of passing out, but he braced himself not to lose consciousness. There''s no way that he would give up now. He squinted his eyes, following Hailee''s movement.


    Hailee looked so regal, like the empress back then. Even in this life, Hailee is emitting a royalty presence.


    Ignoring the man her husband had tortured, Hailee smiled at Vincent and said, "Do you want me to finish it for you instead?"


    Every knight and Jacob''s men in that room were stunned. They presume that they only heard wrong. There is no way that the sweet princess would say this.


    They have witnessed the princess growing up as a sweet and kind girl. But the person they are seeing now is opposite to the one they used to know.


    They were in disbelief that suddenly the princess had changed drastically. Some of them shared nces with a thought, ''Is it because of Vincent Shen?''


    Meanwhile, Vincent shook his head. He could not let Hailee stain her hands with Samuel''s blood.


    "Darling, you shouldn''t be here."


    Hailee smiled to assure Vincent that she didn''t feel disgusted watching him torture Samuel.


    "It''s alright, Hubby. I have something to tell your brother before you end his life."


    After saying this, Hailee lowered her eagle-like eyes on Samuel, pulling the left corner of her red lips as she said, "Greetings, your highness."


    Samuel grinned. How apparent that Hailee had the mood of mocking him while Vincent tortured him. This couple is sure matched, made in heaven.


    Samuel shoots a dagger and looks at John. He reported to him that Hailee was still in aa.


    Ironically, she was well and looked healthy, now seated like a goddess in front of him, looking fresh and exquisite, as if nothing had happened to her.


    Heh. John indeed fooled him!


    "So? I assume the emperor and empress have regained their previous memories."


    "That''s right. And thanks to you and your master." Hailee replied. Her tone is full of sarcasm. "There is someone you should see. A person you knew very well, even in our previous lives."


    Samuel creased his forehead as he followed Hailee''s gaze toward the door. "Liam!"


    ~


    A few moments earlier¡­


    "Empress, this is not a good idea. I promised Vincent. I would stop you when you thought of following him!" James has been begging her to stay behind. But he failed to pursue her.


    In the end, James has to arrange their escape so that Geoffrey and the other knights will not notice them leaving Dream City.


    They''ve finally arrived at Jackson''s Suites'' parking lot. James got out and opened the back seat, praying that the person he had contacted had alreadynded in Northern Australia before them.


    Hailee stepped out of the vehicle. She was wearing a stylish white cashmere long coat. Underneath is a red bodycon dress with a long slit in the side, paired with five inches of a red stiletto.


    "You should note."


    Hailee made an abrupt turn and looked at the man speaking behind her.


    "Liam? What are you doing here? You are supposed to join Andre, right?"


    Liam did not reply to her, but he nced at James. Hailee immediately understood what was going on.


    She looked at James with using stares, ''Whom you are loyal to?''


    James cannot stand it. "Empress! Vincent doesn''t want you to get involved this time. But you are not listening to me!"


    "So you betrayed me?"


    "No!" James was helpless to defend himself. He only wanted Hailee to be safe from their enemies.


    "He did not." Thankfully, Liam spoke up, and James looked at him with grateful eyes. "I called James because I wanted to speak with you before I met the dark shaman. Then James informed me you are insisting oning here."


    He added, "Hailee, convince Vincent to stay in Australia and let me finish the fight this time."


    "What are you up to now?" She was concerned. Liam is now limping after she shoots him in the knee. So it worries her how Liam would win against that man.


    "What happened in the past should not be repeated. Okay?" Liam carried on. "Listen to me, Hail. Go back to Dream City with Vincent to protect your children. I should not be the one who fled this time, but you and Vincent. It is not a matter anymore of taking revenge on the dark shaman. You made a promise to your children to meet them in the future. Have you forgotten that?"


    Suddenly, her tears uncontrobly poured down her eyes.


    The promises¡­ Of course, she remembers it now.


    "Liam¡­" Hailee throws her arms around his waist. She closed her eyes and let Liam embrace her tight.


    "Hail, I want you and Vincent to live happily in this life, along with your children. Vincent also regained his previous life memories. He would act stubbornly now, and you are the only person he listens to. I know him more than anyone else. He would insist on finishing this battle with his very own hands."


    "So, please convince him to go back to Dream City instead. I know he would insist that he is not a coward and that he never backed down from any fight. But this time... What you did not fulfill in your previous life. You have a chance now."


    "You and Vincent''s responsibility in this life is to celebrate your children''s birth, keep them safe and live well. There is no wrong if you are hiding this time. Remember in our previous lives, Hail. We should not let those children''s efforts in changing the course of our fate go down the drain. Those children risk their lives so that we live today. Do you understand me, little sister?"


    Hailee sobs while nodding her head. "Oh, brother! I understand what you mean. I will talk to Vincent after he settles the score with Samuel."


    "Good! Let me and the others deal with that man. Okay? Master Williams is helping us."


    "Okay. It''s not cowardly to hide from the enemy. But it is to change the fate he carved for our family."


    Liam sighed with relief when he was able to convince Hailee. James, who is watching from the side, finally breathes.


    Liam lifted his arm and patted Hailee on the head.


    "Yes, that''s right. What he wants is for you to go to him. But we will not let him have his way. He badly wants Vincent''s soul and body for his ultimate n because he knows he could use one of your children to kill Master Williams."


    Hailee parted from Liam. She is looking at him with bewilderment. "Why is he so obsessed with Shun?"


    "I''m not so certain about that."


    ~


    Hailee blinked and pulled herself to the present. She peered at Samuel for a moment before she threw him a question.


    "Why did your master hate Shun so bad?"

 Chapter 524: You Are Not Worthy

    Chapter 524: You Are Not Worthy"I don''t know," Samuel answered weakly. "And I did not care about him."


    The only matter in his mind is to make Vincent''s life miserable. However, why is Vincent''s life always good? Yet, he was still lucky to marry the empress in this life, who was reincarnated into a wealthy family and became a trillionaire heiress.


    Now Vincent was enjoying this wealth and connection. He became an influential son-inw, and he was too envious because, until now, he was still someone''s puppet!


    Heh. Samuel sneered in his heart after reality pped him in the face. The difference between him and Vincent is still so significant. In the end, he would die pitifully again.


    Why? Why?


    While Samuel had his moment of self-pity, Vincent was not happy with his reply a few seconds earlier. His already grim face became even more profound as his gaze narrowed. He kicked Samuel in the stomach, and thetter grunted in pain.


    "Answer my wife properly!" A tinge of firmness present in his voice, Vincent ordered Samuel. He is far satisfied. Thus, he steps on Samuel''s wounded knees.


    Eyes closed, Samuel cried out when the pain in his limbs was insufferable. Then, blood was spouting from his mouth. Despite the suffering, Samuel is still able tough. He dared to infuriate Vincent, even though the pain was seeping into his bones and almost caused him to pass out. For unknown reasons, he was still conscious. Probably because of the hatred he had for Vincent. He is mentally fighting against him, and this gives him strength somehow.


    Witnessing this, Hailee pursed her lips. As Samuel enjoys being tortured, then she will grant his wish. She stood from the dining chair and walked toward the center table where wine bottles and crystal sses were knocked all over after Samuel attempted to seize Vincent''s throat earlier.


    Everyone in that room was puzzled when she picked up the ice bucket. They wondered what she was going to do with it. They''d just realized when she sshed the content on Samuel''s face.


    Jacob''s men, especially Captain Jones, were dumbfounded. From day one, she came out into this chaotic world; he never witnessed this princess act cruelly, but only with kindness and a sweet smile stered on her innocent face.


    But at this moment, their eyes glowered with deep respect for her. Finally, she is living up to Davies'' name. Davies'' family is known as a great ally. Families bowed before Jacob, hoping to be in his wing and protected by his wealth and power.


    Now, this dominion was officially passed down to the only heritor that Jacob had.


    Being tortured more by Hailee, Samuel was coughing hard, chasing air as he was out of breath.


    He threw sharp res at Hailee and mused. ''How cruel!''


    How ironic he thought of this.


    Samuel did not realize yet that what he had done to innocent people was way crueler, and it was what Hailee nted in her mind tofort herself about why she was doing this to Samuel. She is not a natural evil. She has only be one because of what other people do to her loved ones. Now they owed her so much.


    Friendship and family¡­


    That was what Samuel took from her.


    He killed a few of her knights she treated like her blood brothers. Pitt was still in critical condition, and even Carmen was wounded severely.


    Also, she almost lost Liam and Bryan. Their beautiful rtionship ended because Samuel wanted to mess up their lives. And above all, he caused so much trouble in Vincent''s life.


    Samuel owed her so much not only in this life but also in the previous. Prince Xing Ling nned to murder her son, the Imperial crowned prince. Furthermore, at present, he wants to kill her children.


    Now they were granted another life to repent and do good deeds, yet Samuel still wasted his chance to redeem his soul from the sins hemitted in his previous life.


    And so she will teach him how to atone.


    "Look at you now¡­." Looking down at Samuel, Hailee pursed her luscious lips, wearing a red velvety matte lipstick made by Davies Cosmetics.


    Today, she exceptionally dressed up something fiery red and wore exquisite makeup for this reunion.


    "I should wear a ck dress tomemorate your funeral tonight. However, I remembered you are not worthy of more attention. Besides, you are thest person who deserved my sympathy," she muttered with disdain as she recounted those incidents in their previous lives ying in her head.


    "Before you die, you must listen carefully. Now tell me... Do you know why the Emperor only punished you with a light punishment?"


    Listening to Hailee, Samuel snorted inwardly. ''Light punishment? It''s just to give him a good image in front of the people! But he nned for his brother''s death by annihting him!''


    Hailee noticed the fierceness in Samuel''s eyes, and she understood what was running in his head. She smiled.


    "You''ve believed that the Emperor designed your assassination. Aren''t you?"


    Lying helpless in the pool of his own blood, Samuel constricted his pupils when Hailee read his mind. Initially, he has no interest in listening to her recounting how he died in their previous lives. But a part of him became curious to hear further.


    Now that Samuel was focusing his attention on her, Hailee continued.


    "You may not know, but did you remember where you died?"


    Samuel narrowed his half-opened eyes as he dug into his distant memories. He indeed noticed that the ce was far different. That ce is not Death Valley.


    Death Valley is a desert of suffering. But back then, after someone attacked the carriage, he noticed that the surrounding was filled with trees.


    ''Where is that ce, actually?'' Samuel began to wonder, digging deeper into his previous life memories as Hailee carried on.


    "You didn''t get a chance to know the truth. The Emperor sent you to Mystic Vige to unseal Prince Wu Feng''s spell on you."


    The surprise was written on Samuel''s face. At first, he wanted to believe that Hailee was only lying. But what for? Everything happened four hundred years ago. But the more it sinks into his brain, the more everything seems to be more apparent.


    ''Mystic Vige!?''


    He opens his mouth to utter something, but he has no more strength to speak after he loses so much blood. Vincent cut off his knee joints, causing blood to ooze from both legs. His body was shivering as a chill seeped into his skin.


    Hailee peered at Samuel, opening and closing his mouth. His pale lips were out of color, and now his face looked white as a sheet of paper.


    Vincent surely did not beat around the bush and quickly tortured Samuel, cutting off the bones by hitting the pate in his knee joints.


    Hailee guessed that her husband would also dislocate Samuel''s elbows if she did not appear surprisingly.


    Of course, she witnessed the Emperor doing so personally to the traitors in the empire. To teach them a lesson, he cut their arms and showed the public that traitors and robbers would fall to the same fate.


    It was so cruel of the Emperor that she hated him for being so ruthless that she wanted to call off their wedding.


    Butter on, she learned the true heart of a brother.


    The Emperor had a profound reason why he was so cruel to some families in the empire that made mistakes and wrongdoings. Those people were the ones who chastised the first prince...


    As Hailee drifted farther by these memories, Hailee concealed the emotion about to flow through her eyes. She leaned back and sat leisurely like she had all the time in the world.

 Chapter 525: Reincarnate as a Snake

    Chapter 525: Reincarnate as a Snake"If you have forgotten, I will make you remember it. Let''s go back to the time our beloved Emperor announced your punishment. Do you know why our beloved Emperor decided to throw you away to Death Valley? It is to lure the enemy. Prince Wu sent out his assassins to ambush your carriage and pretend it was your brother who ordered them to kill you. Ring a bell now?"


    Samuel remembered vague episodes in his head. Soldiers wearing Imperial uniforms attacked their carriage. Could his master erase that memory so he did not recall what truly happened that day? If it was true, then he who killed him?


    Samuel was in a trance and did not respond. Thus, Hailee carried on.


    "However, even after the Emperor lured the enemy. Still, Prince Wu could catch up, and he seeded in killing you."


    "That''s not true!" Samuel bellowed. Prince Wu is the only person on earth that see his worth. He believed in him and saved him from his miseries.


    So why would the empress lie to him now?


    What gain would she earn? Is it nothing?


    She is the wealthiest woman walking on earth. She has everything, power and the army. So why would she lie to him?


    Samuel''s creepyugh resounded. He thinks what Hailee told him is a joke.


    "Why would you lie to me when I am dying?"


    Hailee tugged the corner of her lips and said, "You just said it... Why am I saying nonsense in your dying state? Well? Isn''t the perfect part of the movie is where the secret revealed to a dying character? However, the scenario is switched. The Viin was dying while the main character was revealing the truth. Isn''t it ironic?"


    Hailee peered at Samuel. Her red lips twitched with disdain.


    "Do you think my brother, General Jiang, would let you die? My brother protected you with his life because he promised the Emperor that you would reach Mystic Valley in one piece and live. But of course, Prince Wu possessed a forbidden ability that my brother was no match for him. If the sorceress didn''t save him at the right time, he would have died already. So you owed his life! But what have you done to him in this lifetime!? Is this how you pay him back for giving his life to you!?"


    Samuel was stunned seeing Hailee fret. There''s a pain sh in her eyes as memories pass her head.


    "My brother wants you to get better and return to yourself. But you¡­" Hailee choked. She fought the overwhelming emotion flooding her chest.


    How sad that her brother cherished a person who loved someone else.


    Samuel somewhat understands. He struggled to lift his ear to look at Liam, who stood firm on the corner, holding two swords in his hands, but he did not spare a look in his direction. His face remained stone, and no one could fathom what was on his mind.


    "General Jiang¡­ Why..." He wanted to form the words on his tongue, but what did he want to tell Liam? He doesn''t know because, at this moment, he is confused about what to believe and who is telling the truth.


    Samuel squinted his eyes when tears suddenly poured without warning. ''No!'' He would not believe whatever Hailee was telling him. She is only lying to him.


    "You are only lying to me!" Looking at Hailee, he voices out what is on his head. He gritted his teeth and could taste more blood in his mouth.


    Seeing the pain and doubts in Samuel''s eyes, Hailee pursedher red lips and said,


    "I''ve already mentioned it. Why would I lie to you when you are dying? For Prince Wu, you are not worthy of him anymore. But my dear husband, the Emperor, and my brother n out how to make a secret escape to hide you from Wu Feng. So they came up with three identical carriages that left the pce that day. One is headed to Death Valley, one to Suffering Mountain, and the other to Mystic Vige. To ensure you reach Mystic Vige, where a sorcerer can help you. My brother, General Zhang Jiang, apanied you and protected you."


    Hailee paused one more time. She just remained to stare at Samuel, and those cold eyes sent a chill down his back.


    She seemed possessed.


    "I prayed to heaven that you will reincarnate as a snake in the jungle as your punishment. I want you to remember your previous two lives to repent. You will be reminded of what youmitted every day. You will spend all of your life crawling on the ground, in the trees, in the rocks, and live alone, recounting your mistakes until the day you die. Man will step on you, chase you out, and trust their de at you. Hah! It''s the perfect punishment for you!"


    In their previous lives, she pitied Prince Ling because Emperor Xing Long despised and outcasted him because his heart longed for a forbidden love. But now, there''s no sympathy left in her heart, even after Vincent tortured him.


    For her, Samuel does not deserve any pity. Thus, Hailee stood up from her seat and walked toward Vincent.


    Rooted their feet on the floor, Hailee throwing insults stunned every knight and Jacob''s men in that room. This kind and gentle princess never open her mouth to scorn someone. She could not care less about arguing and taking revenge. But now, everything has changed ever since she found out who is her bottom line.


    Meanwhile, lying on the floor, half alive, Samuel was in disbelief after hearing those harsh words from Empress Ming. This kind of pampered youngdy of the Zhang family is now cursing someone. Or maybe she was reincarnated to another family bloodline and acquired a different face.


    After watching the drama for a while; finally, Liam looked at Samuel.


    Samuel was also looking in his direction, and his gaze suddenly softened. He opened his mouth, but he could no longer utter any words.


    ''How pitiful. Heh.'' In his mind, Samuel mocked himself.


    So he is blind in the past? This is his realization.


    Those who love him truly, he only shuns them away. Yet, he chose to reincarnate in the future, where his beloved brother was born again one day. Ironically, everyone reincarnated in this life, including General Zhang Jiang as Liam.


    His heart filled with resentment because of his belief that the Emperor abandoned him. He did all he meant to ruin his perfect happy life.


    However, the truth pped him in the face several times tonight. He was blind and wronged so many people. And this is because of that man who poisoned his mind and heart.


    "I think we should not waste our time staying here anymore."


    Samuel heard Hailee tell Vincent.


    "I am just getting started."


    Vincent doesn''t want to spoil his fun. He still had many things he wanted to work out for Samuel to taste his own medicine.


    However, on the one hand, now that his beloved wife is present, he does not want Hailee to see him being brutal to someone. In the end, he agreed and listened to his wife.


    Vincent cast a murderous re at Samuel. He already beat him up ck and blue, yet he is not satisfied in his heart as he didn''t vent all his anger yet.


    "You should be thankful that my wife was here. Otherwise, I can beat you till the sun rises in the east." Upon saying this, Vincent wiped his shoes using Samuel''s shirt. He lifted his foot and stepped on Samuel; it immediately imprinted the shape of his shoe tainted with blood on his white shirt.


    Samuel grunted. He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out. He struggled to move his arm to reach for Vincent, but his brother only stepped backward and sneered at him with disgust.


    Vincent took Hailee''s hand and led her outside while their knights and Captain Jones'' team apprehended Samuel''s men. Liam followed the couple without ncing at Samuel, and John did the same. James staying where he stood, wants to move forward and beat up Samuel, but the guy is dying. There is no fun with it anymore when his opponent cannot punch him back. So he was reluctant to follow his two bosses.


    He saw that Vincent and Hailee were leaving. Samuel was startled. He made a sound but to no avail. Strangely, he could not speak any longer.


    He opened his mouth and shouted at the top of his lung, but he still failed to make a sound.


    ''What is happening to me?'' ''No!'' Samuelter realized that Vincent had paralyzed a nerve in his body that caused him to be mute.


    Why did he do this to him? He was puzzled at the same time, helpless that he was now in this state. With blurry vision, Samuel tried to look at Vincent''s receding. He stretched his arm forward like he was grabbing something in the thin air.


    ''Don''t leave me here, brother! Please talk to me!'' Samuel screamed in his head. But Vincent would no longer hear him. As Vincent deliberately ignored him, his sight shifted to Liam. His eyes lit up when Liam halted halfway.


    He thought Liam would turn around and look at him one more time. But he was disappointed when Liam resumed walking without ncing at him.


    ''Please, don''t leave me!''


    ''No! This is not the end! I don''t want to die!''


    ''Vincent! Liam!''


    ''I don''t want to die!''


    Samuel was afraid to reincarnate as a snake and live alone in the wilderness, just like what Hailee had cursed at him.


    ''No! This is just a dream!''


    Even if he screams, no one will hear him.


    Everything was shattered into a million pieces before his eyes. And Samuel saw himself putting back everything, and it would take him a long and lonely journey before he wouldplete it, which loneliness slowly swallowed him whole that he lost his sanity.


    With thest consciousness that he had, he wishes for retribution for all of the wrongdoings he did in this life. He wants to atone because he doesn''t like to receive heaven''s punishment.


    He was frightened that what Hailee prayed woulde true, and he became a lowly animal crawling on the ground, eating other animals! He doesn''t want to meet such a fate!

 Chapter 526: Molest Your Husband

    Chapter 526: Molest Your HusbandIn the corridor, Hailee scanned Vincent from the head down to his fifteen thousand dors of ck zip boots.


    ''What a waste.'' She thought, then her gazended on Vincent''s shirt. There are bloodstains, but she is confident they don''t belong to him.


    "Maybe you better take a quick shower before we head home?" she suggested. When her gaze moved to John, he immediately offered the other presidential suite on this floor. John called the manager to bring the key card.


    "Home?" asked Vincent, confused.


    "I want you to take Hailee back to Dream City," Liam replied.


    Vincent insisted, "But I have to meet that man and settle the score with him."


    "I understand. However, is it what that man wanted?"


    Vincent clenched his jaw; Liam was right. What that man wanted was him.


    He wants Vincent to go to him to execute his grand n of snatching Vincent''s body and imprisoning his soul.


    "Wifey?" He looked at Hailee, seeking her opinion. When she nodded at him, showing that she agreed with Liam''s suggestion.


    "I know you wanted to take revenge on him. I do, too!" said Hailee. She added, "However, we promised our children that we will live in the distant future that awaits us."


    Vincent pondered. He could not agree more with these siblings because they were both right.


    This is not the future yet. It is just the path to open the door of the distant future where the actual battle is waiting for them.


    Right now, they are living between the past and the future, the present time.


    From here, they must act correctly; so that it is the right course, they walk into their life.


    This is the moment where everything is the beginning of the ending.


    After weighing things over, Vincent took Hailee''s hand and uttered, "We must live today so that we can prepare our children for tomorrow."


    "Hummed. The ending of this battle is within their hands," Hailee concurred.


    Vincent promised, "I will teach them everything I know."


    Good thing that he equipped himself with learning self-defense. He can teach his children wielding swords and martial arts, including how to use all kinds of guns.


    At that moment, the future shed in his eyes. "To the future¡­."


    Both Liam and Hailee nodded at him.


    "Let me apprehend him. Now that the emperor''s sword is in my hands, we can easily capture his soul. We may not eradicate every piece of his soul, but the children can in the future. All we need now is to seal his soul, and I swore to guard him with my life."


    He is a man in his words, so Vincent believes in him.


    "The children... We have to wait for the sorceress to cultivate her power. After that, we can finally eradicate the dark shaman by the Red Blood Moon during the alignment of the nines."


    Liam nodded his head. "You have to protect her."


    "I will¡­ my children will protect her."


    "They need to learn how to fight and to use weapons to protect themselves once they visit us in the past."


    "Yes. I will teach them every self-defense I know. Including how to use guns, swords, and knives."


    Liam sighs with relief. At the same time, sadness shes in his eyes as he wants to teach them himself too. He forced himself to smile and said, "Alright. That''s good."


    Vincent looked straight into Liam''s eyes. The man was still a little hesitant to approach him.


    After they almost killed each other in the past, Liam carried the weight in his heart after he regained his memories.


    But everything that happened to them is all because of that man. So Vincent took the initiative to bury the incident. He walked toward Liam and lifted his arm, waiting for the other guy to grasp his palm. Like the usual way they greeted each other in their previous lives, their arms bound and giving each other''s back a path.


    "Wee back," Vincent told Liam.


    The guy nodded his head and thanked him. "I''m d to be back."


    Soon they embraced tight, delighted at this reunion. Who would have thought they had actually sworn brothers in their previous lives? Their life, indeed, will be forever connected.


    Standing at the side, Hailee wipes the tears that wet her delicate face without warning.


    She never imagined that this day woulde. She walks forward and throws her two delicate arms around the two men''s tight waists.


    Liam and Vincent parted and shifted their attention to the woman, who squeezed herself in between them. The two menughed at what she did¡ªjust like in their previous lives.


    "Vincent, Hail¡­ I need to join Andre as soon as possible. Master Williams and Lady Isabe are waiting for me now and this sword." Liam said, taking a nce at Emperor Sword in his hand.


    Vincent and Hailee did not dy him anymore. Soon, Liam left Australia in a fighter jet, heading to V Country, where the Australian Royal Fleet is floating near its sovereign inds.


    "Are you ready?" Vincent asked Hailee, who nodded immediately. He has finished his shower and is ready to return to their children.


    Just like that... No one noticed that Vincent and Hailee left Dream City, and before the sun rose from the east, they had already returned to their children''s side.


    ~


    DREAM CITY HOSPITAL


    Hailee and Vincent stood by the window, snuggling¡­ The couple watched the beautiful sunrise, and its magnificent rays were a sign of hope that filled their hearts.


    nting light kisses on his wife''s hair, Vincent never felt content in his life. Soon, he felt Hailee bury her head into his cor and sniff him. It always amused him when his wife behaved like this.


    "Mrs. Shen, please have mercy on this poor guy. Could you stop seducing me for the time being?"


    ''It looks like I need to shower several times a day to maintain my hygiene.'' At the back of his head, Vincent thought.


    To no avail, the woman inside his arms did not listen to him; instead, she bit his earlobe.


    "What punishment would you give me if I would not stop?"


    Vincent swallowed hard, dazed while listening to his wife''s coquettish sweet voice that was like music in his ear, and her teasing was quite damn effective.


    "Please, you can molest your husband all you want as long as one month has passed, but not today."


    Hailee giggled, listening to Vincent''s pleas. She turned around and lowered her gaze to a particr sight. The corner of her lips lifted when she saw that bulge in his husband''s pants.


    ''Poor guy!''


    Hailee cast a seductive nce at Vincent with that yful smile on her lips. "Are you sure you don''t want me to calm you down there?"


    She was clearly bullying him now. Vincent heaved a sigh of defeat, feeling helpless. He almost yielded and became this woman''s ve, which he was willing to be.


    Of course. There is nothing he wants to do in this world but please one woman and make her happy every day.


    ''Oh¡­''


    He has forgotten that he had more girls to indulge in and love every second of his life wholeheartedly.


    Vincent nced at the Nursery ICU, and Hailee caught those loving gazes for their daughters. At that moment, Hailee took the chance to kill the sexual desires that gradually erupted in their bodies.


    "Do you want to discuss what name we should give them?"


    Vincent nodded delightedly. Although they already know the names of their future children; still, he would love to talk about it with Hailee, especially their memories of their previous lives with their children in the future.


    "I think I know now how we should change the past," said Vincent after contemting for some time.


    "I do think so too."


    Vincent leaned over and covered those luscious red lips. After all, they were a perfect match for having the same thoughts. After the long passionate kiss, Vincent led Hailee to the room.


    The couple entered the NICU and gently nted a loving kiss on each baby''s feet while uttering their names.


    "Lavender¡­"


    "Hry¡­"


    "Henry¡­"


    "Howard¡­"

 Chapter 527: End Your Bloodline

    Chapter 527: End Your BloodlineSomewhere at V Country Sovereign Inds¡­


    Liam had justnded in the Australian Royal Aircraft Carrier. He got out of the fighter jet he boarded and walked toward Andre and Klein Williams, who were inside Shun''s body.


    "Finally, you''re here!" said Klein, beaming while raising a bottle of rum.


    Liam was stunned. He looked at Klein with concern and warned him. "Master Williams, you should not abuse that body when it isn''t originally yours."


    Klein replied, waving his hand, "Don''t worry about my twin soul. His body will be fine."


    Liam was speechless. He nced at Andre, who thetter was only shrugging a shoulder. He muttered,


    "I have been telling him that, but¡­."


    Andre paused and recalled what Klein had replied to him earlier.


    "When I started living in the Joseon Era, I didn''t enjoy this rum anymore. Back when I was a prince of France during the 18th Century, people bowed and served me with fine wines..."


    Andre sighed and turned his head toward Liam, telling him, "Alright. We have to brief everyone on the n. Since you are the one who is more familiar with Lamandi Pce, we need your opinion on what we came up with."


    "Alright. Let''s go." Liam nodded and smiled at Andre, his dear old friend.


    In the past, his sister did not believe anyone but only him. However, Hailee relied too much on Andre in this life, and she deliberately rejected him.


    Now he could finally understand why he was jealous of him before. It''s all because of his previous life''s feelings for Hailee, his blood sister from the past, with whom he had a great rtionship as siblings.


    Liam wanted to speak with Andre alone, but that could wait untilter. By now, they needed to capture the soul inside Robert Lee''s body.


    After an hour of studying the Lamandi Pce blueprint with the presence of V Country''s elite army officials, the Navy Admiral and Army Generals phoned a few people back in the Capital.


    ~ ~ ~


    LAMANDI PALACE, V Country


    The night breeze brought such humidity. The air stuck, and the trees seemed frozen in time.


    In the hallway, Robert Lee''s assistant brought tea for him.


    Robert Lee was irate about what happened to all of his properties and assets. He phoned all his men working under him, but no one wanted to help him. Thus, he was furious.


    "Delmar!"


    "Yes, Master Lee?"


    "Prepare the ne."


    Delmar was perspiring cold sweat. He lowered his gaze and tried to remain calm. Even though he was in a difficult position, it was his job to report everything.


    "Master Lee, someone from our people reported that there was a ban issued to every country. You will be deported upon your arrival."


    Robert Lee gritted his teeth. Shun Crow, indeed was clever and resourceful. He manages to lift a ban against him.


    "What has Samuel been doing?"


    Delmar replied, "Master Lee, I have been contacting Attorney Miller, but he isn''t answering any of my calls and messages."


    Robert Lee constricted his pupils as he bellowed. "Get out!"


    Delmar ran for his life. He didn''t dy and exited the chamber, not to be caught by his master''s rage.


    Just as he shut the door close, a sound of broken things could be heard.


    Inside the chamber, Robert Lee is seething in anger. He looked at his reflection in the mirror and talked to himself.


    "This body and identity are no longer helpful to me. It''s time to find someone else."


    "Then? What are you waiting for?" Behind Robert Lee appeared a dark shadow.


    Robert Lee sneered. His eyes turned red, and his appearance changed.


    ~


    Outside Lamandi Pce, hundreds of SWAT Team and Special Task Force prepared to enter to capture Robert Lee and his men.


    The Franklin Twins, who were familiar with the pce, went in with the help of trusted people serving the king. Upon entering, they confirmed from the pce servants that everything was ready.


    Those who knew the Army would take the pce tonight prepared a red ribbon.


    "Everyone, take your position," Zed Franklin gave out the order.


    The three servants nodded and then tied the red ribbon around their foreheads. After that, they went in separate directions. Once their servant allies and pce guards saw them wearing the red ribbon, it signaled that the arrest of Robert Lee was about tomence.


    After they tie the red ribbon, it''s time for the next step.


    "Snippers, ready." Liam, who joined the monitoring team in the van, started giving out the orders.


    "Copy."


    "We''re in position."


    From every corner of somewhere, the snipers replied simultaneously. They surveyed the pce through their scope. After they confirmed the enemies, they waited for the new order.


    Meanwhile, Delmar was pacing back and forth in the Pce corridor. He is somewhat anxious about what is going to happen now. He is aware of all the illegal doings his boss has operated, and he was even mighty and confident when his boss was in the position. However, it is a different story now.


    Delmar then saw a group of servants passing him. He let them be, but he realized that something was odd about them. Thus, he stopped them.


    "Hey, stop!"


    The servants shuddered in shock. Slowly, they turned around and faced Delmar.


    "Do you need anything, Mr. Delmar? Do you still need a midnight snack?"


    V Country has a few hours difference from the Australian time zone. And so, it is still midnight on this part of Earth.


    "What''s on your forehead?" Delmar queried as he was curious about the servant''s style.


    The pce servants are flustered and be nervous when the man interrogates them. Hence, they have to remain calm.


    "Ah, this¡­ Well, as you see, Mr. Delmar. It''s been too hot for many weeks now. We want to pray to the God of Harvest to rain. The mountains experienced some drought. If it keeps up, it will affect the growth of our corn and rice grain."


    ''That made sense.'' Delmar thought.


    From there on, he didn''t bother asking anymore. He dismissed the servants while he headed to his bedroom to n how to escape soon. Now that his boss was out of money, it was time to leave.


    ~~~


    Outside the pce¡­


    After everyone was in position, Liam gave out the order. Suddenly, countless unconscious bodies fall to the ground.


    In order not to rm Robert Lee, they were only using tranquilizers.


    Try not to make noise, the SWAT Team and Special Forces entered from different gates of the pce.


    However...


    Loungingfortably on the French couch, Robert Lee leisurely sipped a ss of vintage wine.


    He put down the goblet and sped his hands.


    "I am waiting for you, Carlisle Williams." He curled the corner of his mouth. He has been waiting for this moment after all these hundreds of years.


    "Tsk. Whether I am living in the past or the future, your family is such a pain in my ass!" The dark shaman sneered in his heart and darkened his face.


    Then, lowughter let out of his mouth when he could feel the presence of the SWAT TEAM and SPECIAL TASK FORCE that would apprehend him.


    He also felt Klein Williams''s soul.


    "Huh! Come and get me! It''s time to end your bloodline, Williams! I will kill every male member of your family!!"

 Chapter 528: Grand Reunion (One)

    Chapter 528: Grand Reunion (One)The SWAT TEAM and SPECIAL FORCES entered the pce apprehending Robert Lee''s men, including his assistant, who prepared to escape.


    He didn''t know the two teams were already at the door. So Delmar surrendered peacefully.


    "I will face Robert Lee alone. Everyone, stay behind." Liam instructed. They nodded and headed in other directions.


    "I''ll go with you, of course." Klein sounded from behind, approaching Liam.


    Liam nced over his shoulder and said, "Then please don''t get in the way. The sword could harm you as well."


    Klein bowed like a knight and walked a meter distant from Liam as he followed him in silence.


    Liam''s reason for having the dark shaman alone is to prevent more lives from getting involved in their fight. Too many innocent people have already perished because of the ancient wars.


    Now the present time has suffered so much because of this man, who remained to roam the world freely.


    And so tonight, he''ll put his life on the line to seal the dark shaman''s soul until the alignment of the nines less than thirty years from now.


    Liam and Klein headed to the chamber where Robert Lee stayed.


    Waiting patiently in the room, Robert Lee turned his head toward the door and lifted the corner of his mouth.


    He could feel two powerful auras approaching the chamber. Whoever they are, he is confident that one of them is Carlisle Williams.


    Anticipating meeting the man, Robert Lee lifted his right hand, and orange-red lights emitted around him. Then, all the furniture inside that room floated in the air, preparing to throw them at whoever entered the door.


    Robert Lee wished it was Carlisle Williams. However, he could feel an odd aura, including hispanion.


    To distinguish who they were, he closed his eyes and released enough force to reach the two people approaching his chamber.


    Before he could deplete their energy, his ear caught the sound of metal pulled out from its sheath.


    The ng of the sword shook the hell out of him. He covered his ears but failed to resist the sound. He could still hear the whistling sound that felt like it would split his head.


    It is painful, and it weakens his knees.


    "Ahh!" Robert Lee screamed as he could no longer bear the painful noise.


    The night was quiet, but the Shing sound of the metal gave such pain to his flesh...


    This suffering was the same as those nights when a particr sword was nearby.


    He did not make a mistake. This aura is her fourth daughter''s blood!


    His fourth daughter, who he loves the most.


    Five hundred years ago, when he was powerless after being defeated by his three daughters and hiding in the shadows¡ªhe was smitten by breathtaking beauty when he traveled far.


    However, he didn''t know the woman was a sorcerer''s daughter. Because of her kindness, he fell in love with her, and they have a daughter.


    Unfortunately, the sorcerer learned about this. He took the child, brought her to the Mystic Vige, and cast a spell on him to die.


    Little did the sorcerer know, he managed to cheat Death again. Of course, he is the summoner of Death!


    He swore to get his daughter back. However, after half a century and he regains enough strength, his beloved daughter rebuilds the sword and offers it to Emperor Xing to kill him.


    And even in this lifetime, his beloved daughters and their husbands were determined to kill him!


    Then? Is it Vincent? If the de were here, no one could carry the sword but him.


    Robert Lee felt horrid staring at the door. Something had struck him. One more time, he lifted all the furniture that fell to the floor after he lost control and then flung them toward the door.


    From outside, it can hear a loud thud from the room. Liam and Klein shared a look¡ªboth were wondering what the dark shaman was up to.


    "Well¡­ I would not be surprised if the dark shaman sensed our presence." Klein mumbled, leaning on the wall leisurely like he was only here to watch a show. Anyway, that was partly true. Liam instructed him to stay behind, so he would not get in his way. Still, he was cautious not to sh with the sword. Otherwise, his soul is gone forever and can no longer revive.


    "It looks like he blocked the entrance." Liam knew he could hear him, so he mocked the dark shaman. "I knew he was such a coward. After all, this is what he is good at¡ªusing others'' identities and bodies."


    Klein''sugh echoed in the pce corridor.


    Robert Lee constricted his pupils upon hearing the two men ridiculing him. He realized that the other aura he could not read belonged to Liam.


    When did he have the sword?


    "Ahh! Carlisle!" he screamed at the man behind the door. ''So Liam regained his own memories!''


    Robert Lee is pacing back and forth. He needs toe up with the idea.


    "Ah! Williams!" He screamed one more time. At the same time, his body released some energy that shattered the windows and doors.


    Liam and Klein rushed inside, but the dark shaman was nowhere to be found.


    "It looks like he ran away," Klein said, looking out the window.


    "Perfect¡­ Just as what we anticipated for him to do." Liam sounded so calm. Of course, this is his kingdom. He knew every hidden passage and every secret hideout throughout the forest behind the Lamandi Pce.


    "Heh." Klein grinned. "The shamans were in positions. The magic circles to trap him are about to lighten up."


    "Great." Liam tugged at the corner of his mouth as his gaze traveled through the forests.


    Concealed from the eyes, three magic circles are about to connect. After that, it will create a triangle shape to cover the entire forest.


    "From there, we can finally seal him away." Klein chirped, and Liam nodded his head in agreement.


    "Well, are you going to miss the show?" asked Liam.


    "No way! I must see his fall!"


    Meanwhile, Robert Lee ran to the deepest part of the forest with such speed. He halted when he saw a figure ten meters away from him. In fact, the woman was standing near a cliff. She was wearing a red hat, red boots, and red gloves.


    "Isabe!" he called out as he slowly approached her.


    The woman in red turned around and lifted her chin to expose her exquisite face.


    "Hello, Master Lee¡­ Or maybe you prefer I call you Lord stair? Ah¡­ Father¡­." Isabe was full of sarcasm.


    "So, you''ve finally learned the truth! That''s good!" The dark shamanughed. Then he turned around when he felt another presence. His smile widened, and he opened his two arms. "Madison! My incredible daughter!"


    Madison frowned. "Stop right there!"


    The man had attempted to stand closer to Madison. But she promptly warned him. The dark shaman raises his two arms as a surrender. "Alright. My beautiful daughters! Is this a reunion?"


    Then another woman appeared from a different direction.


    "Hello, father. What a great reunion, indeed."


    The man''s eyes glowered upon recognizing the person chiming behind a giant tree.


    "My dear, Cassandra!"

 Chapter 529 Grand Reunion (Two)

    Chapter 529 Grand Reunion (Two)


    "Ah! Come here! Let me look at you, my dear Cassandra! Look at the three of you¡­ I wish your little sister were also here! It would indeed be a glorious reunion for our family!" said the dark shaman delightedly; heughed, and it echoed throughout the forest.


    Meanwhile, the three women darkened their faces. They were displeased with his statement and filled it with malice.


    "We would not allow you to get near her!" It was Madison who yelled out.


    Seeing Madison stressing out, Hwa-Young rushed to her side and soothed her down.


    Madison was fuming angrily, but she understood when Hwa-Young pleaded with her eyes.


    ''You are pregnant.''


    Even though it was against her will, Madison pursed her lips to suppress her outrage. She should calm down and must not engage in a physical fight against this man while she is expecting her fourth child.


    Furthermore, she would never ept the man as her father.


    The man before them curved his lips with viciousness. ''I need to get out of here.'' he knew that his daughter met him with a purpose.


    He looked around to find a route to escape. Suppose he were to jump off the cliff. There is a stream at the bottom. From there, he will ride the flow of the stream until he reaches a small vige.


    Then he will look for a perfect body to possess and leave this country and look for his next target.


    Isabe was standing near the cliff. In his state at the moment, he is no match for his daughter if they fight physically.


    However, he has a problem. His power is still limited. If only he had reunited with the other half of his soul, he would have had no difficulty defeating his daughters.


    But he must wait until his youngest darling daughter awakens her special gift. Afterward, he could eventually locate where the sorcerer hid half of his soul!


    Hence, he needs to hide until his youngest daughteres of age.


    It was what was ying in his mind.


    The man was determined to get away from their grasp. He gathered all the energy left in his body and released them without warning.


    Little did he know, Isabe sees through his action.


    She promptly stood firmly on the ground and covered her face with her two arms. On the other hand, Hwa-Young repels the energy and uses her own to protect Madison from the st.


    Isabe began the chant without giving him another chance to gather much energy.


    They could also hear voices chiming the same prayer as Isabe at a distance. The man was in a panic.


    Among everyone else, he knew what ritual they were reciting. He performed this ritual when he sealed off his enemies'' souls.


    ''No! I need to get away from here! I would not let them seal me off!''


    The man was determined to jump off the cliff. He took the opportunity while Isabe was focused on chanting the ritual.


    However, a powerful force pushed him back when he leaped past Isabe. He was caught off guard because of the splitting pain in his head. He was thrown to the ground.


    ''Ugh! This sound¡­''


    It was the sword!


    The man shook his head and squinted his eyes. He looked up; Liam''s sharp look met his gaze. And before he could move a muscle, the sword''s edge struck his heart.


    "Ahhhhhh!"


    A piercing scream let out from his mouth. Slowly, he could feel that his body was disappearing.


    Realizing this, a dark shadow came out from the body and hurried to escape; however, it was toote.


    The magic circle lit up.


    From the view above the forest, a triangle shape radiated after theypleted the ritual. The dark shadow wished to get out, but he was now inside the magic circle that Isabe, Madison, and Hwa-Young had prepared to seal him away.


    He was caught in the middle of the circle¡­


    The three women sh the tip of their fingers and let the blood drop to the ground. After that, a blinding light filled that part of the forest.


    It forced the dark shadow to retract and sink into the dposed body he possessed.


    The five shamans appeared from nowhere. They were carrying a giant golden box and walked toward the dark shadow. Upon opening its cover, the dark shadow was sucking inside.


    The five shamans immediately close the cover, and Liam plunges the sword into the middle as it stands in the lock of the golden box.


    The sword must not remove¡ªas it weakens the dark shaman''s soul.


    Seeing this, the five shamans heave a sigh of relief.


    "Finally, at longst¡­ We were able to seal him off." said one of the five shamans.


    "Indeed¡­ Our ancestors were waiting for this moment." Chimed the oldest shaman.


    "However, we haven''t annihted his soul," said Liam, cutting into their joy.


    The five shamans, including Isabe, Madison, and Hwa-Young, had only rejoiced shortly. But they understood. The dark shaman would not exterminate by simply stabbing the body but by a special ritual during a Red Blood Moon.


    "Liam was right. We need to locate half of his soul first," Isabe concurred and exined. "We found no records of where hid half of his soul. I''ve already used up the energy to seal him off, and it will take a long time before my power returns, whereas Madison is pregnant now, and we cannot travel to another timeline. Thus, we hope the children to inherit our ability, and they could travel time to investigate this matter."


    "And since they were little children now. We have to wait patiently for the time being." Hwa-Young chirped in. "I will request my children to investigate and search for the record regarding five hundred years ago when we sealed off half of this soul. Although it was sad that we remember nothing from those lives, I believed it was for the best."


    "I think so too¡­." Madison chimed in. "If we could remember it, the high risk is that the man will be able to read our mind and locate half of his soul."


    "They were saying that our mother deleted those memories by offering her life," said Hwa-Young.


    "So we will not waste what she gives up." Isabe concurred with what her sisters from other lives had said.


    Their mother gives up her immortality as the moon''s deity to protect this world from their father.

 Chapter 530 Grand Reunion (Three)

    Chapter 530 Grand Reunion (Three)


    Listening to the side, the five shamans shared a knowing look at each other. Then, they approached Lady Isabe and made a vow. "We promised to guard the box until the alignment of the nines twenty-seven yearster."


    "I''m going with you," Liam suddenly announced.


    "Are you certain about that?" Klein queried Liam. He and Levi were approaching them. He said, "Shun is no longer locking you back in Italy. You are a free man now."


    Liam nodded calmly. "Yes, I am certain. After all, even if I have my freedom, I cannot change what people have already heard about me. And if Master Shun ns to lock me up again, I refuse to return because I will beg him to let me watch the box."


    "But, Prince Liam¡­" a man in uniform attempted to raise a protest, but Liam stopped him before he could speak further.


    "I''ve already guarded this box for my entire life." Staring at the box before him, Liam made a vow.


    Isabe and the others shared a nce. Then she pondered and agreed afterward. "Shun would concur with your idea. Besides, you were more familiar with how the seal works."


    Liam nodded.


    ~~~


    Lamandi Pce, V Country


    Liam was standing in the middle of the Throne Hall, sweeping his gaze throughout the room.


    "Prince Liam..." At the door, a man in uniform appeared, greeting him politely.


    Liam turned around and smiled at the older man.


    "Come in, General Handayani¡­" Liam invited him to enter the hall. He met him halfway, and when the man had attempted to bow to him, he stopped the older man and said instead, "You don''t need to do that, teacher."


    "Your highness¡­." An inexplicable feeling overwhelmed the older man''s chest. When the news of Liam reached him, he was in disbelief. He didn''t believe Liam could do such a thing of his own will.


    "You can quit addressing me that way¡­ I am no longer the prince of V Country nor the future king of this kingdom."


    Shocks appeared on General Hayandani''s face. Sadness glowered in his eyes. "What will happen to us, your highness?"


    "You will be fine, Prime Minister," Liam smiled.


    "Prince Liam, you can''t do this!" The older man was surprised again. He was in disbelief when the prince assigned him an even higher position in Monarchy.


    Liam patted the older man''s shoulder. He then conveyed his gratitude. "Thank you for watching over the country all these years, Teacher. I know you have faced difficulties dealing with my affairs after I became someone''s puppet."


    "Don''t mention it, Your Highness. But, your highness, are you certain to leave the throne empty?" Prime Minister Hayandani asked this question out of concern when the people demanded a new king on the throne.


    Liam stared at the general, pondering. After a brief silence, he extended his hand and patted the older man''s shoulder.


    "Please, as I said earlier, you can stop addressing me this way, Prime Minister. From here on, I am an ordinary citizen of V Country. Let''s say that even if I am not myself during that time and have an important mission. The crime Imitted is not forgivable. I deserve to be punished for the innocent lives that died because of me."


    "But, Your highness, I mean, Liam¡­ As you said, you were not yourself. Who will inherit the throne? There is no direct line to sit on the throne. Unless¡­" The new Prime Minister trailed off hisst words.


    Liam did not need to guess what the older man was trying to tell him. He immediately understood who he was referring to.


    "That is why I wanted to speak, Prime Minister Handayani. There is another favor I will ask from you."


    "As long as it is beyond my capability."


    Liam let out a long breath. "It was just recently that I regained my memories. So I only remembered that I have a daughter. If I am not mistaken, she is five years old now. I have yet to meet her. But I can''t introduce myself to her."


    "Why not Liam?"


    "I am afraid that with the crime Imitted, she would feel ashamed of me and would not forgive me once she learns the truth." He was indeed afraid to be rejected in the future.


    "Liam, I know the princess will forgive you once she learns the truth."


    "I don''t want the world to judge her because of me. I don''t want her to experience such criticism. But I want her to grow up with a happy and peaceful life." Liam paused and looked outside the window when the first ray of the sun was about to appear. "This is my request, teacher. Please protect her and treat her like your real granddaughter. When shees of age and is the perfect time to be ready for her responsibility, please announce that she is the lost queen of Lamandi Pce."


    Prime Minister Handayani was stunned. "Don''t tell me you were firm with your decision of not introducing yourself and admit to her you were her father?"


    "It is better this way." Liam nodded. "She doesn''t need to carry such a burden of the truth that her father is a famous criminal."


    "But, Liam¡­. Isn''t it better when she grows up seeing how great her father was? When the right timees, you can tell her the truth that she is the heir to the Lamandi Throne." The prime minister disagreed with Liam''s ns, so he went on.


    "She deserves to grow up with her father. She had already lost her mother. You cannot deprive her of the opportunity to be with his father. Raising her in the Shaman Vige can help you make things easier for you to confess the truth. I am certain she will readily ept the truth of why youmitted the crime in the past."


    The older man went on, "Listen to me, Liam. I am sure the princess would not judge you. She will only hate you if you remove her chance to be with her father. Do you think she would forgive you for that? Is it that she would hate you because you be a coward to be a wonderful father to her?"


    Liam could not argue with the older man. Everything he said made sense.


    "General Hayandani is correct." Suddenly, Isabe appeared at the door. She entered the hall, walked toward the throne, and halted by the king''s tform. She turned around and faced Liam, who was standing by the window. "Don''t worry, Liam. In the future, I will help you enlighten her. You can send her to me and teach her everything she needs to know about this world."


    "Lady Isabe¡­" Liam has no words to describe the emotion that surged in his chest. He was grateful that things weren''t the end yet for him.


    "Now, are you ready to meet her?" Prime Minister Hayandani queried Liam. On his face stered a warm smile.


    Liam nodded, and it made the older man thrilled. He immediately phoned his wife and quickly exined. Two hourster, Liam was seated on a couch inside the pce tea rooms, waiting for his daughter to meet her for the first time.


    "Nervous?" Seated across from Liam are the couple, Levi and Madison.


    "Hmm¡­" Liam did not deny it. He constantly breathes in to rx his nerves. Then, he held his breath when the door opened, and Prime Minister Hayandani entered the room, holding a five years old little girl in hand.


    "There... Go and greet your Papa."

 Chapter 531: Grand Reunion (Four)

    Chapter 531: Grand Reunion (Four)"Asmara, there is someone who wants to meet you." Prime Minister Hayandani smiled, patting the little girl''s delicate shoulder and pushing her gently toward Liam. "Go and greet your father."


    Asmara''s eyes brightened upon hearing the word father. She looked up at the older man with delight. Then she nced shyly at the man standing a few meters away.


    Liam was already on his feet, staring at the cute little girl before him with a conflicted gaze. He wanted to approach her; however, his feet seemed nailed to the floor, and he could not take another step. If it weren''t for Klein giving him a slight push, his body would not move yet.


    He took a few steps forward. Then, he kneeled on one knee and queried the little girl.


    "Are you Asmara?"


    He wanted to smack himself on the back of his head. For so many first words he could say to his daughter, why must he ask her of her name? Hasn''t the older man Hayandani just mentioned her name?


    ''Calmed down. You were never nervous like this.'' Liam braced himself together. He smiled at his daughter and lovingly said with open arms,


    "My Asmara¡­ Come to Papa."


    Seeing the stranger man spread his arms wide and call her name, Asmara could no longer hold her anticipation.


    "Papa!"


    With teary eyes, the little girl ran toward Liam. She was scooped from the floor and was cuddled warmly. Asmara nestled inside her father''s arms, and she could feel how it was way morefortable than the princess bed her Grandpa Hayandani gave her.


    "Oh, my daughter¡­." Liam could no longer suppress the emotion brewing in his chest. Stifling his tears, he apologized to his daughter and made a promise. "I''m sorry if Papa was away for so long. I am here now. Papa will never leave you again."


    Liam nted tiny kisses on his daughter''s hair as he whispered. He recalled when Mara told him she was expecting. However, they only argued that day, and he had no time to make it up to her because he had a critical mission where he failed.


    And what happened instead was that he fell into the dark shaman''s hand and became his puppet, forgetting about Mara and the child she conceived.


    Mara is the daughter of the royal family''s trusted servants. She came to the pce to work as a royal staff. Mara was one of the few maids who would attend to him, and he knew she liked him, but he had no time for a love life or to deal with a woman. What happened between them is more likely intentional. Mara did something. That is why he slept with her. But the next time is no longer an intentional, nor an ident. It was his own will, and when he tried to fix things between them, but then, he forgot about her.


    And her pregnancy. He disagreed about it because it would be risky to Mara''s health. Mara had a severe illness, and she only had a few years left to live.


    Before she died, she wished to work in the pce. It is why she begged her parents to allow her to be the prince''s attendant because she had a massive crush on him and wanted to get close to him.


    She was so hard-headed. Conceiving Asmara only sped up her death. Mara died a year after she gave birth to Asmara, and he was never there to see her for thest time.


    Liam admitted he did not love Mara as much as she loved him. But it does not mean that he would abandon her and his daughter. In fact, he helped Mara to get treatment at the William Medical Research Center. It was then they found out that she was pregnant.


    Doctor Derek Williams gives her choices. She will be treated, but the child in her womb will dissolve. However, Mara chose the innocent''s life over hers.


    Shun and Derek take care of the child while Liam is under the dark shaman''s spell. After General Hayandani heard about the child, he asked Mara''s family''s permission to watch over the child because she carried royal blood, the direct heir to the throne.


    After Liam heard this story, he was grateful to the older man, and he could not pay Shun and Derek''s kindness to his daughter, the future queen of V Country. Therefore, he wanted to show his loyalty by offering his life to guard the dark shaman''s soul until the alignment of the nines during the Eclipse sometime in the year 2050.


    Liam stood on his feet. Asmara remained in his arms, as the little girl didn''t want to let go of his neck. He looked at Prime Minister Hayandani and said, "I will bring her with me. I want to spend the years before her coronation."


    The prime minister was d to hear this from Liam. He said, "I will do all my best to keep the monarchy until the queen is ready to ept her crown."


    ~


    That same day, everyone flew back to Dream City. Liam wanted to see Hailee for thest time. He wanted to apologize one more time and also introduced his daughter.


    "Liam!" Hailee entered the lounge graciously but stopped halfway after realizing the kid in Liam''s arms was sleeping soundly. She apologized, "Oh, I''m sorry. I think I was too loud..."


    Liam smiled and replied, "It''s okay. She didn''t get a wink on the flight but was asking so many questions on our way here."


    "Ah. It looks like there are no dull moments in your days from here on," Hailee smiled warmly, which put Liam at ease.


    Vincent actually followed his wife, and immediately, he helped her take a seat when she reached the loveseat across from the father and daughter.


    Liam saw how attentive Vincent was to Hailee, which relieved him. Anyway, he already witnessed how he loved his sister from their previous life; thus, he had nothing to worry about in the present time but praying that in this lifetime, they can finally be together until their hair turns grey.


    "So¡­ Madison had exined to me. You are not taking the throne and bing the king of V Country," said Hailee afterward.


    Liam nodded. "Yes. After what I have done, it was a stain on the throne when I inherited the crown. Instead, I will pay for my crime by guarding the dark shaman''s soul."


    "It was a pity I didn''t seal him with my own hands." Seated next to Hailee, Vincent chimed. Thinking he was only hiding the whole time caused him to have regrets. He badly wanted to make that man pay for everything he had done in their lives, not only in the present time but also in the past.


    However, Hailee begged him not to deal with him in person, as the shaman needed to get near him to steal his body and identity. Thus, he had to endure how his body was trembling from the desire to fly to V Country and join everyone.


    "Staying away from the dark shaman helped us deal with him easily." Liam could see through Vincent''s thoughts. Thus, he enlightened him. "If you were there, we would only let him escape again. By then, we will have difficulty dealing with you."


    "I understand," Vincent yielded. He epts that staying away from the dark shaman will prevent the future from happening. "Then you will stay in Shaman Vige for good?"


    Liam nodded. His gaze drew to the little girl in his arms. "Yes. My daughter deserves a peaceful life growing up. Once the world learns she is my daughter, I cannot imagine how her heart breaks with the truth. So before she learns it from others, it is best to hear my side first. Then, once she is ready, I will tell her that she is a future queen of a country."


    "Don''t worry. Shun will try to divert the incident in Las Vegas and Metro City. We will hold Robert Lee ountable for all the crimes you''ve done. I will also testify that it was not all your fault. But a drama so that we will apprehend Robert Lee. After that, your name will clear, and you will no longer be ashamed to tell your daughter the truth in the future."


    "Thank you, Vincent," Liam did not expect this, but he was grateful to Vincent. Once they open his case and bring up Robert Lee''s illegal activities, the people''s attention will definitely shift toward him.


    "No problem."


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